2011 BMW X3 SUV Scooped: Grows in Size, Could get a Hybrid Version

New X1 SUV, BMW's engineers are now busy preparing the second-generation X3 which is due to arrive in international markets in 2011. Based on the next 3-Series platform architecture, the new X3 bears the codename F25 and will come with all-wheel drive or as BMW calls it, xDrive. It is possible though that just like the smaller X1, the Bavarian automaker may also offer rear-wheel drive only variants of its compact SUV.


The introduction of the X1 in BMW's SUV range should result in an increase of the X3's exterior dimensions in order to further differentiate the two models. As it stands now, the Bavarian SUVs are similar in size, with the X1 being just 4.5 inches (114 mm) shorter, 2.2 inches (55 mm) narrower and 5.1 inches (130 mm) lower than the current X3.

While the prototype model's funky disguise does not reveal much about the design, it is expected that the new X3 will do away with the current model's flame-surface styling adopting many design cues from BMW's latest vehicles such as the 7-Series as well as the Concept CS. As for the interior, buyers should look forward to higher quality materials and a more contemporary design for the dashboard.


There'll be a wide engine range to choose from, with gasolines ranging from the 170HP 2.0-litre four-banger to a range-topping 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged straight-six while the diesel line-up will include numerous four- and six-cylinder engines.

It has also been reported that the next-generation X3 will gain a hybrid variant featuring a gasoline engine and a high-performance electric motor that will allow the vehicle to to be driven on electric power only, on the combustion engine alone, or with a combination of both power units.

Whereas the current X3 is built under contract by Magna Steyr in Austria, the new compact SUV will be manufactured at BMW's Spartanburg plant in South Carolina alongside the X5 and X6 models.
Source:carscoop

Gemballa Mirage GT Gold Edition based on Porsche Carrera GT

GEMBALLA Automobiltechnik are amazing tuners which specialty is to build exclusive sports cars which are based on the Porsche models. The very last exotic addition to their range is called MIRAGE GT GOLD EDITION. The words ”MIRAGE GT” in the model name reminds us for a few other GEMBALLA creations, but ”GOLD EDITION” speaks for a Midas touch in that particular one.


The MIRAGE GT GOLD EDITION super sports car is based on the Porsche 980 Carrera GT and for sure will conquer lots of motor sport hearts. It is an extremely attractive version of the MIRAGE GT and the eye-catching main evolutionary characteristic are the GEMBALLA body details finished in golden paint and golden carbon fibre.


But the GEMBALLA improvements are not over yet: ultra-light aerodynamics components, power engine with powerful 670 hp and a top speed of 335 km/h which accelerates from zero to 100 km/h in 3.7 seconds.


A ground-breaking, hydraulic, height-adjustable coilover kit especially adjusted to the GEMBALLA wheel-tyre combination GT SPORT Forged provides perfect road handling. Also the interior is stylishly arranged from the floor to the roof lining with carbon fibre and elements painted in golden color.
Source:GEMBALLA

Frankfurt Motor Show:: Audi to Unveil R8 ePerformance Electric Vehicle Concept

For a number of years now major automakers' favourite flavour at international motor shows has been the hybrid system. Now a new dawn is upon us and it is the dawn of full electric power. Rumours that have been doing the rounds for a while are suggesting that Audi will be one of those who unveil an electric sports car concept at the 2009 Frankfurt Motor Show. It will take the form of an R8.

Supposedly the car will be called the R8 ePerformance. Power is to come from large powerful batteries and an electric motor to drive the wheels, so it will not be a hybrid but a complete electric-powered car.
more detail. ...

Videos: 2010 Suzuki Kizashi Sedan Officially Revealed

The Kizashi, Japanese for "something great is coming", was designed to mix European styling with Japanese quality. While the latter remains to be seen, the car features an interesting appearance with a bold grille, shapely headlights, and a dynamic rear end. Other styling highlights include 18-inch alloy wheels, an attractive dual exhaust system, and a short front overhang.


