5.4L V12. Immaculate condition throughout. No paint or body work. Never used as a daily driver. BMW’s movie-star flagship with a $100k original MSRP. Serviced and inspected.
Tag: V12
| VIN | ZA9BC10U52LA12292 |
| Exterior | [210600] Titanium Metallic |
| Interior | [@BP] Nero Perseus |
| Motor | 6.2 Liter V12 rated at 571 hp |
| Gearbox | 6-Speed Manual |
| The Basics | • Two Meticulous Owners • 6,200 Miles • Factory LP640 Updates • Showroom Condition |
A RENAISSANCE OF THE GENTLEMEN’S EXOTIC. Lamborghini. To some, the mere mention of its name evokes an image of fierce independence, etched from the beginning by its founder, Ferrucio Lamborghini. The story goes that in the late ’50s, the man who built tractors approached Enzo Ferrari about building a more refined grand touring car. When the racing-obsessed Ferrari refused, Lamborghini built his own and the captivating 350GT was born. Shortly thereafter, the rear-mid engine Miura changed the way we think of exotics to this day. To others, Lamborghini represents the ostentation of wealth and notoriety; a bedroom-poster ideal of success. In a world where imitation is the highest form of flattery, no other car has spawned as many replicas, poseurs and scissor-doored econoboxes as the Lamborghini supercar. When the Murciélago was introduced in 2002, the bar was raised once again. Road & Track called it “a mesmerizingly modern supercar” while Stephan Winkelmann, President and CEO of Automobili Lamborghini, reflected on it as “truly extreme, uncompromising and unmistakably Italian.”
The Murciélago presented here (No 292) is unique even amongst Murciélagos, where standing out is a considerable part of their appeal. Its Titanium Metallic finish is a refined, stately exception to the more common oranges, yellows, and lime greens that have become nearly synonymous with Lamborghinis of the past two decades (i.e., “Lambo Yellow,” “Lambo Green,” etc.). This early Murcie also has several factory updates from the later-model LP640 including:
- Hermera wheels
- Transparent bonnet (original bonnet included)
- Carbon fiber trim
- Y-Pattern LED taillights
In addition to the factory updates, it includes the following distinguishing touches:
- Custom Larini-Nortech exhaust
- Custom diamond-stitched Alcantara upholstery
- Blue Monterey calipers
- Blue theater lighting in engine bay
Furthermore, its ownership by only two meticulous stewards over just 6,200 miles is a testament to No 292 being treated as more than just an object of desire, more than a revered machine. It is a piece of finessed mechanical art.
Exterior Condition
The first thing we notice is the paint. Its Titanium Metallic finish is refined and understated, yet picks up subtle tones of its surroundings such that it can look dramatically different in varying light. Furthermore, aside from one front bumper respray, it is completely original with no other paint or bodywork. What few blemishes there are have been highlighted in the photos. There is one small rock chip on the leading face of the front bumper and there is what appears to be a drip in the clearcoat on the driver’s side rear brake duct. The paint and finish are other wise flawless. No dings, scratches or touch-up of any kind. The undercarriage is equally spotless as is all the glass. The wheels are Hermera rims from the LP640 (2006 – ). There is one small spot of rash located on the front drivers side rim. Otherwise they are flawless.
Interior Condition
Inside, it is literally like new. The leather is perfect with no signs of wear. The lower dash and armrest have been covered in a custom diamond-stiched Alcantara (blue thread to accent the Blue Monterey calipers) that recalls some of the éclat of the 350GT, further enhancing the car’s overall sophistication. Carpets are fresh. Carbon fiber trim completes the interior aesthetic. Climate control works very well. Windows operate normally. All controls and instruments work properly. A custom Kenwood sound system with navigation is also there for when its occupants opt not to listen to the symphony of a glorious V12 just behind them.
