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Lexus

WHAT’S NEW: 2024 LEXUS LX 600

PLANO, Texas (Oct. 24, 2023)  – The 2024 Lexus LX 600 continues the legacy of the luxury SUV icon. Known for its blend of comfort and off-road capability, the LX 600 builds upon the updates and improvements from the previous year.

The LX 600 is powered by a high-output, high-torque 3.4-liter V6 twin-turbo gasoline engine. It features the Electronically Controlled Brake (ECB) system and Electric Power Steering (EPS) for precise control on both on-road and off-road terrain.

The interior of the LX 600 is designed for maximum comfort and usability. It features the Lexus Interface with a dual display configuration, consisting of a 12.3-inch upper screen and a 7-inch lower screen. These displays offer a variety of views, instrumentation, and control adjustments to enhance the driving experience.

The LX 600 is available in five interior color options and seven exterior color options, including premium paint options for an additional fee.

KEY TECHNICAL FEATURES

GA-F PLATFORM: The LX 600 maintains the GA-F platform introduced in 2022, which provides improved body rigidity and stability. The front high-mounted double wishbone suspension and optimized coil springs offer excellent vehicle stability and ride comfort, both on and off-road.

POWER + LINEARITY: 3.4-LITER TWIN-TURBO V6 AND DIRECT SHIFT-10AT: The 3.4-liter V6 twin-turbo gasoline engine generates an output of 409 hp and maximum torque of 479 lb.-ft. It provides ample power for both on-road and off-road driving, with maximum torque available in a wide range of rpm. The Direct Shift-10AT transmission offers smooth acceleration and precise gear shifting.

ON-ROAD PERFORMANCE VIA LEXUS DRIVING SIGNATURE: The high-output engine, ECB, EPS, Active Height Control (AHC) system, and Adaptive Variable Suspension (AVS) work together to deliver superior driving performance in all situations. The AHC adjusts the vehicle height and optimizes the spring rate to maintain stability during turning, acceleration, and deceleration.

ELECTRIC POWER STEERING (EPS) AND ELECTRONICALLY CONTROLLED BRAKE (ECB): The EPS provides a light steering sensation at low speeds and full steering weightiness at high speeds, enhancing the driving experience. The ECB system ensures more linear braking characteristics and precise control in off-road conditions.

WHEEL, TIRE AND REAR TORSEN® LIMITED SLIP DIFFERENTIAL (LSD) PERFORMANCE: The LX 600 features 22-inch forged aluminum wheels for enhanced on-road performance. The F SPORT Handling grade includes a Torsen® LSD for improved traction and control during acceleration and cornering.

INHERITANCE OF HERITAGE: The LX 600 maintains the same rugged off-road capabilities as its predecessors, with a 2,850 mm/112 in. wheelbase and impressive obstacle angles. It can handle rough terrain and offers spacious interior comfort.

19.3-INCHES OF SCREEN ACCESS: The LX 600’s instrument panel features a 12.3-inch upper screen and a 7-inch lower screen. The upper screen provides navigation and control functions, while the lower screen displays climate control settings and serves as a driving-support screen for Multi-Terrain Select.

MULTI-TERRAIN SELECT (MTS): The LX 600 offers six driving modes – Auto, Dirt, Sand, Mud, Deep Snow, and Rock – to optimize performance in various off-road conditions. The Multi-Terrain Select integrates the drive power, suspension, and brake control for optimal performance.

CRAWL CONTROL: The Crawl Control feature allows the LX 600 to move at low speeds in forward or reverse, with five selectable low-speed settings. It optimizes engine output and hydraulic braking pressure to reduce tire slippage and improve chassis behavior.

DOWNHILL ASSIST CONTROL: When descending steep slopes, the system controls the hydraulic pressure of all four brakes to ensure a stable descent without wheel lock. This feature allows the driver to focus on steering without worrying about braking and accelerating.

MULTI-TERRAIN MONITOR (MTM): The Multi-Terrain Monitor uses four cameras to provide a comprehensive view around the vehicle. It displays imagery from the front, side, and rear cameras on a 12.3-inch screen, allowing the driver to navigate blind spots and assess off-road conditions.

ULTRA LUXURY AND F SPORT GRADES

ULTRA LUXURY: The Ultra Luxury grade focuses on rear passenger comfort and offers adjustable front seats, a rear seat display, and a footrest for maximum relaxation. It features curved headrests, seatbacks, and cushions for a secure and comfortable seating experience, even during off-road driving.

F SPORT Handling: The F SPORT Handling grade offers a sportier look and feel, with exclusive design touches and performance enhancements. It features unique 22-inch forged aluminum wheels, an F mesh design spindle grille, and customized seats for improved support and driving dynamics.

