Latest news with #FerrariEnzo
Motor Trend
09-07-2025
- Automotive
- Motor Trend
MC Hammered: A Ferrari Enzo Goes Into Rehab and Ends Up In Finishing School
[This story first appeared in the June 2005 issue of MotorTrend] Remember the show, "Victor/Victoria"? It contrived musical merriment by having Julie Andrews play a woman pretending to be a man pretending to be a woman. There's a strikingly similar story line behind the supercar you see here. Its basic carbon composite chassis and 65-degree V-12 drivetrain started life in the street-legal Ferrari Enzo. Maserati did an extreme makeover, transforming the Enzo into an FIA GT race car. Then, with another nip and tuck, it was morphed back into a street-legal vehicle for a production run of 25 cars to satisfy series homologation rules. The Maserati MC12, a transformed Ferrari Enzo, features extensive modifications for street use, including a longer wheelbase and aerodynamic tweaks. With a 624-hp V-12 engine, it offers a unique driving experience and exclusivity but lacks the creature comforts of other contemporary supercars. This summary was generated by AI using content from this MotorTrend article Read Next In the movie and play, Andrews is at her most alluringly feminine when festooned as Victor the drag queen, and it turns out that the Enzo makes a more comfortable and attractive road car when made over as a butch Maserati racer in street couture. Let's slip into the dressing room and examine the costume changes. The transformation from Enzo to MC12 Versione Competizione is extensive. The wheelbase is extended 5.9 inches, and the nose and tail are stretched to add another 11.5 to the overall length in the name of optimized aerodynamics. This long, pointy shape, along with the wings, spoilers, and underbody venturis, provide enough downforce to change the static 41/59 front/rear weight distribution to 34/66 at speeds above 125 mph. The body also is 2.2 inches taller (due to the roof-mounted air-intake snorkel) and 2.4 inches wider. The windshield is the only exterior part directly carried over from the Enzo. The overall look is voluptuous and slightly reminiscent of a Jaguar XJ220. Under the new skin, much of the carbon fiber structure, suspension, and brake hardware is Enzo derived. The engine is hardened for race duty with an upgraded dry-sump oil-scavenging system and gear-driven cams in place of the Enzo's chains. The cams, pistons, and engine control system are tuned for optimum performance breathing through the mandatory 33mm intake restrictor. Ferrari's six-speed auto-clutch paddle-shifted gearbox is little changed. All race versions are painted dark Maserati blue. The race car transformation is quite convincing in battle. Maserati fielded two MC12s in the last four races of the 2004 season, taking two wins, three seconds, and one third-place finish. The team is gunning heavily for the FIA GT championship this year, and there are plans to compete in all American Le Mans Series races in 2005. Maserati won't be eligible for driver or manufacturer points in ALMS, however, because the car is longer and wider than the Automobile Club de l'Ouest regulations allow. Recostuming the race car for Stradale duty went way beyond the bare minimum lighting, emissions, and safety requirements needed to certify the MC12 for legal road use. Because the 90-year-old company was determined to make a genuinely desirable halo supercar out of its FIA racer, it chose to add such touches as a removable roof panel--a bonus not offered on the quasi-gullwing Enzo. The lightweight removable roof panel unclips and lifts off as easily as a Corvette's, but can't be stored on board. The interior is also far more opulent than one might expect in a rehabbed racer. There's still plenty of naked gel-coated carbon fiber showing on the floor and door panels, but it's dressed up with blue leather and BrighTex fabric--a silver lame type material overlaid with a grippy, open-weave mesh that brings the look of carbon fiber to the seat inserts and upper dash. Air conditioning is standard; an audio system isn't offered (what musician would dare shout down the glorious sound of a racebred V-12, anyway?). All street versions are painted pearl white over blue. Mechanical revisions to the road car include more docile cams and engine tuning. Output is rated at 624 horsepower and 479 pound-feet of torque. Race teams never divulge official engine output, but the Competizione's peak numbers are assumed to be close, with differently shaped power and torque curves. The Enzo made 651 horsepower and 485 pound-feet and redlined at 8200 rpm. Maserati paints the redline at 7500 revs in the MC12 Stradale, but lets it rev to 7700. The racing brakes and tires are swapped for more street-friendly compounds, and the track widths are reduced