Mechanical Condition
Freshly serviced 200 miles ago, the drivetrain is as strong and smooth as the day it left the showroom. No leaks, no smoke, no noises. No warning lights, no overheating, no electrical issues. It is turnkey for the next several thousand miles. It is everything one might expect from a 6,200-mile pampered car. All hydraulics, including the finicky nose lift, work perfectly. Braking is superb with no shimmy or lag in the ABS. Steering is precise. Suspension is firm and tight. It was shod with fresh Pirelli P Zeros at its last service (at 6,000 miles), with very restrained driving since. This Murciélago is ready to go.
Driving Impressions
And go it does. The 6.0 liter motor roars to life through a custom Larini-Nortech exhaust (replacing the early Murcie’s awkward exaust ports). The system brings out the full range of the V12’s notes, from a menacing basso at low RPMs to a fiendish soprano at its limits. As we pull out into the city’s mid-day traffic, we’re struck by the supercar’s decorum. It is perfectly civilized—dare we say comfortable—at moderate speeds, as well as the rigors of stop-and-go traffic. Leaving town, out to the B roads, there’s a sense that something is about to change. Like the tenacious fighting bull for which it is named, the car starts to buffet with anticipation. This is where No 292 leaves behind all of its gentlemanly nature (“gentlemen” used here in the non-gender sense, by the way). A quick (practiced) downshift from its manual gearbox, a gradual depressing of the accelerator and the performance is literally breathtaking. As free-revving a motor as you’ll likely come across, up to about 4000 RPM there’s a relaxed joy that sweeps through the entire body. Not a rush. Not exactly. More of a whoosh. Like a child on a swing. Around here, however, is when the engine comes to life and there is a NASA-like thrust that is just on the cusp of sanity. That “jump to lightspeed” scene in the first Star Wars? It’s like that. The exhilaration is unparalleled. For what is unmistakably a large vehicle (with a 2665 mm/105 in. wheelbase and weighing over two tons) it is surprisingly adept in hairpins, high speed corners and sweeping turns. Its all-wheel-drive and steamroller-sized rubber instill confidence. Having said that, this isn’t a car for the casual participant. It is very firm. It is big. It understeers. It requires attentiveness. It takes practice. Shifting, while quite silky for an Italian exotic, takes precise throws and clutch operation. Braking, while outstanding, takes the right touch. There’s some effort involved, but too much and the ABS introduces itself with a firm shake. They squeal when cold (all Murcies do) but after the pads warm up, the car is relatively free of any complaining. The tires are noisy but not annoyingly so—more of a hum. As we make our way back into town and turn up the spectacular Kenwood audio system, the V12, the Pirellis, the music all blend together in perfect harmony. We and the Murciélago, as one, return to civility and, perhaps, to what Ferrucio had in mind with “the gentlemen’s exotic.”
Aston Martin is opening up a new world of exhilarating driving excitement with the announcement of the hotly anticipated 2015 V12 Vantage S Roadster.
When it arrives in markets around the world later this year the new sports car will become the luxury British marque’s most potent, fastest and fastest-accelerating series production roadster to date and follows in the broad tyre tracks of the V12 Vantage S Coupe that was launched to worldwide acclaim in 2013.
Providing the most visceral yet engaging open-top experience in Aston Martin’s current range, the new V12 Vantage S Roadster delivers characteristic sporting agility underpinned by an enviable sports ‘soundtrack’ generated by its naturally aspirated V12 engine and expertly-tuned sports exhaust.
Equipped with the latest 565 bhp Aston Martin AM28 6.0-litre V12 engine, featuring state-of-the-art Bosch engine management, the car is capable of reaching 201 mph and sprinting from rest to 60 mph in only 3.9 seconds.
Peak and low rev torque is delivered in abundance. With 457 lb ft available at 5,750 rpm the V12 Vantage S Roadster is not to be found wanting in this vital department. Crucially, too, low rev torque – measured at just 1,000 rpm – peaks at a colossal 376 lb ft. Together, these statistics demonstrate the Aston Martin engineers’ ability to create a ‘flatter’, yet ‘fatter’, torque curve which supports exceptional driveability and strong pick-up through the gears.
Aston Martin Director of Design, Marek Reichman, said: “The V12 Vantage S Roadster is the mechanical embodiment of this company’s exceptional spirit.
