Car Auctions and Their Main Benefits: Why Should You Take Part In Them?

August 19, 2024

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Car auctions have become increasingly popular in the automotive industry, offering a unique opportunity for both buyers and sellers to engage in a dynamic marketplace. Participating in car auctions can provide a range of compelling benefits that make them an attractive option for individuals looking to buy or sell vehicles. Whether you are a seasoned car enthusiast, a savvy investor, or simply in search of your next vehicle, exploring the world of car auctions can offer numerous advantages that set them apart from traditional purchasing methods.

Bidding process: How does it work?

The bidding process at car auctions is a fascinating and dynamic experience that involves multiple steps and strategies. Initially, participants register for the auction either in person or online, providing necessary documentation and financial qualifications.

Once registered, bidders can preview the vehicles up for auction, inspecting them for any damage or issues. When the auction begins, the auctioneer presents each vehicle, detailing its specifications and condition. Bidders then have the opportunity to place their bids, either in person, over the phone, or online, with the highest bid winning the vehicle. The bidding process can be intense, with bids increasing rapidly as participants vie for their desired cars.

Auctions may have set time limits for each vehicle, adding a sense of urgency to the proceedings. Successful bidders are required to pay a deposit or full amount immediately after winning the bid, with final payment and vehicle pickup typically due within a specified timeframe. Overall, the bidding process at car auctions is an exhilarating and strategic endeavor that requires quick decision-making and a keen eye for value.

Which car brands are the most popular?

Copart is a well-known auction platform that offers a wide range of premium vehicles, including luxury and high-end brands. Among the most popular premium brands frequently auctioned on Copart are Mercedes-Benz. The German automaker is renowned for its sophisticated design, advanced technology, and luxurious features, making it a sought-after choice for discerning buyers.

Another prestigious brand often seen at Copart auctions is BMW. Known for its performance-oriented vehicles and elegant styling, BMW cars attract enthusiasts looking for a perfect blend of power and prestige.

Audi is another top-tier brand that commands attention at Copart auctions. With its reputation for engineering excellence, cutting-edge technology, and refined interiors, Audi vehicles appeal to those seeking a premium driving experience. Lexus, the luxury division of Toyota, is also a prominent presence at Copart auctions, offering reliability, comfort, and upscale amenities to buyers.

Additionally, brands like Porsche, Jaguar, and Land Rover showcase their high-end models at Copart, attracting bidders who appreciate craftsmanship, performance, and exclusivity. The availability of these premium brands at Copart auctions provides a unique opportunity for buyers to acquire luxury vehicles at competitive prices, adding excitement and diversity to the auction experience.

IAA, or Insurance Auto Auctions, is a renowned platform for auctions of premium vehicles, offering a diverse selection of luxury brands sought after by discerning buyers. Among the most popular premium brands often featured in IAA auctions is Mercedes-Benz. Renowned for its elegance, cutting-edge technology, and superior craftsmanship, Mercedes-Benz cars are highly coveted by those who appreciate sophistication and performance.

BMW is another prestigious brand frequently seen at IAA auctions. Known for its dynamic driving experience and luxurious interiors, BMW appeals to buyers seeking a blend of sportiness and refinement.

Audi also stands out as a top-tier brand showcased on IAA’s platform. With its innovative technology, upscale design, and renowned quattro all-wheel-drive system, Audi offers a premium driving experience that attracts luxury car enthusiasts.

Lexus, the luxury division of Toyota, is a prominent presence at IAA auctions, offering exceptional quality, comfort, and reliability to buyers.

Additionally, brands like Porsche, Jaguar, and Land Rover showcase their high-end models at IAA, providing bidders with the opportunity to acquire exclusive and performance-driven vehicles. The availability of these esteemed premium brands at IAA auctions enriches the auction experience by presenting a range of elite vehicles for buyers who value luxury, performance, and style.

Archived auctions: Check the price before you make a bid!