Suzuki has officially pulled the wraps of their new Kizashi mid-size sedan.


The car offers an extensive list of standard safety equipment which includes eight airbags, electronic stability control, four-wheel disc brakes with ABS and electronic brake-force distribution, projector beam headlights, and a tire pressure monitoring system. Owners can also equip their Kizashi with an intelligent all-wheel drive system which sends power to the rear wheels as soon as the driver hints a dash-mounted switch.


Power comes from a 2.4-liter DOHC inline four-cylinder engine which has an output that is "more potent ... than many competitive best-sellers." This is backed up by a standard six-speed manual or an optional continuously variable transmission (CVT) that was designed to deliver outstanding fuel efficiency. Eventually, the company plans on introducing a hybrid model but no details were released.



Riding on a 107-inch wheelbase, the Kizashi features a rigid steel unibody with a reinforced front suspension and multi-link rear suspension that uses several aluminum components. The company promises this setup will ensure "crisp, nimble handling with excellent stability."


While the exterior screams style, the interior says blah. The materials seem nice enough, but any hint of a design effort is lacking. Regardless, the car comes nicely equipped with standard sport seats and iPod connectivity. Options include leather upholstery, heated seats, Bluetooth connectivity, and a 425 watt Rockford Fosgate audio system.
More Photos

Mercedes-Benz E-Class W124 Tuning Gone Bad

The Merc's front and rear ends have been completely deformed with the grotesque creation featuring an ASMA inspired front grille flanked by a pair of CLK-style headlamps while at the back, Dr. Frankenstein incorporated a set of... SLK tail lamps.


The vehicle also gets a variety of air vents on the hood and the front panels plus a triple exhaust pipes on each side of the bumper.


After looking at these photos, we've reached to the conclusion that we've been extremely harsh on ASMA. Don't get us wrong, we still find the German tuner's proposals hideous, but few will disagree that there's a new king in town.


Even though there's a badge with the name 'Arturos' at the rear, we're not sure who's responsible for this freakishly modded Mercedes-Benz E-Class W124 that was apparently photographed somewhere in Russia.


via:carscoop

2011 Mercedes-Benz CL-Class AMG Facelift Scooped

Almost three years after its debut at the 2006 Paris Show and Mercedes is readying a subtle mid-life facelift for the CL-Class that may be re-designated as the S-Coupe when the car arrives at Merc's showrooms sometime during the first quarter of 2010. Our spies captured the range-topping AMG version of the CL that will once again be available in two guises, the V8-powered CL63 AMG and the V12-powered CL65 AMG or, S63 and S65 AMG Coupe respectively if Mercedes decides to change the coupe's name as it did with the CLK's replacement, the E-Class Coupe.


Like the recently updated S63 and S65 AMG sedans, while the CL63 and C65 AMG coupes won't have more muscle than before, they will boast slightly improved fuel economy and decreased CO2 emission figures thanks to the retuning of their engine management systems.


As with the rest of the range, the AMG variants will benefit from a mildly redesigned nose complete with a more pointed front grille and a new bumper incorporating a pair of LED daytime running lights. Though the test mule seen in these spy photos featured the same bodykit with the current CL AMGs, expect to see new side skirts and a different rear diffuser plus restyled alloy wheels.


With the exception of the Mercedes' new split view central monitor that allows the passenger and driver to see different pictures on the same screen and quite possibly, new trim options, the interior of the refreshed CL will remain untouched.


This means that the CL63 AMG's 6.3-litre V8 will make 525-horsepower and a maximum torque of 630Nm or 465 lb/ft while the CL65 AMG's 6.0-litre bi-turbocharged V12 will deliver an output of 612HP and 1000Nm or 737 lb/ft of torque.


Aside from the engine management updates, AMG engineers are also expected to tweak the coupes' Active Body Control air suspension and braking systems.
via:carscoop

Auction: Gooding tests the market with Phil Hill's Packard and a prince's Duesenberg

If you dig classic auctions and can't make it to Pebble, there will be a live webcast on the Gooding site at www.goodingco.com. Yet even though David Gooding said "Today's records become tomorrow's bargains," we don't expect to see any bargains at this year's show.