“Beautiful, powerful and spirited it is as spectacular to listen to as it is to look at. The new roadster is truly a treat for the senses with, underlying all this, the capacity to deliver one of the most dynamic, exciting and stirring driving experiences in our current range.
“I’m sure the V12 Vantage S Roadster will appeal to luxury sports car enthusiasts worldwide who want to add a truly exceptional new model to their garage.”
Race car technology
As with its coupe sibling, race car technology runs right through the DNA of the V12 Vantage S Roadster with, for instance, CNC machined combustion chambers and hollow cam shafts just two examples of track technology feeding through to the road.
Another clear example is the new car’s gearbox, the Sportshift™III ASM (auto-shift manual) transmission. Engineered to exploit the full sporting potential of the V12 engine, the latest generation Sportshift™III hydraulically actuated automated manual transmission provides motorsport-style paddle shift changes for optimum performance delivery. The unit, which replaces the six-speed manual gearbox found in the previous V12 Vantage Roadster, is also appreciably lighter – saving 44 lb versus its forebear.
This race-derived and motorsport-proven technology – used routinely in Aston Martin Racing’s race-winning Vantage GT4, GT3 and GTE competition cars – provides for great driver control with only milliseconds of torque interruption and delivers precise and swift gear changes.
The Sportshift™III transaxle, from transmission experts Oerlikon Graziano, joins an extensive array of new sport and track-focused developments that ensure the V12 Vantage S Roadster is fully equipped to exploit the huge performance potential of its 6.0-litre naturally aspirated engine.
The use of three-stage adaptive damping, allied to three-stage DSC and two-stage ABS, allows the driver to more precisely tailor the car’s dynamic character. ‘Normal’, ‘Sport’ and ‘Track’ modes provide a broad swathe of dynamic performance that can be tuned to better suit the driver’s requirements. The system also governs the level of power steering assistance offered.
Working alongside the extended chassis capabilities is a ‘Sport’ mode, controlled via a button on the centre console that alters throttle response, gearshift speed and timing, and exhaust note to, once again, tune the character of the car to the driver’s requirements.
Optimum braking performance is delivered via the specially-created carbon ceramic discs all round, with near-identical brakes appearing on the brands ultimate GT, the Vanquish. Meanwhile a whole new exhaust system – derived from that of Aston Martin’s most expensive and exclusive production model, the One-77 hypercar – is light, small and wonderfully sonorous.
The ZF Servotronic power assisted steering offers a quick, slick, 15:1 ratio and, linked to the adaptive damping button, it offers two-mode steering assistance designed to best match the ‘Sport’ or ‘Normal’ settings generated by the Adaptive Damping System.
Pure power, beautifully presented
As Aston Martin’s most overtly sporting convertible car, with a more dynamic character even than the luxurious Vanquish Volante ultimate GT or refined DB9 Volante, the V12 Vantage S Roadster has been styled to reflect is position as the flagship convertible in the Vantage family.
In keeping with the V12 Vantage S Coupe, the Roadster does away with the famous aluminium vanes in the Aston Martin grille – replacing them with a carbon fibre arrangement that also includes sporty black or titanium silver mesh. Created to maximise airflow to the V12 engine, the new grille is inspired by both the remarkable CC100 Speedster Concept and the Vantage race cars.
Other distinguishing features of the V12 Vantage S Roadster include the option of lightweight forged alloy ten-spoke wheels.
The new Roadster retains the same compact proportions of its predecessor while features such as the pronounced bonnet louvres, optional bold graphics (painted carbon front grille, front grille lipstick and tailgate panel) as well as the exterior carbon pack and flared wheel arches underscore its sporting abilities.
Inside, as out, the new car has been styled to reflect its powerful nature. New-style seat trim and door trims, with Sport and carbon fibre Lightweight seat options – present V12 Vantage S Roadster buyers with an exciting array of choices.
The optional Interior Carbon Pack, which adds carbon fibre to the car’s facia and door pulls, plus the availability for the first time in a V12 Vantage S Roadster of black pedals, further enhances personalisation options for those in search of a truly bespoke sports car.