Before participating in car auctions on platforms like Copart or IAA, it is crucial to research archived auctions and check historical prices of vehicles. Understanding the historical pricing trends can help buyers make informed decisions and reduce the risk of overbidding or purchasing cars with significant undisclosed damages that may not be visible in auction photos. By reviewing past auction results, potential bidders can gain valuable insights into the fair market value of specific makes and models, enabling them to set realistic bidding limits and avoid paying more than a vehicle is worth.

One useful resource for checking historical prices of auctioned cars is bidspace.info, where users can access comprehensive data on past auction sales, allowing for a better understanding of pricing dynamics and helping buyers navigate the auction process with greater confidence and knowledge. By leveraging archived auction information and historical pricing data, prospective buyers can make smarter choices when bidding on vehicles, ensuring a more transparent and informed purchasing experience.

Fuel Efficiency Face-Off: Which Ford SUV Saves More?

Grant Davis

August 18, 2024

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SUVs have taken the automotive world by storm, offering versatility, comfort, and style. Among these popular vehicles, Ford SUVs stand out for their reliability and performance. As more buyers consider the value and history behind a used Ford SUV, the quest for a fuel-efficient ride becomes a top priority.

This article is your guide to the fuel efficiency face-off between two stalwarts of the Ford SUV lineup: the Ford Escape and the Ford Explorer. Let the showdown begin, and explore which of these two models saves more at the pump and delivers the best driving experience for savvy SUV enthusiasts.

Why Ford?

Ford’s SUV range is a testament to the brand’s commitment to innovation and customer satisfaction. Through the years, Ford has continued to refine and expand its SUV lineup to meet the evolving needs of drivers worldwide.

Fuel efficiency has become a focal point in recent times, with rising concerns over environmental impact and escalating gas prices. As buyers seek vehicles that offer savings without compromising performance, the competition to deliver the most fuel-efficient SUV intensifies.

Ford Escape

The Ford Escape stands out in the compact SUV segment with its winning combination of agility and functionality. Boasting a range of eco-friendly engine options, the Escape remains a frontrunner in the fuel efficiency race.

Its compact size makes it ideal for city driving while maintaining a comfortable interior and advanced technology features. For drivers in search of a nimble and eco-conscious ride, the Ford Escape is a top contender.

Ford Explorer

On the other end of the spectrum, the Ford Explorer represents a legacy of reliability, spaciousness, and versatility that caters to families and adventurers alike. Equipped with a powerful engine lineup and cutting-edge features, the Explorer strikes a unique balance between performance and fuel efficiency.

Which Model Is More Fuel Efficient?

In the battle for fuel efficiency supremacy, the Ford Escape’s and Ford Explorer’s EPA fuel economy ratings say it all: The 2020 Escape gets 30 mpg combined, while its hybrid version clocks in with 41 mpg. The 2020 Explorer managed 23-24 mpg combined, depending on drivetrain and a rear-wheel-drive model vs. an AWD version. But, these two SUVs offer distinct driving experiences, reflecting the diverse needs of SUV enthusiasts.

When comparing fuel efficiency ratings, the key factors include engine size, vehicle weight, and aerodynamics. The Escape’s eco-friendly engines aim to optimize fuel consumption, while the Explorer’s powerful yet efficient powertrains cater to a broader range of driving scenarios.

From city commutes to cross-country road trips, these SUVs showcase their capabilities in delivering efficient and reliable performance on the road.

Beyond the Numbers

Drivers need to dive deeper into the data to truly understand the Ford Escape and Explorer’s fuel efficiency performance. Various factors, including driving conditions, vehicle maintenance, and individual driving habits, can influence how efficiently these SUVs consume fuel.

Weather conditions, traffic congestion, and terrain all affect how far each gallon of fuel can take you. Regular maintenance, such as tire inflation and engine tune-ups, can also significantly impact fuel efficiency. Additionally, personal driving styles, like aggressive acceleration or excessive idling, can either optimize or compromise fuel consumption.

By examining the nuances behind the numbers, you gain a clearer picture of how fuel efficiency is not just a product of standardized tests but a result of real-world variables that affect daily driving experiences. Understanding these factors can help Ford SUV owners maximize their fuel efficiency and enjoy long-term savings on fuel costs.

