Tag Archives: taste

Motorsport

This Ultra-Rare Bentley Turbo R Wagon Was Ordered New by the Brunei Royal Family

When cash isn’t any object and what’s on the market does not fit your style, you order a coach-built automobile that matches your necessities. That’s precisely what the Sultan of Brunei did within the Eighties and Nineties when he and his household spent a number of billions of {dollars} to purchase greater than 7,000 automobiles. This Bentley Turbo R Wagon conversion was certainly one of them.

The household ordered 11 models directly, and this blue instance is the final one constructed. The conversion was finished by Robert Jankel Design, and other than getting an extended roof, the Turbo R additionally obtained an all-wheel-drive system. Assembled in 1992, the luxury wagon goes by the moniker Val-d’Isère, named after a commune in southeastern France recognized for its top-class ski resorts.

Legend has it that the wagon price roughly 12 instances greater than a regular Turbo R, which sounds loopy contemplating the common mannequin wasn’t precisely low-cost. Underneath the hood is similar turbocharged 6.75-liter V-8 with 296 hp and 487 lb-ft, however that energy is shipped to each axles as an alternative of simply the rear wheels.

This Bentley Turbo R wagon was just lately pampered by an expert detailer, therefore why it appears to be like immaculate inside and outside. It’s believed the placing two-tone inside takes after the colour scheme of the Empire Hotel constructed as a palace by Prince Jefri, brother of the Sultan of Brunei, Hassanal Bolkiah. However, the opposite 10 automobiles had totally different cabins, together with one with a wild orange and purple combo with stripes.

All of those Turbo R wagons had been bathed in leather-based and wooden. This closing construct just isn’t as spacious behind the rear seats because it might’ve been, as a {custom} audio system eats into the cargo room. However, the roof rails borrowed from a Mercedes W123 wagon present further practicality.

Another neat reality about this specific Val-d’Isère is that it is the just one now not a part of the Brunei Royal household’s huge assortment, having been imported to the UK. The Wagon R wagon wasn’t the one custom-made Bentley. Some will keep in mind the Dominator, an SUV launched a long time earlier than the Bentayga. The Sultan and his household reportedly commissioned 380 Bentleys, together with elusive fashions such because the Buccaneer, Camelot, Java, Phoenix, Imperial, Rapier, Pegasus, Silverstone, and Spectre.

A yellow Dominator and Java seem within the video beneath, displaying a number of the automobiles which might be a part of an unimaginable assortment.

Motorsport

This Electric Porsche 911 Misses The Point

There’s no scarcity of Porsche 911 restomods as of late. There’s a model for each style, whether or not you need one thing perfected by Singer, one thing a bit extra wild by Guntherwerks, or one thing that revs to 11,000 by Tuthill. Then there’s Everrati, the British firm that is achieved some fairly intelligent work in changing 911s to full electrical vehicles. Their newest, a tribute to the three.8 liter 964 RS, although, is a little bit of a conundrum.

Before we get into why, maybe a little bit of a proof of what Everrati does is warranted. The firm rips out the center of the 911, the flat-six, and replaces it with two electrical motors behind the rear axle. It then hundreds the automobile up with batteries, however so as to preserve weight distribution it splits the batteries between the entrance and rear. They’re happy with having the ability to preserve that the identical to hopefully proceed to offer the 911 the identical distinctive character its had because it debuted 60 years in the past.

By all accounts, they’re enjoyable to drive and price little to run, a zero-emission technique to proceed having a automobile that appears like an outdated 911 in a future when the combustion engine is not lifeless. This specific mannequin, although, is the place issues begin to make much less sense.

This flash of yellow is impressed by the three.8 liter 964 RSR, some of the uncooked 911s of that period, a real motorsport-inspired automobile with a widebody, huge wing, and 325 hp that ran by means of a five-speed guide. Think of it like a race automobile for the street. They fetch huge bucks now, too, with one promoting in 2022 for $1.2 million.