Q by Aston Martin
Meanwhile,For V12 Vantage S Roadster, the company is introducing a Q by Aston Martin Collection which consists of bespoke features that are entirely in keeping with the character of the car.
For V12 Vantage S Roadster this includes a palette of bold exterior and interior colours; body coloured carbon bonnet louvres; a red tint or satin finish to the carbon fibre elements on the exterior and interior of the car; a full carbon fibre centre console, black anodised and machined rotary controls and a steering wheel with a leather on-centre stripe in the chosen interior accent colour.
Marek Reichman added: “The new V12 Vantage S Roadster not only looks the part, but has been engineered and built to showcase the ethos of Aston Martin: power, beauty and soul.
“We believe that it is a truly exceptional sports car, with the capacity to set pulses racing just by its sound alone. The authentic appeal of its style, performance, quality and craftsmanship ensure its stands head and shoulders above others in its sector and delivers that most precious of experiences – fun – in abundance!”
July 14, 2014. Affalterbach. The S65 AMG Coupe is the new twelve-cylinder top-of-the- range model in the S-Class Coupe series. Unique drive comfort, benchmark performance and exquisite appointments are all hallmarks of this stuning new two-door. The irresistible contours of the V12 Coupe are accentuated by a host of expressive design elements in high-sheen chrome. The AMG 6.0- litre V12 biturbo engine, with an output of 621 hp and 738 lb-ft of torque, is unique in its segment, as is the AMG sports suspension, based on MAGIC BODY CONTROL with curve tilting function and ROAD SURFACE SCAN.
Tobias Moers, Chairman of the Board of Management of Mercedes-AMG GmbH: “There are AMG fans for whom our V12 biturbo engine is the measure of all things. For this clientele we have developed a unique car in the form of the new S65 AMG Coupe. From driving dynamics to comfort and equipment – our new twelve-cylinder coupe surpasses even the highest of expectations.”
Mercedes-AMG’s unique range and long V12 tradition
Coupe, Sedan and Roadster: following the S65 AMG and the SL 65 AMG, the new S65 AMG Coupe is the third AMG high-performance car with a V12 engine to come to the United States market. Globally, no other car manufacturer in the world offers such a wide portfolio of twelve-cylinder vehicles as Mercedes-AMG. In 2003, the performance brand of Mercedes-Benz presented a coupe with a powerful V12 biturbo engine in the form of the CL65 AMG (C215 model series). Its successor, the CL65 AMG (C216 model series) was available between 2007 and 2014 and was the direct predecessor to the new S65 AMG Coupe.
Key data at a glance:
| S65 AMG Coupe | |
| Displacement | 5980 cc |
| Output | 621 hp (463kw) at 4800-5400 rpm |
| Max. torque | 738 lb-ft at 2300-4300 rpm |
| Acceleration 0-60 mph | 4.0 s (est.) |
| Top speed | 186* |
* Electronically limited
Twelve-cylinder engines are still considered the pinnacle of engine design. Among connoisseurs the AMG 6.0-litre V12 biturbo engine in particular is seen as an outstanding example of its type. Open the hood of the S65 AMG Coupe, and it is immediately obvious why. The exclusive carbon fibre/aluminium engine cover is synonymous with the exceptional strengths of the V12 engine that is built in Affalterbach according to the “one man, one engine” principle. Apart from serving as an AMG hallmark confirming superlative precision and production quality, the AMG engine plate bearing the master engine builder’s signature is also a clear testament to the peerless DNA of Mercedes-Benz’s high-performance brand.
A sensational drive and effortlessly superior performance
The AMG V12 delivers a peak output of 621 hp and a maximum torque of 738 lb-ft – resulting in effortlessly superior performance. The S65 AMG Coupe accelerates from 0-60 mph in 4.0 seconds and has a top speed of 186 mph (electronically limited). In other respects, the AMG 6.0-litre V12 biturbo engine assures a sensational drive. Stylish drive comfort, tremendous pulling power and effortless power delivery in all speed ranges are coupled with refined engine running characteristics and the distinctive typical sound of the AMG V12.
