Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren Roadster

 

During the early to mid 2000s, Mercedes-Benz and McLaren took their Formula 1 partnership at the time a step further to road cars and created the SLR, which was based on the initial concept that was unveiled in 1999. Specifically, the SLR was produced from 2003 to 2009, with the roadster making its debut in 2007. It is powered by a supercharged 5.4-liter V8 with 617 horsepower and 580 lb-ft of torque. The SLR (stands for Sport Licht Rennsport, or Sport Light Racing) makes the sprint to 60 mph in the mid to low three-second range and is capable of a top speed of 208 mph. The only transmission available with the SLR is a five-speed automatic. The SLR consists of a carbon fiber tub attached to an aluminum subframe and every one of its body panels made of carbon fiber. It also uses conventional springs and dampers along with carbon-ceramic brakes. In addition, the SLR became the first vehicle to have a complete carbon fiber monocoque chassis and its V8 built entirely in-house by AMG. Its cabin is made as comfortable and luxurious as possible without sacrificing performance capabilities. Two other special and limited editions of the SLR followed after the roadster, specifically the 722 and Stirling Moss Editions. In all, 2,157 units of the SLR were made over its entire production run. 

The standard Mercedes-McLaren SLR coupe is currently valued in the mid to high $200,000s, while the the standard roadster is currently valued in the mid $300,000s to low $400,000s. Overall, the SLR is an absolutely amazing and stunning supercar with incredible performance and quality that tends to be underappreciated compared to other modern exotics.

2019 Porsche 935

 

The iconic Porsche 911-based 935 track car made a return for a limited production run for the 2019 model year and was created to commemorate Porsche's 70th anniversary. The latest 935 is based on the 991-gen 911 GT2 RS and isn't street legal. Like the 911 GT2 RS it's based on, the newest 935 is powered by a 3.8-liter twin-turbo flat-six producing 700 horsepower and 553 lb-ft of torque paired to a seven-speed PDK dual-clutch. It can launch from zero to 60 mph in about 2.3 seconds and can reach a top speed of 211 mph. Like the 935 from the 70s and 80s, the 2019 935 is characterized by its elongated bodywork and large rear wing. Its back end design resembles that of a whale tail, earning the nickname "Moby Dick." The 935's body and chassis is constructed entirely of carbon fiber, with the carbon fiber on the example above being completely exposed. Exposed carbon fiber is the standard look for the 935, while other available wraps are optional and drive up the cost of the vehicle. Since it is a race car, the 935 has its interior fully stripped down and void of creature comforts for optimal weight savings. In addition, one racing bucket seat for the driver is standard while an additional racing seat for a passenger is optional. 

How serious of a race car is the 935? Its windows are fixed in place, and the vehicle contains no door locks or a trunk. However, its mirrors are from the 911 RSR race car and are power operated. Unlike every Porsche road car, the 935 contains a dial to adjust the intensity of the anti-lock brakes depending on track conditions and switches to turn on and off traction control. A majority of the passenger footwell in the 935 is taken up by the battery and fire-suppression canister, so those who opt to be a passenger in a 935 will have to sacrifice some of their foot space to ride in one. Like with may race cars, the 935's gauge cluster contains number readouts rather than actual gauges. Its taillights and turn signals are LED bars that are integrated into the giant rear wing and look amazing. They may not be immediately visible, but the 935's brake lights are the regular 911 GT2 RS brake lights hidden under the vehicle's whale tail. Where the rear windows would usually be are for the jacking and water injection systems, while the fuel port is located on the top center of the hood near the base of the windshield. In all, the 935 weighs 300 pounds less than the 911 GT2 RS.

The reborn 935 is one of the rarest Porsche models in recent memory, as only 77 examples were ever made and each one carried a starting price of $829,000 a pop. I'm lucky to have seen one up close and didn't have to travel out of town to do so. It is also not designated for any specific racing series, so owners can enjoy their 935s however they would like to, whether it be for track days or whatever competitive series they want to race in. 

