The CONCORSO: Celebrating the Art of the Automobile

Lamborghini If you will be in the Baltimore area in September, you may want to make your way to the CONCORSO, an exciting event for a great cause. Exotic car enthusiasts from across the nation will gather for a weekend-long annual event that raises money for the USO.

The schedule sounds really exciting. On Saturday, September 6, you will have the opportunity to participate in a road rally. If you’ve never done a rally, you are truly missing out. A rally is sort of like a mini-Amazing Race. You will have to depend on your brains and navigational skills as you make your way through Baltimore County, following cryptic clues and keeping your speedometer steady.

Later that evening, you’ll make your way to the airport for an event aptly titled “Wings and Wheels.” A wide range of exotic cars, private jets and military vehicles will be available for your close inspection.

Sunday is the premier event. This is your chance to be a star, showing off your exotic car in one of the nation’s top shows. Held at the Powerplant Live, the day will be filled with music, booths and plenty of exciting cars.

Make your reservations early, particularly if you plan to show off your car. Placement is assigned on a first come first served basis. You will also need to register well in advance for the road rally, since course designers will need to know how many to expect.

Of course, if you want to be part of the action, you will need a great car. If you’re still on the market, why not drop by our friendly dealership? We can help you find used exotic cars that are best for you.

Want to Connect With Other Exotic Car Fans Online? Check Out This Brand New Site

Lamborghini Most car enthusiasts of every stripe love the opportunity to connect with others who share their hobby. From hearse clubs to truck shows, there are plenty of gathering opportunities for those who love their automobiles. Exotic car lovers are no different. So if you have been looking for the perfect place to meet others who also enjoy supercars, this website is just for you.

CarFront.com is brand new, launched only two days ago. As part of the site’s promotional hype, there is a contest currently going on. The winner will receive a weekend trip to Las Vegas and the chance to spend the day living like the other half lives: driving a Lamborghini and enjoying VIP access to the hottest clubs in town.

In order to enter the contest, you must register with the site and then upload a video to Car Front’s YouTube group. You must be over 21 and live in the continental United States. You must also log at least fifty posts on the site by the time the contest ends.

This is a great way to promote the new site, but also a great opportunity for exotic car enthusiasts who have not yet had the chance to drive their dream car. It is also a wonderful way to get in on the ground floor of a brand new web community that has not yet had the opportunity to develop cliques.

Of course, if all the excitement of the new community inspires you to take the plunge and purchase an exotic car of your own, we hope that you will stop by our friendly dealership. We will be happy to help you find the exotic used cars that are right for you.

At Cool Price of Two Million Dollars, Bugatti Veyron is the Ultimate Exotic Car

Bugatti VeyronMost exotic car buffs dream of Porsches, Lamborghinis and Ferraris, ultra-luxurious and powerful vehicles that are generally considered the crème de la crème of automobile transportation. These cars are definitely not cheap, but are potentially within the budget of many enthusiasts.

However, yet another exotic car niche also exists for the wealthiest people in the world. These supercars take the words “exotic car” to a whole new level. Perhaps the pinnacle of the supercar world is the two million dollar Bugatti Veyron. In a recent article, Time magazine described the Veyron as “the closest thing to strapping yourself to the back of a rocket.”

The Veyron was introduced in 2005, and consists of a limited production run of only 300 vehicles. According to the Time article, there are approximately 75 left in the run. The Veyron features a mind-boggling 1,001 horsepower engine that can rocket the vehicle from 0 to 60 in 2.4 seconds. The top speed is a stunning 253 miles per hour.

Supercars are generally not known for their maneuverability, making them best suited for those with years of driving experience. However, the Veyron is unique in that anyone with a license should be able to adequately handle the vehicle.

