Tag Archives: automotive

Rolls-Royce Recognizes Outstanding Dealers with Annual Awards

Rolls-Royce Motor Cars recently celebrated its annual World Dealer Awards, a combination of virtual and in-person events, to honor its dealer partners for their exceptional contributions to the brand’s success in 2022. These awards acknowledged dealers’ achievements across various business objectives and accomplishments, including Global Dealer Awards and Regional Awards. The winners were announced during a ceremony that reflected the sophistication and elegance synonymous with the brand.

The event highlighted the announcement of the “Global Dealer of the Year” award, which was shared by Rolls-Royce Motor Cars London and Rolls-Royce Motor Cars Philadelphia. The “Sales Dealer of the Year” recognition went to Rolls-Royce Motor Cars Beijing Jinbaojie, while Rolls-Royce Motor Cars AGMC received the “Ownership Services Dealer of the Year” award. Rolls-Royce Motor Cars Tokyo was honored with the “Provenance Dealer of the Year” award, and Rolls-Royce Motor Cars Munich received the “Bespoke Dealer of the Year” distinction. The “Whispers Dealer of The Year Award” was triumphantly claimed by Rolls-Royce Motor Cars Brisbane, and the “Social Media Award” went to Rolls-Royce Motor Cars Hangzhou.

The awards ceremony not only celebrated the dedication and efforts of Rolls-Royce’s global partners but also marked a significant year for the brand. In a first-time achievement, Rolls-Royce delivered over 6,000 motor cars in a single year. Additionally, 2022 saw remarkable success in Bespoke commissions, with the brand’s Bespoke Collective at Goodwood producing a variety of uniquely imaginative and technically audacious creations. The 2022 Rolls-Royce Global Dealer Awards served as a triumphant conclusion to this successful year, as they acknowledged and appreciated the crucial role of the brand’s dealer partners and reaffirmed Rolls-Royce Motor Cars’ commitment to its heritage of luxury, performance, and customer service.

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Top 15 Best Sports Cars Of The Last 25 Years

Competition is inherent to the automotive industry. As Henry Ford once said, “Auto racing began five minutes after the second car was built,” and that really tells you all you need to know about the world of sports cars. But what does a car need to be dubbed the “best sports car”? Is it exclusivity, craftsmanship, significance, or style? We like to believe it’s all of those and more.

Picking a single vehicle as the best sports car is a difficult task, as personal preferences vary. However, the last 25 years have produced a diverse range of significant sports cars that have earned their place on any list. Whether you agree with the ranking or not, these 15 models have strong credentials to be called the best sports cars from the last 25 years.

So, let’s take a closer look at these amazing sports cars:

15 Honda S2000

0 to 60 MPH: 5.4 Seconds

![Honda S2000](https://static1.topspeedimages.com/wordpress/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/878af6e5-45e1-43ed-843b-593312a78c16.jpg)

The Honda S2000 may not be the fastest car on this list, but it holds a special place among sports cars. While it may lack the outright performance of some of the others, it is always regarded as one of the best sports cars ever made. The S2000 was designed to be a practical sports car for everyday driving, and it succeeded in achieving that goal.

The Honda S2000 has a 5.4-second 0 to 60 mph time, a top speed of 151 mph, a curb weight of 2,833 pounds, and a 236-horsepower

The Evolution Of Toyota’s Hydrogen Combustion Engine

Automotive manufacturers have been attempting to revolutionize the fuel industry for a few decades now. Toyota was one of the front-runners in this effort with their hybrid systems, first introduced in the Prius. While many believe that electric vehicles (EVs) are the way forward, Toyota and others are skeptical about their practicality and environmental impact. As a result, Toyota has invested significant time and resources into hydrogen power, and their efforts may just save the internal combustion engine.

Hydrogen is seen as one of the most promising environmentally friendly power sources for vehicles. Toyota has used hydrogen in combination with batteries to eliminate charging time and reduce emissions. With this technology, vehicles can be refueled with hydrogen at fuel stations, offering convenience to drivers. Additionally, hydrogen-powered vehicles require smaller and fewer batteries compared to traditional EVs, making them more environmentally friendly. Toyota has even explored the idea of using hydrogen in conventional internal combustion engines as a replacement for petrol. Since hydrogen fuel produces water as a byproduct, successfully implementing this technology would revolutionize the automotive industry.