Technical highlights of the AMG 6.0-litre V12 biturbo engine:
- Biturbocharging
- Aluminium crankcase
- Forged crankshaft in high-grade alloy steel
- Multi-spark ignition with 12 twin-spark ignition units
- Air-to-water intercooler with low-temperature circuit
- Alternator management
- ECO start/stop function
Power transmission with three individual driving modes
The AMG SPEEDSHIFT PLUS 7G-TRONIC is responsible for transmitting power to the rear axle. The transmission offers three individual modes: the driver can choose between Controlled Efficiency (C), Sport (S) and Manual (M) by pushing a button on the center console. Sport and Manual emphasize the vehicle’s dynamic pedigree. The ultimate emotional appeal and tangible sportiness are ensured by the brief, precisely defined cutback of ignition and injection when shifting up a gear under full load. This shortens shift times and lends an audibly more emotive tone to gearshifts. The ECO start/stop function is activated in transmission mode “C”.
Lithium-ion battery reduces weight by over 44 lbs
The S65 AMG Coupe features a lithium-Ion battery as standard equipment. This innovative technology offers numerous advantages over a conventional battery concept. With a capacity of 78 Ah, the lithium-ion battery replaces both the starter battery and the backup battery – resulting in a weight saving of over 44 lbs.
AMG sports suspension with curve tilting function
The AMG sports suspension based on MAGIC BODY CONTROL delivers an incomparable driving sensation. The standard combination of Active Body Control (ABC), ROAD SURFACE SCAN and curve tilting function is unique. This function allows the S65 AMG Coupe to lean into bends in a manner similar to a motorcyclist or skier. The lateral acceleration acting on the occupants is similar to driving on a banked curve. On country roads in particular, the curve tilting function heightens motoring enjoyment and comfort. The object is not to reach higher cornering speeds, but to produce an even more pleasant motoring experience. The curve tilting function can be selected as one of three drive modes using the ABC switch, and it is active in the speed range from 10 to 111 mph.
On bends the vehicle leans into the turn automatically and continuously in fractions of a second – depending on the curve radius and vehicle speed. The innovative suspension system detects curves using both a stereo camera behind the windscreen, registering the curvature of the road up to approximately 50 feet ahead, and an additional lateral acceleration sensor. The curve tilting function is making its United States debut in the S65 AMG Coupe.
ROAD SURFACE SCAN is a technology that can detect surface undulations in advance with the help of a stereo camera. MAGIC BODY CONTROL then adjusts the suspension in advance to suit the situation, effectively compensating for irritating chassis movement. Both suspension modes – “Comfort” and “Sport” – are also available here. In addition the AMG sports suspension, the S65 AMG Coupe features specific elastokinematics – the driver therefore benefits from more directness with a dynamic driving style.
Speed-sensitive sports steering with variable steering ratio
The electromechanical speed-sensitive sports steering with variable steering ratio perfectly complements the sophisticated suspension technology by optimizing vehicle handling and agility while maintaining driving safety at high speeds. In “Comfort” suspension mode, the speed-sensitive sports steering enhances comfort by providing more steering assistance. If the “Sport” suspension setting is selected, the driver feels a stiffer and more commanding level of steering assistance. The pre-programmed curves for power assistance enhance feedback from the road surface and steering precision.
Polished forged wheels with fully integrated wheel bolt cover
The S65 AMG Coupe features forged wheels in a multi-spoke design, size 8.5 x 20 at the front and 9.5 x 20 at the rear, with 255/40 R 20 and 285/35 R 20 tires. The exclusive forged wheels of the V12 Coupe fascinate with their exceptional design that represents a contemporary interpretation of the classic sports car rims. Each of the 16 spokes twists so that the light-catching contours radiate to the center of the wheel hub. The ultimate effect is that the wheel gives the impression of being even bigger.