Pebble Beach regular Gooding & Company will be bringing three special cars to this year's auction and the vintage rides are said to carry not only the requisite pedigree, but are expected to be barometers of the classic car market at a time when values are, at best, variable.


Included are a 1927 Packard 343 Convertible Sedan owned and restored by the late, great racer Phil Hill and being auctioned by his estate. It won Best of Pebble in 1977 and has never been auctioned before. Joining it will be a 1935 Duesenberg SJ Roadster (pictured) that was a gift from an heiress to a Georgian nobleman (Soviet Georgia, that is). Finally there's a car we can't help but love: a 1962 Ferrari 250 GT SWB California Spider. We don't care if it has a story or not. We want it. Desperately.


More Photos


PRESS RELEASE

A Triumph in Duesenberg Design:
Crowning the cover of Gooding & Company's 2009 Pebble Beach catalogue, the regal 1935 Duesenberg Model SJ Roadster with coachwork by Bohman & Schwartz will be an exciting highlight offered at Gooding & Company's Sunday evening auction. One of 36 SJs created in 1935 and later described to be the most successful Bohman & Schwartz design ever created for Duesenberg, Chassis 2596 was originally an extravagant gift passed from Woolworth heiress, Barbara Hutton, to her very close friend Prince Serge M'Divani, of the Soviet Georgian Noble family. The car was later purchased during the 1950s by the Auburn Cord Duesenberg Club's then President Jerry Gebby of Dayton, Ohio, who took the wheel on its historic drive from Dayton to Tucson in 1960, traveling 129 miles at an average of 103 mph. Collectors and enthusiasts alike may also recognize this car from this year's Amelia Island Concours d'Elegance, where it won First in Class.

"The Champion's Champion" -- Phil Hill's Purple Packard:
For the first time ever at auction, this 1927 Packard 343 Convertible Sedan, once owned and personally restored by Racing Legend Phil Hill, is a car to watch at the Gooding & Company Sunday evening auction. The only Murphy-bodied 343 believed to exist, this car left the Detroit plant as a bare chassis in 1927 and landed in the Pasadena workshop of the famed Walter M. Murphy Company, where it was custom fit with luxurious coachwork and later sold in Santa Monica. Purchased by Phil Hill in 1967, the car was later restored to immaculate condition in the original Packard lilac color combination by Phil Hill himself together with renowned partner Ken Vaughn and first employee Bob Mosier. With this car, Phil Hill won his second Best of Show trophy at the 1977 Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance.
Summary on Pebble Beach Auction:
The Gooding & Company Pebble Beach Auction is located at the Pebble Beach Equestrian Center. Preview days will be from Wednesday, August 12 through Sunday, August 16, 2009. The Saturday evening auction will commence at 5:00 PM and the Sunday evening auction will commence at 6:00 PM. Gooding & Company Pebble Beach Auction catalogues are available for $100 and admit two to the viewing and the auction. General admission to the viewing and the auction can be purchased at the tent for $40 per person. Bidder registration forms, press credentials and additional auction information are available at www.goodingco.com.

Chevrolet Agile Renderings Revealed

General Motors is launching the Chevrolet Agile exclusively to the South American market towards the end of 2009. The Agile, rendered in these official pictures, is a compact hatchback that also serves to give crossover appeal.

"The Agile goes beyond a traditional hatchback," said Carlos Barba, General Director of GM Design Mercosur. "Our task was to conduct a vehicle for a demanding client. Our task was to conduct a vehicle for a demanding client. Great design, interior space and a crossover... a car to attract customers from a different urban public or to a surfer who loves the countryside."


The GM manufacturing plant in Argentina is already tooled up for the Agile operation and workers have been trained in its assembly. It will join other products being sold in the Mercosur market such as the Chevrolet Corsa models, Spark, Aveo, Astra, Meriva, Vectra, Zafira, Blazer, Captiva, S10 and Corvette.


