Showing posts with label convertible. Show all posts
Showing posts with label convertible. Show all posts

Wednesday, March 27, 2024

McLaren Artura Spider

Being around for three years, the hybrid McLaren supercar called the Artura is now made even better for the 2025 model year. It's not just the power increase to its V6 hybrid powertrain but the addition of the new Spider variant makes sense.

2025 McLaren Artura Spider
2025 McLaren Artura Spider

2025 McLaren Artura Spider
2025 McLaren Artura Spider

Starting at 221,500 Pounds plus additional costs, the first-ever Artura Spider delivers the open-air experience to the Artura you know while blessed with numerous improvements to get hooked with it for longer.

At first glance, it looks just like the Artura but with a retractable hardtop that can be opened or closed at the touch of a button. It's hard to differentiate it from the normal hardtop Artura, but expect the added weight compared to the normal Artura because the Spider adds 137lbs of weight, Spider's 3212 vs Artura's 3075.

Despite the weight penalty, the performance is almost intact. Thanks to its updated PHEV powertrain with its 3.0L V6 Twin Turbo engine mated to an axial flux motor and a refrigerant-cooled 7.4kWh Li-ion battery producing 700PS of power output, it does 0-62mph in three seconds and a top speed of 205mph (330km/h). Like the hardtop equivalent, the Spider is mated to an 8-speed SSG.

In terms of efficiency, the Spider, like its hardtop equivalent, has a fuel economy of 58.9mpg (4.8L/100km) based on EU WLTP standards and running on electric power alone, it's good for 21 miles (33km), good while you're in the suburbs or in streets of London.

For speedo boys channeling their inner Lando Norris or Oscar Piastri, the Artura Spider, like its hardtop equivalent, is McLaren at its best on the road and on the track because of its near-perfect weight distribution courtesy of its carbon bodywork, front double wishbone, multi-link rear, Proactive Damping Control, electro-hydraulic power-assisted steering, Carbon Ceramic Discs, forged aluminum brake calipers, and Pirelli Cyber Tyres that provide real-time data on temperature and pressure to the car and driver, crucial for safety on and off the track. It even has Variable Drift Control that can adjust its drifting angle as well.

With the upgraded hybrid power and the new Spider variant, the first-ever McLaren Artura is now made even better than when it was new three years ago. Be ready for it.

Photo: McLaren

Monday, August 28, 2023

Chevrolet Corvette C8 E-Ray

To the eyes of purists, the Chevrolet Corvette C8 is treason to its heritage because of its mid-engine layout and to add more salt to the wounds, the first-ever hybrid Corvette comes to life. A fitting upset to the Corvette's seven-decade history.

2024 Chevrolet Corvette E-Ray
2024 Chevrolet Corvette E-Ray

2024 Chevrolet Corvette E-Ray
2024 Chevrolet Corvette E-Ray Convertible

Starting at an epically expensive 102,900 US Dollars plus additional costs, the first-ever Chevrolet Corvette E-Ray, in coupe and convertible forms, is by no means the biggest treason to the Corvette's seven-decade heritage because this is the first time a Corvette's been hybridized and the first to have AWD a la Honda NSX.

While the styling is more of a toned version of the Z06 while the interior works and feels just like most of the C8 Corvette lineup, the E-Ray's hybrid powertrain is the most controversial feature worth noting. The 6.2L LT2 V8 engine is mated to an electric drive unit, producing a total power output of 655HP. Although awfully close to the Z06, it's more powerful than the now-defunct Honda NSX, in Type S form. Unlike the NSX, the E-Ray is one gear short, 8 vs. 9.

Thanks to its electric drive unit, drivers can engage Stealth Mode to run on electric power only for up to four miles at 45mph. Handy if you want to quietly leave your home for a little night out at the pub with your friends. That's the element of surprise, the Corvette way. 

Because this is the first Corvette in history to have AWD, it has a 0-60mph time of 2.5 seconds and a quarter-mile time of 10.5 seconds. Whilst the added punching power, the AWD system made the Corvette E-Ray capable of going places that no supercars can't and thanks to its all-season tires, there's no need to wait for summer to let it loose in the wilderness. 

You can really take it to the track even when the weather has a gloomy outlook, although you may need to wait for another summer vacation to unleash its full potential when you have the ZER Performance Package which comes with high-performance Michelin® Pilot Sport 4 S ZP summer-only tires as well as chassis tuning and other performance enhancements. Bummer but not as bummer as the fact that most Corvette clubs actually ban the E-Ray for racing on track days due to fire concerns.

Yes, the Corvette E-Ray is no doubt the most controversial Corvette ever made because of its hybrid powertrain and all-wheel-drive but despite being a treason to the Corvette heritage, this is the ideal substitute for the now-defunct Honda NSX. In fact, jealousy is an out-of-issue for the Corvette E-Ray because this car is making its appearance in the new Forza Motorsport game and it's going to be as awesome as most supercars can get.

Love it or hate it, the Corvette E-Ray is ready to strike first and ask questions never. Be prepared to want one.

Photo: General Motors

Monday, July 31, 2023

Ford Mustang - Seventh Generation

The previous-generation Ford Mustang rewrote the history of America's greatest muscle car by taking over the world with its stampede. With its world-renowned dynamics, raw American power, and classic Mustang moments, it really was the turning point for the now world-proven muscle car. Hot on the heels on the road to its 60th anniversary, the seventh-generation Mustang is unleashed, picking up the pieces where its world-proven predecessor left off.

