All-Weather Floor Mat
Deeply sculpted channels designed to trap water, road salt, mud and sand Will not crack, curl or harden regardless of temperature
Available in Black, Tan and Grey
Accessories Available for Order Now: 800-441-6287 © 2013 by MacNeil IP LLC
Ribbed Design
Underside Nibs and Anti-Skid Ridges
Acura · Audi · BMW · Buick · Cadillac · Chevrolet · Chrysler · Dodge · Ferrari · Ford · GMC · Honda · Hummer · Hyundai · Infiniti Isuzu · Jeep · Kia · Land Rover · Lexus · Lincoln · Maserati · Mazda · Mercedes-Benz · Mercury · Mini · Mitsubishi · Nissan Oldsmobile · Plymouth · Pontiac · Porsche · Saab · Saturn · Scion · Subaru · Suzuki · Toyota · Volkswagen · Volvo · and more!
American Customers WeatherTech.com
Canadian Customers WeatherTech.ca
European Customers WeatherTechEurope.com
Laser Measured FloorLiner™
Channels carry fluids and debris to a lower reservoir Material provides soft touch top, rigid core strength and bottom surface friction
Available in Black, Tan and Grey
Accurately and Completely Lines the Interior Carpet
Textured Finish
Contoured Underside
American Manufacturing Done Right!
’01 BMW Z8 ROADSTER
2008 AUDI R8
Titanium Silver Metallic/Black Leather, Only
Ibis White/ Luxor Biege Leather. Only 10,
Magnolia/Magnolia Leather. Only 3,960
Blu Mirabeau Metallic/Cuoio, Only 2,119
4.6 miles, V8 194 hp. Call for pricing.
406 miles. Options total over $16,500.
miles. 19” wheels and in pristine condition.
orig. miles, V8 570hp, Over 38K in factory
Call for pricing
Call for pricing.
’06 FERRARI 575 GTZ ZAGATO #2
2003 FERRARI ENZO COUPE
2007 LAMBORGHINI GALLARDO SPYDER
’10 PORSCHE 911 TURBO CABRIOLET
Black/Green. Only 3,182 miles. Ultra-rare
Giallo Modena/Nero Leather. Only 2,190
Blu Caelum/ Ivory and Blue Leather. Only
Carrara White/Sand Beige, Only 13,328
supercar, V12 508hp, F1 transmission with
miles. Has “Classiche” certification from
paddle shifters. Call for pricing.
Ferrari. Exceptional condition.
12,702 miles. Has about $25,000 in factory
miles, Over 17K in factory options, 7-speed
options. Call for pricing.
PDK transmission. Call for pricing.
Call for pricing.
2008 BENTLEY AZURE CONVERTIBLE
’13 FERRARI 458 ITALIA SPIDER
options. 20” Grigio Ferro Metallic Wheels. Call for pricing.
‘08 FERRARI F430 F1 SPIDER
‘12 JEEP WRANGLER UNLIMITED
2013 TESLA S
2013 FERRARI FF
Corsa Red/Tan. 7,573 Miles. 483hp V8.
SEMA quality Show Vehicle. Matte Gold
Gray Metallic/Black Leather Suede.
Bianco Avus/Nero with Bianco Stiching.
Over 30K in options including red calipers,
with absolutely too many options to list.
Only has 1,510 miles. 21” Turbine wheels.
Only 2,46 miles. Over 40K in options.
Poer Daytona seats, Scuderia Shields, Chal-
Call for a list of all upgrades and pricing.
Call for pricing.
Call for pricing.
lenge Stradale Wheels & More.
1301 EAST SUNRISE BLVD. — FT. LAUDERDALE, FLORIDA —
877.700.9212
FORTLAUDERDALECOLLECTION.COM
‘12 BENTLEY CONTINENTAL GT CONV
‘11 FERRAI 458 ITALIA COUPE
Blue Crystal Metallic/ Portland Leather.
Bianco Avus/Nero Leather.
Only 13,630 miles. Over $10,000 in
Only 8,501 miles. Over $37,000 in factory
options:21” Chrome wheels,
options. Carbon fiber racing seats and
3 Spoke two-tone leather steering wheel.
20” Sports Wheels
’04 FERRARI 360 F1 SPIDER
‘08 FERRARI 599 GTB FIORANO COUPE
Rosso Corse/Beige Leather. Only 4,519
Corsa red/ Beige Leather. Only 6,306 miles.
original miles. Over 20K in factory options.
Over $20,000 in factory options plus addi-
Modular Rims, Racing Exhaust.
tional $46,000 in upgrades. Call for pricing.
Call for pricing.
‘56 FORD THUNDERBIRD
’08 FERRARI F430 F1 COUPE
‘13 LOTUS EVORA IPS COUPE 2+2
Yellow/Black. 4 speed automatic, Hard top,
Bianco Avus/Beige Leather. Only 16,430
Velvet red/ Cream. Only 50 miles. Includes
Midnight Sapphire/ Seashell Dark Blue
Complete restoration. You will not see one
miles. Yellow calipers, Daytona seats, Car-
Premium, Sports and Technology packages
Leather. Only 4,652 miles. Over $30,000
nicer! Call for complete history and restora-
bon fiber interior trim. Call for pricing.
plus more. Call for pricing.
in factory options. Call for pricing.
‘10 MASERATI QUATTROPORTE S
‘08 PORSCHE 911 CABRIOLET CARRERA 4S
‘03 FERRARI 360 SPIDER F1
’09 MAYBACH 57S
tion details.