Lastly, the most recent Porsche 935 is an insane and very special racing vehicle, considering how small and short its production run was. This 935 was on display at a car show I attended back in April, and it had to be the craziest and most exclusive car at that specific car show.

2021 Mercedes-AMG GLS63

 

The Mercedes-Benz GLS full-size SUV was redesigned for the 2020 model year, and its AMG high-performance version followed soon after. Powering the AMG GLS63 is a 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 producing 603 horsepower and 627 lb-ft of torque paired to a nine-speed automatic. It makes the launch from zero to 60 mph in 3.6 seconds onto a top speed of 174 mph. The GLS63 is distinguished from other GLS models mainly by its signature AMG grille, badging, larger wheels, and dual exhausts. The high-performance GLS is loaded with features such as dual 12.3-inch infotainment displays, a semi-autonomous driving mode, a 48-volt hybrid system to aid with performance, Mercedes-Benz's MBUX interface, and heated, ventilated, and massaging leather front seats. The AMG GLS63's interior is adorned in leather and wood trim, while the buttons and knobs have a shiny metallic finish to them. Its Mercedes-Benz User Experience (MBUX) interface can be controlled via touchscreen, voice, or clickwheel in the center console. Like the standard GLS, the AMG GLS63 can seat up to seven individuals, but the third row is best reserved for children as it may be a bit cramped back there for adults. 

Pricing for the new Mercedes-AMG GLS63 starts at $133,150. On a side note, Mercedes-Benz also introduced a Maybach ultra-luxurious version of the GLS around the same time as the unveiling of the current AMG GLS63. I plan to feature the Mercedes-Maybach GLS600 on this site once I see one up close and can take an adequate amount of photos of it, so watch this space for when that happens. In the meantime, the new Mercedes-AMG GLS63 is one of my favorite SUVs ever made and is an impeccable combination of practicality, luxury, and performance.

Lotus Evora 400

 

The Evora 400 is the second iteration of the flagship Lotus sports car and the replacement for the original Evora and Evora S. The 400 model made its debut in 2015 and was produced until the 2019 model year. Powering the Evora 400 is a mid-mounted supercharged 3.5-liter V6 sourced from Toyota making 400 horsepower (hence the 400 designation) and 302 lb-ft of torque. It launches from zero to 60 mph in 4.1 seconds and can reach a top speed of 186 mph. The Evora 400 is paired to either a six-speed manual or a six-speed automatic, but the manual comes standard. Like the original Evora, the Evora 400 is constructed on a lightweight aluminum chassis. Behind its 3.5-liter V6 is its trunk, which is reasonably sized for a mid-engine lightweight sports car. However, there is no cargo area up front. The Evora 400 also offers two rear seats, but they are too small to be used to transport people, especially adults. Its infotainment system is sourced from an aftermarket company rather than developed in-house at Lotus. 

Pricing for the Lotus Evora 400 was close to $100,000 when new but can be found in the $70k-80k range when used. Other similar versions of the Evora 400 debuted soon after the 400 did but were much more limited in production, specifically the Evora Sport 410 and the Evora GT430. In North America, the Evora 400 was replaced by the Evora GT for the 2020 model year, which is basically an upgraded Evora 400. 

Overall, the Lotus Evora 400 is an amazing, well-performing sports car. Lotus isn’t on the level of the likes of Ferrari, Lamborghini, and McLaren, but it’s always special and exciting to spot or see any Lotus model anywhere, especially since they are pretty rare.

Ram 1500 TRX

 

The TRX is the coolest and most interesting Ram pickup since the SRT-10 from the early to mid 2000s. It was introduced for the current Ram 1500 late last year as a true Ford F-150 Raptor competitor. Powering the Ram TRX is the 6.2-liter supercharged Hemi V8 used in the Dodge Challenger Hellcat and Charger Hellcat producing 702 horsepower and 650 lb-ft of torque paired to an eight-speed automatic. The TRX goes from zero to 60 mph in 3.7 seconds, which is quick for a pickup truck. It carries a top speed limited to 118 mph. The TRX is characterized by larger, more aggressive bodywork, available beadlock wheels, a more muscular suspension, among other off-road focused features. It can also drive through up to 32 inches of water. Other standard features on the Ram TRX include Bilstein remote-reservoir dampers, large 15-inch front brakes, an electronic-locking rear differential, and a 12-inch touchscreen infotainment system. I have never driven one of these, but I heard it rides smoother than expected on paved roads. 