2024 Ford Mustang
2024 Ford Mustang Convertible

America's longest-running muscle car is now on its seventh generation and the all-new Mustang is locked and loaded with new and exciting features that will show speedo boys worldwide this is the pure alpha and pure omega of the new normal. Speaking of pure omega, it really is because with the competition's gone extinct, this is the only muscle car you'll gonna need in this unstable world.

2024 Ford Mustang
2024 Ford Mustang

Beginning with the styling, the all-new Mustang looks vaguely similar to the pre-facelifted sixth-generation predecessor but they've sharpened it knife-edge to make the all-new model the sharpest-looking Mustang on the road, be it hardtop or open-top. As expected, the iconic rear view retains and when the signals flare up, watch out because they're still scary to look at just like someone's full moon.

2024 Ford Mustang
2024 Ford Mustang interior

2024 Ford Mustang
2024 Ford Mustang Convertible interior

Sharp the new exterior is, the new interior is a real shock for the speedo boys behind the wheel because of the dual display with a 13.2-inch touchscreen. Although there are buttons and switches involved, navigating through this brand-new touchscreen is a mere herculean task, especially for seasoned Mustang veterans. 

Complain all you want about the dashboard but the optional RECARO seats and a cool-looking handbrake dubbed the Drift Brake adds some fun to your Mustang driving pleasure. As for spacing, it feels slightly roomier compared to its predecessor, although the rear seats are still deemed nearly inaccessible for humans like you, meaning it only works for your pets, a child seat, or some extra goodies in case your 13.5cu.ft. boot space is full.

2024 Ford Mustang
2024 Ford Mustang

Now, let's talk more about the performance and this is where the seventh-generation Mustang gets its hooves. Of course, the Drift Brake is one of the signature features you can find on this model but let's dig more on the other cool features on this seventh-gen Stang. While retaining the independent rear suspension and line lock from its predecessor, the seventh-generation Mustang features an updated MagneRide Damping System as well as selectable Electric Power-Assisted Steering with three settings. When you get it right, this new model feels so much addictive to drive even on the bends. Smoke it all you want because this could be your last muscle car to smoke with for eternity.

Under the hood, the seventh-generation Mustang features two engine choices such as the 2.3L EcoBoost engine with Modular Power Cylinder, producing 315hp of power and 350lb-ft torque, and the fourth-generation 5.0L Coyote V8 engine that produces 486HP of horsepower and 418lb-ft of torque, not to mention the secret Remote Rev feature that allows you to rev the engine with your remote car key. All engines are mated to either a 10-speed automatic or a 6-speed manual gearbox.

Those who want more from the Mustang can consider the potent Dark Horse variant packed with the 500HP 5.0L Coyote V8 engine, specially-made 6-speed TREMEC manual, and Brembo brake system.

Addictive the all-new Mustang's performance is but what's not addictive is the implementation of Ford Co-Pilot360 safety features consisting of Auto High-Beam Headlamps, AutoLamp Headlamps, BLIS, Lane-Keeping System, Pre-Collision Assist with AEB, Post-Impack Braking, Digital Rear View Camera, Rain-Sensing Wipers, and Rear Parking Sensors, among many others.

The all-new seventh-generation Mustang starts at 30,920 US Dollars for the coupe, 39,020 US Dollars for the convertible, and 50,270 US Dollars for the Dark Horse.

With its legendary performance, controversial technology, the unique Drift Brake, and the more potent Dark Horse variant, rest assured that the seventh-generation Mustang is the last word in American performance, and as the competition's gone extinct, this Mustang means forever even until the end of time itself. You'd be glad to have it when you had the chance to drive the last true American muscle car.

Photo: Ford Motor Company

Tuesday, June 13, 2023

Ferrari Roma Spider

The first-ever Ferrari Roma is a different kind of Ferrari that puts the priority on the road first rather at the track because of its road-focused suspension and chassis setup that sets itself apart from the other relatives but being a Ferrari, it's got a lot of race-derived tech on it, meaning that even if it's prioritized to feel at home on the road, it's worth addictive to drive and you can spend lots of moments toying around with the Roma all day.

For those who are looking for the same Roma experience but prefer to have its roof off, the first-ever Roma Spider has arrived.

2024 Ferrari Roma Spider
2024 Ferrari Roma Spider

Priced somewhere at the 250K Euro mark, the Roma Spider served as the replacement for the Portofino because it's already served its purpose and the Roma takes over as Ferrari's decent grand tourer for speedo boys who like to take it to the Amalfi more than Monza.

It possesses the same characteristics as its hardtop equivalent but the Spider comes with a retractable soft-top that can be opened or closed in 13-and-a-half seconds even at cruising speeds of up to 100kph. With the roof down, the Roma Spider shows its true beauty beneath this grand touring work of art.

You can still expect the same front-mid-engined 4.0L Turbocharged V8 engine as the hardtop, producing 620PS of power and 760Nm of torque while mated to an 8-speed DCT as seen on the SF90, but because this is the open-top version, the weight has gone up by 84kg. Thankfully, the performance figures are nearly the same; meaning it can still do 0-100kph in 3.4 seconds and flat out in 320kph.