‘09 ROLLS ROYCE PHANTOM DROPHEAD
Nero Carbonio/ Sabbia Leather. Only
GT Silver Metallic/ Sea Blue Leather/Suede.
Blue Pozzi/Beige. 9,600 miles. 400hp
Nevada Silver/Vesuvius Black Leather. Only
24,755 miles. Over $15,000 in factory op-
Only has 10,969 miles. 19” Sport Design
V8 mated to the optional F1 transmission.
47,035 miles. High performance Luxury,
tions. Call for pricing.
Wheels and GT Silver Metallic paint option.
Power seats, Daytona Seats w/ contrast
22” Forgiato Wheels. Call for pricing.
Call for pricing.
piping, Scuderia Shields and Gray Calipers.
500 N. Federal Hwy
— POMPANO BEACH, FLORIDA —
877.708.2426
Published By Luxury Direct Media, Inc. National Advertising Sales Rick Castillo rick@luxuryautodirect.com
Creative Director Chad Kirby
info@luxuryautodirect.com
Web Development Malcom Hogan info@luxuryautodirect.com
Contributing Writers Sharon Pagano Rick Castillo Angel Torres SecretEntourage.com Contributing Photographers Angel Torres Rick Castillo Danny Henriquez Vince Miniet Michael Torres William Stern
Subscriptions 1 year – 6 Issues $29.99 2 year – 12 Issues $39.99 813-833-6405 or info@luxuryautodirect.com
All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced without prior written permission. Luxury Auto Direct Magazine TM is published in the U.S.A 6 times per year by Luxury Direct Media, Inc.. For subscription or advertising rates, call 813-833-6405 or write to Luxury Auto Direct Magazine, PO Box 1058, Lutz, FL 33548. Luxury Auto Direct Magazine TM makes no representation or warranty for accuracy or content. The pictures of automobiles for sale and the written offer for sale are the responsibility of the individual advertiser. All photos become property of Luxury Direct Media, Inc. when printed unless otherwise agreed to by the publisher.
MAKE MEMORIES IN 2014
2014 Spring PORSCHE TREFFEN® Plus Friday May 2. – Sunday May 11. ALL- INCLUSIVE PORSCHE TOUR:
8 nights in 5-star hotel accomodations • 5 days of driving a new PORSCHE of your choice • V.I.P. Experience at the Spring Oktoberfest • Breakfast, lunch and dinner at scenic venues. • Visit the birth place of PORSCHE in Gmünd • “Sound of Music” region sightseeing photo rally • Cruise the “No Speed-Limit” Autobahn • Private tours of the PORSCHE Factory and Museum • A private tour of the MERCEDES Musuem •
7,468
$
PER PERSON, DOUBLE OCCUPANCY
Salzburg!
(813) 343-3001
Call today Email: info@fastlanetravel.com
uem Porsche Mus
Awesome Okt oberfest m Mercedes Museust! the be
plus much more!
Accredited By
We Love to Arrange Custom Trips.
It’s Our Business To Do Pleasure, Since 1976.TM Fast Lane Travel, Inc., is the official PCA PORSCHE TREFFEN® trip company and is a bonded, insured, IATAN certified (10-6 43662), FL State registered and licensed Seller-of-Travel Corporation (ST33335).
TM
CONTENTS VOL 7 ISSUE 45
12 READY TO ROAR? Kodewa Performance Motorcycles
18 CHANGING THE FACE OF TIME Sequential Two − S200
24 ENDLESS Arash AF8
32 THE WORLD’S FASTEST Hennessey Venom GT
42 FROM VIRTUAL TO REALITY? Toyota FT-1 Concept
46 A NEW DIMENSION Lamborghini Huracán LP 610-4
56 THE WORLDS FIRST MEGACAR Agera One”1
#1 DEALER OF HRE, ADV.1 AND VORSTEINER WORLDWIDE.
WHY SHOP ANYWHERE ELSE?
1-866-51-WHEEL
Organize
Style!
with
Professional Grade. Designer Appearance.
Delivered as Promised. For 25 years, Moduline Cabinets has been providing exactly that. Our cabinets are crafted from premium aluminum for quality that is trusted by shop professionals, race teams and enthusiasts alike. Our experts will help you design and realize your perfect cabinet system. Backed by our Lifetime Warranty, you can trust that while we’ve been around for 25 years, your cabinets will be around for a lifetime.
LIFETIME
(888) 995-8583 www.modulinecabinets.com/A285
READY TO
ROAR? Kodewa Performance Motorcycles (PMC) C-01, Licensed by Lotus, is Road Ready
Following two years of careful planning and intense development, Kodewa is delighted to announce that that the prototype of the world’s first motorcycle to bear the legendary Lotus marque is now road registered and ready for action. Kodewa has been granted a license to produce the motorcycle by Group Lotus plc, the world renowned sportscar manufacturer and engineering
consultancy. The C-01 combines ample power via a V-twin engine with a
distinctive body designed by Daniel Simon integrating carbon fibre, titanium and aerospace quality steel.
The C-01 motorcycle is not designed, engineered or produced by Group
Lotus plc but is the result of a collaboration between motorsport veterans under the leadership of Kodewa, lead by Dr Colin Kolles. The development
on the C-01 was carried out with the support of Holzer Group (co-owners of
Kalex) and design guru Daniel Simon. Drawing on their wealth of motorsport experience, the team of engineers has designed a unique high performance superbike.