The matchless visual superiority of the ceramically polished, high-sheen AMG forged wheels is the result of an elaborate finishing process. Initial polishing is followed by manual grinding of the light-alloy wheels. Two polishing stages using different polishing compounds ensure the desired deep sheen. Having been cleaned, the wheels then undergo final treatment, including final clear coat sealing.
The forged wheels feature a high-quality, screw-on, fully integrated wheel bolt cover in forged aluminium. Its shape is reminiscent of a center lock as seen in motorsport. The AMG lettering is incorporated into the rim as a design element. Additional forged wheels are available as optional alternatives – one design variant features a matte black finish and high-sheen rim flange.
Optional ceramic high-performance compound brake system
The AMG high-performance compound brake system features brake callipers with a grey finish. Red callipers are also available, and a ceramic high- performance compound brake system is optional. This design, which is more than 20 percent lighter than its conventional counterpart, ensures lower unsprung masses as well as enhanced driving dynamics, agility, ride comfort, and brake performance.
Design: irresistible contours, lavishly accentuated with chrome
Supreme sportiness combined with the sensual clarity typical of Mercedes-Benz – the irresistible contours of the S65 AMG Coupe are a captivating sight. V12- specific features include the countless design elements in high-sheen chrome at the front, sides and rear which are particularly effective in conjunction with dark paintwork. The large central Mercedes star on the front apron, the “twin blade” radiator grille, all of the air intake grilles, the trim strip on the “A-wing”, the side flics (air deflector elements) and the front splitter are chromed-trimmed. The three-dimensional front splitter increases downforce at the front axle, while the gap above the front splitter ensures an effective flow of air to the separate engine oil cooler behind it.
At the side, the eye is drawn to the “V12 BITURBO” lettering on the wings and the high-sheen chrome inserts in the side skirts which harmonize perfectly with the high-sheen polished forged wheels. The rear view is also unmistakable. The AMG sports exhaust system’s two chromed twin tailpipes in V12 design are integrated into the rear apron. Above the distinctive diffuser insert, painted in high-gloss black, the trim element forms an effective contrast. It echoes the design of the “A-wings” on the front apron and is finished in high-sheen chrome.
Interior: equipment, quality and ambience of the highest standard
The extraordinary character is also evident on the inside. The S65 AMG Coupe welcomes its occupants with an incomparably exquisite ambience. This two- door features the finest materials, the highest manufacturing quality and an extensive range of standard equipment. In visual terms, the interior is dominated by the sports seats. The upholstery in designo AMG Exclusive Nappa leather with seat upholstery layout in a diamond-pattern design boasts delineated perforations which ensure beautiful harmony between perforations and stylistic stiching. The result is exceptionally neat seams and an unrivalled impression of quality.
Exclusively developed AMG sports seats ensure optimal long-distance comfort. Electric adjustment, memory function, seat heating and climate control are standard features. More contoured seat cushions and backrests improve lateral support when cornering at speed. High-quality AMG badges are prominently displayed on all four backrests, and the AMG crest is embossed on the front centre console.
Other features of the exclusive package include the Nappa leather roof liner, a leather-lined dashboard, door center panels in a diamond-pattern design, leather-clad roof grab handles, chromed door pins and AMG stainless steel door sill panels illuminated in white. Customers ordering designo AMG Exclusive Nappa leather upholstery are able to choose between black, porcelain/espresso brown, saddle brown/black and crystal grey/black.
New sports steering wheel in a three-spoke design
The new three-spoke sports steering wheel allows perfect vehicle control. It features shift paddles, a distinctly contoured rim trimmed with perforated leather in the grip area, and a metal insert featuring AMG lettering.
Another typical AMG speciality is the AMG instrument cluster. Information on the engine speed, vehicle speed and much more appears on two animated round dials on the 12.2 inch, high-resolution colour TFT display. The typography, the needles in red/silver, the speedometer with its 220 mph scale and the “V12 BITURBO” lettering in the rev counter all have a distinctive AMG look. When the driver’s door is opened, an AMG start-up screen appears on the right-hand display, while an animated S65 AMG Coupe appears in the instrument cluster.