Like the hardtop, the Roma Spider puts the priority on the road first rather at the track because of its road-focused suspension and chassis setup but being a Ferrari, it's got a lot of race-derived tech on it, meaning that even if it's prioritized to feel at home on the road, it's worth addictive to drive and you can spend lots of moments toying around with it all day.

A decent replacement to the now-defunct Portofino, the Roma Spider does all of the work and play from its hardtop equivalent but with the retractable roof to show its true beauty everywhere. This is the greatest grand tourer Ferrari has ever spawned. Although not perfect, this is impossible to ignore because it's a Ferrari.

Photo: Ferrari

Saturday, December 31, 2022

Maserati MC20 Cielo

The MC20 marked the new beginning for Maserati and as the world is struggling with the new normal, where crossovers are superheroes, this is the antithesis every car enthusiast needs. With its strikingly great styling, driver-focused interior, and performance that is quintessentially Italian, the MC20 became every speedo boy's newest favorite Italian supercar for the time being.

2023 Maserati MC20 Cielo

Those who want an open-top version should consider the MC20 Cielo, the roadster version that offers the same thrills as its hardtop equivalent but with a foldable glass roof at the top. Yours for less than 220K Euros.

Unlike most drop-tops, the MC20 Cielo features a two-piece folding glass roof that takes 12 seconds to open or close and it can turn opaque at the touch of a button. Sounds like a party piece but the roof-folding mechanism adds 65kg of weight.

Despite the added weight, the Cielo behaves just like its hardtop equivalent as expected. Armed with the 630PS 3.0L 6-cylinder twin-turbo Nettuno engine mated to an 8-speed DCT, the MC20 Cielo can sprint from 0-100kph in 2.9 seconds and can go all the way to 325kph. It's still great to drive even with the roof down and because it features a double-wishbone suspension system with active shock absorbers as well as the composite material monocoque soaked in carbon fiber, the Cielo behaves like a racecar on the track, just like what the hardtop equivalent should.

Glass roof or not, the MC20 Cielo is all about taking leaps and bounds from its hardtop equivalent despite the added weight penalty. Like the hardtop equivalent, the MC20 Cielo is quintessentially Italian and it too will become every speedo boy's newest favorite Italian supercar for the time being.

Photo: Maserati

Monday, December 26, 2022

Chevrolet Corvette C8 Z06

The eighth-generation Corvette may be a treason to the Corvette history, as purists feared, because of its mid-engine layout, it's by far the best sports car ever to come out from America and those behind it sure know how to make a Corvette great again, whatever the reason. Those who want a greater Corvette should consider the Z06 because hey, how about those Republicans?

2023 Chevrolet Corvette Z06
2023 Chevrolet Corvette Z06

Starting at a costly $105,300 plus additional costs, the all-new C8 Corvette Z06, in coupe and convertible flavors, is the best of both worlds for speedo boys behind the wheel. By employing some of the know-how from the C8.R racing machine, the Z06 transformed the C8 Corvette into a full-blown supercar that can chomp on asphalt with some southern hospitality as would say.

While the styling and interior are broadly similar to the normal C8 Corvette, the new Z06 features unique styling features such as quad center exhausts on the rear, wider fenders, quarter panels, and fascias, standard ground effects and spoiler, replaceable spoiler wicker bills, rear brake cooling ducts, removable front fascia panel, and front underwing stall Gurneys for improved aerodynamics compared to the normal C8.

Considering a shock to the world's best supercars, the C8 Z06 's V8 engine is back to being a naturally aspirated one. It's a 5.5L V8 naturally aspirated engine that produces 670HP of power and while mated to a standard 8-speed AT, it does 0-60mph in 2.6 seconds. Although it's as fast as the original Lamborghini Aventador, the most powerful European supercars can still eat it because of the C8 Z06's naturally aspirated engine, which is surprisingly the most powerful NA engine...in the world. As for the soundtrack, it's proper Southern hospitality because this engine roars like a muscle car. Hey, how about those Republicans?

Aside from the old-school engine that powers it, the dynamics are a worthy challenge for the C8 Z06. Using most of the know-how from the C8.R race car, the available Brembo carbon ceramic brakes, and the Z07 Performance Package, the C8 Z06 feels like home on the road and track. Getting crazy with it, the Z06 will show its iron fist approach to your driving pleasure. Consider yourselves Texas Smashed.

With its naturally aspirated V8 engine, C8.R-inspired dynamics, and sleek aerodynamics, the C8 Z06 has evolved from a typical Corvette into a proper purist's sportscar, akin to Porsche's 992 911 GT3. Because of such developments, the new model is proud to show its "Make Z06 Great Again" banner around town. 

This Corvette has turned...

Photo: General Motors

Wednesday, April 6, 2022

Mercedes-AMG SL (R232)

For nearly seven decades, the SL became a legend in the Mercedes heritage since the legendary 300SL of the 50s. Fast forward to this decade and the SL legend lives on at the hands of Mercedes-AMG. Welcome to the Mercedes-AMG SL.

2023 Mercedes-AMG SL

No longer called the Mercedes-Benz SL-Class, the first-ever Mercedes-AMG SL continues the SL lineage in a whole new approach by delivering a new kind of driving experience speedo boys will never forget.