12
13
The C-01 will be available in a range of
liveries some of which pay homage to
Lotus’ sporting pedigree. A customisation service is also available, limited only
by the imagination of the client. With an exclusive production run of just 100 units, superbike collectors and fans of the Lotus brand will need to move fast to secure one.
The original idea to create the C-01 came from Kodewa’s Dr Colin Kolles. Speaking
about the project he said: “We set out to create a bike that isn’t just great to ride but
also represents a piece of art in motion.
Over the years I have seen my fair share of style over substance, what this bike brings
to the market is a unique combination of
both: state of the art technology with a truly jaw-dropping aesthetic.”
14
Commenting on the C-01 Günther Holzer, CEO of Holzer Group said: “I was one
of the first people to ride it and I have to
say I was very impressed. Together we have found that delicate balance between raw,
aggressive
power
and
breath-
taking handling. The team has created something very special, it looks incredible,
it sounds fantastic but above all, the ride is sensational. I’m very happy.”
Designer Daniel Simon said: “The design
process of the C-01 was a labour of love, there were many challenges, ensuring
that the bike not only touches your visual
senses with its timeless blend of classic
appeal and modern execution, but that is
safe and ergonomically sound was critical
to me. We have worked hard to create a motorcycle with very distinctive features such as a clean main body, an extremely low side profile, a bold stance, a unique air intake, logical partline solutions and clean graphics.” •••
15
SEQUENTIAL TWO — S200 CHANGING THE FACE OF TIME
T
he Sequential Two — S200 features MCT's signature prism display, for the first time in a round case. The innovative time display and impeccably crafted case exhibit all of the key design elements that established the Swiss brand's reputation, including a sapphire ring around the caseband. 18
The automatic-winding movement with 18K gold microrotor was developed in-house by MCT. Highly legible hours are indicated by four modules, each comprising of five triangular prisms. The current hour is highlighted by an open 'window' in a 'C-shape' arc around the center of the dial, which is relief-engraved with "Manufacture Contemporaine du Temps" (MCT). The 'C-shape' arc rotates sequentially 90° anticlockwise to highlight the new hour, while minutes are displayed 360° around the full perimeter of the dial. The combination of over-
size hour numeral and central minutes offers an extremely legible time indication. The lower mass of the microrotor requires less force than a traditional full-size rotor. Visible through the display back, the beautifully hand-finished black movement bridges offer an eyecatching contrast to the warm glow of the red gold eccentric weight, screws and mainspring chaton. In just over a year, MCT has realized a comprehensive verticalization strategy and now controls all essential stages of their production process,
including movement design comprises of five triangular through to final assembly. prisms, which rotate to display one of three numbers. The With its captivating displays current hour is indicated by the and no-compromise design, open mouth of the 'C-shape' the Sequential 200 reinforces arc around the center of the MCT's lofty position in high-end dial, which also masks the contemporary watchmaking. non-current hours. The current hour displays sequentially in an The Sequential Two—S200 is anticlockwise direction. available in red gold with dark dial elements or white gold MOVEMENT with light dial elements. Sequential Two's automatic winding movement was DESIGN developed in-house by MCT places a very high MCT's, which ensured that emphasis on design; design not just in the broader sense of the overall look of each timepiece, but also in meticulous attention to the tiniest of details. While often unnoticed, it is MCT's uncompromising design philosophy that sets them apart; that and of course their visually-arresting cases, innovative displays and high quality craftsmanship !
the movement exactly met expectations in terms of design, performance, finish and quality. The 18K gold micro-rotor enables a very slim movement and case, making for a comfortable fit on the wrist (and under cuffs) as well as harmoniously pleasing case proportions. The unidirectional micro-rotor offers another advantage in that it requires less force to rotate than a conventional rotor. The Sequential Two movement
And thanks to the importance placed on the overall design architecture and design details, every model in their collection is immediately identifiable as MCT through their distinctive lugs and sapphire crystal ring around the caseband. DISPLAY Hours: The Sequential Two � S200 features MCT's renowned prism hour display as well as 360° minute scale. The hour modules enable highly legible over-sized numerals. Each of the four hour modules
19
benefits from the latest advances in teeth profiles on the gears. The high efficiency gears mean less energy wasted in friction losses, higher and more consistent power to the regulator for higher precision, and a longer power reserve.
case and quite literally lightens, as in allowing light into, the indications, complication and movement.
uncompromising approach to design. With the sides of the crystal replacing the bezel on top of the case, the timepiece appears slimmer The top sapphire crystal is not and the transparent sides, in simply placed on a bezel, but conjunction with the sapphire is stepped down and invisibly caseband ring and display screwed to the case, dispensing back, allow light to illuminate The stunning black movement with the bezel entirely. This the displays from nearly every bridges visible through the may seem a simple detail, angle. ••• display back offer a high but is further proof of MCT's contrast backdrop to the red gold of rotor, screws and mainspring chaton. While the black movement may appear at first glance to be 'minimalist', no fewer than 507 components required in its construction bear testimony to the complexity involved. The black of the bridges and plates serves to subtlety reinforce the hand finishing of the “côtes de Genève”, perlage and handbeveled edges. CASE AND CRYSTALS While the Sequential Two is MCT's first model housed in a round case, it is immediately recognizable as by MCT because of the strong DNA running throughout the collection. Although the sequential prism hour display might be the most obvious visual clue to the Sequential Two's thoroughbred providence, the distinctive lugs are another. And the caseband harbors yet another MCT trademark, one more subtle but no less impressive: a sapphire crystal ring that ascetically lightens the 20
21
24
THE IMAGINATION FROM OUR DESIGNERS WAS
Endless
In designing the concept drawings of the AF8, the designers had chosen cues from the past, but have left the future open to imagination, but with hints and suggestions of evolution embedded. A short overhang front, a jet like forward position for the driver’s cockpit and the large flat rear back ends suggesting that the car is wider than normal which mentally indicates where all the power is coming from. The windscreen wide and shaped at the edges suggesting motorsport. The crease at the top of the roof line suggesting flow and integrity of air over the car. A short overhang rear suggesting speed, readiness to react and pounce, all energy in the rear portion of the car with its strong side view area and large lower intake channels. Curves and clean designs intertwined, a balance of style and discipline.
to machine and then finished in a dual paint system, polished and checked.