NEXT-GENERATION DESIGN: The LX 600 showcases a dynamic design with a cab-backward silhouette, muscular rear wheel arches, and a distinctive spindle grille. The interior and exterior design combine functionality with aesthetic appeal, featuring advanced lighting technology and aerodynamic elements.

LEXUS INTERFACE: INTUITIVE CONNECTED MULTIMEDIA SYSTEM: The LX 600 is equipped with the Lexus Interface, a multimedia system that provides intuitive technology at the driver’s fingertips. It includes a 12.3-inch upper touchscreen and a 7-inch lower touchscreen for easy access and control. The system incorporates a Voice Assistant for hands-free operation and offers personalized settings and navigation features.

LEXUS SAFETY SYSTEM+ 2.5: The LX 600 comes standard with the Lexus Safety System+ 2.5, which includes a suite of active safety features. It offers enhanced Pre-Collision System, All-Speed Dynamic Radar Cruise Control, Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist, and Road Sign Assist for improved safety and driver assistance.

The 2024 Lexus LX 600 will be available for sale by the end of 2023.

Motorsport

Alpina Founder Burkard Bovensiepen Passes Away At Age 87

Burkard Bovensiepen, the founder of Alpina in 1965, has sadly passed away. He was a respected figure in the BMW community and made significant contributions to the brand. Bovensiepen’s involvement with BMW began in 1962 when he developed a Weber dual carburetor for the 1500, which caught the attention of BMW’s sales boss at the time. This showcased Bovensiepen’s expertise and dedication to the automotive industry.

Alpina initially started as a tuning company but was officially recognized as a full-fledged automaker by the German Federal Ministry of Transport in 1983. One notable distinction of Alpina vehicles is the Alpina-specific vehicle identification number that supersedes the original BMW VIN. Alpina’s philosophy is to create modified cars that strike a balance between comfort and luxury, distinguishing them from BMW M models, which are more focused on sportiness.


News

2024 BMW XM Label Red: Everything We Know So Far

The BMW XM Label Red is no normal BMW. In fact, it is no normal car. The XM exists as a fashion icon, as a statement. It is a car you will mostly see rolling down a high-end city street rather than taking kids to school. BMW named the Label Red the ‘Rock Star‘, which says a lot about the personality of this behemoth. The XM is based on the same architecture as the BMW X7, even featuring the same wheelbase. However, aside from the base of the vehicle, pretty much every other part is new, including the floors. Here’s what you need to know about the company’s most powerful M-model and an SUV that is pretty much a fashion item.

Information regarding the XM Label Red has been gathered from BMW and CarandDriver.

Related: 10 Reasons Why The BMW XM Label Red Is The Ultimate Super SUV

The BMW XM Label Red’s Design Is Bold And Controversial

At first glance, one can’t simply ignore the illuminated kidney grill. Now, depending on your taste, the size of the grille and the fact that it lights up is either insulting or amazing.

However, the rest of the car, even though huge, manages to look sporty yet elegant, which is a design not many SUVs manage to achieve. The bulging bonnet, raked windscreen, aggressive headlights, and slightly retro-looking roof lines make for an otherwise aesthetically pleasing design. Also, details such as the laser-engraved BMW logos in the rear window elevate the design to a whole other level. One thing to note is that the frozen black color with the red accents shown on the debut model is a color combination limited to just 500 vehicles.

XM Red Label Key Points

  • A unique aesthetic with distinctive red accents enhances visual appeal.
  • Its luxurious interior boasts extravagant details and advanced tech features.
  • Exclusive fashion-focused model with sporty, and luxurious design elements.
  • The XM strikes a design balance between luxury and aggressive sportiness.

Now, a part that is rather extravagant are the optional 23-inch wheels, which carry over the red and black accents from the rest of the vehicles. What’s for sure here is that you want to avoid potholes at all costs. That will be an expensive fix. Interestingly, BMW chose to stick with normal door handles here. That being said, the design of these “normal” door handles makes them look premium and fitting to the rest of the exterior.

Related: 10 Things To Know About The BMW XM

The Interior Is Tech-laden And Luxurious

BMW XM Label Red Interior
BMW

The interior of the BMW XM Label Red is much like the exterior: extravagant. The seats are half red-half black and, as the name of the vehicle suggests, there are red accents all over the place (the color combination can be had on all XM Models). Furthermore, the XM badges, M Steering Wheel, carbon fiber paddle shifters, M logos on the kick plates, aluminum pedals, M-specific dials, and much more make the Label Red feel sportier than the competition. Red-accented HVAC vents, stitched surfaces, a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster, a 14.9-inch touchscreen with iDrive 8.5, a head-up display, and a 3D headliner, are some of the other niceties offered here.