slightly. The pushrod-actuated coil-over Boge shocks aren't adjustable like the Enzo's and are tuned for a more compliant ride over small impacts. Relative to the race car, the aerodynamics are toned down, trading the adjustable rear wing for a lower profile unit that overhangs the body to give the sideview mirrors a better view of what's directly behind the car. This is crucial, because the engine air-intake snorkel blocks what would've been the rear visibility. Enough backstage banter--let's get this show on the road. The test track built in Balocco, Italy, in the 1960s for Alfa Romeo's Formula One team is an ideal stage on which to strut the MC12's stuff. Its 4.75-mile tri-oval would be a great place to probe the claimed 205-mph top speed if not for a half-dozen narrow chicanes erected in hopes of making three test cars survive four waves of ham-fisted journalist test-drives. Team driver Fabrizio de Simone gives a hair-raising lap in a Quattroporte, threading the big sedan through the chicanes deftly at about 40 mph, leaving his braking until roughly the middle of each posted braking zone. Given just two laps of the high-speed track, the first couple of chicanes are negotiated at well under de Simone's pace. This car measures nearly eight inches wider than a Quattroporte, after all. But the quick, precise steering and excellent forward visibility quickly build confidence and chicane speeds. By the second lap, it feels right to carry nearly 40 mph through the gates leading onto a mile-long straight and then floor the accelerator. The steady, strong push is attended by what sounds like the MGM lion roaring in the engine room. After four such growls, the speedometer just kisses 170 mph as the first braking marker flashes by. A deep steady stab of the brake erases three-quarters of the entry speed with no sign of fade except an ever-stiffening pedal. No side-to-side squirming or darting; just steady, stable deceleration. For act two, the cars are turned loose on part of a 6.7-mile handling circuit for another two-lap session. Lap one, driven as one would on an unfamiliar public road, reveals incredibly communicative and confident steering that becomes more so as the speed and aero downforce increase. Street compound brakes make no noise, can be applied smoothly and gently at any speed, and don't require heating up to become effective as racing brakes do. The road-legal Pirelli PZero Corsas feature a tread pattern that's about 34 percent open in the front, 28 percent in the rear, so there's a bit of squirm on initial turn-in. But at higher speeds, there's less tramlining and very little nervousness at the wheel. Dialing up the heat a bit for lap two reveals relatively high but safely approachable levels of lateral grip. Time the trail braking just right and feed just enough throttle in to spin the tires by an amount allowed by the ASR traction control's "Race" programming, and the car adopts a nice, satisfying drift, setting up perfectly for the next corner. There's none of the "knife-edged limit handling" we criticized in the more extreme Enzo. It's even more forgiving at the limit than an Acura NSX. The brakes are strong, but they demand a bit of respect. One self-described pro-rally driving journo piloting the Stradale as if he were in competizione managed to return with flames shooting off the pads. At the end of the day, we strap our test gear onto the MC12 to quantify its straight-line capabilities (the black lakes and skidpads were off-limits). To launch the car, simply engage the Race mode (to quicken shifts and allow more wheelspin before the ASR kicks in), then quickly open the throttle about 30 to 50 percent--enough to call for a big clutch drop, but not so much that the engine overpowers the ASR--then feed throttle in gradually as the grip allows. It's easier than it sounds--our second launch is our best. (Note that the rear brakes need to be cool for ASR to work at all.) Get it right, and the tires hook up by around 3500 rpm. Pull the upshift paddle just before fuel shutoff at 7700 rpm in each gear, and 60 mph arrives in 3.7 seconds, the quarter mile in 11.8 at 123.9 mph. That's about 0.3 second behind an Enzo at 60 mph and 0.8 back at the quarter mile. Can't have a Maserati outperforming the ultimate Ferrari, can we? Engine tuning and increased aero drag account for the difference. Perhaps a more apt comparison is with the similarly easy-to-drive Mercedes-Benz McLaren SLR, which performs within a couple tenths of the MC12. Of course, the SLR offers a trunk that'll carry golf clubs; it costs about half as much as the MC12, and it can be imported legally to the U.S. The MC12 carries nothing but two people, some gloves, and 30 gallons of premium fuel. It sells for 600,000 euros or just a shade under $800,000. It's not