The side profile has the unmistakeable indication that this is Arash through the S or Z shape. This shape is carried over into the interior door cards of the car, as well as the front and rear lights. It has become its signature and a suggestion to the future.
And what does all this lead to? A beautiful design, low drag co efficiency and spectacular down force. A designer’s eye leads to innovation and thus to something timeless and leading to a future legacy.
The detail continues with large side air ducts that divert and force air into the engine intake system. Induction noise near the driver’s ears - a melody of excitement and energy. The rear engine cover uses an eclectic mix of beautiful meshing, glass shapes and naked lacquered carbon to make a complex, but beautiful shape of encasing the amazing V8 engine and gearbox. AF8 has one of the largest rear tyres Michelin could supply - 345 width on 20 inch wheels - the largest contact patch we have ever made to date. Each wheel is made of forged aluminium, taking 3 days per wheel
Almost every light on the AF8 uses LED technology, the ultimate in efficiency, cool radiance and crystal clear light emission. The rear light clusters are machined from a solid billet of aluminium to the finest detail and finally polished, anodised and lacquered for that deep multi layered look. Finally at the back of the car is the permanently raised rear wing. All this, (without the added weight of assistance devices) is a true testament to every part considered and innovated beyond its initial idea.
The Arash AF8 was born to be on the race track. This is clearly visible by the DNA of the car shining through from its carbon fibres in the body and in its chassis. These DNA cues continue inside the car itself, evidenced by the materials, the layout of the controls and the seating position. The pedals in perfect symmetry. The view out of the car being panoramic but almost "jet" like. The use of controls so intensely thought out. Our first vision is for the most important controls to be in perfect reach and pleasant to touch. The steering wheel uses a blend of soft leather and carbon fibre for parts
25
that do not constantly touch the hands The manual hand brake and gear stick lets you engage with the car and is a short distance from the wheel The dials enable instant viewing of the displays such as important driver information and speed indication. This is done via smooth flowing needles Our second vision was to ensure that all other controls were touchscreen and quick to adjust, such as windows, lighting and of course, the most important feature, the ignition key. The materials are lightweight and exquisite. Carbon fibre, aluminium and beautifully stitched leather is used everywhere. Titanium is used for the heater controls so that they stay warm to the touch in the winter and they are cool to touch in the summer. The cockpit is laid out to give a sense of purpose with its high rise central tunnel, "jet" like, exciting but comfortable and confidence inspiring. The carbon weave is visible in many places within the cockpit suggesting weight consideration, low volume construction and utter strength and stiffness. The final mix in the equation of the interior is its suggestion of exclusivity. Every car made has a machined metal plaque indicating its rarity, its chassis number and its spirit of making some-
26
thing timeless. High tensile steel side impact tubes for side sills and door inner crash structures. Carbon reinforced roll cages system. The use of ‘uni-directional carbon reinforced plastic’ has been used in crash sensitive areas as well as the engine brace. This system is frequently used in formula and prototype racing cars. Kevlar carbon reinforced plastic is used for wheel arch liners and floor areas to provide extra strength and ballistic protection against stone and external environmental harshness. 7.0 ltr, 550 bhp and in V8 configuration. These evocative statistics produce an emotional noise through combustion. It has motorsport DNA and low weight of approximately 120kg and has a low position to provide the best prerequisites for exceptional dynamic driving performance on the road as well as race track. The engine itself has dry sump lubrication, a side mounted oil tank with baffle and anti foam packaging inside. The titanium connecting rods and the suction pumps of the engine have been designed with lightness in mind. The forged crankshaft is designed to be cruciform in construction to allow mo-
mentum and inertia to follow through the sweep of the piston movement in the crank thus producing exemplary power and torque figures. The intake trumpet system is highly specialised to the AF8 making the engine breathe efficiently and strongly. The sound it makes from induction to exhaust is truly special and unique. 6 speed manual aluminium construction with separate oil cooler and pump. Light weight dual clutch plate with single mass machined fly wheel. Stainless steel and titanium rear box construction. An active bypass valve at 3500 rpm allows for free flow exhaust activity and high level sound emission. The complete exhaust from engine output headers to exhaust tips is coated in a plasma ceramic coating system in black finish. This allows for 33% heat reduction from untreated exhausts as well as faster movement of exhaust gasses from the exhaust tips for increased horse power and an added “thrust” effect to the rear diffuser air flow. Double wishbone construction in S275 steel, polished and nickel plated. TIG welded formations. Machined oil filled aluminium dampers with adjustable bump & rebound Aluminium machined 6 piston monobloc construction. Aluminium disc housing with high tensile steel bolt