On top of the dashboard, you get a huge, curved infotainment system that incorporates everything from the gauge cluster to the actual infotainment screen. The infotainment system itself can be a bit confusing, but you can plug in your phone and use wireless Apple Car Play or Android Auto. Ambient lighting is also plentiful, and the seats lean on the sporty side. The headliner does have a cool 3D look to it, but the truth must be said. The interior on the Label Red goes for a more extroverted “look at me” design. It isn’t subtle and elegant like the one on an Aston Martin DBX, for example.

Being an SUV, the interior is also practical with heated and cooled cup holders, a wireless charger, and plenty of storage space. The second row is a great place to be and might actually top the first row in terms of comfort. The seats are covered in leather and are soft and reclined, which makes them extremely comfortable. Of course, a center armrest is available, and so are climate controls and USB-C ports. A thorough passage to the trunk is also available and makes carrying longer items or grabbing something from the trunk much easier.

Related: BMW XM Label Red: All You Need To Know About The Most Powerful Road-legal BMW Ever

A Staggering 738 Horsepower At Your Disposal

BMW XM Label Red
BMW

Well, the power on offer from this vehicle is astonishing. However, firstly, we shall begin by giving you an idea of the size of the vehicle. The XM Label Red is on the same platform as the X7; however, it comes in at 1.96 inches shorter as it loses the third-row seats. That being said, it is still longer than an X5. Therefore, size-wise, it sits right in between the two. Worth noting is that the lines of the roof are also different and are a bit more reminiscent of a coupe rather than an SUV, like those of the X7 and X5 are.

Now to the exciting bits. The XM Label Red features a 4.4-liter V-8 paired with a hybrid system that, when combined, produces 738 horsepower and 738 pound-feet of torque. As you might have gathered from the above dimensions, this is no small SUV. It weighs an astonishing 6,062 pounds, which means its 0-60 time sits at 3.7 seconds. Sure, 3.7 seconds is by no means slow, but it definitely isn’t as fast as the power of the vehicle suggests.

BMW XM Red Label Specs

Engine

4.4-liter, twin-turbo V-8 hybrid

Horsepower

738 horses

Torque

738 pound-feet

Transmission

Eight-speed automatic

Drivetrain

Rear-biased all-wheel-drive system

0-60 mph

3.7 seconds

Top Speed

155 mph (175 mph with optional M Driver’s package)

Electric-only Range

30 miles

Charging Time (with 7.4-kW onboard charger)

3 hours and 15 minutes (estimated)

(Data sourced from BMW)

Of course, the XM Label Red also features an Adaptive M Suspension Professional and an M xDrive with M Sport Differential for all-weather grip and high-performance driving dynamics. At over 6,000 pounds, don’t expect it to feel like an M3. This, once again, is mostly a fashion exercise. People who want a proper driver’s car will never get an XM Label Red.

Related: 10 Reasons Why The BMW XM Is The Ultimate SUV

The Most Powerful M Product Ever

BMW XM Label Red
BMW

Pricing isn’t official yet, but expect the Label Red to be priced at over $185,000. Of course, there are plenty of cars and SUVs to get at that price tag, so making a case for an XM Label Red is rather difficult. However, one thing is for sure. If you want a car that offers great technology and also manages to look unlike anything else on the road (regardless if its uniqueness is perceived as good or bad), then the Label Red is a good choice. It is a car that will be at home on the most expensive streets in the world and is more of a “look at me” statement rather than a sporty SUV. You should know that BMW will make only 500 copies of this super SUV.

If, on the other hand, you want something more subtle and elegant, then, as you might have realized, this isn’t the correct choice. In that instance, a Rangie should do the job perfectly.

Source: BMW and CarandDriver.

Citreon

HISTORIC, ICONIC, LEGENDARY: CITROËN CELEBRATES 75 YEARS OF THE 2CV.

  • Citroën is celebrating the 75th birthday of its iconic 2CV
  • Over 5 million 2CVs were produced from 1949 to 1990
  • The 2CV started as the ‘TPV’ project in 1936, aiming to create a versatile and economical car for the masses
  • The 2CV has become an icon known for being popular, comfortable, simple, robust, and affordable
  • Its unique body shape and versatility contributed to its success over several decades
  • On October 7th, a celebration will be held at the Citroën conservatoire, featuring eight iconic 2CVs

 

Citroën is commemorating the 75th anniversary of its most iconic car, the 2CV. The 2CV was designed at Citroën’s design office in Paris and underwent testing at the La Ferté-Vidame facility. It was publicly unveiled at the Paris Motor Show on October 7, 1948. Throughout its exceptional career, a total of 5,114,969 2CVs were produced, including 1,246,335 2CV vans. The final 2CV rolled off the assembly line in Portugal on July 27, 1990, 42 years after its launch.