Toyota has made significant progress in this area, developing hydrogen-powered engines such as the 1.6-liter Yaris and the 5.0-liter V-8 from the Lexus RC-F, in collaboration with Yamaha. These engines retain the power and performance of their petrol counterparts, with minimal modifications required. This means that existing production lines and engine designs can be used, further benefiting the environment. In the future, Toyota may even offer hydrogen conversion kits for petrol-powered vehicles, allowing classic car enthusiasts to keep their beloved machines on the road without the need for costly conversions or excessive road taxes.

However, there are some downsides to hydrogen engines, specifically related to the storage of hydrogen. The fuel requires large tanks, reducing interior space in vehicles, and it is highly flammable, necessitating leak-proof and durable storage systems. Once these storage challenges are addressed, the installation of hydrogen fuel stations could be more straightforward compared to EV chargers, as they can utilize existing infrastructure for normal fuels.

RC Big Rigs In Small Scale Look Like A Fun Way To Work Hard, Cost Thousands

Radio-controlled vehicles offer a downsized version of the automotive experience. They come in a range of prices, with some models being more complex and feature-rich than others. The RC rigs showcased in the video above go beyond mere replicas of dump trucks, excavators, semis, and other big rigs by incorporating intricate details.

The level of detail in some of these machines is remarkable. Many of them include functioning lights to enhance their realism, but that’s just the tip of the iceberg. Some vehicles even have illuminated dashboards and center screens, while their engine and reverse sounds mimic the actual noise produced by hard-working electric motors. In fact, some clips in the video sound like an actual construction site.

However, such detailed RC rigs come at a cost, with most models ranging well over $1,000. For example, the five-axle low-loader semi-trailer featured at 6:40 in the video retails for €5,512 ($6,004 at today’s exchange rates). This trailer is equipped with a front-end storage box, sunken lashing and anchorage eyes, fold-out chassis extensions, as well as complete wiring with rear lights and side markers.

Not everything in the video is as expensive though. The JDM-198 RTR loader shown at 5:25 is relatively cheaper, retailing for $2,241. The 1/14-scale articulated dump truck, available at 8:55 in the video, costs $2,052 on ToucanHobby.com. The Kabolite Liebhe 350 excavator featured at 3:30 falls in the middle range with a price tag of $3,456, while the LESU Lieghe loader, seen at 5:43, is an investment of $2,884 on the hobby website. However, it’s worth noting that the latter model comes unassembled and unpainted.

These hard-working RC rigs demonstrate the diverse range of car culture. Although they may not be the supercars that grace posters and magazine covers, they are equally awe-inspiring as functional machines. These scaled-down vehicles, even in 1/14-scale, are capable of performing tasks just like their real-world counterparts. The video showcases the excavators digging dirt and loading it into dump trucks that drive away, mirroring real-life construction scenarios.

While purchasing toys like these may not be feasible for everyone due to their high price point, there are always cheaper alternatives available. These alternatives may not have the same level of detail but still offer an enjoyable radio-controlled experience. The RC market caters to various budgets and extends beyond models, with options like RC engines and transmissions that celebrate the engineering found in modern automobiles.

Jerry Seinfeld Takes Delivery Of His $1.2M Porsche 911 Classic Club Coupe

Since its debut in the automotive world in 1964, the coveted Porsche 911 has continued an ongoing legacy as the ultimate sports car. Earlier this month, Porsche Classic auctioned a special one-off car dedicated to the Porsche Club of America: the 911 Classic Club Coupe. The Porsche 911 Classic Club Coupe sold for an astonishing $1.2 million to a private collector at the 75th Anniversary Porsche Auction held at the Porsche Experience Center in Atlanta, Georgia by Broad Arrow Auctions. Discovered through the community of passionate Porsche enthusiasts, the seven-figure 996 generation Porsche was purchased by none other than American comedian and Porsche fanatic Jerry Seinfeld.