fastenings. Cast steel floating rotors with cross drilling and fan style venting made during the casting process. The AF-8 wheel has been especially developed for the super sports car category. Its functionality is immediately visible. The vehicle has a 20 inch rear wheel and a 19 inch front wheel painted
in 2 colours. The rims are painted in a gloss black as well as the inner barrels giving a three dimensional look. Their size gives them an advantage for driving dynamics and rolling resistance. The words ‘stiff and light’ appear again here for the wheels as found with the chassis. The words that our test drivers abide by. •••
27
29
AWARD WINNING 2007 COLORADO SPEED
$150,000
Built in partnership with GM & dozens of sponsors, this one-of-a-kind sport truck is an expression of beauty & technology with an extensive list of custom & hand-built parts: 1050HP LSX motor, ATI F1 ProCharger intercooler, dual rads, stainless steel headers, hand built engine covers, 6 speed Tremec trans, Vintage Air system, Hydratech hydraulic brakes, Forgeline wheels, 31” tall X 14” wide Mickey Thompson’s, Autometer gauges, Cobra carbon seats, chrome Moly sway bars, 9” Mosier axles, Eaton Detroit True Trac differential… the list goes on & on. M A R T I N B A R K E Y | 8 8 8 - 5 6 9 - 6 0 0 5 | E M A I L : M B @ M B R P. C O M
1970 CHEVELLE SS PRO TOURING
$150,000
You won’t find a more meticulously built Chevelle with everything right down to the nuts & bolts specifically chosen for this ground up build. Everything is new.... less than 500 miles driven since build. Dart block 825HP 555ci motor, AFR heads, Edelbrock manifold, Crane roller cam, Holly Dominator carb, Moroso aluminum oil pan, Ultimate Turbo 400 trans, 9” 4000RPM stall converter, Currie 9” rear end 4:10 gears with Detroit Locker, Wilwood 4wheel disc brakes, Autometer gauges, powder coated frame, QA-1 adjustable shocks, custom upholstery/seats, more, more, more. M A R T I N B A R K E Y | 8 8 8 - 5 6 9 - 6 0 0 5 | E M A I L : M B @ M B R P. C O M 30
SUPER CLEAN 1970 EL CAMINO SS
$39,000
Texas car with great frame, body, interior and all new driveline. Fresh roller 427ci, 600+ HP motor sounds tough yet idles away with just a bump of the key. Brand new pro built 700R4 trans, 2500 stall, new rear diff with 4:11 gears, new BFG tires, Eibach lowered suspension and a custom built MBRP stainless exhaust system. This car is super clean, very dependable and is 100% ready to enjoy, drives great and turns heads everywhere it goes. M A R T I N B A R K E Y | 8 8 8 - 5 6 9 - 6 0 0 5 | E M A I L : M B @ M B R P. C O M
HEMI DEMON
$55,000
You'll rule the track and the street in this custom Hemi Demon. A hand built 720HP 475 ci Hemi under the hood with Childs & Albert rods, Venolia pistons, Comp cam, 1150 Dominator carb, aluminum heads and Indy intake manifold. There's also a Dana 60 trans with 4:56 gears, 100HP shot of nitrous & much more to make this a rock-solid performance car. This was a ground-up build for a collector using all the best parts and has very low mileage. She starts with a bump of the key, runs like new & is super easy to drive. M A R T I N B A R K E Y | 8 8 8 - 5 6 9 - 6 0 0 5 | E M A I L : M B @ M B R P. C O M
31
World’s Fastest the
Hennessey Venom GT
32
O
n February 14, 2014, the Hennessey Venom GT set a new world speed record for 2-seat sports cars by reaching a top speed of 270.49 mph (435.31 km/h). The run was performed at the Kennedy Space Center on the 3.2-mile Space Shuttle landing runway. Brian Smith, Director of Miller Motorsport, experienced race driver and a former Michelin tire test engineer, drove the Venom GT to its record speed.
33
A representative from Racelogic, world-renowned maker of GPS dataacquisition systems, was on hand to independently verify and document the Venom GT’s speed record. “The Venom GT attained a maximum speed of 270.49 mph as measured by our VBOX 3i GPS system,” said Racelogic engineer Joe Lachovsky. The VBOX GPS data showed that the Venom GT was still accelerating at an average rate of 1 mph per second as it took just 10.1 seconds to go from 260 to 270 mph. The record run was made over a distance of 2.4 miles, which allowed the Venom just eighttenths of a mile to stop. Thankfully, its Brembo carbon-ceramic brakes were able to haul the car down from 270 mph well before the end of the runway’s 1000-ft. threshold. The Hennessey team can now add absolute top speed to its growing list of speed records. The Venom GT also owns the title for world’s fastest from 0-300 km/h (13.63 sec.) and 0-200 mph (14.51 sec.). With a curb weight of 1,244 kilograms (2,743 lb.) and a power output of 1,244 bhp from its 7.0-liter twin turbo V8 engine, the Venom delivers 1 horsepower per kilogram of curb weight, making it the hardest-accelerating and fastest series-produced vehicle in the world. Achieving the world record is a dream realized for company founder and president John Hennessey. “I wanted to be an astronaut when I was a kid. Neil Armstrong was my childhood hero. Even though the astronaut thing didn’t work out for me, I am humbled to have had the opportunity to set our speed record on the hallowed grounds of the American space program,” said Hennessey. “Building and validating our Venom GT as the world’s fastest has been a 34
35
36
“I knew the car had it in it, but it’s a thrill to officially validate the Venom GT’s 270-mph speed, Venturing anywhere above 200 mph—let alone 270—is not to be taken lightly, and we’re elated to have accomplished our goal.” ~ Hennessey CEO Don Goldman 37
38
long journey and a lot of hard work. But as President Kennedy once so eloquently said, ‘We choose to go to the moon in this decade and do the other things, not because they are easy, but because they are hard.’ As a result we have built a better car and a better team at Hennessey Performance (HPE).”