homologated for U.S. sale, but a handful of cars can be imported under the show-and-display law. The first 25 cars sold out quickly in 2004. There are more than 25 orders for the 2005 run, but the cars haven't all been assigned yet, so there's still time to fill a suitcase with "incentive" cash and hop a plane to Modena. Do so, and you'll own a car that'll forever keep folks guessing. What's Hot: FIA-approved style and substance; low-danger dynamics; nearly as rare as the last Cooper-Maserati V-12s What's Not: No trunk; no spare tire; no radio Like This? Try These: Saleen S7; 1992-1994 Jaguar XJ220; 1998 Mercedes-Benz CLK-GTR Who's Calling the Shots at Maserati? The February "sale" of Maserati from Ferrari to Fiat was widely reported to be a simple shell game to move the high costs of developing the Quattroporte and Coupe/Spyder replacement off Ferrari's balance sheets in hopes of boosting the share price when the company goes public, probably within a year. But Maserati stands to gain from the deal, as well. Here's what happened: Ferrari Maserati Group was divided into two autonomous entities under Fiat SpA, standing alongside Fiat Auto (Alfa Romeo, Lancia, and Fiat brands), Iveco trucks, and CNH (agricultural and industrial products). A technical alliance remains with Ferrari, which will continue to build and co-develop engines and transmissions for Maserati, share Formula One technology, etc. A new commercial and technical partnership has been formed with Alfa Romeo. Alfa's larger-scale manufacturing and purchasing power are expected to help Maserati expand to fill its 10,000-unit capacity with a higher volume, lower priced product. The concept has worked for archrival Porsche. With the 911 firmly established as the hallmark of the brand, the German niche-player teamed with the mass-market experts at VW to launch the comparatively high-volume Cayenne. Will the Trident also build an SUV? Maybe. But there's so little SUV expertise to tap into within Fiat that a better guess might be a Boxster-priced junior sports car, which Alfa could offer more help with.
Yahoo
08-06-2025
- Automotive
- Yahoo
Stunning Italian Sports Cars That Turn Heads and Burn Rubber
Growing up with the original Top Gear, my brain was hardwired to love Italian car brands like Lamborghini, Ferrari, and Alfa Romeo — thanks, Jeremy Clarkson. To me, these Italian machines aren't just cars, they're moving poetry capable of immense speeds and stirring emotions in ways few others can. Whereas German cars are all about precision and American ones about brute force, the Italians build cars that evoke emotion, flaws, and all. Today, we're highlighting some of the most gorgeous Italian sports cars from the 21st century. These Italian sports cars exemplify the fusion of design excellence and engineering prowess, each offering a unique driving experience that captivates enthusiasts worldwide. All the facts and figures are sourced from the manufacturers unless stated otherwise, and models are ranked from oldest to newest. This list is purely subjective and based on my personal preferences. Italian car lovers are a passionate bunch, and we're right there with you. If your personal favorite isn't listed here, it's not because it doesn't deserve a spot; it's just because narrowing down decades of gorgeous Italian engineering into one list is nearly impossible. But hey, maybe that just means we need to make a Part 2. Even after two decades, the Ferrari Enzo remains a masterpiece. Inspired by Formula 1, its sharp, angular body features subtle curves and strategic air intakes that not only serve an aerodynamic purpose but also an aesthetic one. The cherry on the cake, however, was its mid-mounted 6.0-liter V12 engine producing 650 horsepower and 485 lb-ft of torque. Road and Track clocked a 0 to 60 mph time of just 3.3 seconds. So, it doesn't just look and sound spectacular, it performs that way, too. The Murcielago was Lamborghini's first V12-powered supercar under Volkswagen Group ownership. Named after a legendary Spanish fighting bull and the Spanish word for 'bat,' it even made a cameo as Bruce Wayne's ride in The Dark Knight trilogy. The naturally aspirated V12 is a showstopper, but the real highlight is its aggressive yet elegant design. My favorite part is its air intakes, which open up like a bat spreading its wings. If for some reason the standard Murcielago is a tad too tame for your liking, Lamborghini made a few different variants, including an open-top Roadster and the limited-edition LP670-4 SuperVeloce. Pagani has produced numerous iterations of the Zonda since its late-'90s debut, but few are as breathtaking as the Zonda Roadster F. Its extensive use of exposed carbon fiber isn't just for weight savings — it gives the car an unmistakable one-of-a-kind look. With bug-eyed