Making Your Decision

When it comes to choosing between the fuel-efficient Ford Escape and Ford Explorer, drivers need to consider a handful of factors. Evaluate your lifestyle, driving needs, and budget to determine which SUV best suits your preferences.

If urban commuting and eco-friendly technology are your priorities, the Ford Escape may be the ideal choice. With its smaller footprint and efficient engine options, the Escape offers a compelling package for city dwellers and environmentally conscious drivers. If you require more space, power, and versatility in your SUV, the Ford Explorer meets those demands.

Its robust build, advanced features, and impressive towing capacity make it a favorite among families and outdoor enthusiasts. By weighing the fuel efficiency ratings against your intended usage and preferences, you can make an informed decision that suits your driving style and requirements.

A Roadmap to Smart Driving

In the fast-paced world of SUVs, fuel efficiency has emerged as a crucial factor for buyers looking to balance performance with savings. The Ford Escape and Ford Explorer represent two distinct paths to efficient driving, catering to a diverse range of drivers with unique needs and preferences.

Whether you prioritize eco-conscious city cruising or spacious family adventures, Ford’s SUV lineup offers a fuel-efficient solution that doesn’t compromise on performance. By choosing a fuel-efficient Ford SUV that aligns with your lifestyle, you can embark on a journey that combines smart driving with lasting value and enjoyment.

Ask Nathan: Seriously – Is This a Combat Cybertruck, and Where’s the PowerBoost (Hybrid) System in Ford SUVs?

Nathan Adlen

August 18, 2024

(Images created for Unplugged Performance)

In this week’s Ask Nathan:

Are we looking at a military-ready Cybertruck?
Why is Ford so stingy with their PowerBoost hybrid system?

The first question comes from a Tesla fan who is shocked to see what looks like a Combat Cybertruck that could be ready for production soon.

Q: (ViaTwittwr/X @NathanAdlen): OMG is this actually a ****ing Combat Cybertruck!

Saw your vid with MotoMan where you both discuss your thoughts on the Cybertruck. Honestly can say that you are more informed than you act with your normal gig. I hope thought stays with with other players like Motoman. In a weird way I kind of agree with both of you. I like how you say it was a bet Elon won by building it. Yes I can see that LOL!

As the owner of an older Model-3, I am pretty happy but I miss my old Tacoma. Maybe when they build cheaper ones I can become a Tesla Cybertruck owner? I saw this image and I had to ask you about it. Is this just a rendering, or is it something that will really be built? I am a combat veteran and seeing this kind of makes me smile. I don’t know why!

Keep up the fun storytelling!

– Rock, Staten Island, NY

A: Yes, according to Archimedes Defense and Unplugged Performance, the “Sting” combat Cybertruck will be available for government and civilian use.

Now, when we say “combat Cybertruck,” it’s not as if the STING is equipped with a .50-cal and grenade launchers. It is an up-armored Tesla Cybertruck that is built for more extreme use, and provide safety for its occupants. To me: it almost makes the wedge shape make sense. It reminds me of vehicles built by the Oshkosh Corporation, or General Dynamics.

I’m not sure how this version of the Cybertruck would perform. I mean, it’s well over 6,000-lbs before these enhancements, but what do I know?

“UP.FIT has already set the standard with our police Cybertrucks, but with STING, in collaboration with Archimedes, we’re pushing the limits even further. These military Cybertrucks are designed to be more extreme, with enhanced protection and unmatched capabilities.”

–Ben Schaffer, CEO of Unplugged Performance.

UP.FIT/Archimedes Defense have a variety of variants for their Sting, including upgraded armor and tactical enhancements; however, what interests me is a generator.

Yup!