For starters, the sizing of the AMG SL is somewhat bigger compared to the R231 predecessor despite being sized to AMG GT standards. Of course, the AMG SL served as the replacement for the AMG GT Roadster so no complaints here. As for the design, it's obviously similar to the AMG GT so, again, no complaints. Oh wait, there's one and that's the roof because, being on the left side of their tradition, the new model ditched the Vario-Roof approach in favor of a more traditional one. A snub on one of their innovations, if you know what I mean. Despite that, the AMG SL is still an elegant grand tourer that can be taken on the road and on the track as most speedo boys do.

2023 Mercedes-AMG SL

Moving aside from its dynamic and sporty exterior design, the AMG SL's interior is what happens when you invite Chappie for a cup of tea that tastes like lemons. Speaking of lemons, it's the massive touchscreen that most speedo boys will irritate the most. What's even more irritating is the "Hey Mercedes" voice feature and when your date starts saying this magic word, all hell breaks loose while cruising on the streets of New York, Miami, or Los Angeles. Leaving aside from the unfortunate touch screen that is sized like a Tesla, the AMG SL's seats can be tailored to either plushy or sporty, depending on whatever you want for this ride. After all, it's all in the name of the "make money, make dream" approach.

What about performance? Beginning with the SL55, which is priced at 158,240 Euros plus additional costs, the 4.0L V8 BiTurbo engine produces 476PS of power, while the 187,098 Euro SL63 produces a massive 585PS of power, capable of 0-100kph time of 3.6 seconds and 315kph of top speed. All are mated to a 9-speed MCT and 4MATIC+. What? The AMG SL is a four-wheel-drive roadster? Absolutely and while its layout irritates speedo boys, its fully variable torque distribution allows it to behave in either a four-wheel-drive or rear-wheel-drive, depending on road conditions.

Combined with the most sophisticated suspension and dynamics setup honed by AMG engineers, the end result is an all-rounder sports car that can be enjoyed almost everywhere and it delivers a mega punch on the straights.

Having a blast enjoying its dynamics fit for an open-top grand tourer, the AMG SL is stuck with the most advanced driving assistance systems and while such things work in normal driving conditions, they can be worth intimidating for speedo boys behind the wheel.

Is the Mercedes-AMG SL a revolution or a sacrilege to the SL lineage? No one knows until you get a hold of it but either way, this one's on the wish list because...argh, we just want one, please.

Photo: Daimler AG

Monday, December 6, 2021

Ferrari SF90 Spider

The controversially fast and economical midship PHEV supercar from Ferrari, the SF90, is now offered with a retractable hardtop variant called the SF90 Spider, offering the same thrills as its coupe counterpart but with the foldable roof in it.


Priced almost half a million euros, which is more expensive than its hardtop equivalent, the SF90 Spider is the first-ever PHEV convertible Ferrari made that sets the new gold standard for high-performance PHEVs. As said, the Spider delivers the same thrills as its coupe counterpart but with the foldable roof in it in case you're cruising on the streets of Los Angeles like a proper high-roller with ill-gotten gains after hours.

Like the hardtop equivalent, the SF90 Spider features a plug-in hybrid setup where the turbocharged F154 4.0L V8 engine, producing 780PS of power, is connected to three electric motors, two on the front axle and one between the engine and the 8-speed double-clutch gearbox, resulting to a monstrous 1,000PS of total power output. Although it weighs 25kg more than the normal SF90 Stradale, the performance figures remain the same. 0-100kph time of 2.5 seconds and a top speed of 340kph.

Fast and scary the Spider is, it still boasts the same F1-inspired dynamics, electronic Traction Control, brake-by-wire control, and torque vectoring as its hardtop equivalent despite the slightly added weight. On the road, it feels civilized, but on the track, it's still as vitriolic as its hardtop equivalent. It's still a true professional driver's car from start to finish. Once hooked, you can't get enough with it until you are truly satisfied.

This or the hardtop?

Photo: Ferrari

Tuesday, November 23, 2021

BMW M4 Cabriolet (G83)

The monstrously-grilled BMW M4 is also available in the open-top Cabriolet version and it offers the same driving thrills and spills of the Coupe, now with the foldable hardtop if you're in the mood for open-top driving on sunshine.

2022 BMW M4 Cabriolet

Priced at 98,500 Euros plus additional costs, the Cabriolet version of the M4 is more expensive and bulkier than its coupe equivalent but it still behaves like it, not to mention the monstrously-huge vertical kidney grilles at the front to put salt to your wounds.

Of course, behind the monster grilles, the M4 Cabriolet still dons the same reworked dynamics, improved performance, cutting-edge tech, and more, just like its coupe equivalent. The same goes for the interior as well, but don't toy with the Alexa-ish BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant or you'll ruin somebody's day.

The M4 Cabriolet is offered exclusively in Competition trim, donning the same 3.0L twin-turbo six-cylinder engine from the coupe version, producing 510PS of power and 650Nm of torque while mated to an 8-speed automatic gearbox and the rear-biased M xDrive all-wheel-drive system that lets you have fun without the drama involved. 

Despite being heavier than the coupe, which is the main reason why its 0-100kph time has increased to 3.7 seconds compared to the M4 Coupe Competition xDrive's 3.5-second mark, the M4 Cabriolet is still as fun to drive as the coupe because of its sport-tuned dynamics that work wondrously on the road and track, and thanks to its M xDrive all-wheel-drive system that works like the current M5, it's still as addictive as the coupe equivalent. You'll spend the rest of the day cranking the ohms until you are as high as a kite flying in a middle of a thunderstorm.