headlights and a signature quad-tipped exhaust, the Zonda Roadster F is both futuristic and timeless. Power comes from an AMG-derived V12 paired with a six-speed manual transmission, both proudly displayed since the engine bay has a transparent panel, and the transmission is completely bare in the cockpit. In 2008, the Alfa Romeo 8C Competizione won 'Best Design of The Year,' and it's easy to see why. With its flowing lines, soulful headlights, traditional Alfa wheels, and short rear overhang, the 8C is pure automotive art. It's not just a pretty face, though. Under its hood, there's a Ferrari-built V8 engine that sounds almost angelic. Sadly, no Alfa that followed has managed to replicate its beauty — not even its bite-sized spiritual successor, the Alfa Romeo 4C. The Ferrari 458 isn't just one of the best-looking Ferraris of the modern era — it might be the best Ferrari to date, period. Its mid-mounted 4.5-liter V8 engine, a very similar engine used in the aforementioned 8C, revs up to 9,000 rpm and pushes 562 hp. The 458's design was so influential that it set the standard for the Ferraris that followed. Its successors, the 488 GTB and F8 Tributo, tried to emulate it, but never quite captured the same magic. If, for whatever reason, the 458 Italia is too subtle for you, you might fall in love with the roofless 458 Spider or the over-the-top 458 Speciale. It's hard to believe the Lambo Aventador is already 14 years old — it looks like it came out just yesterday. I remember a time when my friends and I all had the same wallpaper on our phones: A bright orange Aventador with black wheels. Normally, I'm not a fan of black wheels, but on that car, they just worked. The Aventador also marks the last time Lamborghini used a V12 engine without the help of any electric motors. And if the original Aventador coupe isn't outlandish enough, you might prefer the SVJ or Ultimae Roadster that came after it. Not long after the 458's debut, Ferrari introduced the F12berlinetta, a V12-powered grand tourer with an intoxicating blend of power and elegance. Its successor, the 812 Superfast, may be more powerful, but the F12 feels more refined, polished, and less aggressive — qualities that add to its beauty. But don't let its beauty fool you. It's still capable of 211 mph thanks to its 730-hp 6.3-liter V12, which has an 8,700-rpm redline. It also holds a special place in Ferrari's history as the last Pininfarina-designed model, which could make it a future collector's item. The 124 Spider proved that you don't need a lot of power to have fun in a stunning Italian sports car. And in Abarth trim, with its Record Monza exhaust, it sounds the part, too. Top Gear reports that the 124 shares its underpinnings with the ND-generation Mazda MX-5 Miata, but comes with a different engine. Instead of a naturally aspirated four-cylinder, the Abarth 124 uses Fiat's own 164-hp 1.4-liter MultiAir turbo-four. According to Kelley Blue Book, you can pick up a used Abarth 124 for as little as $13,500 — a bargain for an Italian roadster. Based on the Aventador, the Countach LPI 800-4 is Lamborghini's way of celebrating the original Countach's 50th birthday. Somehow, they managed to resurrect an icon without trampling its grave. Only 112 examples of the revived Countach were ever made, each fitted with scissor doors and a naturally aspirated V12 engine — just like the classic Countach. The 6.5-liter V12 borrowed from the Aventador produces 803 hp in combination with electric motor and gives the modern Countach a 220-mph top speed. Lamborghini isn't the only brand bringing beloved models back from the dead. Alfa Romeo reimagined the legendary 33 Stradale for the modern era, blending retro styling with futuristic elements. While it retains the silhouette and butterfly doors of its ancestor, the new 33 Stradale features modern tech and a 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged V6 that sounds like it belongs in an orchestra. Few cars manage to pull off nostalgic and forward-thinking like the 33 Stradale. Adrian Padeanu from Motor1 claims that buyers can get the new 33 Stradale in fully electric version as well which is even more powerful with 750 hp. Earlier this year, a 2023 Maserati MC20 sold for $168,000 on Bring a Trailer — approximately $60,000 less than its original MSRP. Sure, buying a new one might be a terrible financial decision, but with a face like that, I can think of a thousand reasons why I'd stomach the depreciation. The MC20 has doors that go up, an F1-inspired twin-turbocharged V6 that sits behind the driver, and a simple, modern cockpit. Maserati even offers a topless version, the MC20 Cielo, which takes everything great about the coupe and makes it even more dramatic. Inspired by the 1952 Alfa Romeo 1900 C52, the modern Disco Volante is