From the front grille it looks like a typical Chevrolet with the golden logo clearly posted in the middle. The interior is said to be of high quality with innovative design and utility.
via:worldcarfans

Kia VG sedan rendering Revealed

The upcoming Kia VG will share its front-wheel-drive platform with next-generation Hyundai Azera. It will be available with fuel-efficient 2.4L gasoline direct injected -GDI four-cylinder gasoline engine with estimated power of 200 hp and a 3.5L V6 Lambda with 277 horsepower. Kia VG is also rumored to be available with 2.7L V6 and 2.7L LPi engines.


Kia VG sedan renderings released. Revealing the final shape of the forthcoming Kia premium sedan.

Kia has released the first batch of official renderings showcasing the forthcoming premium Kia sedan. We have first seen Kia VG at the Seoul Auto Show earlier this year, where it made its first public debut. Called Kia KND-5, the concept boasted a dynamic and very attractive exterior appearance that reflected the shape and style of the forthcoming production car.

The released renderings showcase the new premium sedan, with Kia’s family-look radiator grille and shining LED-running lights. According to the official press release, Kia VG sedan sits on 18-inch tires wrapping the attractively styled aluminum alloy-wheels. The sedan also sports side mirrors and tail-lights with integrated LED technology.


The premium VG sedan will go on sale in South Korean market shortly after it makes it’s official debut, scheduled for November 2009. Good news is also that the model will also be exported to North American market in early 2010, where it will likely replace the ageing Amanti sedan. We expect to see official North American VG premiere to happen at the 2010 North American International Auto Show -NAIAS.
Source: Kia World

Ford Mustang Officially Confirmed to Enter NASCAR for First Time

One of America's best-loved muscle cars the Ford Mustang, has had a successful racing career in a number of series including NHRA, Grand-Am, IMSA, SCCA and NMRA. Missing from that list is NASCAR, the nation's premier racing series. Now Ford has announced that the Mustang brand will compete for the first time in NASCAR from the 2010 season.
via:worldcarfans


Press Release

Mustang is already the most successful single nameplate in Ford Racing's professional racing history, but it hasn't competed in NASCAR-until now.

Brian Wolfe, director of Ford North America Motorsports, made the announcement today that Mustang will debut as part of NASCAR's new car limited rollout in the 2010 Nationwide Series.

"We're excited about Mustang coming to NASCAR," said Wolfe. "It's the most successful product nameplate in racing history, and it seems only right that it should be coming to the most popular form of racing in North America.

"We had been talking with NASCAR for some time about Mustang as part of its vision for a ‘muscle car' rollout for the Nationwide Series. We both saw it as a way of differentiating the series from Sprint Cup," said Wolfe. "We loved the idea, so we jumped on the chance to extend Mustang's racing legacy to a new series reaching a huge and loyal audience. Mustang has dominated other forms of racing, including NHRA drag racing, Grand-Am Cup road racing, and Formula D drifting, and now it's coming to NASCAR Nationwide.

"I think race fans-and Mustang loyalists-will be very pleased when we publicly roll out the first car later this fall."

Ford Racing has gone through the official NASCAR submission and approval process for the new car, and, once templates are finalized, production of Mustang parts will start so teams can build the first cars for testing later this fall.

"We're excited about the new car in the NASCAR Nationwide Series, and particularly the new body styles such as the Ford Mustang," said NASCAR President Mike Helton. "It's going to be one good-looking race car."

The 2010 Ford Mustang will join the 2010 Fusion (Sprint Cup) and the 2009 Ford F-Series (Camping World Truck Series) as Ford's competitive entries in NASCAR's three major professional series.

"We're excited about being able to race Mustang in front of our loyal NASCAR fan base and know it's going to win races and championships just like it has in every other series it has competed," said Wolfe. "The Mustang created the pony car movement when it debuted in 1964. Now, the NASCAR Mustang has the opportunity to create a whole new look to stock car racing at its highest levels."