Just like its coupe equivalent, the M4 Cabriolet is bad plus good equals better for everyone who is man enough to drive this monster.

Photo: BMW

Friday, March 5, 2021

BMW 4-Series G22 Cabriolet

The 4-Series G22 from BMW. When it was first came out late last year, this new model draws flak for having a monstrously sized kidney grille that BMW calls it their new normal but still, bad styling, good interior, good performance, and good tech equals better for almost everyone is what this new model sums up. What about the open-top version?

2021 BMW 4-Series Cabriolet

Priced at 54,800 Euros plus additional costs, making it more expensive to own than its hardtop equivalent, the new 4-Series Cabriolet carries the same stuff you'd expect from its hardtop equivalent, only this time in open-top form just in time for your spring break to the open roads, getting away from the city streets that are becoming too grim for you because of you-know-what.

Of course, you are still greeted by the monstrously huge kidney grille that is the "new normal" for BMW as well as other stuff on the inside where you can toy around with its multimedia features as well as its climate controls, not to mention seating for four or five people if you know what I mean, but as a cabriolet, it's got a new foldable sotftop that can be closed or open at the touch of the button. Although it eats away boot space, it's still got slightly more room in the back compared from the previous model, meaning it's a decent grocery hauler on a daily basis.

Like its coupe equivalent, the 4-Series Cabriolet has a choice of either a 2.0L petrol, a 2.0L diesel (the one to avoid since this is Europe today), and then the 374PS 3.0L 6-cylinder turbocharged engine from the range-topper M440i xDrive variant. All variants are mated to an 8-speed Steptronic as standard as well as the micro-hybrid nonsense as well.

Although heavier than the coupe, the new 4-Series Cabriolet still drives better than before because it's got near-perfect weight distribution, sophisticated suspension and chassis setup, better aerodynamics, lower center of gravity, and so on. In its normal rear-wheel drive guise, the new 4-Series still works like a real BMW most speedo boys adorned, but with xDrive on the M440i, expect punchlines that will get you hooked for more.

Of course, like the coupe, the new 4-Series Cabriolet features a wide range of ADAS driving tech that are too much to bear for speedo boys behind the wheel.

Bad styling, good interior, good performance, and good tech equals better for almost everyone, just like its coupe equivalent.

Photo: BMW

Thursday, December 31, 2020

Lexus LC Convertible

The Lexus LC Convertible is now a living thing and it joined alongside the LC lineup, signaling Lexus' return to convertibles since the IS C and the SC, two forgotten open-tops. The question is, will the LC Convertible face the same fate as the other two or is it as fun to drive as its hardtop equivalent?

2021 Lexus LC Convertible

With prices starting at 15,000,000 Japanese Yen, it's about as costly as the LC500h in S Package grade, which is somewhat well-gambled for the wealthy speedo boy looking for a luxury Japanese sportscar that loves to taste the asphalt all day long.

Unlike its hardtop equivalent, the LC Convertible is available only with the almost prehistoric 2UR-GSE 4.0L V8 engine that produces 477 PS of power and 540Nm of torque while mated to a 10-speed Automatic Gearbox, which is common sense for the speedo boys.

Because being a convertible, it has gained around a hundred kilos of weight compared to the coupe but the added weight didn't bother its fun-to-drive character. Sure, it's not as fast and as quick as its European rivals but as a grand tourer, the LC Convertible truly fits the bill perfectly. Roof on or roof off, it really shows how much of a Lexus the LC Convertible is and for speedo boys, it's glory days.

Its enjoyable dynamics, despite the added weight and the expensive pricing worthy of a gambit, is what made the LC Convertible a good luxury sports car all around. Yes, it's not capable of winning drag races and track days but for a smooth ride like a grand tourer, the LC Convertible, like its hardtop equivalent, really means business and pleasure and we'd really want to thank Toyota for that.

Photo: Toyota Motor Corporation

Ferrari Roma vs. Ferrari Portofino M

Ferrari's newest grand tourer, the Roma, is unlike any other Ferrari we are familiar with because most Ferraris are born for racetracks, the Roma, like its Portofino brother, prefers to have a laid-back attitude because it likes to be enjoyed on the road rather on the track or is it?



So, what is the Ferrari Roma? For less than 200K, this is the least expensive Ferrari you can buy, making it a hard bargain for the rich speedo boys looking for a Ferrari to begin with.

Unlike most Ferraris that prefer to look like racecars, the Roma features a more contemporary styling that blends passion with drama the Italian way and there's no judgment for that. When you take it for a spin around city centers, the Roma is a worthy feature attraction that gets all the attention it deserves like most expensive sportscars do in their daily life.


The interior, meanwhile, is a big shock because this is the first time a Ferrari has gone the tall screen approach like most vehicles today, and while it sports familiar Ferrari interior items such as the display near the glove compartment and the complicated steering wheel like most Ferraris had, the Roma comes with a super cool car key in the shape of the Ferrari badge. You insert it and you're in charge. That's it.