a bespoke masterpiece crafted by Touring Superleggera. Based on the Alfa Romeo 8C Competizione, it features a hand-formed aluminum and carbon fiber body that exudes elegance and aerodynamic prowess. Under the hood lies a 4.7-liter V8 engine producing 450 hp, enabling a 0–62 mph sprint in 4.2 seconds and a top speed of 181 mph. Each unit requires over 4,000 hours to build, emphasizing its exclusivity and artisanal craftsmanship. The TZ3 Stradale is a unique fusion of Italian design and American muscle. Designed by Zagato, it boasts a carbon-fiber body with classic curves and aggressive lines. Beneath its sculpted exterior lies an 8.4-liter V10 engine from the Dodge Viper ACR-X, delivering 600 hp and 560 lb-ft of torque, according to Classic Driver. With only nine units produced, the TZ3 Stradale is a rare collector's gem that combines heritage with high performance. As per Dan Trent at Pistonheads, the GranTurismo MC Stradale is currently Maserati's most track-focused road car. Its design features aggressive aerodynamics, including a front splitter and rear spoiler, enhancing both aesthetics and performance. Powered by a 4.7-liter V8 engine producing 460 hp, it accelerates from 0 to 62 mph in 4.5 seconds. The MC Stradale's lightweight construction and sport-tuned suspension make it a thrilling drive on both road and track. The 599 GTO is a limited-edition Ferrari that combines luxury with race-bred performance. Its design includes aerodynamic enhancements like a front splitter and rear diffuser, contributing to its aggressive stance. Under the hood, a 6.0-liter V12 engine delivers 661 hp, propelling the car from 0 to 62 mph in just 3.3 seconds. With only 599 units produced, the 599 GTO is a coveted masterpiece among Ferrari enthusiasts. The Reventón is one of Lamborghini's most exclusive models, with only 20 coupes produced. Its stealth fighter-inspired design features sharp angles and a matte gray finish, making it a visual spectacle. Powered by a 6.5-liter V12 engine producing 650 hp, it achieves 0 to 62 mph in 3.4 seconds. The Reventón's combination of radical design and performance cements its status as an automotive icon. The Huayra is a hypercar that showcases Pagani's commitment to art and engineering. Its flowing lines and active aerodynamics create a dynamic and elegant appearance. Equipped with a twin-turbocharged 6.0-liter V12 engine from AMG, it produces 720 hp and reaches 62 mph in 3.2 seconds. The Huayra's meticulous craftsmanship and performance make it a standout in the world of supercars. The F430 Scuderia is a track-focused evolution of the F430, emphasizing lightweight construction and performance. Its design includes carbon fiber components and a more aggressive front fascia. The 4.3-liter V8 engine produces 503 hp, enabling a 0 to 62 mph time of 3.6 seconds. With its razor-sharp handling and raw driving experience, the Scuderia is a favorite among purists. As reported by AutoEvolution, the 4C is a compact sports car that embodies Alfa Romeo's design philosophy, and it was built to duke it out with the Porsche Cayman and Lotus Elise. Its sleek, aerodynamic body is constructed from carbon fiber, resulting in a lightweight chassis. Powered by a 1.75-liter turbocharged inline-four engine producing 240 hp, it accelerates from 0 to 62 mph in 4.5 seconds. The 4C's minimalist interior and responsive handling offer an unfiltered driving experience. The Lancia Stratos HF is a rally-bred Italian exotic that looks like it came from outer space. Designed by Bertone, its wedge-shaped body and ultra-short wheelbase gave it a distinctive, purposeful stance. The cockpit-forward layout, wraparound windshield, and bold wheel arches ensured that it's unlike anything else on the road. Under the clamshell rear sat a mid-mounted 2.4-liter Ferrari V6 from the Dino, producing up to 190 hp in road trim, but much more in rally spec. Agile, ferocious, and impossibly cool, the Stratos wasn't just built to turn heads; it was created to dominate rally stages and steal hearts. Even when standing still, Italian sports cars evoke emotion, and when you're behind the wheel of one, they remind you that cars aren't just for getting from A to B. While other manufacturers strive for perfection, Italian sports cars embrace passion, drama, and sometimes a hint of madness. Whether you're team Testarossa, still swooning over the Lancia Delta Integrale, or think the Ferrari Dino is the most beautiful car ever made (you might be right), we see you. And who knows? Maybe your dream machine will show up in the next roundup. Either way, we're all here for the same reason: because Italian sports cars aren't just cars: they're stories on wheels. The cars on this list prove that beauty in the automotive world is far from dead — you just have to know where to look.
