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Motorsport

Ferrari’s New Hypercar Probably Won’t Look Like This, Hopefully

It’s always best not to judge a car’s appearance based on spy photos. Prototypes usually don’t use all the production parts until the end of the testing phase. This Ferrari hypercar prototype, for example, has provisional components, including quad taillights from the SF90.

The camouflage and tape can’t fully conceal the hypercar’s wild aerodynamic package, including the giant rear wing. There are massive air intakes front and rear, as well as generously sized side air vents to improve airflow. Even though there are no visible badges on this prototype, the “Ferrari” script is easily visible on the brake calipers at both axles.

Ferrari hypercar spy photo

The rounded exhaust tips sticking out from the center of the bumper are fake, with the actual exhaust tucked away behind the mesh. The rearview camera positioned above the third brake light may not make it to production. However, the massive rear diffuser gives the hypercar an intimidating look, as does the chunky front splitter.

Cutouts in the roof reveal that the Ferrari codenamed “F250” will have butterfly doors. It’s unclear whether it’ll still have a rear window, as there is camo over the entire rear section. Even if there is one, rearward visibility will likely be greatly hampered by the large wing.

The stickers on the prototype indicate Bosch was testing certain hardware, while the yellow triangle with a black lightning logo suggests the LaFerrari replacement will be a hybrid. For the first time since the F40 era, the Ferrari flagship is widely believed to do away with the V12 engine.

Ferrari hypercar spy photo
Ferrari hypercar spy photo

Ferrari could potentially halve the cylinder count by using a V6 instead, which might seem drastic. However, the mid-mounted 3.0-liter unit with a pair of turbochargers, derived from the 296 GTB and its GT3 race car companion, traces its roots in the 499P endurance race car, which also has six cylinders. It’s unclear whether the powertrain will have plug-in capabilities or be a self-charging hybrid setup, like the LaFerrari.

Given Ferrari’s modus operandi, it wouldn’t be surprising if the entire production run has already been spoken for. The hypercar is expected to be unveiled in 2024, with plans for 599 coupes and 199 convertibles, followed by a meaner XX variant limited to 30 units.

News

This House Is Filled With Rare Harleys and Indians

Buildings can often be overlooked, just part of the daily background, until you discover the hidden treasures inside. And that’s exactly what happened in Staten Island, New York, when the latest episode of Hagerty’s Barn Find Hunter explored an unassuming house and uncovered a collection of over 40 historic motorcycles.

This remarkable collection belonged to a couple of motorcycle and car enthusiasts who did everything together. In addition to their shared passion, they also collected and stored these bikes throughout their home. Sadly, Walter, one half of the duo, recently passed away, leaving his wife with the bikes. As a tribute to him, his ashes now rest inside an Indian fuel tank, displayed prominently in the living room.

Rob Ida, a friend of the couple, provided insight into their lifelong love for motorcycles and introduced Tom to Kathy, the surviving partner. Kathy gave an extensive overview of the bikes in the collection, including a stunning Vincent Black Shadow displayed in the living room. The collection also includes a 1959 Cadillac, a 1951 LS-swapped Mercury coupe, and countless Harleys and Indians.

Among the noteworthy motorcycles are a 1911 Harley-Davidson LAPD bike with a leather belt drive, a 1926 Harley board tracker, a 1910 Harley, several Indian four-cylinders (including one that was Walter’s personal favorite, never to be sold), an XR1000, two Super Glides, a Silent Grey Fellow, and much more.

While the collection lacks the iconic Harley-Davidson Servi-Car, it does feature a 1940 Indian Dispatch-Tow, a similar concept to the Servi-Car. Another interesting find is the Harley-Davidson Pacer, a two-stroke machine produced from 1962 to 1965 as part of a series from Allied motorcycle manufacturers.

The motorcycles are found throughout the house, from the dining room to the living room, as well as in the garage and basement. This house truly exemplifies the love and passion for motorcycles.

Cars

Best Cars Of 2023 — 10 Of The Top Rated Picks

When it comes to luxury vehicles, performance and practicality are important, but there are other factors that buyers consider. They look for class, comfort, and small details that add beauty. They want a car that justifies its high price tag, which can be three times or more than a standard vehicle. Luckily, the BMW i7 checks all the boxes when it comes to luxury.

The ride in the BMW i7 is incredibly smooth, almost like gliding on the road instead of rolling. Despite its impressive speed, it never feels too fast. Even when reaching speeds over 100 mph, it remains safe and comfortable, comparable to driving at 40 mph in a regular car.

While driving the BMW i7 is an experience in itself, passengers can have an even better time thanks to its exceptional infotainment system. Passengers in the backseat can customize their seat settings to heat or cool as needed. The car also offers various massage settings for ultimate relaxation. Additionally, Theater Mode can be activated, which unveils a 31-inch, 8K resolution screen and rolls up the window shades for an immersive entertainment experience.

The BMW i7 provides a complete luxury limousine experience. However, in addition to the cost of over $150,000 for a fully equipped i7, you may also need to budget for a chauffeur if you want to fully enjoy the experience.