Jerry Seinfeld just recently took delivery of the 911 Classic Club Coupe as part of a private event where he accepted the keys and took his first drive. Joining a collection that includes examples like the very first production Porsche 911, a 1973 Porsche 911 Carrera RS, and countless other historic Porsches, the PCA 911 Classic Club Coupe is in good hands with Jerry Seinfeld. Now that the Porsche 911 Classic Club Coupe is safely in the hands of its proud owner, we hope to see Jerry Seinfeld displaying his new prized possession at future events. View all current Porsche 911 models for sale on duPont REGISTRY by clicking the link below.

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The Most Expensive Ferraris Sold At Auctions In 2023 So Far

The year 2023 has proven to be an extraordinary one for automotive enthusiasts and collectors, particularly those with a penchant for the iconic Italian marque, Ferrari. With several high-profile auctions taking place around the world, we have witnessed the sale of some truly exceptional Ferraris at record-breaking prices.

(Featured Image Source: RM Sotheby’s)

In this article, we will explore the top-tier Ferrari models that fetched astonishing sales prices in 2023, demonstrating the enduring allure and value of these legendary automobiles.

  1. 1962 Ferrari 250 GT SWB California Spider: The 1962 Ferrari 250 GT SWB California Spider stole the show at the Gooding & Co. auction in Amelia Island. Finished in Azzurro Metallizzato and adorned with a Naturale interior, this stunning classic boasted a remarkable 74,360 miles on its odometer. Collectors vied for the chance to own this piece of automotive history, ultimately driving the price to an astonishing $16,400,000.

  2. 1972 Ferrari 312 PB: At the RM Sotheby’s auction in Villa Erba, a vibrant red and yellow 1972 Ferrari 312 PB, bearing the number 8, captivated bidders. This exceptional racing car, known for its illustrious past on the track, achieved a remarkable hammer price of $11,581,290, showcasing the enduring appeal of vintage Ferrari race cars.

  3. 1961 Ferrari 250 GT SWB Berlinetta: Another notable entry from the Villa Erba auction was the 1961 Ferrari 250 GT SWB Berlinetta. Finished in a striking red exterior with a sleek black interior, this classic Ferrari exemplified timeless beauty. Its impressive hammer price of $6,331,827 underscored the desirability of this model among collectors who appreciate its historical significance and elegant design.

  4. 1955 Ferrari 121 LM Spider: The RM Sotheby’s auction in Le Mans witnessed an extraordinary sale—the 1955 Ferrari 121 LM Spider. Adorned in a captivating red livery with the number 5 proudly displayed, this racing icon commanded attention. With a price of $5,490,341, this Ferrari exemplified the enduring allure of vintage racing cars among passionate collectors.

  5. 1951 Ferrari 340 America Spider by Touring: Artcurial Motorcars’ auction in Paris presented an exceptional Ferrari: the 1951 Ferrari 340 America Spider by Touring. Bathed in a mesmerizing blue hue with an elegant black interior, this rare gem showcased the pinnacle of automotive craftsmanship. The discerning collectors recognized its uniqueness, driving the final bid to an impressive $5,359,753.

  6. 1995 Ferrari F50: The RM Sotheby’s auction in Amelia Island showcased the modern classic, the 1995 Ferrari F50. Finished in the iconic Rosso Corsa with a captivating black and red interior, this supercar boasted a mere 1,342 kilometers on the odometer. Collectors clamored to secure this piece of Ferrari’s rich heritage, resulting in a hammer price of $4,600,000.

  7. 2003 Ferrari Enzo: The Paris auction held by RM Sotheby’s unveiled a Nero-clad 2003 Ferrari Enzo, featuring a luxurious Pelle Nera interior. With its distinguished design and formidable performance capabilities, the Enzo commanded attention and an impressive $3,964,496.

  8. 2014 Ferrari LaFerrari: At the Scottsdale auction, RM Sotheby’s presented the 2014 Ferrari LaFerrari in electrifying Blu Elettrico with a refined Crema interior. As a cutting-edge hybrid hypercar, it showcased Ferrari’s commitment to innovation. The price of $3,700,000 solidified its status as one of the most sought-after modern Ferraris.

  9. 1985 Ferrari 288 GTO: The Amelia Island auction featured the 1985 Ferrari 288 GTO, a true icon of automotive excellence. Painted in Rosso Corsa and complemented by a striking Nero and Rosso interior, this rare and powerful machine inspired fierce bidding, culminating in a sale of $3,600,000.