 

THE ORIGINS OF THE 2CV: THE ‘TPV’ PROJECT

 

The ‘TPV’ (Toute Petite Voiture or very small car) project was initiated in 1936 to provide an affordable and versatile car for people with low incomes. In 1937, the first roadworthy prototype of the TPV project was created. Weighing only 370 kg and equipped with a single headlight, it could carry up to four people and 50 kg of luggage, reaching a top speed of 31mph. Its remarkable comfort allowed it to transport a basket of eggs across a plowed field without breaking any of them.

 

250 pre-production models were meant to be unveiled at the 1939 Paris Motor Show, but the outbreak of World War II prevented this. Most of the built models were destroyed, with only four secretly kept at the Citroën Test Centre.

 

A LEGENDARY CAR THAT HAS BECOME AN ICON OF THE MOTORING WORLD

 

When production began in July 1949, the 2CV featured a 9 bhp, 375 cc, air-cooled, flat-twin engine, capable of reaching a top speed of 31mph. Citroën’s creation revolutionized the car industry, offering a versatile and affordable vehicle.

 

Its distinctive body shape and appeal as a people’s car quickly made it popular. Its success was also due to its wide range of uses, removable benches, lightness, agility, comfort, and economical running costs, making it the most popular car in France. By 1950, there was a high demand for the 2CV, resulting in a waiting list of up to 6 years.

 

Its avant-garde spirit and innovative technologies ensured its presence in the automotive world. The 2CV is a timeless model that has become a social phenomenon, embedded in popular culture and sought after by collectors worldwide.

 

Even today, the 2CV can be seen on roads with various nicknames such as ‘Flying Dustbin,’ ‘Tin Snail,’ and ‘Ugly Duckling.’ These nicknames reflect the popularity and iconic status of this historic model.

 

SEVERAL VERSIONS AND EPIC JOURNEYS AROUND THE WORLD

 

There were ten special editions of the 2CV, launched in France and other European countries. These included models like the Spot, Charleston, and Cocorico. The 2CV underwent several changes over its lifetime, including the introduction of the 2CV van (2CV AU) in 1951 and the 2CV AZ in 1954, equipped with a 12 bhp engine and the famous centrifugal clutch.

 

Thanks to its durability and easy maintenance, the 2CV became the vehicle of choice for adventurous journeys. It successfully completed challenging trips like the 10,252-mile Paris-Kabul-Paris Raid in 1970, the 8,388-mile Paris-Persépolis Raid in 1971, and the 4,970-mile Africa Raid from Abidjan to Tunis in 1973, all organized by Citroën.

 

EIGHT ICONIC 2CVS PHOTOGRAPHED FOR THE OCCASION

 

In celebration of the 75th anniversary, eight iconic 2CVs from Citroën’s collection were photographed at the Citroën Conservatoire, showcasing their unique styles:

  • The 2CV 6 by Hermès, dressed by Hermès inside and out, was exhibited at the 2008 Paris Motor Show for the 60th birthday of the 2CV.
  • The 2CV 6 Spécial, one of the last 2CVs produced at the Levallois plant in 1988
  • The 2CV Spot, Citroën’s first special edition, featuring two-tone upholstery and bodywork by stylist Serge Gevin.
  • The 2CV A, one of the prototypes built in 1939 for the Motor Show, saved from destruction and kept at the Citroën Conservatoire.
  • The 2CV A Berline (1950), identical to the one revealed by Pierre Boulanger at the opening of the Paris Motor Show in 1948.
  • The right-hand-drive 2CV A, manufactured in Slough (UK) from 1953, making it the oldest British 2CV in Europe. It had a sheet-metal boot and opening rear windows.
  • The 2CV AZU, a 2CV van produced from 1954 to 1978, with a spacious load capacity and rear ‘cupboard’ doors for easy loading.
  • The 2CV 4 x 4 ‘Sahara’, featuring four-wheel drive and two engines, enabling it to tackle gradients of over 40 percent in the sand.
News

Volkswagen ID GTI undergoing tests, using Mk5 Golf GTI as a benchmark

“Our focus is on the GTI itself, not just a model. What makes the GTI an icon? What can we add to it? The ID 2 aligns perfectly with the GTI; it’s stable, likable, and has that secret ingredient. These are the three elements we identified in our design to regain our status as a beloved brand. We made it approachable and friendly, which holds significant power. It’s not excessively aggressive. With a Golf GTI, you never feel embarrassed. In some hot hatches, there are certain situations where you might feel embarrassed. This is about ‘unpimping’ my ride, not a boy racer car.”

What does ‘stable’ mean in terms of design?

“It refers to something that appears strong and not flat. The original Beetle had specific shapes to provide stability to the sheet metal. Stability can encompass various aspects, but essentially, it means not looking like it’s about to topple over. That’s why we have a robust C-post to make it exude strength and stability.”