Extensive standard equipment with head-up display and touchpad
The extensive range of standard equipment for the S65 AMG Coupe includes the head-up display and the touchpad. The head-up display projects key information such as the vehicle speed, speed limits, navigation directions, traffic signs and information from DISTRONIC PLUS onto the windscreen. The visualization of the engine speed and the current gear is exclusive to AMG. In manual transmission mode, a colored upshift bar and the possible gears for a manual gear change are also projected onto the windscreen. The virtual colour display, measuring 8 x 2.75 inch, appears to hover above the hood at a distance of around two meters from the driver. The innovative Mercedes-Benz touchpad makes it significantly easier to operate the radio, telephone and navigation system. In contrast to conventional systems, the touchpad can be used to operate all of the infotainment functions. The input area is approximately 2.5 x 1.7 inches in size and is integrated into the handrest with a cover for the keypad.
Intelligent Drive: new standards in safety
The S65 AMG Coupe also sets new standards in terms of active and passive safety. What began with PRE-SAFE® ten years ago and continued with DISTRONIC PLUS is now leading to a new dimension in driving. Comfort and safety have merged into one. Mercedes-Benz calls this Intelligent Drive. Ground-breaking systems make the new S-Class Coupe even more comfortable and safe.
Standard equipment for the S65 AMG Coupe includes (selection):
- 360° camera
- Active Parking Assist with PARKTRONIC
- Burmester® high-end 3D surround sound system
- Driving Assistance package Plus, including DISTRONIC PLUS with Steering Assist, PRE-SAFE® Brake, BAS PLUS with Cross-Traffic Assist, Active Blind Spot Assist, Active Lane Keeping Assist and PRE-SAFE® PLUS
- Upholstery in AMG Exclusive nappa leather
- KEYLESS-GO package
Orders can be placed for the S65 AMG Coupe in the coming weeks, and the United States market launch at Mercedes-Benz sales outlets and authorized dealerships is planned for the end of 2014.
A pair of classic British sports cars, owned by two of Hollywood’s biggest stars, are set to go under the hammer in Silverstone Auctions’ May Sale, on May 24th at Silverstone race circuit.
First up is an ex-Jennifer Lopez 1998 Aston Martin DB7 Volante that is rumoured to have been bought as a gift by Ben Affleck for his former fiancée.
The limited edition Alfred Dunhill example, chassis number 002 of the 150 model run, is estimated at between £30,000 and £35,000. The car has covered fewer than 15,000 miles and is fantastic condition.
Clearly J-Lo and Affleck were customers of great taste and the car is finished in a special order Dunhill Silver paint with black leather interior. It’s easy to imagine J-Lo cruising the blocks of LA in the Aston and catching the eyes of the paparazzi.
Joining the Aston is a stunning 1971 Jaguar E-Type Series III V12 Roadster that was once owned by Hollywood tough guy Gerard Butler. The stunning example is estimated at between £55,000 and £65,000.
Owned by Butler for a number of years he is quoted as saying, “I went to the classic car place in Chelsea to look at something else, walked in there, and there was an old E-Type Jaguar convertible, the V12 one…I literally took one look at it, and thought, oh, my, god.”
Finished in black with a black interior this E-Type was subject to significant work in 1993 which included a full engine overhaul and complete respray.
Commenting on the sale of the cars, managing director of Silverstone Auctions, Nick Whale, said: “These wonderful cars join a long list of celebrity owned classics that we have offered in our auctions over the years. Not only do they have the gravitas of being driven by two Hollywood hot shots, but are great examples of the models in their own right.”
The cars form part of the 65 car and motorcycle catalogue offered at Silverstone along with a collection of automobilia and luxury lifestyle goods.
For more information about the cars and the many other lots being offered at Silverstone Auctions’ May Sale, visit www.silverstoneauctions.com.