  10. 1991 Ferrari 643 Formula 1: The RM Sotheby’s auction in Paris witnessed the sale of the 1991 Ferrari 643 Formula 1 car, resplendent in Rosso Corsa with the number 28 emblazoned on its body. This embodiment of Formula 1 excellence garnered significant attention, leading to a hammer price of $3,579,059.

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So far, the year 2023 has been an extraordinary one for Ferrari collectors, with remarkable models achieving record-breaking prices at auctions around the world. From the elegance of the 1962 250 GT SWB California Spider to the cutting-edge technology of the 2014 LaFerrari, these Ferraris embody the brand’s rich heritage and timeless appeal. As the passion for these iconic automobiles continues to thrive, their allure as both investments and symbols of automotive excellence remains unparalleled.

Is There Hope For The Future Of Jaguar?

As the automotive world accelerates towards a future characterized by electrification, autonomy, and cutting-edge innovation, Jaguar’s lion-hearted emblem, which once held the promise of grandeur and unmatched performance, stands on shaky grounds.

The prestige and allure of this British marque are now being jeopardized by rivals, which are not just matching Jaguar stride for stride but threatening to leave it in the dust. From profitable glory in 2018 to staggering losses post-2019, Jaguar Land Rover’s (JLR) journey reflects a broader slump in manufacturing. A series of high-profile exits, including former bosses Ralf Speth and Thierry Bolloré, has intensified its struggles, with the latter’s departure possibly influenced by the company’s handling of the global semiconductor shortage.

Current interim boss Adrian Mardell, who has gained respect within JLR, took on the challenge of turning the company around, revealing a drastic reduction in car production numbers needed for breaking even. This narrative tells a compelling story of JLR’s quest for resurgence amid a rapidly evolving industry. But can Jaguar orchestrate a triumphant comeback? Let’s delve into the issues.

Related: 10 Things Every Self-Respecting Car Enthusiast Should Know About The Jaguar E-Type

Jaguar’s Stumbling Blocks: Sports Cars And Sedans

Jaguar
A front 3/4 view of the Jaguar F TYPE R Dynamic Coupe

Presently, Jaguar faces issues primarily due to its sports cars and sedans. Take the F-Type, for instance. A fantastic car that gave the Jaguar brand a much-needed flair and dynamism when it first rolled out. But it’s been the same song and dance ever since, with no successor appearing. Besides a letdown for car enthusiasts, it’s also a missed beat for Jaguar to tap into its rich legacy and rekindle customer love. Mention the word ‘Jag,’ and people’s minds often leap to iconic classics like the E-Type and the old XJ. The absence of a new sports car feels like a glaring oversight on Jaguar’s part.

In the same vein, the XF, a strikingly handsome sedan, has been on the market for quite a while now without any notable upgrades. After an eight-year run, it’s showing signs of age, missing out on features Jaguar devotees have come to expect, like high-octane engines. The absence of a V-8 option has left car buffs pining for the exhilarating power and performance that’s come to be associated with Jaguar. Rewind to 2019, and the XF sedan was a colossal letdown.

The previous generation had its unique charm, but the new XF felt unapproachable, harsh to handle, and failed to strike a chord. Eight years later, the XF cries out for a successor, yet there isn’t one in the works. And then there’s the XE, Jaguar’s entry-level offering. It has a few commendable attributes and handles well on the road, but it lacks that polished refinement expected from a Jaguar.

Additionally, the engine choices leave something to be desired, particularly the top-of-the-line P300’s relatively tame two-liter turbocharged four-cylinder. For a premium Jaguar, you’d think there’d at least be a six-cylinder gasoline engine in the mix. Like the XF, the XE has also run its eight-year course without a successor.

Jaguar’s Recent Product Line Up

Car Model Challenge Short Details
F-Type No updates/successor The F-Type has remained unchanged since launch, lacking a successor.
XF Outdated features, lacks power The XF is outdated with no powerful engine options, disappointing enthusiasts.
XJ Discontinuation The discontinuation of the flagship XJ with a V8 engine has upset enthusiasts.
XE Refinement and engine choice The XE lacks refinement and has a disappointing engine choice in the top-tier model. It is also due for a replacement.