Unlike most Ferraris, the Roma runs on a brand new powertrain consisting of a front-mid-engined 4.0L Turbocharged V8 engine producing 620PS of power and 760Nm of torque and while mated to a new 8-speed DCT as seen on the SF90, it can go from 0-100kph in three and a half seconds and onwards to over 320kph. That's quicker than its main foe, the Aston Martin Vantage, by a long shot.

Apart from the performance it delivers, the Roma is a different kind of Ferrari that puts the priority on the road first rather at the track because of its road-focused suspension and chassis setup that sets itself apart from the other relatives but being a Ferrari, it's got a lot of race-derived tech on it, meaning that even if it's prioritized to feel at home on the road, it's worth addictive to drive and you can spend lots of moments toying around with the Roma all day.

While it was known to be the Ferrari that likes to be enjoyed on the road, some might say that the Roma is no doubt one of the best grand tourers made in this era but the question is, would you like it more than the open-top Portofino?


I just said Portofino because the open-top Ferrari we are all familiar with now comes with an updated version called the Portofino M, the improved version of Ferrari's open-top grand tourer that tries to question the Roma's authority.


Although it's priced over ten grand more than the Roma, the improved Portofino picks up where the previous Portofino left off but with some revised styling to match it as well as the new, more complicated, steering wheel as seen on the Roma on the inside, among many other updates in store for the Portofino M.



Like the Roma, the Portofino M's armed with the 4.0L V8 Twin Turbo engine produces 620PS of power and 760Nm of torque and is mated to the 8-speed DCT. Although it weighs more than the Roma, the Portofino M's performance matches the Roma's, meaning it can go from 0-100kph in three and a half seconds and onwards to over 320kph. It's quicker than the old Portofino, of course.

In the past, I said that the Ferrari Portofino truly defies expectations of what a grand tourer should be and in Ferrari's case, be it for pleasure-seeking or for going all-out. The M, meanwhile, is the same but better because the dynamics are even more breathable and more enjoyable to drive than the old one. It's got the new Side Slip Control 6.0 as seen on the Roma as well, meaning that even if its prioritized to feel at home on the road, it's worth addictive to drive, just like the Roma.

So, there we are; the Roma and the Portofino M. They may be road-focused grand tourers but they behave just like a true Ferrari, and looks like all bets are off with these newest grand tourers offered by the Prancing Horse. This is serious stuff and they really mean it.

Photo: Ferrari

Porsche 911 (992) Targa

The previous 991-spec 911 Targa proved that it's all about being a throwback machine rather than being a sportscar destined to be parked somewhere in the South of France. We all love the folding mechanism that shows that it's a real targa top sportscar and nothing else and with the arrival of the 992-spec 911 Targa, looks like the evolved version still wants to carry on the footsteps of its predecessor, any way it can.


Priced at 128,486 Euros plus additional costs, the Targa completes the normal 992-spec 911 range with the coupe and cabriolet in sight, and with the other two are enjoying the fruits of their labor because of more powerful versions on the horizon, the Targa feels like it's like being the only son in the family of girls, whatever that means.

While it retains the same folding mechanism from its predecessor, the new 911 Targa is powered by the same 3.0L flat-six turbo engine as the other variants, producing up to 450PS of power output and while mated to an 8-speed PDK, it can go from 0-100kph in less than four seconds and onwards to about 304kph. That's about the same as the 911 Carrera 4S Cabriolet of course.

While it's bulkier than the Cabriolet, the 911 Targa still packs the sane mild and tangy driving feel of its derivatives, be it a 2WD RR or a 4WD and compared to its previous model, it's performing better than ever because of its dynamics,  direct steering ratio, rear-axle setting, available lift system on the front axle, and adaptive aerodynamics as experienced in other variants, not to mention the annoying ones like the Lane Keeping Assist with traffic sign recognition, Lane Change Assist with visual warning, Night Vision Assist with thermal imaging camera, ParkAssist, Surround View, and other safety features worth noticing.

Which of the normal 992 911 variants would you want to drive? The coupe? The cabriolet? Or the Targa?

Photo: Dr. Ing. h.c. F. Porsche AG

Jaguar F-Type (2021 minor change)

The Jaguar sportscar every speedo boy fell in love with since the beginning, the F-Type range, has been given an extensive minor change for 2021 model year and it's packed with extensive updates that will keep them longing for more. What's it all about the latest minor change for these lightweight luxury cruisers?


With prices start at 54,510 Pounds plus additional costs, the heavily facelifted Jaguar F-Type, in coupe and convertible variants, is a bold statement as done by its new, sharp-looking, front face that looks like every other Jaguar in the family tree but either way, the bold new look makes the new F-Type even more attractive to have one in their garage as long as they don't make a big fuss about it.


While the heavily revised exterior design is something to fall in love with, the interior looks pretty much the same as last time except now the screen's gotten bigger and more high-definition compared to the previous model. Also, the instrumental panel's gotten even more digital, which is rather nice for a sports car but that high-tech enhancements somewhat spoils your driving experience.

With the loss of the manual gearbox is the most worrying fact about the new F-Type, the choice of engines are streamlined for your cherry-picking pleasure. It features a range of four, six, and eight-cylinder engines with the latter reserved for the R variant is the prime mate because the supercharged 5.0L V8 engine now produces 575PS of power and 700Nm of torque. That's more power than the Aston Martin Vantage of course and it sounds even more muscular as well, although the V8 models now come with the rather silent but odd Quiet Start feature that can be overriden when you engage Dynamic Mode on the driving modes. Anyway, with that muscular engine and the standard all-wheel drive system, it can do 0-60mph in 3.5 seconds and a top speed of 186mph.