Which models will be part of the GTI range in the ID era?

“We won’t saturate the market with the GTI; that could jeopardize its appeal. Some segments might be better suited for other options. We’ll start with the lower hot hatch segment.”

What about the R brand? And GTX?

“Compared to the R brand, the GTI is more practical and caters to the real world rather than the track. In the EV world, R will undoubtedly have a future. The R brand is more focused on record-breaking and cars meant for the Nurburgring. On the other hand, the GTX will cover specific segments and feature four-wheel drive capabilities. The ID GTI we’re working on is front-wheel drive, keeping it true to the GTI’s heritage.”

What price range are you targeting for the ID 2 GTI?

“We can’t disclose that information at the moment. However, for the ID 2, our aim is to offer it for €25,000. Nothing else in the market will provide the same value at this price point. Similar to how we convinced people with a more affordable car like the Mk1 GTI, our focus is on creating an approachable vehicle that resonates with the masses.”

Is it more enjoyable to work on small cars compared to big cars?

“I had a great time at Bentley! I thoroughly enjoyed the work we did there. The Batur project was simply amazing, and it was completed in a relatively short time. I truly cherished that experience. However, I also find immense satisfaction in the work we’re doing now. My time at Bentley taught me a lot about brands and their essence. Within a year, Bentley created the Queen’s car and won Le Mans. The strength of Bentley is truly remarkable. I came to VW with the hope of achieving something similar, blending emotions with practicality.”

Featured

10K-Mile Two-Tone 2008 Bugatti Veyron 16.4 Coupe For Sale

The Bugatti Veyron is a legendary hypercar that has made a significant impact on the automotive world. It holds the world record for top speed and is highly sought after by Bugatti collectors. Chicago Motor Cars is offering a stunning two-tone 2008 Bugatti Veyron 16.4 for sale, which is part of their extensive inventory of supercars and hypercars.

The exterior of this Bugatti Veyron features a beautiful two-tone finish with a vibrant Blue Metallic shade blended with Black Blue Metallic. The car’s design includes strategically placed intakes for enhanced cooling and aerodynamics. It also comes with a set of ultra-lightweight HRE wheels and upgrades such as Vitesse headlights and a full body paint protection film.

Inside the car, you’ll find a striking monochrome blue leather interior. This color pays homage to Bugatti’s early-era Type 35 race car and adds a touch of elegance to the modern-day Bugatti. The cabin is designed with a driver-focused cockpit for the ultimate driving experience.

Under the hood, the Bugatti Veyron 16.4 boasts a powerful 8.0L quad-turbocharged W16 engine that produces an incredible 1,001 horsepower and 922 lb-ft of torque. It is paired with a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission, allowing the Veyron to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in just 2.5 seconds. With a top speed of 253 mph and an all-wheel-drive system, this car delivers exceptional performance and traction.

This 2008 Bugatti Veyron 16.4 from Chicago Motor Cars is available for sale on duPont REGISTRY. For more information and pricing, visit the link below.

View Price And Listing

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Motorsport

10 Weirdly Awesome Pieces Of Nigel Mansell Memorabilia You Can Own

You don’t have to be a fan of Formula One or IndyCar to know the name Nigel Mansell. The racing icon claimed the F1 championship in 1992 and followed up with a CART championship in 1993. His duels with Aryton Senna are nearly as legendary as his moustache, and he endures as one of the greatest British racing drivers of all time.

So when we learned that a sizable portion of racing memorabilia from his personal collection is headed to auction with RM Sotheby’s, we had to peruse the listings. Labeled Nigel Mansell’s Legacy Collection, there are 330 lots all total and we aren’t just talking trinkets here. There are trophies from his championship-winning seasons, helmets and racing suits spanning two decades, and a plethora of gorgeous automotive art. In short, you can buy an entire F1 legacy – if you have the cash.

Nigel Mansell talks to Peter Windsor for Motorsport TV

But that’s old hat. Everyone wants racing trophies and cool helmets, but how about actual old hats? How about ashtrays, wine glasses, stylized knives, or a Honda minibike with Ferrari badges? We uncovered a goldmine of curious oddities in this collection, and we couldn’t resist sharing some of the unlikely Mansell memorabilia we covet for our own motorsports collections.

Here they are in no particular order of weirdness.

Nigel Mansell Legacy Collection Auction

One cannot consider 330 items from Mansell’s career without nabbing at least one trophy from his 1992 F1 blitz. While most are exquisitely designed cups in the classic sense, grabbing a podium at the Spanish Grand Prix resulted in a snazzy bottle of Sherry with arms and a hat. And we’re just fine with that.