A standard Veyron costs 1.5 million dollars, but the uber-rich will want to invest in the special-request two tone Hermes version. Adding a mere $850,000 to the price will allow you to choose your color combination. Your grille will consist of interlocking Hs, while the wheels appear to feature stitching. In addition, your vehicle will feature a hand-stitched Hermes leather interior, taking approximately eight weeks to create and install. It is this Hermes interior that truly makes the upgrade worthwhile.

Exotic car enthusiasts will likely drool over the Bugatti Veyron for many years to come, though few will have the resources to purchase one. If you are in the market for an exotic used car of any type, we encourage you to stop by our convenient local dealership.

Protecting Your Exotic Car

PorscheAn exotic car is a major investment, so it is important to protect it as much as possible. Many people make simple mistakes that can make it much more likely that their cars will be damaged or even stolen. While it is impossible to prevent every situation, thereby making a full coverage insurance policy crucial, there are some steps that you can take to help minimize your risks. Provided here are a few tips.

Park in a Secure Garage
It is highly tempting to try to save a few dollars by parking on the street in big cities. However, street parking is simply asking for trouble in a high dollar vehicle. Just within my own family, my parents had a brand new car scratched by a horse-drawn buggy, I had another car scratched by another buggy and my ex had a truck stolen, all within a few months of each other outside our New Orleans apartments.

If you are driving an exotic car, it is well worth the price to park in a secure garage. Incidents may still occur, but they are statistically less likely.

Invest in Security Features
From an alarm system to a Club, security features can help protect your car from being stolen. Thieves generally prefer easy targets that can be stolen quickly, so try to keep yours from being the least protected car on the block. Also be sure to hide any valuables.

Drive the Car
Many people think of their exotic cars as special occasion vehicles. However, cars are meant to be driven. At a minimum, you should take your car out at least once a month. Otherwise you run the risk of corrosion and other difficulties.

Insure the Car Adequately
As mentioned above, it is impossible to avoid all incidents. Minimize your risks, but also invest in the best insurance that you can. If something does happen to your exotic car, you will have peace of mind in knowing that you are fully protected.

Gran Turismo 5 Prologue: An Exotic Car Lover’s Dream

FerrariIf you, like many people, happen to be a fan of both gaming and exotic cars, then Gran Turismo 5 Prologue is a game you don’t want to miss. Currently available for the Playstation 3 on Blu-ray or via download, the game serves an introduction for Gran Turismo 5, scheduled for release later this year.

Like all of the previous Gran Turismo releases, the newest edition allows players to use starting credits to visit virtual dealerships and select the car of their dreams. Players can then have the vehicle custom-tuned for best performance on the tracks of their choice.

Game play includes two components: a learning mode in which the player is guided through skill development, and an online or arcade racing mode in which the player competes against others for virtual prize money. The money can then be spent on new cars or enhancements to existing cars.

The latest version adds remarkable new technology that is sure to impress gamers and exotic car buffs alike. The cars are rendered in incredible high definition detail. New Video on Demand content can be downloaded into the game. A new interface provides easy access to regularly updated online game news as well as numerous new special events and game play options.

The cars represent some of the best in the world, including Ferraris and other exotic cars. The level of detail is breathtaking. Gran Turismo has long been considered one of the best game series in the world for car enthusiasts, and the latest version appears to live up to the line’s legendary history.

Of course, if you decide that you want used exotic cars of your own, be sure to visit our convenient dealership. We can help you select the car of your dreams.

Want to Try Your Fill of Exotic Cars? Consider the Ultimate Car Club

FerrariIf you are an exotic car buff, but have trouble with commitment, the P1international car club is made for you. This British club brings the concept of time share ownership to exotic cars. The club was founded in October 2000, but has only recently begun to draw international attention. Canada’s CityNews recently ran a story that gives the details.

The Fleet
The P1international club features a fleet of 38 of the finest supercars in the world from Porsche, Ferrari, Maserati and others. According to the CityNews story, the cars are collectively valued at over 11 million US Dollars.

Membership
There is a one-time membership fee that must be paid on registration. New members must also complete the club’s driving course for an additional fee. Members may choose their level of membership, which affects the cars for which they qualify and the number of points that they earn each year. Each level of membership requires a certain annual fee.