Related: Why The Jaguar XJS Is A Great First Classic Car

Falling Behind In Compact And SUV Markets

Jaguar
A Front 3/4 shot of a Jaguar F-Pace SVR cruising on asphalt

Jaguar is in some choppy waters, having trouble with their flashy sports cars, luxury sedans, and smaller, compact SUV categories. Their competitors are one step ahead. To give you a clearer picture, let’s break down their offerings:

  • The E-Pace, their smallest SUV, hasn’t rocked the auto world. It is adorable and compact, but its petite size and limited functionality make it a hard sell against more feature-rich alternatives. It’s for a hardcore Jaguar enthusiast rather than the average customer valuing practicality over prestige.
  • The F-Pace, their larger SUV, is more competitive. It’s one of the shining stars of current the Jaguar lineup. In particular, the performance-enhanced F-Pace SVR has garnered some profound appreciation. However, it isn’t perfect, and it has to battle it out in a fiercely competitive market.
  • The I-Pace, their solitary venture into the electric vehicle realm, has managed to charm the few who have given it a spin. But Jaguar has been slacking a bit since its debut, with only minor cosmetic changes and no significant improvements to its battery or charging capacity. In an era where charging speeds of 150 to 350 kilowatts are becoming the norm, the I-Pace’s 100-kilowatt charging ceiling is disappointing. This lagging is posing quite a challenge for Jaguar in the premium segment.

On a brighter note, its sister brand, Land Rover, has been on a roll with their beloved Range Rover series. Catering to a broad spectrum of budgets and tastes, these SUVs are highly coveted. The success of Land Rover is a helping hand that keeps the company afloat while Jaguar tries to gain more traction.

Related: The Jaguar XKR Is A V-8 Grand Tourer That Still Looks Stunning Today

Losing The Electrification Race And The Land Rover Dilemma

Jaguar
Jaguar I-Pace charging 

Jaguar stumbles in its efforts to join the electric vehicle frenzy. They’ve committed to going all-electric by 2025. Still, their only electric offering, the I-Pace, doesn’t stack up against the technological prowess and performance of the latest EVs. They’ve missed a golden opportunity to establish themselves in the premium EV scene, especially while competitors from other luxury brands stole the limelight.

U.S. consumers have a soft spot for high-end electric vehicles. With the increasing popularity of EVs, Jaguar had the circumstances to shake things up by rolling out an electric variant of their popular XJ. Such a move could’ve painted Jaguar as a trailblazer. It could even attract a new crowd of sustainably focused customers. Regrettably, they abandoned the electric XJ, passing a chance to make a powerful statement in the luxury EV market.

Moreover, Jaguar’s close ties with Land Rover aren’t free from issues. While Land Rover is doing great in the SUV game, Jaguar finds it hard to carve out its current identity. There’s a genuine risk here of the audience perceiving Jaguar as a rebranding effort, with their cars coming across as remodeled versions of Land Rover and Range Rover vehicles. This might dilute what makes Jaguar unique, raising questions about its distinct role and future sustainability.

Related: 10 Reasons Why The Jaguar I-Pace Is Criminally Underrated

Turning Point: Jaguar’s Revival Strategy And The Road Ahead

Jaguar
A shot of a Jaguar F-Pace with the Golden Gate Bridge in the backdrop in San Fransisco

Jaguar is on a precarious precipice, battling many challenges that have chipped away at its standing in the car market. But it’s not all doom and gloom. There’s a solution, and Jaguar can stage a return to be recognized as a top-tier luxury brand again. Here’s how:

  1. Top of the list should be the launch of a new F-Type successor. It would create a buzz and reestablish Jaguar’s position in the market.
  2. Pouring investments into advanced electric vehicles can’t be ignored. It represents the future, and Jaguar must dive deep into electrification.
  3. It’s time for Jaguar to carve out a unique identity within the Jaguar Land Rover group, distinct and easily identifiable.

Jaguar could be well-prepared for a prosperous future by hurdling these stumbling blocks. Though to get there, the company needs to step up its customer service game to wow buyers—something non-negotiable in the current car landscape. They also should harness the power of new media platforms. It’s an invaluable tool to captivate and grow a younger audience. The path forward might be unclear, but it’s far from a dead-end.