Nigel Mansell Legacy Collection Auction

Amid all the race cars and race-themed items, you can get a replica … bulldozer? It’s listed as a model of the first Cat crawler built in 1925, and while we don’t know the backstory of how or why it’s in Mansell’s collection, it’s a neat piece of kit. And with an estimate of approximately $150, it’s an item we could afford.

Nigel Mansell Legacy Collection Auction

Mansell joined the Ferrari F1 team in 1989, and apparently, this little Honda was a means for zipping around the pits. It could be the only instance where putting Ferrari stickers on a Honda is justifiable.

Nigel Mansell Legacy Collection Auction

Meanwhile in America, knives are presented as tokens of accomplishment. Mansell won this accolade by being the fastest qualifier for the Budweiser GI Joe’s 200 race in Portland, and it’s not the only pointy item on this list.

Nigel Mansell Legacy Collection Auction

Mansell scored 72 podium finishes during his F1 and CART career. That’s a lot of hats to cover sweaty helmet hair, and 36 are up for auction. All have Goodyear branding with some measure of blue, but we opt for the hat from the 1992 Spanish Grand Prix to match the cool Sherry trophy.

Nigel Mansell Legacy Collection Auction

There’s a luggage set offered in this collection, but a red leather briefcase with a Prancing Horse stitched to the side makes one feel important. We’d get this case, handcuff it to our wrists, and let people wonder what kind of secret Ferrari files we were transporting around the track.

Nigel Mansell Legacy Collection Auction

As with the Caterpillar model, we’d love to know the backstory of this artful dagger. The writing on the plaque mentions the history of the dagger, but it’s unclear if this was merely a gift or related to a motorsport event.

Nigel Mansell Legacy Collection Auction

This completes the Mansell collection you never knew you wanted. A knife from the US, a dagger from Japan, and a sword from England. Mansell was a Special Constable for the Isle of Man, though like the aforementioned dagger, we don’t have a backstory for his possession of this sword.

Nigel Mansell Legacy Collection Auction

These aren’t just any old wine glasses. The auction listing states they are race-dated F1 crystal wine glasses, though we don’t have any details regarding specific races. There are 31 all total, and rumors suggest a high-level Motor1 editor covets this lot for a holiday gift.

Nigel Mansell Legacy Collection Auction

Remember ashtrays? Or perhaps a better question might be, do you remember stylish ashtrays? Branded with Cadbury’s Race the Ace, these apparently come from an event held at Brands Hatch in 1995. And it appears they’ve been at least moderately used over the years, which may or may not make these Mansell trinkets even more appealing to collectors.

Motorsport

Dodge Challenger V6 Owner Prefers Seats over V8 Scat Pack

The Dodge Challenger is a popular car known for its nostalgic appearance and range of drivetrains and trim packages that cater to muscle car enthusiasts. While the V8 Challengers receive the most attention, the V6 models should not be underestimated. In fact, for everyday use, the V6 with all-wheel drive could be the ideal choice.

Consider the 2021 Dodge Challenger SXT owned by Jared from the YouTube channel Guys Talking Cars. This particular model boasts the looks of a V8 car and emanates a powerful sound with its aftermarket cat-back exhaust. Jared customized the car with the Blacktop and Plus packages, which include 20-inch wheels, fog lights, blacked-out trim, and a luxurious interior featuring Nappa leather.


News

10 Most Iconic Pickup Trucks Of All Time

What makes a vehicle an icon in the automotive world? Does it need to offer the greatest performance numbers, the most unique features, or help save a brand from extinction? Each of these ten pickup trucks brings something unique to the truck market, cementing a solid place on our list.

America is much more than home to the “free and brave,” and it’s also more than its expansive ocean to ocean width. The size and ruggedness of the American landscape have made it a country where pickup trucks are some of the most popular vehicles to drive. These iconic models showed what automakers could create with these amazing work vehicles.

Related: 10 Best Sleeper Trucks Of All Time

10 2004 Dodge Ram SRT-10: Viper Power In A Half-Ton Truck

What Makes It Iconic: Dodge Viper 8.3-liter V-10 engine

Red Dodge Ram SRT-10
Dodge
Front and side shot of a Red 2004 Dodge Ram SRT-10 parked

The 2004 Dodge Ram SRT-10 pickup truck is imaginative and creative but wasn’t as useful as most trucks. The Viper engine enabled the SRT-10 to be the fastest full-size truck in production at the time.

Pros

  • 5.3-second sprint to 60 mph
  • 500 horsepower
  • 150 mph top speed

Cons

  • The clutch wasn’t made for the Viper engine
  • Cold starts are challenging
  • Poor Fuel economy numbers

This Dodge Ram was a great option for owners looking for a fast truck for some fun driving as long as they didn’t need a truck to actually do truck stuff. The SRT-10 was fast and impressive, but it wasn’t made for towing or carrying heavy loads, which is what most truck owners look for in a pickup.