Renting a Car
Each car falls into one of six classes. Each class has a particular per-day point charge. Cars may be picked up at the club’s headquarters (where your car can be stored if necessary) or delivered free of charge to certain areas of London. Delivery to other parts of England can be arranged for a per-mile delivery charge.

Full insurance is provided on each vehicle. Mileage limits apply, depending on the car class selected. International members may spread their points over two years on payment of an additional premium, while British residents’ points are valid for only a single year.

The Bottom Line
The P1international club plans to expand to the United States in the near future. The club can be a terrific way to test out different exotic cars for sale without committing to a single vehicle. Of course, once you are ready to buy, we hope that you will consider our friendly local dealership.

Looking for an Extreme Driving Experience? How About the Lamborghini Academy?

LamborghiniIf you are an exotic car fan, you probably long to open up your favorite car and push it to the extreme. Picture yourself maximizing the benefits of an incredible 640 horsepower engine or practicing evasive maneuvers on winter roads. Whatever your extreme driving fantasy is, you can live out your dreams at the Lamborghini Academy.

The Academy offers a range of options depending on your individual preferences. The Track Academy takes place during the summer months, offering you the opportunity to push the vehicles to their very limits on a closed track. An instructor will join you at all times, providing expert guidance and advice as you learn how to handle a Lamborghini in both dry and wet road conditions. You will have the chance to learn expert tips and tricks from professional drivers who have won championships. You will also be able to open up the car on speed laps in front of a cheering audience.

The Winter Academy provides instruction that can help you become a safer winter driver. You will learn expert tips and tricks on driving in snow, obstacle avoidance and proper steering. You will have the opportunity to experience steering situations with and without electronic stability. Of course, your experience will culminate with a demonstration by the professional drivers showing just what is possible in a Lamborghini, even on winter streets.

You need not be a Lamborghini owner to participate, nor are you required to take a basic class before a more advanced class. All you need is a bit of self-confidence and the desire to learn. Of course, if your experience puts you in the mood to purchase a new or used exotic car, we would be happy to assist you at our friendly dealership.

Lamborghini History Part Three: 1978 to Present

LamborghiniThis week we have discussed the history of the Lamborghini. Ferruccio Lamborghini was an entrepreneur and tractor manufacturer who also loved fast cars. He collected exotic cars, particularly Ferraris, but was not entirely happy with the Ferrari’s reliability. When Lamborghini approached Enzo Ferrari with his concerns, however, he was brushed off as a tractor manufacturer who did not know about sports cars. Lamborghini set out to build a line of cars that would challenge Ferrari directly. By the 1970s, Lamborghini had earned a place in history with his powerful and exotic cars.

However, the 1970s brought difficulties. Tractors continued to pay the rent, and a combination of labor unrest and the cancellation of a massive tractor order forced Ferruccio Lamborghini out of the business. He sold his shares and left the company. By 1980, the company was bankrupt.

Fortunately, the Lamborghini name was known for quality and eager buyers lined up for the chance to purchase. The wealthy Swiss Mimran brothers, owners of a sugar empire, ultimately took control. They installed celebrated designer Giulio Alfieri as technical director, and under their expert guidance, Lamborghini was again in business.

The brothers moved the company in a new direction, spearheading the production of large off-road vehicles. This led to a partnership with Pirelli, who created new tires called the Pirelli Scorpion that perform equally well on asphalt or sand.

Surprisingly, in 1987 the brothers sold the company to Chrysler. The new owners had extensive experience in the mass market, and were able to apply their knowledge of technology, ergonomics and comfort to further enhance the Lamborghini’s appeal.

Unfortunately, economics forced Chrysler to sell Lamborghini in 1994. A group of Indonesian investors bought the company. Although the shakeup caused a brief destabilization, Lamborghini continued to produce, developing the Diablo and several derivations. These vehicles were well-received and popular among exotic car fans.