“(The) STING Baja includes the UP INVINCIBLE® off-road package which incorporates Starlink connectivity and adds the ability to go off-grid via a compact, lightweight frunk-mounted AMP Drive G125^TM aviation-derived 800V genset designed to run on jet fuel. This gearbox-less direct drive piston genset is efficient and multi-fuel capable, running on Jet A, JP-8, Diesel, and Biodiesel. It will be capable of supercharging the Cybertruck at up to 125kW and rescue-charging other vehicles via an included NACS charging cable, with adaptors available for non-NACS vehicles”

Now, I know that EV haters are going to laugh at the thought of using a generator (of any kind) to bail the EV pickup out of a sticky situation. This intrigues me as it delves into ways these vehicles might be better put to use. I would imagine the power is enough to top off a STING/Cybertruck at least once from empty. This, in conjunction with upcoming solar tech, could make for an interesting prospect for real overlanding.

As for the concept, and the potential of a production Sting, we’ll see if they have something for us to sink our teeth into soon.

For more information, go to ArchimedesDefense.com and look up the Sting on their main page.

The last question comes from a Ford fan who is upset that they don’t have a PowerBoost option for other trucks.

Q: (Via: AskNathan@TFL.com – paraphrased) You guys find out for sure if Ford is going to build more PowerBoost trucks?

I don’t mean more F-150 versions. I’m talking about Explorer, Expedition, Navigator and the Ranger. Such a no brainer and we know that Ford has the tech to make them a reality. I don’t want a simple hybrid SUV, Toyota makes one just fine. But if you hook up the PowerBoost system to a Expedition or a Ranger, I might take out my wallet and yell “TAKE MY MONEY!”

– Anonymous

A: I’m fairly sure that Ford is working on it.

Right now, Ford is playing catch-up with many of their products. They know demand for their PowerBoost hybrid system is high; however, there are issues. For starters, there’s the issue of cost: Ford can build just about anything, but they know they’ll get slammed if they come out with a base-model Ranger that has a PowerBoost system – for $60,000. I’m not saying it will, but the one in Australia (that’s not in the market yet) is expected to top 70,000-AU$. This is for a mid-size pickup.

The upcharge for the hybrid system in the F-150 is around $6,500+ in the XLT. As awesome as the system is, that’s a huge upcharge for a powertrain. Granted, we tested Andre’s PowerBoost F-150 and it was fabulous. Especially for folks who actually need a generator in the bush.

Weight is the other issue. The PowerBoost system can (in some cases) increase the overall weight of the vehicle by 569-lbs. With all Ford went through to create weight-savings using aluminum sheets on the body, that added weight hurts. Now imagine a large, luxurious SUV like the Expedition or Navigator. Considering Ford’s obsessing with shedding weight, increasing performance and enhancing efficiency, it must be a tough nut to crack.

There are plenty of other things to consider as well. Still, Andre and I were sure that the newest Navigator and Expedition would have a PowerBoost drivetrain. We were wrong.

Maybe in a few years?

– N

A Four-Door Mustang Could Be Just Around the Corner: Ford Just Showed One to Dealers

Zach Butler

August 16, 2024

2024 Ford Mustang Dark Horse — (Images: Ford)

Ford isn’t just thinking about it: A four-door Mustang made an appearance at a closed-door meetings.

As long as you’re about to slam your keyboard or throw your phone at the words “four-door Mustang”, we might as well get this out of the way too: Ford is also reportedly planning an off-roader. That’s according to murmurs from a dealer meeting picked up by Automotive News, where the automaker is looking to turn Mustang into a wider sub-brand, beyond the existing coupe and Mach-E, according to unnamed sources with knowledge of its plans.

But wait, it gets better: Two of the dealers at the meeting shared that Ford could call the supposed Mustang sedan the “Mach 4”. Get it? Because it has four doors?

As far as the off-road model is concerned, it sounds like Ford is planning a Porsche 911 Dakar or Lamborghini Huracán Sterrato treatment with its iconic coupe. That is, the model will sport a taller ride height and all-terrain tires, likely along with some unique aesthetic tweaks to make it look a bit more rugged. Mind you, Ford’s already taken a similar tack with the Mach-E Rally, so thinking laterally would land you at something like a lifted OG Mustang.