9 1970 Chevrolet El Camino SS 454 LS6: Is This A Real Truck?

What Makes It Iconic: Car/Truck Combination

1970 Chevy El Camino SS
Gestalt Imagery / Shutterstock
Front three-quarters shot of a 1970 Chevy El Camino SS parked on the lawn at an event

Many might argue the 1970 Chevrolet El Camino wasn’t a real truck, but this model came with insane power. At the time, 450 horsepower wasn’t achievable in most vehicles, but the massive LS6 engine brings 7.4-liter of displacement to the 454 V-8 engine, making this a high-performance car/truck combo.

Pros

  • Muscle car good looks
  • Useful open-bed cargo area
  • Powerful V-8 LS6 engine

Cons

  • Polarizing build
  • Better as a muscle car than a truck
  • Limited towing capacity

The El Camino, when classified as a truck, is easily one of the most iconic models ever made. The muscle car front end with a pickup truck bed makes this vehicle the mullet of the truck world.

Related: Best Mid-Size Pickup Trucks Of 2023, Ranked

8 1994 Dodge Ram: Revolutionary Style Made A Splash

What Makes It Iconic: Intentionally Polarizing Design

Dodge Ram
Bring a Trailer
3/4 front view of 1994 Dodge Ram 1500

Before the 1994 model arrived, Dodge Ram trucks weren’t considered to be capable or attractive trucks. Rather than attempt to follow the worn path of another brand, Dodge intentionally gave the Ram pickup a polarizing design borrowed from big rigs. This design served to bring Dodge Ram trucks back from the dead.

Pros

  • 4,800-pound towing capacity
  • 1,721-pound payload
  • Iconic, polarizing style

Cons

  • Poor factory paint job
  • Water pumps fail early
  • Dodge trucks ranked behind GM and Ford pickups

From the first year of this new truck generation to the second, the Dodge Ram pickup showed a 240% increase in sales, which showed the popularity of this new design. The large crosshair front grill and massive build became a Dodge staple.

7 1999 Ford SVT F-150 Lightning: The Return Of A Performance Champion

What Makes It Iconic: Supercharged Triton V-8 Engine

The 1999 Ford SVT F-150 Lightning was reborn for a second generation after leaving the market for a few years. This second attempt at a high-powered truck was exciting, and sold more than double the number of trucks from the first generation.

Pros

  • Incredible truck power – 360 hp, 440 lb-ft
  • 5,000-pound towing capacity
  • 0-60 MPH in only 6.2 seconds

Cons

  • Lacks maneuverability on par with the speed
  • Lower-powered F-150s tow more weight
  • Lacks off-road capabilities

The Lightning name is usually mentioned when the thought of iconic, powerful, and fast trucks comes up. However, this name is now used for an electric pickup, it’s hard to get the impressive, supercharged Triton engine off the mind of those who understand what this truck brings to the drive.

Related: Chevrolet Silverado vs. Ford F-150 vs. RAM 1500 vs: Best American Full-Size Pickup In 2023

6 1978 Dodge Little Red Express: An Unusually Fast Truck

What Makes It Iconic: Fastest Detroit Vehicle Of The Time

The gas crisis of the 1970s, coupled with new emissions regulations, caused many performance vehicles to lack that special sauce that made them fun. The 1978 Dodge Little Red Express is one of the most iconic pickup trucks by being faster than the Corvette and other Detroit-born performance vehicles during the late 1970s.

Pros

  • Massive 5.8-liter V-8 engine
  • 100 MPH top speed
  • Relatively light at 3,815 pounds

Cons

  • Built for speed, not towing
  • Too much body roll to be fast around a track
  • Second-year models weren’t as popular

A loophole in the emissions regulations allowed Dodge to build some models of the Little Red Express with four-barrel carburetors and others with catalytic converters. The Little Red Express is popular for featuring the step-side D100 body and semi-truck-like exhaust pipes.

5 1992 GMC Syclone: Midsize GMC Performance Fun

What Makes It Iconic: Corvette Engine For Insane Truck Speed

Black 1993 GMC Syclone
GMC
Front three-quarter shot of a black 1993 GMC Syclone

Love it or hate it, the 1991 GMC Syclone is one of the hottest small pickup trucks ever made, and it set the trend for many others to follow. This high-performance version of the GMC Sonoma midsize truck featured a lowered stance, performance suspension, and a powerful engine.

Pros

  • 0-60 MPH sprint in 4.5 seconds
  • Quickest midsize truck
  • 4WD system

Cons

  • Made for speed, not for truck stuff
  • 4-speed automatic transmission
  • Mostly a parts bin build

The GMC Syclone brought real speed to the road with full-time 4WD that sent 35 percent of the torque to the front wheels and the remaining 65 percent to the rear. Toss in the limited-slip differential in the rear, and you’ve got a small truck that rockets off the line.