In 1998, Lamborghini was again bought out, this time by Audi. Audi’s resources and dedication to the legend of Lamborghini have led to a renaissance of the fabled Lamborghini name. New introductions such as the sophisticated Murcielago prove that Lamborghini is here to stay.

If you are interested in a Lamborghini or other exotic car, we invite you to visit our friendly Lamborghini dealership. We can help you find the exotic car of your dreams.

Lamborghini History: Part Two, 1963 to Present

LamborghiniYesterday we discussed Ferruccio Lamborghini, the entrepreneur and car enthusiast who would go on to found a supercar empire. Lamborghini made his fortune in tractor and other businesses after World War II. He also collected exotic cars, particularly Ferraris. However, Lamborghini felt that his Ferraris were temperamental and not as good as they could be. When he took his concerns to Enzo Ferrari, he was dismissed as a tractor manufacturer who knew nothing about supercars. It was then that Lamborghini decided to build his own empire to directly compete with Ferrari.

In 1963, production began on the Lamborghini 350GTV prototype, with the help of former Ferrari engineers. Lamborghini selected the bull as its logo for its founder’s zodiac sign of Taurus. The 350GTV prototype was well received at its Turin Auto Show debut, and a street model was soon developed. This was the legendary 350GT.

The following decade marked the golden years of Lamborghini. The founder’s incredible business acumen combined with such technologically enhanced vehicles as the Miura ensured Lamborghini an honored place in the halls of exotic car legends. In 1971, a string of successful vehicles led to the development of the famous Countach model.

Unfortunately, the 1970s were not kind to Lamborghini the man, or to Lamborghini the company. Legendary exotic cars were the specialty, but tractors still paid the rent. In 1972, a combination of labor unrest and the cancellation of a particularly large tractor order forced Ferruccio Lamborghini out of the business for good. He sold his shares of the company and departed.

The Lamborghini company kept going, but the oil crisis led to a sizeable decrease in the demand for luxury exotic cars. In 1978, the company went into bankruptcy.

Tomorrow we will discuss the perseverance that brought Lamborghini through the crisis and the developments that put the company firmly back on track as a world leader. In the meantime, if you are in the market for a Lamborghini or other exotic car, please stop by our friendly dealership. We will help you find the car of your dreams.

History of the Lamborghini: Part One, Ferruccio Lamborghini

LamborghiniThe Lamborghini company traces its history to 1963, when the Automobili Ferruccio Lamborghini was born. In order to understand the company’s history, however, it is important to first understand the man who created it.

Ferruccio Lamborghini was born on April 28, 1916 in the small village of Renazzo, Italy. He was an excellent businessman and entrepreneur who founded a tractor company in the post-World War II years. Later he added air conditioning and heating companies to his collection of businesses, and grew quite wealthy in the process.

Lamborghini was also a lover of fast cars. In the 1940s he began modifying a Fiat Topolino, and raced it in the 1948 Mille Miglia. He then began collecting sports cars of various types, particularly Ferraris. However, Lamborghini felt that his Ferraris were temperamental and did not live up to their potential. He felt that there was room for improvement.

Lamborghini took his criticisms directly to Enzo Ferrari. However, as a tractor manufacturer, he was rebuffed and not taken seriously. Lamborghini decided then to prove to the world that a supercar need not be temperamental. He decided to create his own brand to compete directly against Ferrari.

Although many thought that he was mad, Lamborghini set out full steam ahead to prove his detractors wrong. He amassed his considerable wealth and business acumen, and in May 1963 launched the Automobili Ferruccio Lamborghini. At the time, his production facility was unrivaled in functionality and productivity.

Tomorrow we will discuss the history of the Lamborghini company itself. In the meantime, if you are in the market for a Lamborghini or other exotic car, we invite you to stop by our convenient local Lamborghini dealer. We will be happy to help you find the exotic car that is right for you.