While those are the two headline revelations that are likely to split folks into two opposing factions, that’s not all Ford’s been cooking with the whole Mustang idea. Hot on the heels of showing off the $300,000-plus GTD, the company also reportedly revealed an EcoBoost-powered version of the RTR, as well as a “high-performance” V8 convertible akin to the more hardcore Shelby models. Think GT350 or GT500, but without that actual name. Just a lot of power and a manual transmission to go with the drop-top body style.

The biggest unicorn of all, it seems, is a four-door Mustang performance sedan with a manual transmission. In itself, that’s not unique — remember the Chevy SS or Pontiac G8 GXP? While instinct says that sort of combination wouldn’t sell (it’s not like a lot of folks even buy manual Mustangs, even now), the enthusiast in me fervently hopes Ford makes good on that rumor. It would make the whole “four-door” thing easier to accept, though Ford has already given us a new twist on Mustang with the Mach-E, haven’t they?

Naturally, nothing is official yet, and we don’t know when we might actually get a nod that any of this is indeed happening. It’s worth keeping your eyes and ears open, though, if you’re curious to see what Ford does with one of its most iconic nameplates. Would you prefer this sort of approach or the electric two- and four-door Dodge Chargers Stellantis is about to unleash on American streets? Or perhaps the rumored electric Camaro?

It’s a crazy time.

Meet Lamborghini’s Huracán Replacement: The 907-Horsepower Twin-Turbo V8 Temerario

Zach Butler

August 16, 2024

The Lamborghini Temerario packs even more horsepower (and more syllables) than its predecessor.

Times are changing for Lamborghini, as we move from the era of Aventador and Huracán to Revuelto and Temerario. The latter just made its debut during Monterey Car Week, packing all-new styling (as you’d expect), as well as a completely different powertrain. Instead of a rip-snorting V10 like its Gallardo and Huracán predecessors, the new Temerario packs a mid-mounted 4.0-liter twin-turbocharged V8. That’s hardly the end of the story, though, as we’re also in the age of electrification. So, in addition to a high-strung V8 in a hot-V configuration (with the turbos between the two banks), it also gets three electric motors to make some serious power.

On its own, the flat-plane crank V8 engine manages 789 horsepower on its way to a stratospheric 10,000 RPM redline, as well as 538 lb-ft of torque between 4,000 and 7,000 RPM. Factor in the trio of electric motors, and the Temerario makes an impressive 907 horsepower. Each motor, in turn, puts out 148 horsepower, with two on situated on the front axle and the third sandwiched between the engine and 8-speed dual-clutch transmission. That motor exists primarily to ward off turbo lag and be a “torque gap filler”, while the engine revs toward peak output. Overall torque remains the same even with the electric motors, at 538 lb-ft. The e-motor adjacent to the transmission also acts as a starter-motor/generator, as you can technically drive the car in fully electric mode (more on that in a moment).

Flat-out, the 2025 Lamborghini Temerario claims a top speed of 213 mph, which only puts it 5 mph behind its larger V12 sibling. 0-62 mph also comes up in a respectable 2.7 seconds, while the front electric motors help this model’s handling chops by way of precise torque vectoring in tight corners. To adapt with various driving conditions, the Temerario has driving modes ranging through Città (City), Strada, Sport, Corsa, Corsa Plus and Drift, as well as three modes controlling the electric motors’ behavior: Hybrid, Performance and Recharge.

Alongside the 4.0-liter V8, the Lamborghini Temerario manages its electric driving experience by way of a 3.8-kWh lithium-ion battery. The automaker actually positioned the battery pack within the central tunnel to improve weight distribution and keep the center of gravity low, while moving the gearbox behind the engine. Lamborghini says the car’s onboard charger can replenish the battery in about 30 minutes (makes sense, given a Level 2 charger’s 7.2-kW output), though most owners will probably stick to letting the engine and regenerative braking top off the battery on their own.