Hypebeast
03-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Hypebeast
Damson Idris Is Speeding With Confidence
WhenDamson Idrislogs onto our video call, his pearly white grin glistens from cheek to cheek — and rightfully so, the guy's got a lot to be beaming about right now. Earlier this year, he launched his own fine jewelry line, DIDRIS, under which he aims to create a legacy of timeless ice with hand-selected artisans and collaborators. He performed a trophy-worthyMet Galastunt, speeding down 5th Avenue in a custom Tommy Hilfiger racecar, pulling up to the esteemed steps icongnito-mode, and ripping off his glittering driver's suit in a spectacular grand reveal moment that will no doubt inspire future Halloween costumes. The theatrical display was prime promotion forF1: The Movie, the forthcoming film-of-the-summer in which the actor stars opposite Brad Pitt. And now, he's the face of Mr. Hilfiger's bespoke APXGP collection inspired by the racing pic. That's the sweet life of a movie star. InF1: The Movie, Idris plays Joshua Pearce, a one-to-watch rookie who's determined to prove himself to Pitt's more experienced racer, Sonny Hayes, both of whom drive for the fictional Team APXGP. In quite the synergetic move, the made-up squad is sponsored by Hilfiger's brand, meaning Idris' and Pitti's characters are decked out in the American fashioner's signature red, white, and blue designs as they attempt to earn the world's most prestigious motorsport's top title. It's movie magic that makes sense: Hifliger, in real life, has beeninvolved with Formula 1 for more than 30 years. In 1991, he established his first sponsorship with TeamLotus, for whom he provided bespoke uniforms during a three-season stretch. In 1998, Hilfiger became the official clothing sponsor forFerrari, a role he maintained for another four years. During a brief break from sponsoring the sport, he remained a loyal fan and even learned how to drive his own Ferrari Enzo at his former business partner and present-day Aston Martin Formula 1 team owner Lawrence Stroll's personal track. Then, in 2018, he made a glorious return to the racetrack as a sponsor of Mercedes-AMG, which he still sponsors today. 'Since I was a kid peeking through the fences at Watkins Glen racetrack, Formula 1 has been legendary to me. As F1 has opened its doors to new worlds like entertainment and fashion, the sport has become a cultural phenomenon,' said Hilfiger. 'F1: The Moviecaptures the cultural shift, setting a benchmark in what we call 'fashiontainment', where the future is being shaped.' In the spirit of 'fashiontainment,' Hilfiger took his movie partnership one step further, creating a full-blown AXGP collection for cinemaphiles and Paddock-trotters alike. The line is filled with everything from racer-inspired garments, like vegan leather racer jackets, moto-manic shirts, and red quilted jackets modeled after those seen in the film, to trackside silhouettes, including tailored Japanese denim and merino knit polos. Idris, the beacon for motorsport's fashion clan, fronts the collection's campaign, a visual depiction of the 'limitless confidence' required to make it on the Formula 1 circuit. Here, the actor discusses his crossroads with Hilfiger, his personal style, and his secrets to acquiring such fearlessness. You easily won the best entrance at this year's Met Gala. Can you talk to me about what it was like creating that moment with Tommy? It was surreal, man. So much time and effort went into that moment, and so many things could have gone wrong. During rehearsal, all these things were going wrong. The uniform would get caught on the brooch when they pulled it off me, or it would get stuck on my hand. I was underneath the helmet just praying that they would pull it away smoothly. But so many people loved that trick, and I think it's a testament to Tommy Hilfiger's ability to create iconic cultural moments. That's one that we all know is going to last forever. I've already seen a bunch of kids recreating it, wearing red suits underneath black bags and getting their friends to pull it off. It's become a thing now. It's absolutely going to be a Halloween costume. Exactly. The dress code at this year's Met Gala was 'Tailored For You.' It's no secret that your look was about promoting your forthcoming movie, but I'm curious, did you feel a personal connection to the design, too? The first time I ever heard about the dandy was through my sister. She did a documentary on the dandies of Congo when I was a kid, so I always felt close to the idea because it was associated with Africa, which is obviously my heritage. So, when I found out that Black dandyism would be the theme at this year's Met Gala, I completely locked in. I had so many ideas. I had just launched my jewelry brand, DIDRIS, and my first collection