The top-spec ‘Z Prestige’ variant of the V-Cross pickup will get new darkish gray styling parts, whereas new security options have been added throughout the board
Exterior updates embrace darkish gray bumper, new bumper guard, and gray roof rails.
New security options traction management, hill maintain and hill descent management, and digital stability management (ESC) on all guide variants.
Now comes with three-point seatbelts for all seats together with load sensor, and seat belt reminder for all seats.
Uses the identical 1.9-litre diesel engine which makes 163 PS and 360 Nm.
Isuzu pickup is out there in each 6-speed guide or a 6-speed computerized transmission.
The top-spec Z Prestige variant is now additionally accessible in guide transmission choice.
Isuzu gives the V-Cross pickup in each 2WD and 4WD drivetrain choices.
The Isuzu V-Cross has acquired MY24 (mannequin yr) updates, and it will get extra darkish gray styling parts and new security options. Isuzu has additionally revised the costs of V-Cross pickup, and it now begins at Rs 21.20 lakh (ex-showroom, Chennai). Before we get into extra particulars, let’s take a look at variant-wise revised costs of the V-Cross.
The top-spec Z Prestige variant of the V-Cross receives extra darkish gray parts, giving it a sportier look. These embrace a brand new darkish gray entrance grille and a brand new entrance bumper guard. On the perimeters, it options darkish gray roof rails and wheel arch cladding. It will get the identical 18-inch alloy wheels, however in a brand new matte black shade.
Added Safety Features
As part of the 2024 replace, all guide transmission variants now get traction management, hill maintain and hill descent management, and digital stability management (ESC) as commonplace. Further including to the protection package deal, the 2024 V-Cross pickup now additionally comes with three-point seatbelts for all seats together with load sensor, and seat belt reminder for all seats as properly.
Its security equipment already contains as much as six airbags, and rear parking digicam together with rear parking sensors.
Isuzu has additionally made the rear seats of all variants of the V-Cross extra snug by providing extra inclined backrest for rear seat occupants.
Other Features On Offer
The characteristic checklist on the Isuzu V-Cross stays the identical. It comes with facilities like a 9-inch touchscreen, computerized AC, an 8-speaker audio system, and cruise management. The pickup additionally will get options like electronically adjustable and foldable ORVMs, and all-four energy home windows with auto-down operate for the motive force.
Same Powertrain As Before
The Isuzu V-Cross nonetheless makes use of the identical powertrain as earlier than, and its specs are detailed under within the desk:
Engine
1.9-litre diesel
Power
163 PS
Torque
360 Nm
Transmission
6-speed MT / 6-speed AT
The V-Cross might be had with each 2-wheel-drive (2WD) and 4-wheel-drive (4WD) powertrain choices. Note that the 6-speed guide transmission is now additionally accessible with the top-spec Z Prestige variant.
Rivals
The Isuzu V-Cross might be thought to be an inexpensive various to the Toyota Hilux.
When it involves the world of worldwide hill climbs, none has as a lot status and heritage because the Pikes Peak Hill Climb. Located within the Colorado Rockies, the legendary hill climb has been the final word check for producers internationally for what might be 108 years in 2024. This 12 months, one other electrified file might be set by none aside from Hyundai.
Hyundai’s efforts at Pikes Peak began again in 1992, and will return in 2024 with the all-new Ioniq 5 N. Already setting new requirements throughout the board on the streets, the newest entry into Hyundai’s N Performance division will set the benchmark within the electrical crossover SUV section for everybody else to chase.
In order to provide the newest and correct info attainable, the info used to compile this text was sourced from Hyundai’s producer web site and different authoritative sources, together with Car and Driver.
Here’s what you’ll be able to anticipate from the Hyundai Ioniq 5 N, the costliest automobile within the model’s historical past.
The Hyundai Ioniq 5 N Is Practically Record Read
As quickly because the Hyundai Ioniq 5 N was introduced, the claimed performance capabilities of the electric crossover SUV immediately set the stage for one thing actually particular for us to get behind the wheel of. Previous N Performance fashions additionally set new requirements for the respective courses, however the Ioniq 5 N has turn into probably the most highly effective Hyundai ever produced.