Jaguar is expected to rekindle its glorious heritage, breathe new life into its product range, and welcome innovation with open arms. By following this roadmap, Jaguar has the potential to become a beacon of luxury once again.

10 Things You Should Know About Toyota Sports Cars

Few names in the automotive world are as everlasting as Toyota. Wherever you go in the world, you will find vehicles produced by the legendary Japanese automaker. Founded by Kiichiro Toyoda in 1937, Toyota now operates in more than 170 countries worldwide and produces the highest-selling vehicle in a number of them.

While most people know Toyota for making passenger cars such as the Toyota Corolla and Camry and trucks such as the Toyota Tacoma and Toyota Tundra, Toyota has also made great strides in the luxury and sports car segments. True automotive enthusiasts recognize the pedigree Toyota has, and sports cars made by Toyota have a worldwide fanbase.

These vehicles are some of the most unique in the world because they combine two things: the reliability and accessibility that Toyota is known for, and the exhilarating performance and driving experience craved by enthusiasts. Factor in the sleek Japanese looks and styling cues, and you get a guaranteed recipe for success.

From the affordable GR86 to the fan-favorite Supra to the exotic Lexus LFA, Toyota has a wide-ranging portfolio of sports cars that caters to different tastes and preferences. Here are 10 things you should know about sports cars made by Toyota!

RELATED: Why The Toyota GR86 Is The Perfect Sports Car For Beginners

10 Toyota’s Are Reliable And Practical

Toyota
A front 3/4 studio shot of a Toyota GR86

This one is a no-brainer: Toyota makes some of the most reliable vehicles in the world. Toyota’s commitment to reliability isn’t just limited to mass-produced vehicles like the Corolla, Camry, and Tacoma, though, as it stretches across its entire lineup of sports cars. Robust construction and well-engineered drivetrains are hallmarks of Toyota vehicles and its sports cars are the perfect embodiment of these two things as well.

Out of the current lineup, the Toyota GR86 is the prime example of this since it inherits Toyota’s engineering ethos and delivers a well-rounded package that is as accessible and reliable as it is fun and thrilling to drive. Toyota sports cars allow drivers to enjoy high-performance experiences without disturbing their peace of mind, and that’s where their greatest strength lies.

9 Sports Cars Designed For Bleeding-Edge Performance

Toyota 
2023 Toyota GR Supra in motion

No sports car is complete without exhilarating performance. While looking cool on the road is part of the appeal, it is imperative for a sports car to be as fast as possible. Fortunately, Toyota knows this and has even created a dedicated performance department dubbed Toyota Gazoo Racing. The GR sub-brand takes part in endurance and rally races and the expertise developed there is carried over to sports cars as part of Toyota’s lineup.

Cars such as the Toyota 86 and the Supra now come with the GR branding. The purpose of this department is to deliver cutting-edge performance by pushing the boundaries of speed, handling, and intelligent design. The current-generation Supra is a result of this relentless pursuit of excellence and has produced some amazing performance numbers.

8 They Deliver Balanced Handling

Toyota
A front 3/4 action shot of a Toyota GR86 driving on the track

A high-performing sports car isn’t supposed to just go fast in a straight line. It is supposed to gracefully glide around corners, hugs the road when needed, and still be capable of tearing across it when you put your foot down. Toyota’s sports cars are renowned for their handling, delivering a harmonious balance between raw acceleration and grip that unfolds like a mechanical symphony at the hands of the right driver.

Toyota is known to meticulously fine-tune the suspension, chassis, and weight distribution of its sports cars to find this optimal balance. Whether it’s the GR86 with its razor-sharp handling or the GR Supra with its driver-friendly design, delivering an immersive and engaging driving experience is in the DNA of sports cars made by Toyota.

RELATED: It’s Official: An Electric Toyota GR Sports Car Is Coming!

7 Toyota Sportscars Have A Driver-Focused Design

Toyota
Front/side shot of a red 1996 Toyota Supra

Unlike exotic sports cars brands like Lamborghini, Ferrari, or Aston Martin, the value of a Toyota doesn’t come from the brand name or badge. It comes from the driving experience it provides. Toyota’s sports cars are designed to be as accessible and driver-focused as possible, prioritizing the needs of the person behind the wheel more than anything else.