Everrati Electric Porsche 911 964 RSR Homage

Now, Everrati’s model is probably going higher constructed than the unique. It’s higher for the atmosphere, too. It even will get to 60 in 3.7 seconds, a couple of second faster than the unique. I discover it very laborious to care.

The factor with a automobile just like the RSR now could be that it does not matter how effectively it is constructed, how good it’s for the atmosphere, or how fast it’s. What issues is what it represents, a throwback to a time when vehicles had been all about deep mechanical involvement. It’s the factor that resonated with me after driving the brand new 911 S/T, and the way each little little bit of the mechanical expertise related with the driving force. The RSR was an equally uncooked expertise 30 years in the past, a automobile that demanded your consideration always and had an engine that spoke to each sense. Take away the engine and change it with batteries and motors, and whereas the 911 S/T would in all probability nonetheless be nice to drive, it’d now not be the 911 S/T. It’d be a enjoyable EV sports activities automobile.

Here, we have now a physique package on an outdated 911 and its coronary heart ripped out, gearbox and all. The engagement that got here from the drivetrain is lifeless, and also you’re left with a automobile that appears like the best 911 on the block and would possibly even be enjoyable to drive, however you are lacking some of the vital components of the unique.

That’s to not say EV conversions are dangerous issues. On the opposite, for sure vehicles they make all of the sense on this planet. There are luxurious vehicles from many years in the past that may be higher powered by electrical energy and a few small sports activities vehicles may harness an EV powertrain in an fascinating method. EV swaps have additionally definitely saved older vehicles that had blown engines and given them a second likelihood at life. 

And whereas the bottom for this automobile could have given a scrap 964 an opportunity to dwell once more, it is also gotten the physique of a real legend, a automobile well-known for a way uncooked and uncompromising it’s. Except its misplaced the part that not solely offers it a part of its title, however a lot of its character. I have a tendency to evaluate homeowners who put badges on their vehicles that they do not deserve – here is taking a look at you man with a 528i that claims M5 on the again – and this 964 Carrera RS with out an engine positive is one in every of them.

If you assume I’m stuffed with crap and that you just need to purchase one, be my visitor. But for those who purchase an EV transformed 911 with an RSR bodykit, put together to do numerous explaining, and be ready to not sound cool in any respect when you do it.

Motorsport

New Bugatti Sunglasses Put A Horseshoe Grille Right On Your Nose

Bugatti has recently launched a new line of sunglasses that are sure to catch attention. The Collection Two features five unique sunglass designs for the wealthy individuals to choose from.

One of the most intriguing designs is the first pair, which appears ordinary at first glance with its squared-off lenses. However, upon closer inspection, a flip-down visor reveals a small horseshoe grille just above the bridge of the nose, adorned with the “BUGATTI” wordmark. This addition complements the gold “EB” logos present on the arms of the sunglasses.

Bugatti Sunglasses Collection Two

Another pair features a more subtle design with a black frame and squared-off shape. The “EB” logos are prominently displayed on both sides. The collection also includes two gold-framed options, one with a tapered design and the other reminiscent of Harry Potter’s spectacles. Additionally, there is a black pair with a unique rounded shape and gold accents.

Bugatti Sunglasses Collection Two
Bugatti Sunglasses Collection Two

The sunglasses were designed by Larry Sands, a renowned sunglass designer who took inspiration from Bugatti’s lineup of high-performance vehicles known for their luxury and innovative designs. The Collection Two is being showcased at the SILMO show in Paris, and although the pricing details have not been released yet, the sunglasses from Collection One ranged from $1,295 to $15,000, depending on the style.

It’s interesting to note that Bugatti doesn’t limit its product range to cars. In addition to sunglasses, they offer various non-car accessories, including a bejeweled carbon fiber egg, a Bugatti safe, Bugatti bottle cases, and even a Bugatti electric scooter.

News

Starting Them Young: Husqvarna And GASGAS Launch Kids Balance E-Bikes

When it comes to learning how to ride a bicycle or motorcycle, kids these days have it easier than ever. Manufacturers like Husqvarna and GASGAS are developing bikes that help young riders shorten their learning curve and become the next generation of elite riders.