MUSTANG IN RACING
From the time the very first Mustang rolled off the assembly line in 1964, it was destined to race. Whether it be from the ‘60s drag racing cars and the Shelby GT350-R SCCA racers, to the Trans-Am Boss 302 Mustangs of the seventies, to the IMSA and Trans-Am cars of the ‘80s and ‘90s, to the drag race and sports car racing Mustangs of today, Mustang has been a winner.

Mustang currently competes professionally in the NHRA Funny Car and Pro Stock divisions and places like the Grand-Am Koni Challenge, SCCA World Challenge, and the Mustang Challenge Series. In addition, thousands of Mustangs see action by grassroots racers at road courses and drag strips all across America.

Since its debut in 1964, Mustang has compiled more than 2,000 professional racing victories in NHRA, Grand-Am, IMSA, SCCA, NMRA and NMCA, as well as other racing series.

THE 2010 MUSTANG
Muscle goes modern for 2010 as the Ford Mustang-America's favorite muscle car for 45 years straight-hits the streets with a new exterior design; new world-class interior featuring well-crafted materials and updated technology; and a V-8 with 315-horsepower and an even throatier signature Mustang exhaust sound.

In true Mustang tradition, there is a "steed for every need." Customers can choose from a V-6 or V-8 with their choice of coupe, convertible or innovative glass roof, plus several new options and features delivering the opportunity for customers to personalize their cleaner, meaner-looking Mustangs.

The new Mustang was recently launched through the The ‘10 Unleashed campaign, which gives enthusiasts the chance to unleash their Mustang side behind the wheel of the new 2010 Mustang-whether it be drifting in Japan like world champion Vaughn Gittin Jr. or customizing a new Mustang using Ford Racing Performance Parts.

Through Aug. 15, consumers may submit their own Mustang dream experience in 250 words or less via Ford's The ‘10 Unleashed site at www.the2010Mustang.com. Written submissions will be judged based on creativity, uniqueness and execution of idea. Winning submissions will be selected every few weeks, and winners will be able to turn their Mustang experience into reality.

Lamborghini Reventon Roadster – Unofficially Official ...

We were beginning to wonder if our exclusive on the Lamborghini Reventon Roadster back in March was going to fall apart. We’d heard that Lamborghini were struggling to find enough punters to stick a deposit on the 9 cars originally planned, and that was accounting for the delay. But it looks like Lamborghini has given up on that plan, and are instead going to unofficially reveal the Reventon Roadster today to a bunch of likely clients.

There now seems to be a bit of confusion over exactly which powerplant the Reventon Roadster will use. Lamborghini’s original plan was to make a Roadster version of the Lamborghini LP670-4SV, but they’ve been having problems with all that power in a Roadster. So it now seems possible that they will effectively Reventon-ise the Lamborghini LP650-4 Roadster, which is already rolling down the production line at Lamborghini. That will still give the Reventon Roadster more power than its Coupe sibling, but not quite the LP670’s power.
more detail. ...

Ford Builds AV-X10 'Dearborn Doll' Mustang for EAA Gathering of Eagles

　
Back in January we hinted Ford Motor Company would build another one-of-a-kind aviation themed Ford Mustang for the Experimental Aircraft Association's 'Gathering of Eagles' fundraiser and we have now learned it's dubbed the AV-X10 "Dearborn Doll" Ford Mustang. The one-off 2010 AV-X10 Mustang will be auctioned off during the 2009 EAA Air Venture Oshkosh fly-in convention which takes place July 27-August 2.


The AV-X10 "Dearborn Doll" Mustang utilizes the 2010 Mustang GT with Glassroof option as the platform base with performance modifications coming from Ford Racing. Under the hood the Mustang is packed with the 10-millionth Romeo Engine Plant 4.6-liter V-8 engine. It also includes a Ford Racing 550 horsepower supercharger kit, FR500S performance exhaust, short throw shifter, Handling Pack featuring dampers, lowering springs and anti-roll bar kit.