Due to the ability from its twin electrical motors, the Ioniq 5 N is greater than able to dealing with the twists and turns of the long-lasting Pikes Peak Hill Climb. While many automobiles require fairly important adjustments, the crossover SUV will basically stay inventory. A key motivator for Hyundai sending the Ioniq 5 N up the mountain is to point out clients what to anticipate from its new SUV.
The Changes Needed To Tackle Pikes Peak
Despite not receiving any important upgrades, Hyundai should make small adjustments to adjust to the security rules for the occasion. All this contains, nonetheless, is the elimination of the the rear seats to make room for a roll cage and a fireplace suppression system. The normal driver’s seat may also get replaced by a Recaro Pro Racer SPA Hans seat, with Sabelt six-point HANS suitable seatbelts.
Already Fitted With The Latest Performance-Enhancing Technology
Hyundai
When storming up Pikes Peak, having all of the tools on the wheel to extract probably the most efficiency is important. This is an enormous cause why many different automobiles to participate in hill climbs require updates, however the Ioniq 5 N comes packed with cutting-edge performance-boosting technology as normal that you’re going to solely get in an electrical automobile.
In addition to its enhanced physique and chassis in comparison with the bottom Ioniq 5, the N Performance model comes with N Torque Distribution, which offers totally variable entrance and rear torque distribution that may be adjusted to 11 ranges. The electronically managed suspension comes with three completely different modes; it is protected to say it will be in sport mode when climbing the famed mountain.
Further know-how for the Ioniq 5 N contains the N Race mode, which is designed to optimize the endurance of the electric motors to maximize the overall track times. This system works hand-in-hand with N Battery Conditioning, which optimizes the battery cells to probably the most power-efficient temperature. For Pikes Peak, Track mode would be the most useful because it offers a rise in energy over an extended time frame.
The SuperVan 4.2 with 1,400+ horsepower set a brand new racing file and benchmark for EV efficiency. But How Did Ford Build It To Dominate Pike Peak?
Pikes Peak Performance In A Production Vehicle
Hyundai
Besides the intensive performance-enhancing know-how included with the Ioniq 5 N, the bottom efficiency it produces makes it more than capable of setting a seriously impressive benchmark for future producers to attempt to beat. “We are returning to the mountain stronger than we’ve left it, with a class-leading electrical SUV within the type of IONIQ 5 N,” says the Head of N Brand and Motorsport.
2025 Hyundai Ioniq 5 N Performance Specifications
Layout
84 kWh Lithium-Ion Battery With Dual-Electric Motor
Transmission
Single-speed Automatic
Horsepower
641 HP
Torque
546 LB-FT
Electric Range
278 Miles
0-60 MPH
3.1 Seconds
Top Speed
162 MPH
(Data was collected type Hyundai)
The Hyundai Ioniq 5 N’s means to provide a whopping 641 horsepower and 546 pound-feet of torque immediately makes it a formidable competitor for this 12 months’s occasion. While electrical automobiles have a fame for his or her blistering acceleration, which the Ioniq 5 N upholds with a 0 to 60 miles per hour time of simply 3.1 seconds, the Hyundai manages to reach a top speed of 162 miles per hour. The Pikes Peak Hill Climb encompasses a complete of 156 turns, however with the digital slip differential, the Ioniq 5 N looks as if the proper automobile for Hyundai to return to the mountain in.
The Two Modified Ioniq 5 Ns Taking Part In the Climb
Hyundai
Alongside the 2 normal variations of the Ioniq 5 N being despatched up Pikes Peak, Hynudai will also enter two modified examples of the crossover SUV into the occasion. While the small print for these two fashions have but to be introduced, we do know that they will be pushed by Dani Sordo, a Spanish World Rally Championship driver for Hyundai Motorsport, and Robin Shute, a four-time general winner and King of the Mountain title holder at Pikes Peak.
With the Ioniq 5 N, Hyundai is pushing the boundaries of energy, efficiency, and design for an unparalleled driving expertise.
The Current Pikes Peak Record Holder
In current years, the degrees of efficiency that the Pikes Peak entries have reached have been nothing kind of astonishing. Back in 2018, the file time for the hill climb was set by Romain Dumas behind the wheel of the all-electric Volkswagen I.D.R, setting on the time of 07:57.148. Prior to the I.D.R’s time, the file was held by Sebastien Loeb in a Peugeot 208 T16 with a time of 8:13.878.