One popular trend is the use of balance bikes, which eliminate pedals and allow kids to focus on mastering the fundamentals of riding on two wheels. This not only prepares them for cycling, but also for motocross riding, as the basic skills of balancing a two-wheeler are the same. Husqvarna’s balance bikes, in particular, have become popular among kids and parents.

Both Husqvarna and GASGAS, which are part of the Pierer Mobility group, have recently released new balance electric bikes for kids. These bikes provide a suitable platform for kids up to 12 years old to learn the basics of balance, body positioning, and throttle control. Let’s take a closer look at each of these bikes.

GASGAS MC-E 1.20

The GASGAS MC-E 1.20 is a balance bike equipped with three power modes to cater to different skill levels. It features a TIG-welded aluminum frame that can withstand impacts, giving kids a sturdy base to learn and make mistakes. The bike is equipped with a Manito J-Unit Machete fork, providing 80mm of suspension travel, and hydraulic disc brakes for reliable stopping power.

Husqvarna EE 1.20

The Husqvarna EE 1.20 shares the same concept as the GASGAS bike but comes in Husqvarna’s signature white colorway. It also has three power modes, with the lowest setting limiting the speed to 16 km/h. As kids gain confidence, they can increase the speed to a maximum of 32 km/h in Advanced mode. The bike is suitable for kids up to 12 years old, with a minimum inseam requirement of 60cm for confident foot placement. Like the GASGAS bike, it features a Manitou J-Unit Machete fork and hydraulic disc brakes.

The Husqvarna EE 1.20 balance bike is already available at select Husqvarna dealerships, while the GASGAS MC-E 1.20 will be available at GASGAS showrooms starting August 2023. For pricing and availability information, contact your nearest Husqvarna or GASGAS dealer as prices may vary by region.

Motorsport

New game Alaskan Road Truckers offers more than just a driving experience

Games like Snowrunner and American Truck Simulator give players a taste of what it’s like to be behind the wheel of a big rig without actually having to live on the road. The newly launched Alaskan Road Truckers offers a fresh take on this concept by allowing players to simulate being a truck driver, not just driving a semi-truck.

The game is set to launch this fall on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, and PC stores such as Steam, GoG, and Epic Games.

What sets Alaskan Road Truckers apart from its predecessors is the player’s ability to do things such as handle the fuel nozzle and visit the gas station to grab some snacks. The player can even crawl into the bed of the big rig’s sleeper cabin to take a rest. In addition, the player must manage the driver’s temperature, hunger, and energy levels, as well as make repairs along the side of the road if necessary, like pulling out a chainsaw to clear a tree from the road. The player can also listen to online radio stations as they drive the truck.

The trailer video shows various weather conditions and terrain differences. After attaching the trailer to the truck, the player is required to perform other tasks, such as connecting the air lines. Alaskan Road Truckers also includes running a trucking business, taking jobs to make money, and slowly upgrading one’s facilities. The player can even open the hood of the truck to check out the engine and modify the big rigs with upgrades.

The game, which was previously under development as Alaskan Truck Simulator, was recently changed to Alaskan Road Truckers to better reflect the experience of playing as a driver. The Polish company Road Studios is behind the development of the game.

If Alaskan Road Truckers sounds appealing, a video with eight minutes of gameplay is available below, with a developer narrating what’s happening.

Motorsport

Comparing Supercars in a Drag Race: Ferrari 296 GTB, McLaren 765LT, and Porsche 911 GT2 RS

The world of supercars has an array of options for every taste. From big naturally aspirated engines to smaller turbocharged ones, and even the inclusion of electric support or fully electric machines. Regardless of the concept, as long as the supercar provides top-notch performance, it’s worth considering.

If you’re currently in the market for a new supercar or sports car, then this drag race comparison can assist you in your decision-making process. It pits three different supercars against each other. But, before you hit that play button, let’s take a look at the factory numbers of the Ferrari 296 GTB, McLaren 765LT, and Porsche 911 GT2 RS, listed below.