The Ram 1500 TRX is only available in a crew cab with the short bed configuration. It contains a great interior layout that comes standard with cloth upholstery but can be upgraded to include leather, suede, and carbon fiber trim as well. The Ram TRX has outperformed the current Ford F-150 Raptor in nearly every way possible, so Ford plans to keep up with the TRX by rolling out an improved version of the F-150 Raptor known as the Raptor R within the next year or so. In addition to its insane stats and capabilities, the Ram TRX was named Motor Trend's Truck of the Year for 2021. Pricing for the top-of-the-line Ram 1500 starts at $71,790 but can shoot up to around $90,000 with options and dealer markup. I'm not the biggest fan of Ram trucks, but the TRX is absolutely incredible and has won me over with its aggressive styling and crazy performance for a pickup. I also can't wait for what the new Ford F-150 Raptor and upcoming Raptor R have in store for the off-road pickup segment.

Audi RS4 (2007-08)

 

2007 and 2008 were the last times Audi offered an RS version of the A4 in the North American market. The RS4 generations that came after 2008 were only offered in the Avant wagon body style, which Audi didn't see a demand for in North America. Powering the 2007-08 RS4 is a 4.2-liter V8 with 420 horsepower and 317 lb-ft of torque mated to a six-speed manual. This V8 was the same one used in the first-generation R8. The B7 RS4 launches from zero to 60 mph in 4.6 seconds and is capable of a top speed of 155 mph. Besides the badges, the RS4 has a more aggressive appearance over the A4 and S4 while remaining subtle to an extent. The RS4 also has a stiffer suspension, Recaro sport seats, and carbon fiber trim throughout the cabin. Unlike more recent Audi models, the B7 RS4's center display isn't a touchscreen and is controlled by a knob with four buttons surrounding it, which is located to the right of the center screen. 

The B7 RS4 was only available in sedan and convertible body styles in North America, while Europe also received the RS4 in Avant form. During its production run, Audi produced roughly 10,000 examples of the B7 RS4, with about 2,000 examples allocated for the North American market. Since it is fairly rare and part of a dying breed of cars, the B7 RS4 is gradually appreciating in value, currently averaging in the $30k-40k range depending on the condition of the vehicle. 

Overall, the B7-generation Audi RS4 is a fantastic performance car. Although I like the Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG more, the RS4 flies under the radar and will definitely become a sought-after collectible in the near future.

Porsche Boxster Spyder (987)

 

The 987 was the first Porsche Boxster generation to offer the better-performing Spyder model. It was initially unveiled at the 2009 LA Auto Show and went on sale in late 2010 as a 2011 model, with production lasting until the 2012 model year. The original Boxster Spyder features a 3.4-liter naturally-aspirated flat-six producing 320 horsepower and 273 lb-ft of torque. It launches from zero to 60 mph in around five seconds and is capable of a top speed of 166 mph. The 987 Boxster Spyder came standard with a six-speed manual, while the seven-speed PDK dual-clutch was optional. At the time it was new, the 987 Boxster Spyder was the lightest vehicle in the Porsche lineup, weighing 2811 pounds. The radio, stereo, and air conditioning were initially removed from the original Boxster Spyder to conserve weight but can be added on to the vehicle as options. Unlike the regular Boxster, the Boxster Spyder comes standard with a manually-operated soft top. The Boxster Spyder's doors are aluminum, while its interior door handles have been removed for weight savings. Also standard with the original Boxster Spyder are carbon fiber bucket seats and two humps behind the seats that distinguish the Spyder from other Boxster models. In addition, the Spyder has a stiffer suspension and sits one inch lower than the standard Boxster for improved handling. Its current value averages in the mid $50,000s, with top-notch examples fetching in the low $70,000s. In all, the 987-gen Boxster Spyder isn't the best or coolest Porsche model, but it is relatively rare and rather underappreciated compared to other Porsche vehicles. 