The Volkswagen did have the aerodynamic benefit over the Peugeot, however the advantages that electrification delivered to the I.D.R can’t be ignored. Featuring a dual-motor setup to present it an all-wheel drive, the Volkswagen I.D.R produces a complete of 671 horsepower and 479 pound-feet of torque. While the Ioniq 5 N shares comparable efficiency specs, a time near the Volkswagen is unsurprisingly off the playing cards, however it might beat the present SUV file.
Toppling The Mighty BMW XM Label Red
BMW
Currently, the Pikes Peak file time for an SUV is held by the BMW XM Label Red, which ran the occasion in 2023. As the Ioniq 5 N might be setting an all-new file for an electrical SUV, the XM Label Red is probably the most carefully associated file time that the Hyundai can beat. The XM Label Red is a hybrid SUV that means that its combustion engine offers it some strong energy, however does not profit from the moment energy that pure EVs present.
The BMW XM Label Red boasts some unbelievable efficiency specs, producing 738 horsepower and 738 pound-feet of torque. Despite having nearly 100 horsepower over the Ioniq 5 N, it is slower to 60 miles per hour at 3.7 seconds. Weight is, after all, an enormous factor in extracting probably the most efficiency, and the Ioniq 5 N weighs over half a ton lower than the XM Label Red.
The Ioniq 5 N redefines electrical efficiency with its progressive options just like the N e-Shift transmission, N Active Sound+, and N Power Sense Axle.
A New Race-Modified Ioniq 5 N Is In The Works
Hyundai
Looking elsewhere at Hyundai’s motorsport ventures with the Ioniq 5 N, the South Korean model recently unveiled the Ioniq 5 N eN1 Cup Car, which takes the shell of the bottom Ioniq 5 N to the subsequent degree. The automobile will compete within the all-new eN1 racing class, ushering in a brand new age of motorsport for electrical energy.
In comparability to the bottom Ioniq 5 N, the eN1 model comes with all of the upgrades wanted to convey it as much as motorsport spec. This features a bigger widebody package geared up with a entrance lip and everlasting rear wing, considerably enhancing downforce. In phrases of energy, the Ioniq 5 N eN1 will boast the identical specs because the road-going model, producing 641 horsepower and 541 pound-feet of torque. The eN1 will expectedly shed some pounds, coming in at an estimated 4,350 kilos in comparison with the Ioniq 5 N’s 4,900 kilos.
The NPX1 Concept
Hyundai
Yet one other model of the Hyundai Ioniq 5 N that was recently unveiled is the NPX1 concept, debuting on the Tokyo Auto Salon. Standing for N Performance eXperimental 1, this model of the Ioniq 5 N options an array of modifications to additionally take the efficiency of the crossover SUV to the brand new territory.
Carbon Fiber is on the coronary heart of this new design, with the NPX1 that includes an enormous entrance splitter, equally daring facet skirts, and a rear diffuser. The NPX1 can be fitted with a rear wing just like that on the eN1 cup automobile, albeit not fairly as massive. Finished in matte black, the NPX1 idea is one more instance of the place Hyundai plans to take its first ever N Performance electrical automobile after it units a brand new file at this 12 months’s Pikes Peak Hill Climb.
The newly launched Prestige Plus (O) variant is accessible with each turbo-petrol and diesel engines however solely with the automated transmission
The MY24 Kia Carens was launched not too long ago in India with a number of new variants, options and value revisions. It bought three new (O) variants for the base- and mid-spec trims referred to as the Premium (O), Prestige (O), and Prestige Plus (O). We have now bought our fingers on an in depth gallery of the brand new Prestige Plus (O) to indicate you what’s new in case you’re trying to purchase this variant of the Carens MPV.
Cabin
The greatest change for the brand new Prestige Plus (O) variant is the inclusion of a sunroof, which was beforehand supplied from the now-discontinued Luxury (O) variant. It makes this extremely fascinating characteristic extra inexpensive by round a lakh.
With the MY24 replace, Kia has additionally bumped up the charging velocity of the USB port from the earlier 120 W to now assist 180 W. This new variant additionally will get LED cabin lamps which exchange the halogen models supplied on the older mannequin.
In most different elements, the Prestige Plus (O) variant is nearly the identical because the Prestige Plus variant. It has a black and beige cabin theme, and it’s out there solely within the 7-seater configuration.