You should also know that the AV-X10 is not merely a GT with trick-looking paint. Underhood, the 4.6L V8 has been modified with the Ford Racing Performance Parts 550-horsepower supercharger kit. Enhanced bark comes from an FR500S exhaust, and FRPP's Handling Pack has also been installed to give the AV-X10 extra bite on the tarmac. Inside, the car's got a short-throw shifter, illuminated AV-X10 sill plates, unique aircraft-themed instrumentation, custom bomber-jacket leather, and a special aluminum dash pattern. The power outlet mounted high on the dash has been replaced with an engine start button, too. Want it? Head to Oshkosh, WI next week -- and be sure to bring plenty of money. You'll probably need it.

The interior is a custom one-of-a-kind design that includes "worn" bomber jacket style leather for the trim mated with cockpit inspired diamond tucked seat and door inserts in military olive khaki material. The dash utilizes the OEM aluminum look with a little custom flair by way of unique diamond knurled pattern with "Dearborn Doll" script. The instrumentation includes a Pyrometer, boost and fuel pressure gauges with unique "Ground Speed" and "Engine Speed" AV-X10 graphics. In the middle of the center console air vents is a custom "Engine Start" button.
Source: MustangBlog via autoblog

2010 Kia Rio facelift

The 2010 Kia Rio gains a host of changes and upgrades outside and inside. The sheet metal updates up front include a completely redesigned front fascia with different front bumper and signature grille. The combination of a redesigned front bumper, which incorporates larger air-intake and updated fog-lights, and Kia’s new H-shaped signature grille give Rio more character and more distinctive exterior look.


Kia-World.net, which was first online with the new shots, also reports that the interior is also revised, featuring a new steering wheel, a mildly reconfigured center stack, updated instrumentation, and a stereo system with integrated Bluetooth connectivity. Will we get this update Stateside as the 2010 Kia Rio? Well, the Rio's certainly due for a freshening, so we don't see why not, especially as the automaker makes a move toward a more unified, distinct styling language.


The whole exterior set up now looks much more attractive and a lot closer to the latest Kia offerings. The 2010 Kia Rio reminds us of 2010 Kia cee’d, which has also been announced to receive a mid-life styling change for the new model year.
Source: Kia-World via autoblog

Video: AMS Mitsubishi Lancer EVO X

The Mitsubishi Evo tower of power at AMS Performance (if you're not familiar with them check out the 1,130 hp Evo VIII in the video after the jump) has finally started to play with the new EVO X. So far they managed to extract 385 hp and we're sure this is just the beginning.


They're also working on reducing the weight of the Mitsubishi Evo X. They fitted it with a carbon fiber boot lid, hood and spoilers. The front bumper of the AMS Mitsubishi Lancer EVO X has received a Voltex splitter while the rear shows an adjustable APR spoiler. The wheels arches have also been modified to fit bigger tires.


The brake calipers of the AMS Mitsubishi Lancer EVO X come from Stoptech and to manage the extra power in the corners the suspension has also been modified.


This is how the AMS Mitsubishi Lancer EVO X puts 385 hp on the dyno: standard engine block, a Forced Performance turbo, an upgraded injection system, bigger intercooler, a cold air intake and a modified ECU.
via:zercustoms

Phil Hill's race-winning Jaguar C-Type on the block at Pebble Beach

The upcoming auctions at Pebble Beach are shaping up to be the stuff of legends. Which should come as no big surprise as legends are exactly what will be up for grabs. In addition to the highly anticipated launch of the new "Grand Bentley" amidst the field of lust-worthy machinery on display, auctioneers will be putting such notable classics on the block as Ettore Buggati's own Type 57C, the one-of-a-kind Miller V16 racing car, and this historic 1952 Jaguar C-Type.


The first C-Type Jaguar to be imported into the United States, model XKC-007 was sent straight to the race track where it was driven by no less a talent than the legendary Phil Hill. The World-Champion-to-be took this particular C-Type to three victories at Elkhart Lake, Torrey Pines and Watkins Glen, the former scoring as the first victory for the iconic C-Type in its storied history.