2021 Audi S8

 

The S8 is Audi's sportier and more performance-focused full-size sedan. It gets a boost in performance from the regular A8 while remaining super luxurious. Powering the new S8 is a 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 with 563 horsepower and 590 lb-ft of torque paired to an eight-speed automatic gearbox. It launches from zero to 60 mph in 3.8 seconds and has a top speed limited to 155 mph. The S8 has a sportier appearance than the regular A8, but the differences between the two are rather subtle. In addition, the S8 has an improved suspension, improved brakes, and an upgraded powertrain over the standard A8. Inside, the A8 and S8 have the most luxurious and tech-savvy interiors of any Audi model ever produced, complete with a dual-screen center display, multi-color LED ambient lighting, and several rear seat amenities. When the S8's doors are opened, the car's suspension slightly raises itself as to greet the driver and passengers. Its climate vents are hidden until the climate controls are activated as to not mess with the smooth and streamlined look of the dashboard. Like every new Audi model, the S8 has Audi's Virtual Cockpit System that is completely configurable and one of the best and coolest in the auto industry. 

Pricing for the 2021 Audi S8 starts at $131,945. In all, the new Audi S8 is an incredible and underrated flagship sedan that combines luxury and performance very well. However, my top choice in the flagship performance luxury sedan segment is the Mercedes-AMG S63, especially the upcoming 2022 redesign that will be unveiled and released sooner or later.

Mercedes-AMG G65

 

The G65 is the most insane G-Wagen outside of the G63 6x6 and the Maybach G650 Landaulet. Unlike most other G-Wagen models, the AMG G65 is powered by a 6.0-liter twin-turbo V12 producing 621 horsepower and a whopping 738 lb-ft of torque. It launches from zero to 60 mph in 5.1 seconds, which is only a tenth of a second quicker than the AMG G63. The G65's sole gearbox option is a seven-speed automatic. The main exterior aspects distinguishing the G65 from other G-Wagen models are its fully chrome AMG grille and V12 Biturbo badges between the front fenders and front doors. Its interior isn't much different from the standard previous-generation G550, except for carbon fiber trim throughout and two-tone seats with diamond stitching. The same two-tone pattern with diamond stitching also applies to the doors as well. The AMG G65 was only offered in North America for the 2017 and 2018 model years, priced at around $230,000 when new but currently valued at around half of that. Mercedes-Benz has no intentions of bringing the G65 back as they already stopped producing V12 engines and intend to completely phase out V12s from their vehicles to meet fuel emissions regulations across the globe. 

Not everyone may like the Mercedes-AMG G65, but I see it as one of the craziest luxury SUVs ever produced. It may not be the best G-Wagen model, but I appreciate the G65 for what it is, and I am amazed every time I see one up close.

Audi RS Q8

 

 

 The RS Q8 is Audi's flagship performance SUV. It was initially unveiled in late 2019 and went on sale beginning for the 2020 model year. Powering the RS Q8 is a 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 producing 591 horsepower and 590 lb-ft of torque. It launches from zero to 60 mph in an estimated 3.7 seconds and is capable of a top speed of approximately 189 mph. Every RS Q8 comes standard with Quattro All-Wheel Drive, a 48-volt hybrid system for improved fuel efficiency, and an 8-speed automatic. Its interior is similar to that of the regular Q8 except for distinct trim pieces, sport seats, and RS logos placed throughout the car. Separating the exterior of the RS Q8 from the regular Q8 are a lower stance, along with carbon fiber trim and RS badges on the front and back of the vehicle. Pricing for the Audi RS Q8 starts at $115,595. In all, the RS Q8 is a marvelous performance vehicle and the best Audi SUV, but isn't as amazing as the mechanically similar Audi RS6 Avant and Lamborghini Urus.