The BMW 8 Series was supposed to be the spiritual successor to the much loved E9 Coupés (such as the 3.0 CS/CSi/CSL) and the E24 6 Series (635 CSi, M6), although in reality it was targeted at a more exclusive market. With the intent of being a luxurious super car, it featured rakish lines resulting in a .29 drag coefficient (lower than an Acura NSX, Lamborghini Murcielago or Koenigsegg CCX) as well as a 300-hp V12 mated to a 6-speed transmission, the first time that had been done in a production car. It was also the first production car to have a “drive-by-wire” throttle (no cable). As a flagship model, BMW packed it with technology including stability and traction control as well as an on-board computer. It was also well appointed with 10-way heated seats and power everything. It was aimed passed its V12 contemporaries like the Jaguar XJ-S and Mercedes-Benz SL toward the exotic buyer looking for something more practical and more comfortable. In spite of this, both press and public instantly compared it to the 6-cylinder E24 and lamented that in all the puffery, the Ultimate Driving Machine had been somehow lost. This was particularly true in the US where dealers felt that it was more on par with the Jag- and Merc-buying country club set and most were delivered with automatic transmissions. Meanwhile, it had always been the intention that the 8 Series would be be part of the M program and development on the M8 had commenced and legend has it that the sole prototype still exists. With falling demand for the 8 Series, the M8 project was scrapped but lives on in spirit with the 850 CSi. The 850 CSi used an M-tuned version of the 850i’s V12, bored out to 5.6 liters and now producing 375 hp mated to a manual-only 6-speed gearbox. While this is well short of the M8’s 550 horses, it distanced itself from its country club fate. It also had a lower ride height ,stiffer springs, tighter steering, wider wheels, stainless exhaust, and improved aerodynamics. In the end, it not only reclaimed Ultimate Driving Machine status, but amplified it to a level that set the stage for the M Cars that were on the horizon. This one is the real deal (a unique VIN to indicate it was built by the M Division, the only production 8 Series to have done so). It is particularly nice with just over 50,000 actual miles and looks every bit the proper BMW in Dunkelblau (dark blue). The two-tone interior is prerequisite 90s German and while it might not be everyone’s cup of tee, no doubt we’ve all seen worse. On top of that, it is entirely original and everything seems to be working. At nearly four times the cost of a later (5.4 L) 850 Ci or a Ferrari 456 GT with $15K left over for service, exclusivity has its price. That said, prices for a CSi have slowly been inching up and it could be a sleeper in the works (Hemmings features an 850 CSi on the cover of their May 2014 issue in their 150-MPH story). With only around 1,500 built between 1993 and 1996, it may finally have found its place. Find it here on Craigslist in Tuscon AZ for an on-the-money $59,500.
There’s a saying in the hobby, “You have to be a good sport, to own a sports car” and while not a sports car, the Jaguar XJ Coupés, produced between 1975 and 1978 can certainly be case-in-point. The build quality left much to be desired (doors patched together to create a longer coupé door, for example), the 5.3 litre V12 was anemic and inefficient, the pre-GM transmission might as well have been made from pudding. And yet… it was—and is—so alluring. With less than 2,000 cars made over its four-year run, it wasn’t a car one would see every day. It was handsomely appointed with burled walnut and Connoly leather. And that shape: one of the most well-proportioned, seductive, classic designs in automotive history. Altogether, it evoked personal luxury in a way that few cars have been able to, or at least not on middle-class wages. Thirty-some years later, the XJ12C remains exclusive as they don’t often come on the market. Furthermore, the problems that were inherent in them to begin with only exacerbate over time: engines and transmissions may have been swapped for a GM 350/Turbo Hydramatic drivetrain; rust has built up in the undercarriage, wheel arches, doors or beneath the vinyl roofs (standard on XJ12Cs); and electronics have gone haywire. This gorgeous example, with less than 29,000 miles on the clock, simply hasn’t had enough use for those issues to arise and with continued excellent care, there’s a good bet that they may not in the future. Being a Northwest car, there appears to be no rust with an excellent finish and no bubbling beneath the roof. Interior is fresh, original and meticulously clean. The motor and drivetrain will probably need careful monitoring from its sparse use, and it is after all an old Jag. But then, you have to be a good sport… Find it here on Craigslist in Sherwood OR—for about half a comparable Rolls-Royce Corniche—at $24,000.