“It was still pulling,” said driver Brian Smith after the record run. “If we could run on an 8-mile oval we could go faster than that. On the very top end there was a little wandering but, hey, we’re going 270 mph! The Venom GT didn’t required any big corrections, and the Michelins held traction really well.”
To date, HPE has built and delivered eleven Venom GTs to owners around the world. Each vehicle is built to order and takes six months to complete. As the production run will be limited to a total of just 29 units worldwide, the Venom GT is not only the fastest but also one of the most exclusive hypercars ever produced. Its components and systems, by necessity, need to meet the extraordinary demands inherent in achieving such rarefied velocities, and the Venom GT’s Pennzoil Platinum synthetic motor oil is no exception. Said Chris Hayek, Global Brand Director for Pennzoil: “We constantly pursue the latest advancements in technology, and we couldn’t be more excited that Hennessey Performance achieved this world speed record using Pennzoil’s new full synthetic motor oil made from natural gas.” •••
39
42
From
VIRTUAL
REALITY?
to
Toyota FT-1 Concept Sets the Pace for Future Design
T
oyota virtually blew the doors off the North American International Auto Show with the reveal of the stunning FT-1 sports car concept. First devised by Calty Design Research in the Sony PlayStation Gran Turismo game environment, FT-1 leapt from the screen to the stage in a raceinspired press conference at COBO Hall.* Toyota virtually blew the doors off the North American International Auto Show with the reveal of the stunning FT-1 sports car concept. First devised by Calty Design Research in the Sony PlayStation Gran Turismo game environment, FT-1 leapt from the screen to the stage in a raceinspired press conference at COBO Hall. The name says it all. FT-1 stands for “Future Toyota,” and the number “1” represents the ultimate. According to its designers at Calty Design Research, the FT-1 Concept is the ultimate expression of a Toyota coupe design, building upon Toyota’s rich sports coupe heritage dating back to the 2000GT, Celica, Supra, MR2 and most recently Scion FR-S. In addition, the concept draws inspiration from Calty’s more recent sports car concept work such as FT-HS (2007) and the Lexus LF-LC (2012).
43
The project started nearly two years ago and represents a labor of love by a passionate, dedicated and gifted Calty design team. “The FT-1 is a dream-project for a designer and car enthusiast like myself,” said Alex Shen, Calty’s Studio Chief Designer. “Our team was heavily influenced by Toyota’s sports car past, especially Celica and Supra, and we sought to capture some of that history. It is an aggressive, track-focused sports car concept with a presence that has been amplified for shock and awe.” The FT-1’s audacious design represents the pinnacle of Calty’s 40th year of operation. Guided by the Toyota design ethos of Vibrant Clarity, a unique fusion of both emotional and rational factors that delivers a more exciting and dramatic design expression with unique Toyota identity, the concept is a spiritual pace car for Toyota Global
44
Design. The goal of this ideological shift is to develop future generations of products that better connect emotionally with Toyota’s global consumer base. Traditionally, Toyota’s design decisions have been driven by consensus among a large group of stakeholders. Under Akio Toyoda’s stated directive to invigorate Toyota products with energy, passion and “Waku-Doki” (translation: a palpable heart-pounding sense of excitement), the approval process has been streamlined. This new approach aims to produce cars that connect more deeply with customers, generating a more satisfying ownership experience that complements Toyota’s legendary reputation for quality, dependability and reliability. “Function-sculpting” design language yields curved, muscular, expressive body forms seemingly shaped by the
wind. Inlets, ducting, and vents are features of the exterior design that help reinforce its track–ready nature with elements of purposeful airflow management. At higher speeds a retractable rear wing deploys and tilts forward to create additional downforce. The body’s athleticism is expressed with taut surfaces and dramatic fender forms that seduce the eyes when covered in an unapologetically red hue. The front engine rear-wheel drive configuration locates the cockpit far rearward within the wheelbase to improve weight distribution. This design element also helps create the classic sportscar proportions one would expect from a vehicle poised to dominate even the most challenging road course. The cockpit’s wraparound windshield and side glass openings are a distinct nod to the design of the legendary Toyota 2000GT.
45
The interior is a focused, highly functional “place of business” that locates the driver at the controls behind an F1 inspired steering-wheel. The intimate, low slung cockpit has its A-pillars set far back to help optimize cornering vision and sensation of the cabin’s intimacy. A deltashaped display zone surrounds and integrates the driver to provide an exhilarating sense of being connected to the vehicle. The cockpit’s sense of minimalism adds to the purposefulness of the driver-focused environment with an emphasis on light weight components such as the composite seat covered with just the right amount of padding in only the areas that come into contact with the driver. A color heads-up display keeps the driver’s attention on the road ahead, with vital information projected just above the steering wheel within the driver’s line of sight.
46
While technical specifications do not accompany the concept, one can assume that the FT-1 represents an ideally balanced front-engine, rear wheel-drive layout that is powered by a hightechnology, high performance internal combustion engine. Beneath a transparent glass hood, an ambiguous engine cover hides a powerplant left to the imagination of the onlooker. In preparation for pitching the concept to Toyota management, Calty worked with Polyphony Digital, creators of the popular Gran Turismo driving simulator, to bring FT-1 to life in a virtual world that captured the excitement, passion and performance conveyed by the concept model. Toyota executives were offered the opportunity to take FT-1 for a timed lap around a computergenerated Fuji Speedway. Behind the wheel of the concept, Toyota president Akio Toyoda, an ac-
complished race car driver, completed the virtual circuit faster than his best real-world lap time at Fuji in his LFA. From that moment, he was convinced and the concept was approved to be built in model-form for the international auto show circuit.