was filled with green pieces, so doing an oxblood suit with Tommy Hilfiger to complement my designs felt like a no-brainer. We built on those color palettes and paid homage to both the theme and Tommy's heritage, and I was super happy with the result. What has it been like building a relationship with Tommy Hilfiger, not only through the Met Gala, but also through his sponsorship of the film and your starring in this campaign? What is your favorite thing about the guy himself? The thing I love about Tommy Hilfiger, the man and his label, is that he's all about collaboration. It's not just, 'You're an actor, be a mannequin for our brand.' It's really an exploration of how we can work together so that not only are both parties happy, but the result is iconic. We're building a relationship that is anything but momentary. It's something that we can imagine in the future. Tommy Hilfiger really looks at unique ways to work with people, so my hat's off to him and his team, from the Met Gala to this new campaign, and to some of the fun we've had with Formula 1 in the past. The first time I linked up with Tommy was during Formula 1 in Miami and Las Vegas. His team told me to bring all my friends and that they wanted to make it a moment to remember. It was so insane and again, such an iconic moment. 'I love suits, of course. But I also love just being swagged off, showing up with my friends, and looking fly.' There's a red quilted jacket in this collection that is modeled after the exact silhouette that you wear in the movie. Considering Tommy's presence on the Formula 1 track in real life, did wearing his designs in the film help you get into character? It was really all about Joshua Pearce. When building his character, I knew that as a rookie, he was a cool rookie, and Tommy Hilfiger's designs felt so seamless for my role. I also just love how so many elements of the movie tie into this collection. So when people watch the film, the connection to this line will make complete sense. I'm expecting this collection to sell out like hotcakes. What's your favorite piece in the collection? My favorite piece is actually the leather jacket. I've worn it probably too many times. Summer is approaching, and I'm still rocking it. It speaks to Joshua. It speaks to F1. It also speaks to me, Damson. It interwines everything that this moment represents. How would you describe your personal style? Luxury. A friend of mine once said that. 'Damson, you're so luxury.' When I linked up with Tommy Hilfiger, I wanted the brand to move in that direction. I wanted it to feel innovative, in the sense that it could cater to different occasions. The collection really does embody my personal style. I love suits, of course. But I also love just being swagged off, showing up with my friends, and looking fly. What was it like shooting the campaign? Do you have any favorite memories from being on set? We were in Johannesburg, which was brilliant. I was filming a movie in Cape Town, so we got the plane over. We were on a South African racetrack, which was also brilliant. It was hot, and it was good to be around some heat. We were all just having fun, and I loved how they let me bring in my DIDRIS jewelry as well. It was honestly a day full of laughter. 'The biggest piece of advice I would give is to only do things if they make you happy.' The campaign is all about championing the 'limitless confidence' that it takes to make it on the Formula 1 circuit. What are some things that make you feel confident? Having people who believe in me makes me feel confident, whether they are my family, my team, or even just the people who love the art that I give to the world. They make me understand my responsibility, and they make me step into being a leader. What advice would you offer to someone who might be struggling with their confidence? Man, there are so many things. The biggest piece of advice I would give is to only do things if they make you happy. People are always trying to impress others, and in doing so, they often don't get the result that they want. That process knocks your confidence. It makes you insecure. But if you know that you are at peace with yourself, and if you know that what you are doing is true to you, you are always going to be confident. That's how I live. Final question. Can we expect to see more race-inspired Hilfiger looks on the Formula 1 press run? 100%. The movie's out in about a month, and we're traveling all around the world. We're going to be everywhere from Mexico to Abu Dhabi to London to New York, and Tommy Hilfiger's going to be there right along the way. You'll see a lot of this collection, and you're going to see a lot of new stuff that's really fly, too. Tommy Hilfiger's APXGP collection will be available to shoponlineand in the brand's stores on June 3.