In phrases of options, the Carens Prestige Plus (O) comes with a digital driver’s show, an 8-inch touchscreen, cruise management, and push-button begin/cease. Its security equipment contains six airbags, digital stability management (ESC), TPMS, and entrance and rear parking sensors.
Front
The Prestige Plus (O) variant’s fascia appears to be like an identical to that of the common Prestige Plus because it additionally will get the identical auto-halogen headlights with LED DRLs. Kia has even offered it with the identical chrome garnish within the grille and silver end for the air dam situated within the bumper.
Profile
Even from the perimeters, the Prestige Plus (O) variant appears to be like the identical as the usual Prestige Plus, right down to the 16-inch dual-tone alloy wheels. It additionally will get ORVM-mounted flip indicators, chrome window beltline, and body-coloured door handles and ORVMs.
At the again, the Prestige Plus (O) comes with related LED taillights, silver end within the bumper, and a wiper with washer and defogger.
Powertrains On Offer
The Kia Carens Prestige Plus (O) comes with two engine choices:
Specification
1.5-litre Turbo-petrol
1.5-litre Diesel
Power
160 PS
116 PS
Torque
253 Nm
250 Nm
Transmission
7-speed DCT
6-speed AT
Prices And Rivals
Kia has priced the Carens Prestige Plus (O) within the vary of Rs 16.12 lakh to Rs 16.57 lakh (ex-showroom Delhi). You can learn concerning the full record of modifications to the Carens MPV for 2024 right here. The Kia MPV is a premium different to the Maruti Ertiga and Maruti XL6, whereas being a extra inexpensive choice to the Toyota Innova Crysta and Toyota Innova Hycross.
Ah, the world of expensive sports cars, where speed, luxury, and prestige blend seamlessly to create automotive masterpieces. In this realm, the price tags are as breathtaking as the performance they deliver. But who says you need a massive bank balance to experience the exhilaration of a mid-engined marvel?
In this article, we’ll be exploring some lesser-known options that have proven their worth in the world of car aficionados. From unsung heroes to classics, these budget-friendly mid-engine cars deliver a fantastic driving experience.
So, if you’re on the hunt for an affordable ride that packs a punch and offers true driving joy, look no further. Let’s dive in and discover the world of mid-engined pocket rockets that won’t empty your wallet and will keep your heart racing on the road!
Front and side shot of a red Honda Beat parked in a parking lot
The Honda Beat, often referred to as the “Baby Honda S2000,” holds a special place in automotive history as a rear-wheel-drive, mid-engined two-seat roadster kei car. What makes it even more remarkable is that it was the last car personally approved by Soichiro Honda before he passed away in 1991.
This charming and compact roadster exudes a sporty and fun vibe, with its low and sleek profile that hugs the road like a precision driver. The design, originally crafted by Pininfarina, captivates with its simplicity yet eye-catching appeal, adorned with smooth curves that add an aerodynamic touch.
Performance
Engine
656 cc Inline-3
Power
64 horsepower
Torque
46 pound feet
Weight
1,800 lbs
Under its petite hood lies a peppy 656cc three-cylinder engine, which might seem small, even smaller than some motorcycles. However, don’t be fooled by its size, as this tiny beast can rev up to high heavens, emitting a surprisingly satisfying growl as it zips down the road. It may not be the fastest car around, but driving the Honda Beat is undeniably a thrilling and joyful experience.
9Pontiac Fiero
Average price: $12,000
Mecum
Front and side view of a 1988 Pontiac Fiero GT
n the late 1970s, the United States found itself grappling with its first significant gas crisis, seeking solutions to improve fuel efficiency and meet the country’s fuel economy requirements. It was during the dawn of the 1980s that Pontiac, embarked on an ambitious mission: to create a revolutionary automobile that would combine the thrill of a sports car with the practicality of a compact commuter. The result of their vision was the Pontiac Fiero.
Derived from the Italian words meaning “proud” or “wild,” the Fiero truly embodied its name. Designed by George Milidrag and Hulki Aldikacti, this remarkable vehicle was conceived as an economical commuter car with aspirations of modest performance.
The Fiero broke new ground for Pontiac in multiple ways. It marked their return to producing a two-seater since the era of coupes from 1926 to 1938, and more notably, it became the first rear mid-engine car ever mass-produced by any American manufacturer, a true milestone in automotive history.