Toyota’s Calty Design Research Celebrates Its 40th Year and a Rich Sports Car Design Heritage
For Toyota, this concept embodies the possibilities of the new and exciting design mission ahead. “Sports cars represent the ultimate driving expression in its purest form. As car enthusiasts ourselves, this is the kind of project we dream about working on,” said Calty Design Research president Kevin Hunter. “Beyond its obvious five-alarm visual impact, FT-1 is symbolic of a new chapter for Toyota Global Design. This provocative concept truly captures the passion, excitement, and energy of the Toyota we are evolving into and embodies elements of the emotion and performance that Toyota will imprint upon future production designs.” •••
47
Au t om o t i v e A c c e s s o r i e s Laser Measured, Custom-Fit
FloorLiner™
Accurately and Completely Lines the Interior Carpet
Textured Finish
Contoured Underside
Available in Black, Tan and Grey for over 900 Applications
Cargo/Trunk Liner Complete trunk and cargo area protection
Digitally designed for each application with a raised lip to keep dirt, spills and grease off your interior Available in Black, Tan and Grey
Accessories Available for
Acura · Audi · BMW · Buick · Cadillac · Chevrolet · Chrysler · Dodge · Ferrari · Ford · GMC · Honda · Hummer · Hyundai · Infiniti · Isuzu · Jeep · Kia · Land Rover · Lexus · Lincoln · Maserati · Mazda · Mercedes-Benz · Mercury · Mini · Mitsubishi · Nissan · Oldsmobile · Plymouth · Pontiac · Porsche · Saab · Saturn · Scion · Subaru · Suzuki · Toyota · Volkswagen · Volvo · and more!
All-Weather Floor Mat Deep sculpted channels designed to trap water, road salt, mud and sand
In-Channel Side Window Deectors
Will not crack, curl or harden regardless of temperature
EASY TO INSTALL! No Exterior Tape Needed
Light and Dark Tint Available
Increases ventilation Reduces wind noise and allows interior heat to escape
Solid Billet Aluminum Plate Frames
Ribbed Design
Underside Nibs and Anti-Skid Ridges
Premium Automotive Care and Cleaning Products Available in three anodized finishes: Clear Bright Silver, Black and Titanium.
Order Now: 800-441-6287
American Customers WeatherTech.com
Canadian Customers WeatherTech.ca
European Customers WeatherTechEurope.com Š 2013 by MacNeil IP LLC
A
n ew
in
Yrs R U Ca
e m i d
n
X ts r o U Sp
Luper S
n sio
I N I H
G R BO
LA M
R U H
N ร AC
6 LP
4 10
ini orgh b m La ith obili t: w n m e o t m Au nly eg g for ts car s is not o , n i n do ni or gin allar y s be uper sp mborghi i G a r La xur we onic y s e ic rk for lu nd A ne e luxur Huracรกn h t to a th a new ccessor nchm its pure e, and e d b n su e ith ag bra the g th t. W gy pack he the n n i g e n i n f i t m en rede this seg technolo uality, t pres o s l is a s cars in ovative cellent q ce on a n but port n inn and ex experie s a r , e n sup sig cs car e de dynami r sports u q i un pe ng andi ffers a su t s t u o o cรกn a vel. r u H w le e n le who
50
LY " L E U G F R A E U W G O N P A L D N N A G I S E DE "PUR C I M A N DY The Huracán combines absolute performance with easy-to-drive road behavior and both luxurious and sport-oriented finish. With the Huracán, Lamborghini is taking a big step into the future, and enhancing the brand’s illustrious history with the next automotive legend. See more at: http://www.seriouswheels.com/ cars/2014/top-2014-Lamborghini-HuracanLP-610-4.html#sthash.FueoEFWO.dpuf With a total volume of 14,022 cars produced, the Lamborghini Gallardo has been the most successful Lamborghini ever and, in its ten-year lifecycle, lifted the Lamborghini marque to a whole new level. Its successor, the new Huracán, has been developed from scratch down to the very last detail and, like the Gallardo and most other Lamborghini models, derives its name from the world of bullfighting. The fighting bull Huracán of the Spanish Conte de la Patilla breed was known for his outstanding courage and strong sense of attack. He fought in Alicante in August 1879, showing his unrelenting character and remaining defiant and invincible, thus entering into the legend of fighting bulls’ history. The new Huracán revolutionizes the design language of the Gallardo and is pure in its
51
lines: precise technology and top level craftsmanship meet an audacious design with sharp edges, monolithic and sculptured volumes and precise surfaces. The starting point is the silhouette of the Huracán, born out of the desire of creating an automobile, whose profile is defined by only one line that merges the front with the cockpit and the rear of the car. The lateral windows come together to create a hexagonal form inserted like a glass jewel in the car’s profile. Also by night is the Huracán unmistakably a Lamborghini. Not only are the main headlamps equipped with full LED illumination, but all other light functions also feature state-of-the-art LED technology as a standard feature for the first time in the segment. The interior is dominated by an innovative cockpit. A 12.3 inch full-color TFT instrument panel delivers all car information to the driver, from rev counter to navigation maps and infotainment functions, and can be configured by the driver in different setups. Fine Nappa leather and Alcantara distinguish the interior, with several color combinations offered to ensure broad individualization options. The design of dashboard and central tunnel underline a new lightness in the interior. Superb craftsmanship guarantees the highest quality and sense of luxury throughout. Systematic lightweight design and Automobili Lamborghini’s extensive expertise in carbon fiber come together in the Huracán’s new hybrid chassis – an integrated structure of carbon and aluminum elements. With a dry weight of 1,422 kg it enables not only the excellent power-to-weight ratio of just 2.33 kilograms per horse power, but also guarantees race-car precision with outstanding stiffness. The new 5.2 liter V10 engine delivers a maximum power of 448 kW / 610 HP at 8,250 rpm and a maximum torque of 560 Nm at 6.500 rpm. In the new “Iniezione Diretta Stratificata” (IDS), direct and indirect gasoline injections are smartly combined. This results in more power and torque with lower fuel consumption and emissions compared with the Gallardo V10 engine. The top speed of over 325 km/h and the acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h in 3.2 seconds and to 200 km/h
52
INNOVATIVE TECHNOLOGY AND ABSOLUTE PERFORMANCE REDEFINE THE SUPER SPORTS CAR EXPERIENCE in 9.9 seconds only partially describe the dynamic experience at the wheel of the Huracán. Also thanks to the Stop & Start technology, the combined EU consumption figure has been further reduced to 12.5 liters per 100 km (290 g/ km CO2 emissions). The engine complies with EU6 emissions regulation.