That acceleration really outpaces the ancient XKR-S by a long shot but whichever F-Type you're picking, the way it behaves has gotten even more enjoyable than ever because of its recalibrated dynamics as well as the revised Dynamic Stability Control system, new brakes, Torque Vectoring by Braking, and so much more. In its rear-wheel drive guise, it feels like you can enjoy it so much more but in its all-wheel drive guise, it feels like a lion crushing through the traps like a boss.

Could this be the best F-Type ever made despite the loss of the manual gearbox?

Photo: Jaguar Land Rover

Aston Martin Vantage Roadster

The current-generation Aston Martin Vantage goes open-top with the new Roadster and it promises to deliver the same driving thrills as experienced in the hardtop but with the roof opened as well as a different face no one saw it coming. Let's investigate.


Priced at almost 130 grand, the Vantage Roadster is the open-top version of Aston's baby sportscar that gives the Porsche 911 a run for its money and while it features the same bits and bobs as seen in the hardtop, the Roadster is a different experience because of the face. Why? Because the Vantage Roadster can be offered with the "vane" grille in honor of the Vantage nameplate's 7-decade tenure and you can have one in the coupe too if you like just to give the impression of the Bond car from Spectre. 

To be honest, that new grille shows what the new Vantage is truly made for rather than the Vulcan-inspired "hunter" grille that is already cool but fuzzy.

Like the coupe, the Vantage Roadster is powered by the AMG-derived 4.0L V8 BiTurbo engine mated to an 8-speed AT that produces 510PS of power and 685Nm of torque. Because it's heavier than the coupe, the Roadster can go from 0-60mph in 3.7 seconds and onwards to 190mph. That's surprisingly slower than today's Ferrari Portofino but when compared to a 911 Carrera S Cabriolet, it's anybody's guess.

Despite being heavier than its hardtop equivalent, the Vantage Roadster is still a blast to drive on the road and on the track. It still comes with Dynamic Torque Vectoring and an Electronic Rear Differential, making life more thrilling and enjoyable for any speedo boy trying to take advantage of it.

With the Roadster variant added, you now have two different Vantage points to choose from.

Photo: Aston Martin

Volkswagen T-Roc Cabriolet

The open-top crossover fad is like a zombie. It just won't be killed until its really killed. First Nissan, then Land Rover, and now Volkswagen. With the first two killed their open-top crossovers off the lineup, it's the turn of the Volkswagen to introduce their own take of the open-top crossover and it's based on the T-Roc.

With prices start at around 27,545 Euros plus additional costs, the T-Roc Cabriolet is the latest example of the open-top crossover chimera that just won't quit. Although it looks and feels like your basic T-Roc, the first-ever convertible variant strips off its hardtop and some rear doors to make it two-door, something unseen in the age of crossovers if you know what I mean. Come inside it still works like a normal T-Roc but being an open-top two-door CUV, getting through the rear seats is somewhat of a challenge. With the roof open, it feels almost easy to hop in but with the roof closed, this is worth challenging because you have to tuck down the front seats to get through.

Of course, being a convertible, spacing's suffered a bit but it still fits bags of groceries.

Under the hood, the T-Roc Cabriolet can be fitted with a choice of a 1.0L TSi and a 1.5L TSi with 150PS of power. Both can be mated to either a manual or a DSG. However, unlike its hardtop equivalent, the convertible is offered only in front-wheel drive so it's not quite much of a trekkie and looks like it can only be settled on city roads and that's it. In terms of handling, although being offered in front-wheel drive only, the T-Roc Convertible feels like a normal T-Roc even with the roof open and without lashing out, it feels good to drive at the beginning to the end of the day. As for safety, the T-Roc Cabriolet's covered with the latest ADAS that will keep you safe, although it makes anyone noticed.

With the T-Roc Cabriolet, looks like Volkswagen's trying to pick up where the two deceased ones from far away left off and although it drives away through the wrong barrels, this open-top T-Roc likes to bring some common sense to the motorists, like it or not.

Photo: Volkswagen AG

Wednesday, August 26, 2020

Chevrolet Corvette C8

The Chevrolet Corvette is known to be an American icon because it's the sports car that ultimately symbolizes American freedom like soybeans harvested from American farmlands or shale oil drilled from American wildlife. It's the icon that put America in the world of sports cars that are heavily dominated by the Europeans and as times changed, Chevrolet made a radical approach to their new generation Corvette and for this new model, it's no longer your Grandpa's Corvette anymore because it's now a bit more different than the Corvettes of yesteryears.

2020 Chevrolet Corvette
That's because the all-new, eighth-generation Corvette, priced at 58,900 US Dollars plus additional costs, is now mid-engined and I know most Corvette purists know that making the Corvette mid-engine is a sacrilege and treason to its heritage but there is one very good reason why they made it mid-engined; fulfilling the dream envisioned by a certain expert who tried creating mid-engined prototypes for General Motors. Decades of hard work have resulted in the rise of General Motors' first mid-engined production car, which is the C8 Corvette, of course.

