On May 22nd, the Aston Martin used as a test mule for the classic 1964 James Bond film, Goldfinger, will go up for auction at Bonhams’ sale in Newport Pagnell, UK. It is expected to fetch $59,000 – $74,000.
The highly sought-after vehicle is a 1962 Aston Martin DB4 Series IV Vantage Saloon. Initially built for media mogul Max Aitken, it was sold the following year and has not been on the market since. Auctioneers are deeming this automobile a ‘barn find’ – a term used by sellers when a rare icon of the past is found hidden away in a barn, storage unit or, in this case, a garage.
In its heyday, the car was often used as a production aid at Pinewood Studios, where its owner worked as a special effects designer. During the filming of Goldfinger, the car was used as a measuring device for various gadgets that would later be installed in the silver DB5 driven by the original Bond (Sean Connery) in the film.
Aside from its unique history, this Aston Martin has been customized to further set it apart from other remaining cars in its class. It is adorned with a special factory-fitted clutch, engine vacuum gauge and a thermostatically activated over heating alert.
Bonhams’ is auctioning the car in an ‘as-is’ condition with the inclusion of a copy old-style logbook and Swansea V5.
Known as one of the largest and most prominent auctioneers of classing and vintage Aston Martins, Roll-Royces and Jaguars, this year’s Bonhams’ Newport Pagnell sale will open for viewing on Friday, May 21st at 6PM.
Known as the German Lamborghini, Audi saw what the Italian company did to their Gallardo series and followed suit, giving the Supperleggera treatment to their R8. Named the R8 GT, Audi was able to shed a whopping 220 pounds, more than Lamborghini shed for their Gallardo Supperleggera.
Without removing any of the GT’s amenities or options, it was refitted with lighter parts, such as the bucket seats which by itself shed almost 70 pounds. Thinner windshield glass, higher-grade steel exhaust, and the lightweight carbon fiber are also examples of how Audi was able to reduce weight; the battery, carpet, brake hats, insulation, and air intake are all lighter as well. Keeping the same 0.36 coefficient of drag and 12.42 square-foot frontal area, Audi was able to improve its downforce, and replace the movable aerodynamic flap with a fixed carbon wing.
Increasing the output capacity of the 5.2-liter V10 engine up to 560 hp (35 more hp than the original), Audi enabled the R8 GT to get up to 100 km/h in just 3.6 seconds. It boasts a top speed of 320 km/h (198 mph). Also new for the GT is the Quattro all-wheel drive that is controlled by R tronic single-clutch automated manual transmission.
Highlights of the R8 GT include improved handling due to higher front and rear wheel camber rates. A manually adjustable coilover suspension also lowers the entire body by as much as 10 millimeters. The LED headlights that are optional on the original R8 come standard with the GT, as does the automatic climate control system, power windows, and navigation system with MMI operating logic. Although a powerful sound system is provided, it can be upgraded to a 465-watt, ten-channel Bang & Olufsen system.
Furthermore, Audi created a race package that includes a bolt-in roll bar in red or black as well as road-approved four-point belts in red or black, a fire extinguisher and a kill switch for the battery.
A limited edition of only 333 units, each R8 GT comes with a badge that has the production number engraved on the shift lever. The “R8 GT” logo decorate the matt aluminum trims on the door sills.
Available in four color choices – Samoa Orange metallic, Suzuka Gray metallic, Ice Silver metallic and Phantom Black pearl – the Audi R8 GT is priced at €193,000 ($255,000).
Highly acclaimed Swedish designer Mikael Lugnegard has designed the ‘Seraphim’ – a solid gold motorcycle.
Although the entire motorcycle is not covered in solid gold, the pristine placement of gold produces a regal aesthetic. From the expertly detailed front forks, to the comfortable saddle-shaped seat, the ‘Seraphim’ embodies the ultimate blend of vintage innovation.
Supported by the intricate golden spoke design, the low-leveled, split handlebar allows the driver to embrace the vibrations of the engine while reaching maximum speeds. With the elegant body, the ‘Seraphim’ is able to fashion the majestic spirit of the golden engine and gears.
Available now, the ‘Seraphim’ is truly a revolutionary motorcycle.
-Affluent Page