Inside the 2025 Lamborghini Temerario

The now-defunct Huracán certainly turned heads with its wedge shape and crazily angular interior, and its successor fundamentally sticks to that formula. That said, you’d expect the interior to get a range of updates, and the Temerario certainly does that. There’s a new 9.1-inch infotainment screen with far fewer buttons on the center stack, though you still get the traditional starter button under a red flap. There are quite a few technological updates to make Lambo’s newest model a more comfortable daily driver, including 18-way power adjustable, heated and ventilated seats. Leather is everywhere throughout the cabin, while you’re also treated to carbon fiber and suede.

True to form for high-end sports cars these days, the 2025 Lamborghini Temerario includes its own onboard data recorder, when equipped with the “Lamborghini Vision Unit” system: a three-camera system with a dedicated control unit. The Lamborghini Telemetry 2.0 app can provide data on 150 different racetracks, while there’s also a dashcam function and a “Memories Recorder” that allows drivers to record up to two minutes of driving at a time.

Lamborghini also says its new aluminum space frame chassis not only helps the curb weight and torsional rigidity, but provides better passenger and luggage space than any other vehicle in its segment. And by “segment”, we’re primarily talking about cars like the Ferrari 296 GTB, the McLaren GTS and the Porsche 911 Turbo S.

How much will the Temerario cost?

Among all the pieces of information Lamborghini shared on the new Temerario, pricing unfortunately wasn’t one of them. However, it’s a bit of a “sky’s the limit” situation, since you can have it in one of over 400 colors or special exterior liveries through the company’s Ad Personam customization program. You can get three different wheel designs, carbon fiber trim, different interior colors and stitching options and much more. If you’re gunning for performance, the Alleggerita package helps shed 55 pounds off the curb weight and adds a range of carbon-fiber-reinforced plastic aerodynamic pieces like a splitter, side skirts and rear decklid spoiler.

Just before it went out of production, the Huracán started around $250,000 and ran over $350,000 depending on the trims and options you chose. I wouldn’t expect this model to be any less expensive (particularly with the hybrid powertrain), so expect a starting price tag somewhere around $300,000.

The 2025 Lamborghini Temerario will go on sale early next year.

Rimac Reveals the Nevera R As An Even More Insane 2,017-Horsepower Hypercar

Zach Butler

August 16, 2024

Have you ever experienced 0-60 in 1.74 seconds? Neither have I.

It’s not as if Rimac’s latest electric Nevera is slow — but that isn’t stopping the automaker and its CEO from pushing the limits even harder. That’s what Mate Rimac and his team’s latest creation is all about. The track-focused Nevera R, of which the electric automaker will only build 40 examples, is an absolute tsunami of mind-bending performance figures. Let’s keep in mind while we go through them, too, that the “regular” Nevera already set its own host of acceleration and braking records with 1,813 horsepower on tap.

This race-prepped hypercar, nonetheless, takes the output from four electric motors up to 2,107 horsepower, for a start. That means you get a 0-60 time of just 1.74 seconds, according to Rimac’s official statement. It’ll do the quarter-mile in 8.23 seconds, and charge from a dead stop to 124 mph (200 km/h) in roughly the same amount of time it takes a Ford Mustang GT to get to 60 mph: 4.4 seconds. Top speed? 256 mph (with “manufacturer oversight”, at least).

Insane hardly begins to cover it, don’t you think?

Apart from just giving it more power and calling it a day, Rimac says it focused on making the Nevera R “lighter, faster and more focused” than its grand tourer counterpart. While the standard Nevera is meant to be livable while also being monstrously fast, the R gets to play by a different rule book. It has a more aggressive look, especially with the large fixed rear wing, as well as 15% more downforce and 10% better aerodynamic efficiency. Its new quad-motor setup also debuts an updated torque-vectoring all-wheel drive system, while its “EVO2” carbon ceramic brakes have a silicone matrix layer to improve cooling performance and braking power during hard use. The new Rimac Nevera R packs a staggered set of 20-inch front and 21-inch rear wheels, wrapped with Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tires.