The cockpit usually has a no-nonsense design philosophy and the potential for modification is immense. The fourth-generation Toyota Supra is a fan-favorite when it comes to after-market builds, with some of them pushing more than 2000 horsepower. The resurrected current-generation Supra hasn’t been modified to that extent yet, but it is already setting some records.

6 They Feature Sleek and Aerodynamic Styling

Toyota 
Front and side shot of a silver 2003 Toyota Celica

In order to maximize the potential of every design, both in terms of aesthetics and efficiency, Toyota is known to carefully place each design element to optimize airflow and enhance performance. While functionality is very much the focus in most designs, the sweeping curves and aggressive lines on models like the old Cellica give Toyota’s sports cars a commanding and immediately recognizable presence on the road.

Aerodynamic features such as spoilers and diffusers are heavily involved in the design to improve downforce and stability at high speeds, and this results in some menacing-looking vehicles. Toyota’s commitment to sleek and aerodynamic styling is evident in its sports cars and ensures that they look as fast as they drive.

5 They Are Equipped With Advanced Technology

Lexus
A studio shot of the front end of a 2011 Lexus LFA

Sports cars are engineering and technological marvels, and Toyota leaves no stone unturned to ensure its sports cars are equipped with the latest advances in automotive technology. From innovative driver-assistance features to the latest infotainment systems, these cars offer a unique blend of safety, convenience, and performance.

The technology isn’t just limited to big screens or safety features, though, since Toyota also equips its cars with advanced mechanical features adaptive suspensions, and innovative chassis construction. The iconic Lexus LFA, made by Toyota’s luxury sub-brand Lexus, is the perfect example of this. The LFA was ahead of its time when it comes to sports car tech, including a unique chassis composed of an aeronautical-grade carbon fiber-reinforced polymer monocoque that allowed for an extremely lightweight construction.

RELATED: The Fate of Toyota’s GR Performance Lineup Has Been Decided

4 They Have Extremely Efficient Engines

Bring A Trailer
A shot of the 1991 Toyota Soarer engine bay with the 1JZ-GTE’s 

If there is one thing that Toyota is known for apart from reliability, it’s efficiency. And we don’t just mean the ridiculous MPG figures delivered by hybrids such as the Toyota Prius. Toyota’s sports cars also have engines optimized for efficiency and squeeze out every last drop of potential from the fuel you put in them. Think of the highly tunable 1JZ and 2JZ engines from the 90s. In fact, the Mk4 Supra is a tuner’s wet dream.

Out of the current lineup of Toyota sports cars, the GR86 has a combined fuel economy rating of 22 MPG, the GR Corolla has a rating of 24 MPG and the GR Supra has a rating of 28 MPG for the base 2.0-liter version. Through continuous research and development, Toyota has produced remarkably efficient engines and these numbers are a testament to its commitment to efficiency in all types of vehicles.

3 Many Of Them Have Track-Ready Versions

Toyota
A 2020 Toyota Supra GT4 on a track

The road is where you see most Toyotas, but Toyota has a rich motorsports history ranging from F1 to endurance championships. This racing pedigree is carried over to track-focused versions of Toyota’s sports car. The Supra A91-CF Edition, for example, was launched in 2021 as a track-ready version of the fifth-generation Supra.

It features a new carbon-fiber body kit and special-edition wheels and even came with a one-year membership to the National Auto Sport Association. The race-only version of the Supra is called the Supra GT4 and it recently received a refresh for the 2023 season. The GR86 has also received similar treatment with Toyota unveiling a track-focused GR86 Special Edition in 2022 along with a race-only version named the GR86 Cup.

2 They Are Designed To Be Fun And Engaging To Drive

Toyota
The interior of a 2023 Toyota GR Supra with a manual transmission.

Sports cars made by Toyota deliver value in a lot of ways, but the driving experience is at the very core of them. Designed to be as accessible as possible but still have enough depth to appeal to enthusiasts, these cars are renowned for the refined driving experience they provide. The current-generation Supra is known as a driver’s car and has received glowing reviews for its responsive handling and impressive performance capabilities.