Related: 15 Most Unreliable Pickup Trucks

4 2010 Ford F-150 SVT Raptor: SVT Goes Off-Roading

What Makes It Iconic: Fastest Off-Road Truck

Ford-F-150_SVT_Raptor_R-2010
Ford Motor Company
Front view of 2010 orange Ford F-150 Raptor jumping into the air. 

The earliest Raptor brings a wide body and thick tires to the off-road trails, making it fun to drive this F-150 where there aren’t any roads. The SVT team added extended suspension arms in the front and long-travel Fox Racing shocks in the rear. The Raptor’s name quickly became the most impressive truck on the trails.

Pros

  • Refined ride
  • Quiet interior
  • Excellent style

Cons

  • Lackluster truck performance
  • The steering wheel doesn’t telescope
  • Low fuel mileage figures

The first name that comes to mind when you think of high-speed off-road trucks is the Ford F-150 Raptor. Today’s models don’t have the SVT name, but this original version came in limited numbers and could race across the desert at speeds over 100 mph.

3 1958 Datsun 220: An Early Compact Truck

What Makes It Iconic: The Start Of The Compact Truck Era

The late 1958 through the 1970s was a strange time in the American automotive landscape. American trucks were growing bigger, but there was a need for a small, economical truck to handle short drives and light loads. This was the perfect place for the 1958 Datsun 220 to shine.

Pros

  • Filled a need for efficiency
  • The first compact truck, ushering in a new truck class
  • Was the predecessor to small Nissan trucks

Cons

  • Build on the Datsun 210 sedan chassis
  • Small 48-hp engine
  • Lacked power and ruggedness

Whether you look at the Datsun 220 as an iconic pickup truck that started a new class or blame it for making trucks smaller, it was the first truck of its size in North America. Compact trucks lasted for several years and are making a comeback as trucks continue to grow.

Related: 11 Best Full-Size Pickups, Ranked

2 1989 Dodge Ram Cummins Turbodiesel: Dodge Had Nothing To Lose

What Makes It Iconic: The Cummins Diesel Engine

Dodge struggled mightily to sell trucks in the 1980s, giving them a slight edge. How do you have an edge during a struggle? When you have nothing to lose, trying anything and everything is easy. The 1989 Dodge Ram Cummins Turbodiesel became the first American pickup with a heavy-duty turbocharged diesel engine.

Pros

  • 5.9-liter Cummins turbocharged diesel 6-cylinder engine
  • Revolutionized towing and fuel mileage
  • Started a new era in the three-quarter and one-ton truck market

Cons

  • Dodge was nearly dead in the 1980s truck market
  • Weak automatic transmission
  • An abundance of rust issues

The power output from the Cummins engine was 160 horsepower and 400 lb-ft of torque, which revolutionized towing and fuel mileage in the heavy-duty truck class. This impressive Dodge could pull up to 11,900 pounds, making it one of the strongest trucks of its time.

1 1925 Ford Model T Runabout With Pickup Body: The First Truck For Farmers

What Makes It Iconic: It Was The First Pickup Truck

The first of anything has to be iconic, and the 1925 Ford Model T Runabout with the pickup body was the first real pickup truck. This truck could handle a medium-sized load of produce or equipment and was ideal for farmers to bring their wares into town.

Pros

  • Relatively low cost of $281 at the time
  • 38,000 models sold in the first year
  • Top speed of 45 mph (quick for the time)

Cons

  • It’s a truck built on the Model T chassis
  • Lack of safety and comfort features
  • Small cargo area compared to horse-drawn wagons

The Ford Model T was an amazing vehicle, made affordable because of the assembly line and interchangeable parts that made it possible for nearly every American to own one. The Pickup body made perfect sense, with nearly 35 percent of the population still living on farms.

Motorsport

VW Explores Unique Versions of the Bulli, Including a Bus with Tracks

The Volkswagen Bus holds a significant place in the history of the company. It gained immense popularity and became an iconic vehicle for millions of people. In a new video, Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles’ vintage division in Germany takes us on a journey through the model’s legacy. The video showcases some of the noteworthy models produced by the company.

One of the most fascinating VW Bulli variants featured in the video is a special 1968 T1 Kombi. This particular vehicle was equipped with half-tracks, making it truly unique. When it arrived at the facility, it was disassembled and came in three or four separate boxes containing individual parts. In the late 1960s and 1970s, the bus underwent a conversion that added two extra axles, with tracks wrapped around the rear two. This transformed the bus into a formidable off-road monster, primarily used in mountainous regions of Austria. It’s important to note that only the rear axle is powered, while the front two axles are used for steering.