Rimac also brings in a new 108-kWh battery pack with a different chemistry to what’s in the standard Nevera for this racing application. The new pack uses a nickel-manganese-cobalt (NMC) chemistry, and the company says this racier version should be able to manage about 250 miles on a charge. That’s using the European-developed WLTP test cycle, however, so range by EPA standards will likely fall somewhere in the low-200s range.

Inside, the Rimac Nevera R sports a similar layout to the existing Nevera, apart from the Nebula Green color scheme throughout the cabin. Like the Nevera, the R’s interior is fairly minimalistic, with three TFT screens placed across the dashboard and center console, as well as rotary dials for driver controls and infotainment controls on the center console. Rimac touts the “driver-focused, ultra-customizable” interior has addtional color and trim options, including painting the dashboard structure and center console trim to match the exterior.

If you want the privilege of getting one of the 40 Rimac Nevera R units, you’ll need a serious chunk of cash. And I don’t mean $250,000-ish to get your hands on a limited-run Porsche 911 Turbo, either — think more in the ballpark of $2.5 million. For those affluent few who can actually put their name down for one, Rimac says it will start shipping the Nevera R out next year.

Porsche Rolls Out Limited-Edition 911 Turbo 50 Years to Commemorate the Original Model

Zach Butler

August 16, 2024

It’s been half a century since Porsche launched the first 911 Turbo.

Porsche’s been on a bit of a nostalgia kick lately, with modern interpretations of 911s long past making their way into the rotation. We saw the 911 Sport Classic and the 911 Dakar, and now there’s this: the 911 Turbo 50 Years. Just like it’s name suggests, the German automaker is launching this limited-run version of its flagship sports car to celebrate its long and illustrious history of turbocharged rear-engined greatness.

The Porsche 911 Turbo 50 Years is based on the (pre-facelift) Turbo S, but adds some special styling touches in the same spirit as other special-run versions like the Sport Classic. You get special badging on the rear decklid with a turbocharger icon and “1974-2024” commemorating the full Turbo history, as well as vinyl decals and Anthracite Gray exterior trim elements on the rear wing, lower rear fascia, mirror bases and air intake grilles. If you’re curious about the color, Porsche is introducing a new “Turbonite” color that’s only available on 911 Turbo models. The center-locking Exclusive Design wheels also come in Turbonite.

Inside, the Porsche 911 Turbo 50 Years gets more throwback touches, including “MacKenzie” tartan sport seats with “turbo 50” embroidered into the headrests, and the same tartan pattern on the door panels. There’s another special edition badge on the IP, while the dashboard gets a specific sub-second clock design. You even get LED puddle lights that show the image of a turbocharger on the ground when you open the doors, rather than a simple logo.

Power-wise, the Porsche 911 Turbo 50 Years is the same as the standard Turbo S. You get a twin-turbocharged, 3.7-liter flat-six engine putting out 640 horsepwoer and 590 lb-ft of torque to all four wheels through an 8-speed automatic transmission. Porsche says this model will make the 0-62 mph (0-100 km/h) sprint in just 2.7 seconds, while it’ll achieve double that speed in about 8.9 seconds. Porsche’s Active Suspension Management (PASM) comes standard, as does a sports exhaust system, carbon ceramic brakes and a front axle lift system.

If you’re wanting to get your hands on a 2024 Porsche 911 Turbo 50 Years, you probably already know what to expect. Production won’t be super rare, but there will still be just 1,974 units rolling of the production line. If you want to make yours stand out, Porsche offers a Heritage Design Package that adds in more retro touches like Aventurine Green Metallic point (or something from the paint-to-sample catalog), white exterior graphics and original 911-style badging.

Right now, the “normal” Porsche 911 Turbo S will set you back at least $233,395. That’s not what I’d call “cheap”, so add the limited-run tag to it, and it will almost certainly run more than a quarter-million dollars. Not that most folks (even those who can technically afford it) will be able to get their hands on one, as this will likely sell out in short order. Oh, and Porsche is rolling out a limited-production 911 Turbo 50 Years-styled watch for the occasion, too.