Performance
Engine
2.8-liter V-6
Power
140 horsepower
Torque
170 pound feet
Weight
2,800 lbs
In order to meet the strict Corporate Average Fuel Economy (CAFE) standards in the United States, the Fiero was made available with both 4-cylinder and 6-cylinder engines, effectively finding a middle ground between performance and fuel efficiency.
A standout feature of the Fiero was its innovative construction. Unlike conventional steel-bodied cars, the Fiero utilized composite panels composed of plastic reinforced with fiberglass. This lightweight material not only contributed to the car’s unique selling proposition but also aimed to enhance fuel-efficiency, aligning perfectly with the nation’s newfound energy-conscious approach.
The Fiero 2M4, equipped with a four-cylinder engine, garnered widespread recognition, earning a spot onCar and Driver magazine’s esteemed 10 Best list for 1984. Additionally, the same year, it was proudly designated as the Official Pace Car for the prestigious Indianapolis 500, further solidifying its status as an outstanding and celebrated automobile.
Front and side shot of a gray Mazda Autozam AZ-1 parked in a parking lot
A lot like the Honda Beat the Mazda Autozam AZ-1, was a mid-engined kei-class sports car. It was created and engineered by Mazda as part of their Autozam brand, and it showcases a distinctive array of features.
Powering this compact sports car is a Suzuki-sourced 657 cc turbocharged engine, the same one used in the Suzuki Alto, capable of producing 63 horsepower. Interestingly, Suzuki later released its own version, the Suzuki Cara, under its badge-engineered lineup.
Performance
Engine
656 cc Turbocharged Inline-3
Power
64 horsepower
Torque
63 pound feet
Weight
1,600 lbs
One of the most eye-catching aspects of the Autozam AZ-1 is its gull-wing doors, which are particularly uncommon for a car of its size and class. These distinctive doors not only contribute to the car’s aesthetic appeal but also serve a practical purpose, making parking in tight spots much more manageable. With its exceptional design and nimble performance, the Mazda Autozam AZ-1 stands as a remarkable representative of the kei-class sports car category.
7Fiat X1/9
Average price: $13,000
Fiat
Front and side shot of a green Fiat X1/9
The Fiat X1/9, introduced in 1972, served as a successor to the rear-engine Fiat 850 Spider. This remarkable vehicle swiftly gained fame as one of the earliest accessible and cheap mid-engine sports cars, offering an affordable option to enthusiasts. Designed by Bertone and manufactured by Fiat, this two-seater mid-engined sports car was praised for its remarkable features. Fitted with a transverse engine and gearbox, the car adopted a mid-mounted, rear-wheel drive setup and offered exceptionally balanced handling.
The Fiat X1/9’s appearance was undeniably eye-catching. Drawing inspiration from contemporary power-boat design, the Runabout variant featured a distinctive wedge shape that captured attention wherever it went. The credit for its wedge-like styling goes to the renowned Lamborghini Miura designer Marcello Gandini at Bertone.
Performance
Engine
1.3 liter Inline-4
Power
85 horsepower
Torque
80pound feet
Weight
2,400 lbs
By 1974, the X1/9 reached the shores of the United States, showcasing improved adaptations of the Fiat 128’s MacPherson strut suspension and housing a 67-horsepower 1.3-liter inline four-cylinder engine, skillfully crafted under the supervision of Aurelio Lampredi.
The Fiat X1/9 struck the perfect balance in terms of size, making it compact enough to fit into tight parking spaces, yet nimble enough to navigate corners with the grace of a Fiat-fueled ballet dancer. Notably, it was the first Fiat designed from the ground up to comply with the stringent US safety regulations, which emphasized its commitment to safety.
6Honda S660
Average price: $15,000
Honda
Front and side shot of a white Honda S660
The Honda S660 is a delightful lightweight mid-engined roadster, boasting a targa roof and dimensions that closely align with the 1990s Beat, owing to kei car size restrictions. As the successor to both the iconic Honda Beat and the renowned Honda S2000, it embraces a transverse mid-engine layout and rear-wheel-drive configuration.
Performance
Engine
656 cc Turbocharged Inline-3
Power
64 horsepower
Torque
78 pound feet
Weight
1,940 lbs
Under its compact hood, the S660 houses the turbocharged 658 cc S07A engine, the same motor utilized in the popular N-Box kei car. With some mechanical enhancements, this engine generates a modest yet satisfying 63 horsepower. While it may lack the sheer power of larger engines, it perfectly complements the S660’s lightweight construction, making it agile and nimble on the roads.