The power of the V10 engine is brought to the road via the new 7-speed dualclutch transmission “Lamborghini Doppia Frizione” (LDF) and fully electronically controlled four-wheel drive system. The different driving modes of the Huracán can be selected via a driving dynamics selector switch in the steering wheel – from traction-oriented on the road to extreme performance on the race track, with three setups of the dynamics system: STRADA, SPORT and CORSA. The different modes ensure extensive modification in road behavior of the Huracán. In particular
they influence the set-ups of several systems, such as the gearbox and engine behavior, the sound, the four-wheel-drive system and electronic stability control. The Huracán’s carbon-ceramic brakes are a standard feature for consistently superb braking performance. The “Lamborghini Dynamic Steering” variable steering ratio system and magnetorheologic suspension damper control are both available as options for further customization of the Huracán’s dynamic behavior. They are also calibrated via the three different dynamic set-ups.•••
53
Worlds First Megacar
The Agera
56
57
KOENIGSEGG CELEBRATING
20 YEARS
58
The journey of Koenigsegg, since inception, is truly incredible. It all started on August 12th 1994 when a young man, aged 22, set out to realize his childhood dream. A young man fuelled by passion, ingenuity and mind-bending will. Christian von Koenigsegg had just made up his mind to live his dream and start his own car company. The odds were stacked against him. It was a now or never moment. His idea was to create a sports car that he felt did not currently exist and one which he believed would be desired – two essential necessities for success, Christian felt.
59
60
The concept: A lightweight mid-engined car, with a detachable, stowable hardtop. A wrap-around screen for good visibility and aerodynamics. Short overhangs with two large intercooler intakes on the side of the car, behind the mass center to aid high speed stability. A car that looked and felt good with the top up, as well as in roadster guise, transformed in minutes with the hard top neatly tucked away inside the car. A car with a timeless efficient appearance that ages like good wine. This was a mid-engine car concept that did not exist at the time. The CC8S was born. Every Koenigsegg created since includes this simple but effective DNA and stay true to Christian’s original vision. It has been an amazing ride. From boyhood dream to a shining, all-conquering and powerful reality. It’s awe-inspiring stuff that dreams are made of. Five production models with as many Guinness production car records later - it is a fact, Koenigsegg has exploded on to the scene and is here to stay. When Christian is asked what his greatest achievement is he says without hesitation, "Living the dream". Just imagine what the next 20 years will hold. •••
61
63
LAD MacNeil classified ad (6-7)-12_Layout 1 2/7/13 5:47 PM Page 1
The Easy to Install Floor Tile
Organize with
• Snaps Together • Easy to Install
Style!
• Non-Slip TractionSquaresTM • Patent Pending TwoShotTM process • Attractive Color Options
Great For Garage • Shop Basement • Laundry Room Kid’s Play Room Workout Room • Mud Room
• All-aluminum cabinets are attractive and durable • Modular design allows for unlimited configurations • Cabinets arrive completely assembled, easily install with simple tools • Drawers feature patent-pending Quik Draw™ singleaction latch system which keeps draws securely closed, uses no additional space and is whisper-quiet LIFETIME
Made in USA
©2013 by MacNeil IP LLC
TechFloor.com 800-441-6287
Call or click for your FREE Catalog: (888) 995-8583 www.modulinecabinets.com/A258
67
CODE 430214
Sharing your passion for the world’s finest automobiles.
BEST DEAL
q $29.99 1 year (6 issues) q $39.99 2 years (12 issues) Add $20 per year to Canadian Orders(includes GTS). Add $120 per year to Foreign orders. All subscription orders must be pre-paid in U.S. funds.
Name(please print) Address Apt.
Credit Card info
q American Express q Visa q Mastercard Card number
City State Zip email phone
Mail to: Luxury Auto Direct Magazine P.O. Box 1058, Lutz, Florida, 33548
q Payment enclosed
Code
exp.
Please allow 4-6 weeks for delivery
1680° 90 minute fire protection · More steel · More security features The most comprehensive warranty in the industry Call today for a complete catalog and price list
1-800-821-5216 — www.ftknox.com SECURIT Y
PRODUCTS