Acura Debuts Integra Type S HRC Prototype With Tons of Racing Goodies That You Might Soon Be Able to Buy

Zach Butler

August 16, 2024

HRC (formerly HPD) is showcasing a line of street and track-focused performance parts for the Integra Type S.

With 320 horsepower on tap and a 6-speed manual transmission, the new Acura Integra Type S is already a godsend for a lot of enthusiasts out there. For those same enthusiasts, though, the experience never stops at just buying the car: You have to get some upgrades. To that end, Honda Racing Corporation (known as Honda Performance Development until late last year) debuted the Integra Type S HRC Prototype at The Quail during Monterey Car Week, bringing engineers’ technical expertise to bear on possibly bringing out a line of performance parts for buyers.

“Every Spec of the Acura Integra Type S HRC Prototype screams performance,” says HRC senior vice president Jon Ikeda. “Everything is functional — if it doesn’t add performance, it isn’t on the car.” Overall, the racier bits actually help drop the Integra Type S’ curb weight by 200 pounds, Acura says, to a respectable 3,000 pounds or so. That lighter profile comes by way of carbon fiber replacements for the hood, door panels, Recaro bucket seats, and completely removing the rear seats in favor of a shelf to fit a spare set of wheels and tires on the way to the track. There’s also a painted X-brace running right across the rear bulkhead, since this aims to be a bona fide track weapon. The air conditioning system is also out, which likely comprises the lion’s share of this HRC Prototype’s weight loss right there.

The Acura Integra Type S HRC Prototype also brings in beefier components under the body. It gets two oil coolers, a bigger intercooler, an exhaust system and suspension components straight from the TCX race car, front and rear camber plates and an adjustable rear anti-roll bar. With new springs and dampers, the HRC-developed prototype also sits 0.6 inches lower than the standard Integra Type S.

While you do get the same-sized 9.5-by-19-inch forged wheels as the stock model, there’s more negative offset that widens the front and rear track by 1.2 inches. The HRC Prototype also gets beefier 15-inch, six-piston Brembo front brakes to replace the standard four-piston setup — there’s an indication how much room you have to upgrade your brakes with the standard wheel size — and sticks on a set of Pirelli P Zero Trofeo R tires.

Acura did not say whether any of the upgrades actually bolster output beyond the 320 horsepower and 310 lb-ft the standard model provides. Nevertheless, you’d be able to make better use of that power on the track with this sort of upgrade path, if you’re willing to completely grenade the hatchback’s more practical side.

We’ll have to wait and see what, if any, of these parts make it out to the parts catalog for interested Integra Type S buyers. It’d be a boon to have some options beyond what former HPD packages offered, which mainly just focused on appearance bits over outright performance.

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Bidding process: How does it work?

Which car brands are the most popular?

Archived auctions: Check the price before you make a bid!

Why Ford?

Ford Escape

Ford Explorer

Which Model Is More Fuel Efficient?

Beyond the Numbers

Making Your Decision

A Roadmap to Smart Driving

In this week’s Ask Nathan:

Q: (ViaTwittwr/X @NathanAdlen): OMG is this actually a ****ing Combat Cybertruck!

A: Yes, according to Archimedes Defense and Unplugged Performance, the “Sting” combat Cybertruck will be available for government and civilian use.

UP.FIT/Archimedes Defense have a variety of variants for their Sting, including upgraded armor and tactical enhancements; however, what interests me is a generator.

Q: (Via: AskNathan@TFL.com – paraphrased) You guys find out for sure if Ford is going to build more PowerBoost trucks?

A: I’m fairly sure that Ford is working on it.

Ford isn’t just thinking about it: A four-door Mustang made an appearance at a closed-door meetings.

The Lamborghini Temerario packs even more horsepower (and more syllables) than its predecessor.

Inside the 2025 Lamborghini Temerario

How much will the Temerario cost?

Have you ever experienced 0-60 in 1.74 seconds? Neither have I.

It’s been half a century since Porsche launched the first 911 Turbo.

HRC (formerly HPD) is showcasing a line of street and track-focused performance parts for the Integra Type S.

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