But what truly sets the S660 apart is the unparalleled driving experience it offers. Its main appeal lies in the pure joy of driving, inviting enthusiasts to forge a deep connection between the car and the road.
A front 3/4 outdoor shot of a 2003 Toyota MR2 Spyder
Toyota’s MR2 is a famous series of two-seat, mid-engined, rear-wheel-drive sports cars produced in Japan and distributed worldwide by Toyota over three generations. Its origins trace back to a 1976 Toyota design project with a clear objective: to create a car that would deliver an enjoyable driving experience while still maintaining good fuel economy.
Throughout its evolution, the MR2 consistently embodied the concept of a “Midship Runabout-Sports” (MRS), with its engine positioned midship for optimal weight distribution and handling prowess. The third-generation MR2, also known as the Toyota MR-S in Japan and the Toyota MR2 Spyder in the US, was an embodiment of this philosophy.
Performance
Engine
1.8 liter Inline-4
Power
140 horsepower
Torque
127 pound feet
Weight
2,300 lbs
Under the hood of the MR2 MR-S, there lay a 138 horsepower all-aluminum alloy 1.8-liter inline-four engine, providing a perfect balance of power and efficiency. Complemented by a finely-tuned suspension and a precise rack-and-pinion steering system, the MR2 offered a nimble and agile ride that turned driving into an exhilarating experience, especially when navigating winding roads and carving through corners.
While the MR2’s sporty nature delighted many enthusiasts, it also managed to surprise with its practicality. Despite being a two-seater sports car, the MR2 featured a reasonably spacious front trunk, affectionately known as the “frunk,” enabling drivers to carry some luggage or essentials along for the journey.
4Lotus Europa S 2nd Gen
Average price: $24,000
Lotus
Front and side shot of a white Lotus Europa S – 2nd Gen parked
Step inside the cabin, and you’ll be greeted by a tasteful blend of luxury and simplicity. The cozy leather seats wrap around you snugly, fostering a sense of intimacy with the car’s performance-focused design. The cockpit layout is purposeful, placing essential controls within easy reach, ensuring the driving experience remains the central focus.
Though the interior exudes elegance, it’s essential to note that practicality takes a backseat in the Lotus Europa S. This sports car is not designed for carrying large loads or accommodating passengers with ample legroom. Instead, it’s all about the sheer pleasure of driving.
Performance
Engine
2.0 liter Turbocharged Inline-4
Power
222 horsepower
Torque
221 pound feet
Weight
2,500 lbs
The true brilliance of the Lotus Europa S shines through its exceptional handling. With its lightweight chassis and responsive steering, the car becomes a precision instrument, allowing you to slice through corners with unparalleled agility. Each turn becomes a thrilling and engaging experience, leaving drivers exhilarated and craving for more.
3Ferrari Mondial
Average price: $35,000
Via Flicker
Front and side shot of a gray Ferrari Mondial parked
The Mondial is quite a unique car. It’s a 2+2 grand tourer, which means it can seat four people, but let’s be honest, those rear seats are probably best suited for adventurous toddlers or fashionable handbags. Nonetheless, it’s a prancing horse with some family-friendly perks.
Performance
Engine
3.2 liter V-8
Power
270 horsepower
Torque
231 pound feet
Weight
3,600 lbs
At the heart of this automotive legend lies a potent 3.2-liter V-8 engine, strategically positioned behind the seats. This setup not only delivers thrilling and recognizable Ferrari exhaust notes but also ensures impressive performance and acceleration, making every drive a captivating experience.
True, the Ferrari Mondial might not be everyone’s preference, but for those who have fallen in love with its quirky characteristics and undeniable charisma, it has cemented itself as a timeless classic. With a permanent spot in the pantheon of automotive greatness, the Mondial continues to evoke passion and admiration from aficionados worldwide.
2Porsche 914
Average price: $40,000
luizsantanna / Shutterstock.com
1974 Porsche 914 parked in a studio
The Porsche 914, also known as the VW-Porsche 914, is a mid-engined sports car that resulted from a collaborative effort between Volkswagen and Porsche. It was designed, manufactured, and marketed jointly by both companies. The project originated from different motives: Porsche aimed to create a more affordable and distinct model to replace its 912, while Volkswagen sought to produce a halo car that would stand out from its typical lineup of the Beetle, Bus, and Fastback.