It doesn’t offer the most luxurious or spacious cockpit, but everything is optimized to deliver the best possible driving experience. The Lexus LFA, a showcase of Toyota’s engineering prowess, came with a naturally-aspirated V-10 and is widely recognized as one of the best-sounding cars ever. There are few things in life as joyous as the growl of a powerful engine as you put your foot down, and Toyota knows how to deliver that.

RELATED: 5 Upcoming Japanese Sports Cars To Watch Out For

1 Toyota Sports Cars Are Often Quite Affordable

Toyota
Rear 3/4 shot of the 2023 GR86 Special Edition

Toyota is not a brand that takes pleasure in breaking the bank and the prices of its sports cars reflect that. Out of the current lineup, the GR86 starts at $28,400, the GR Corolla starts at $35,900 and the GR Supra starts at $44,640. If you opt for the most powerful 3.0-liter Supra that produces 382 horsepower and 368 pound-feet of torque, it will set you back around $57,000.

These cars are not the most luxurious sports cars out there, nor are they as exotic as some of their European rivals, but they thrive at what they are meant to do. If you are looking for a sports car that can deliver all the thrills while still being affordable, you might want to visit your nearest Toyota dealer.

Graham Rahal Performance Reveals Porsche Carrera GT Recommission Project #02

Introduced in 2004, the Porsche Carrera GT has left a lasting impact on the automotive industry and is considered one of the iconic supercars in its class. To preserve its legacy, Graham Rahal Performance offers a specialized recommissioning service called the GRP Porsche Carrera GT Recommission Project. This project allows owners to customize their Carrera GTs even after almost 20 years since they were first produced. Graham Rahal Performance is excited to announce GRP Project Recommission #02, which features a stunning Signal Orange Porsche Carrera GT.

The Porsche Carrera GT in this project boasts a vibrant Signal Orange finish, which is inspired by a Porsche Singer and perfectly replicates the unique shade found on the handbuilt 911. As part of the customization process, GRP Project Recommission #02 includes upgraded HRE performance wheels with silver and black center locks. Additionally, the Porsche carbon ceramic brake calipers have been paint-matched to complement the new exterior color of the Carrera GT.

Inside the Carrera GT, the design pays tribute to early Porsche interiors with its jaw-dropping plaid-style cabin. The outer portion of the Porsche sports bucket seats features black leather with signal orange contrast stitching, while the center inserts showcase a stunning signal orange, grey, and black cross-woven plaid design. Subtle hints of vibrant orange stitching tastefully accentuate the driver-focused interior while maintaining a factory appearance for the majority.

Comparing the Carrera GT and the 911 Singer side by side, it is evident that Porsche is committed to pushing the boundaries of performance and paying tribute to the innovative models that paved the way. The GRP Porsche Carrera GT Recommission Project by Graham Rahal Performance breathes new life into this automotive icon and preserves one of Porsche’s greatest sports cars. To browse all Graham Rahal Performance inventory available for sale, click the link below.

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Lamborghini Opens Its First Norway Showroom In Oslo

The automotive industry is faced with the challenge of reducing emissions and minimizing environmental impact in many regions around the world. For supercar manufacturers like Lamborghini, finding solutions to these challenges is crucial for entering new markets. In celebration of its 60th anniversary, Lamborghini unveiled its first plug-in hybrid flagship supercar, the Revuelto, capable of an impressive 1,001 horsepower. The grand opening of Lamborghini Oslo, which marks Lamborghini’s first showroom in Norway, showcased the Revuelto as the star of the event.

The opening of Lamborghini Oslo not only introduced the showroom to the local audience but also marked the debut of the Revuelto in Norway. Lamborghini CEO Stephan Winkelmann, Chief Sales and Marketing Officer Federico Foschini, Nils Tronrud, Chairman of XPND Auto Group (which operates the new showroom), and a select group of guests attended the event. Besides showcasing the Revuelto, the grand opening featured a performance by the Norwegian band Kickslip and DJ Boge. Additionally, a unique painting by Nicolay Aamodt, celebrating Lamborghini’s 60th anniversary, was presented, marking the beginning of an exciting era for Lamborghini in a new country.

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