TimesLIVE
12-05-2025
- Automotive
- TimesLIVE
Rare Ferrari Enzo attracts bids of £1.65m+ at online auction
One of the most iconic hypercars of the modern era is now up for grabs on UK-based auction platform Collecting Cars: a 2004 Ferrari Enzo, finished in classic Rosso Corsa and certified by Ferrari Classiche. It's a rare UK-delivered example with less than 25,000km on the clock, and it's already drawn a bid north of £1.65m (R3.8m) — with four days still to go before the hammer falls. First registered via Meridien Modena in Hampshire back in 2004, the car has remained with its current owner for nearly 20 years. It's in excellent shape, backed by a detailed service history. Power comes from the original 6.0l F140B V12, paired with Ferrari's six-speed F1-style automated manual gearbox. With 485kW on tap, it'll rocket from 0 to 100km/h in 3.1 seconds and reach a top speed as high as 355km/h. Its most recent service was handled by Autofficina in June 2024, and it passed its latest MOT (Ministry of Transport test) the following month. The cabin features carbon-fibre racing seats trimmed in Nero leather with Rosso centre panels and embossed Cavallino logos, while the dashboard and steering wheel are accented in red leather. One rare detail is the Rosso leather finish on the steering wheel centre — a touch reportedly found on just two of the 277 Rosso Corsa Enzos ever built. Rosso dials, carbon paddle shifters, and LED shift lights round out the F1-inspired cockpit. Outside, the car sits on 19-inch BBS twin-spoke alloy wheels, refinished in a darker silver that contrasts nicely with the red paintwork. Carbon-ceramic brakes provide stopping power and the lower bodywork has been resprayed in Rosso Corsa to match the upper panels, replacing the original black finish for a cleaner, more unified look. Ferrari Classiche gave the car its seal of approval in 2016, and it comes with its original handbook pack and red certification book. While the Enzo did suffer some early damage, it was professionally repaired by Carrozzeria Zanasi, Ferrari's official body shop in Maranello. Crucially, the car remains mechanically original, with all work thoroughly documented. Unveiled in 2002, the Enzo was Ferrari's flagship — a tribute to the company's founder and a showcase for its then-dominant Formula 1 technology. It followed in the tyre tracks of the F40 and F50, but it was the last Ferrari hypercar to feature a naturally aspirated V12 without any form of hybrid tech. Built around a carbon-fibre tub with pushrod suspension, active aerodynamics, and a stripped-out interior, the Enzo was as raw and focused as road cars came in the early 2000s. Only 400 were built, with the final one presented to Pope John Paul II. Today, many live quietly in private collections, rarely surfacing — especially UK-registered examples with this level of documentation and originality. The auction wraps up on Tuesday May 13. Click here to view the listing in full.
Yahoo
14-04-2025
- Automotive
- Yahoo
The Weird British Electric Sucker Car Is Faster Than An F1 Car Around The Top Gear Track
Just over twenty years ago Top Gear's famed Stig drove Fernando Alonso's Renault R24 Formula 1 car around the show's test track in a blistering 59 seconds. That lap was over 20 seconds clear of the Ferrari Enzo, Porsche Carrera GT, and Mercedes SLR McLaren, which had previously held the fastest times of the era. Just a few weeks ago the non-race-car record at Dunsfold was set when Stiggy took an Aston Martin Valkyrie for a rip in 1:09.6. This week, however, the outright lap record has been stolen, again by a British supercar manufacturer, but of a completely different kind. What kind of supercar could possibly be quicker than an F1 car? How about the single-seater electric sucker car from startup McMurtry Automotive, named after an Irish thunderstorm? Yeah, that one. With more than enough downforce to drive upside-down, and all the electric power needed to run a quarter mile in the sevens, McMurtry's Spéirling pretty much redefines fast when it comes to seven-figure hypercars. There's nothing else on the planet like this lilliputian face-melting high-speed mech suit, and this Top Gear track record simply extends the car's already prodigious legend status. If Formula One is the pinnacle of speed, then McMurtry has climbed to the top and planted its flag in just a few short years. If this had happened at Top Gear's peak Clarkson would have lost his tiny mind and assaulted a producer. Read more: These Are The Cheap Cars That Consumer Reports Actually Recommends Buying Nobody in 2004 could ever have predicted that the F1 car record would be surpassed, nay obliterated, by an electric car. Think back to 2004 and try to imagine what the world of electric cars looked like. There was no Tesla, no Nissan Leaf even. The idea of using electricity to make a car faster was still a long ways off. The sportiest hybrid available at the time was a Honda Accord. If you took a time machine back 21 years and told them an electric car was quicker than an F1 car around any race track, you'd be carted off to the stocks and pelted with rotten fruit in the public square. The Renault R24 was among the fastest Formula 1 cars of all time, fighting with Ferrari and Michael Schumacher in their prime and pushing Jarno Trulli to a Monaco Grand Prix victory. Its V10 scream was signature and for two decades it has reigned over the Top Gear track as its king. Today that throne is in shambles, pulverized by a tiny zippy electric machine that sounds like a weasel wearing a jet pack. We're in the golden age of performance, and the McMurtry Spéirling is the new benchmark. Want more like this? Join the Jalopnik newsletter to get the latest auto news sent straight to your inbox... Read the original article on Jalopnik.