Drawing inspiration from the Porsche 911’s front suspension, the 914 incorporated some components from Volkswagen as well. Inside the car, the interior was also a clever combination of parts from both companies’ inventory, creating a unique and cohesive design.
Performance
Engine
2.0 liters Flat-Six (Boxer engine)
Power
95 horsepower
Torque
118 pound feet
Weight
2,160 lbs
One of the remarkable features of the Porsche 914 was its diverse engine options. Instead of a conventional Porsche engine, the car offered a range of choices akin to a buffet of horsepower delights. Among these options was a flat-four engine borrowed from the VW Type 4, providing a solid performance. For those seeking a more thrilling experience, a beefier flat-six engine, sourced from Porsche’s own 911, was available as an enticing alternative.
Upon its initial release, the car received a somewhat lukewarm response. However, it gained appreciation over time, with MotorTrend being one of the car’s enthusiasts. In fact, the magazine honored the Porsche 914 with its first-ever Import Car of the Year title in 1970. The editors praised its exceptional handling, considering it one of the best-handling machines they had ever driven.
Front 3/4 of Alfa Romeo 4C driving fast through a twist mountain road
In March 2011, Alfa Romeo revealed their impressive 4C concept version at the 81st Geneva Motor Show, wowing attendees and igniting the excitement of automotive enthusiasts worldwide. Designed by the talented team at Centro Stile Alfa Romeo and developed by Alfa Romeo, the 4C Concept received well-deserved recognition. It received the ‘Most Beautiful Concept Car of the Year’ award from the readers of the German magazine Auto Bild and scored the Auto Bild Design Award 2011, confirming its allure and aesthetic appeal.
Performance
Engine
1.75 liter Turbocharged Inline-4
Power
240 horsepower
Torque
258 pound feet
Weight
2,465 lbs
When it was released the Alfa Romeo 4C impressed drivers around the globe with its agile and responsive performance. Thanks to its lightweight carbon fiber monocoque chassis and aluminum subframes, the car felt poised and well-connected to the road, giving drivers a level of precision they truly appreciated.
Peeking under the hood the Alfa Romeo 4C packs a turbocharged 1.75-liter inline-four engine that produces an impressive 240 horsepower. It’s like a shot of espresso for the road – quick, energizing, and exhilarating. The engine propels the 4C from 0 to 60 mph in less than 4.5 seconds. The car’s impressive acceleration and power delivery make it a compelling choice for driving enthusiasts seeking a thrilling drive at a fairly attainable price.
The Rolls-Royce Phantom is known for its luxury, craftsmanship, opulence, and prestige. It goes beyond being just a car, representing grandeur and elegance. With its classic design and futuristic elements, the Phantom stands out with features like the Spirit of Ecstasy hood ornament, floating center caps in the wheels, coach-style doors, and the iconic Rolls-Royce grille.
Inside the Phantom, you’ll experience unparalleled comfort. The cabin is a haven of extravagance, with sumptuous leather upholstery, hand-polished wood veneers, and lambswool floor mats. The silence inside and the Magic Carpet Ride air suspension create a driving experience that feels like gliding on a cloud.
What sets the Phantom apart is its customizability. The Rolls-Royce Bespoke program allows owners to personalize their Phantoms to reflect their personality. From personalized treadplates and unique upholstery embroidery to exclusive paint jobs, the possibilities are endless. The ‘Gallery’, a space behind the glass on the dashboard, can also be used to showcase commissioned artwork.
Due to its exceptional features, it’s no surprise that the Rolls-Royce Phantom can be quite expensive. The price can vary widely depending on the level of customization and options, with new examples starting above $400,000. In the second-hand market, prices can vary even more depending on customization, age, and mileage.
The Phantom is available in different variants, including standard and extended wheelbase versions. The extended wheelbase provides additional rear cabin space and allows for even more luxurious features.
Production numbers for the Phantom are limited due to the intricate hand-building process involved. It’s a much more involved process compared to building an average car, which makes the Phantom even more exclusive.
If you’re interested in purchasing a Rolls-Royce Phantom, you can find a variety of listings on duPont REGISTRY.com.