After being retired from active duty, XKC-007 passed through several collections before undergoing a full restoration in 1986, after which it won numerous awards on the vintage concours circuit – including a reunion date with Phil Hill to commemorate Jaguar's 50th anniversary in 2002. XKC-007 will be up for auction at RM's three-day Sports & Classics of Monterey event from August 13-15. Details in the press release after the jump and images in the gallery below.



More Photos


PRESS RELEASE

HISTORIC 1952 JAGUAR C-TYPE SPORTS RACER, DRIVEN TO VICTORY BY PHIL HILL, JOINS STARTING LINE-UP FOR RM'S MONTEREY SALE
Sports & Classics of Monterey

BLENHEIM, Ontario (June 10, 2009) – A historic 1952 Jaguar C-Type Sports Racing Car that was driven to victory in 1952 by the legendary Phil Hill to claim the Jaguar C-Type's first North American racing victory has joined the starting line-up for RM Auctions Sports & Classics of Monterey event, to be held August 13th – 15th in Monterey, California.

The rare C-Type, designated XKC-007, was one of just 53 examples built and one of the first Jaguar C-Types delivered to the United States. Shipped to New York in 1952, this example was immediately driven to Elkhart Lake, Wisconsin, where it, along with XKC-009, made their competitive racing debuts as part of the company's North American sales pitch for the model. It was at this meet that XKC-007 made Jaguar history when the eventual World Champion driver, Phil Hill – then just 25 – drove it to victory in The Sheldon Cup. Under the sponsorship of Charles Hornburg, the Western United States Jaguar distributor, and with Phil Hill back behind the wheel, XKC-007 went on to achieve further success at Torrey Pines that same year.

XKC-007 passed through the hands of numerous owners over the following years and was fully restored by noted Jaguar expert Terry Larson before making its way into the distinguished, private collection of Jerry and Kathy Nell in 1993 where it has remained ever since. Presented in period correct condition, it notably displays the signature of the great Phil Hill and retains its original, numbers matching engine.Throughout its racing career, XKC-007 was never crashed.

"RM Auctions is truly honored to represent this outstanding C-Type on behalf of its long term owner. XKC-007 is certainly the most historically significant Jaguar C-Types to ever come to auction during Monterey's famed classic car week and its well-known provenance, coupled with its historically significant racing history and victories, is set to attract the interest of discerning collectors around the world," said Ian Kelleher, President and Chief Operating Officer of RM Auctions.

"It is without question an amazing opportunity for collectors and enthusiasts to have the chance of successfully bidding on and owning the best of the very best," he added.

In addition to its rich race history, XKC-007 has enjoyed success on the show field, awarded a national championship in 1994 by the Jaguar Club of North America. In 2002 it was reunited with Phil Hill at Pebble Beach to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the C-Type, as well as at another commemorative event in 2006 in Elkhart Lake when the famed Wisconsin road track was listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

The rare 1952 Jaguar C-Type Sports Racing Car, chassis number XKC-007, will lead a magnificent line-up of investment-quality collector cars when RM Auctions highly anticipated Sports & Classics of Monterey auction event returns to the Portola Hotel and Spa, 2 Portola Plaza, Monterey, California, August 13th to 15th. The auction preview will commence August 12th from 12noon – 6:00pm, followed by full-day previews on August 13th through 15th with auction action each evening. Admission to the three-day event is $40.00 USD per person. An official auction catalog is available for an additional $100 USD.

For further information and full event details, please visit www.rmauctions.com or call 800-211-4371 (within North America) or +1 519 352 4575.

About RM Auctions
Celebrating 30 years in the collector car industry, RM Auctions and its associated companies are responsible for acquisitions, restorations and sales of the world's rarest and most valuable vintage automobiles, including record-breaking sales in Maranello, Italy and London, England. RM's restoration division achieved unprecedented accolades in 2006, when the Company earned "Best of Show" honors at the world's top three collector car events in a single year. www.rmauctions.com