2020 Chevrolet Corvette

But before explaining more about its new mid-engined proportions, let's observe the design first and by the looks of it, the new model is a bit like a mash-up between the Ferrari F430's front, the side view of the previous Corvette, and the rear view of the Chevrolet Corvette, giving it a more Frankenstein approach to the new model but despite that, I think it looks fantastic at all angles and the design is one of the many reasons the folks behind the new model wanted to make the Corvette great again, whatever that means.

2020 Chevrolet Corvette interior
2020 Chevrolet Corvette interior

On the interior, the new Corvette features a more spaceship-like approach and once inside, you feel like you're in control of some futuristic fighter ready for take-off. Although radical, the futuristic interior really shows its cool toys to play with such as the vertical climate controls mounted on the side that separates you and the driver, the ultra-thin air vents, the race-inspired steering wheel, the Performance Data Recorder, Bluetooth connectivity, 4G LTE, and more. Aside from that, the Corvette offers three different kinds of seats to choose from ranging from the basic GT1 seats to the high-end Competition Sport seats.

In its normal, hard-top guise, you can really take the roof off manually by getting out of the car, detaching its roof, and placing it on the trunk, which is now on the front in case you're forgetting something. But in the Convertible, you can close or open its first-ever retractable hardtop at the push of the button even while traveling at 30mph, simple as that.

2020 Chevrolet Corvette
Now we get to talk about the new model's midship conundrum and why it matters. Achieving the reality envisioned by the late Zora Arkus-Duntov, the father of the Corvette, the new mid-engine layout delivers rear weight bias and improved downforce because the windshield is now over the front wheels. Simple as that.

When you toy around with it, you will have the lasting impression of why the new Corvette, thanks to its mid-engine layout, behaves like a Ferrari F430 on so many levels, and because of its newly found dynamics, it's worth coming back for more even though it's more challenging and more dynamic to handle than the old one. You can really get hooked on this car all year long until you are fully satisfied with it and there's no turning back now once driven.

Powering the new Corvette is an all-new 6.2L LT2 V8 engine mounted in the middle, which produces up to 495HP of power and 470lb-ft of torque. In Stingray form, that is the most powerful engine ever made in this variant, and mating to this all-American V8 tour de force is a double-clutch gearbox, which is great but utterly dramatic of course.

For Z51 Performance Package variants, the Corvette comes with the brand new Magnetic Ride Control 4.0 which reads the road every millisecond and adapts in about 10 to 15 milliseconds. Couple that with the Driver Mode Selector and the result is a very intelligent sportscar that adapts to every road condition like a supercomputer. It can be comfortable in the city streets or downright dynamic on the track, this is how the new C8 Corvette rolls.

As I was saying, the new C8 Corvette Stingray starts at 58,900 US Dollars plus additional costs and it is available in both Coupe and Convertible. Like the Ford Mustang, the new C8 Corvette, for the first time, can be configured to RHD specifications, meaning its official distributors from Japan, the UK, and Australia are more than happy to sell one.

So, what can I say about the C8 Corvette? While it's treason to the Corvette history, as purists feared, because of its mid-engine layout, it's by far the best sports car ever to come out from America and those behind it sure know how to make a Corvette great again, whatever the reason.

Welcome to the new world order.

Photo: General Motors

Tuesday, December 31, 2019

BMW M8

BMW's reborn 8-Series is nothing more than a 6-Series replacement and nothing more to expect on what is known to be the two-door equivalent of the G30 5-Series. With the first-ever BMW M8, this high-performance take on the reborn 8-Series uses some F90 M5 knowhow to create a high-performance sportscar that dances like an M5 and make some big statements to its grand touring opposition into thinking that this one's ready to mingle all night.

2020 BMW M8 Coupe

2020 BMW M8 Convertible

With prices starting at a very costly 125,700 Euros for the Coupe and 133,700 Euros for the Cabriolet plus on-road costs, the first-ever BMW M8 mimics the same experience as its four-door equivalent, the F90 BMW M5, while in a more self-centered two-door setting with some room on the back for your belongings because let's face it, some people are having a hard time squeezing through the back seats in a coupe but who cares?

Although the styling is reminiscent of the normal 8-Series with some more M goodness to make it look scary on the street scene, there's nothing scary about the way it goes because it still carries the same 4.4L V8 Twin Turbo engine as the F90 M5, meaning it sounds a bit muted by sportscar standards but despite its low-volume purr from its turbocharged V8 engine, it produces 625PS of power and 750Nm of torque in Competition spec and because it uses the same 8-speed automatic as the M5, it can get through 0 to 100kph in up to 3.2 seconds and electronically limited to 250kph or with an optional extra where it can be raised to 305kph. Now that is considerably fast for a BMW M car.

As some would say that because it's now a four-wheel drive car rather than a rear-wheel drive car like the old M6 it replaces, understeering is likely, and expect some muscle pains but no because like the M5, the M8's M xDrive comes with a setting where they can switch from four-wheel drive to two-wheel drive. It's like having two cars in one and thanks to its Active M Differential, the M8 feels as lively to drive as any grand tourer can get.

And like the M5, the M8 features so many settings toy around with such as the traction control setting, engine responsiveness, steering, gear settings, exhaust noises, and some comfortable bits where a gentleman driver should better leave it be while taking on a comfortable cruise like a real grand tourer. Shoddy.

The BMW M8 may be radically different than the M6 it replaces but like the F90 M5 it draws inspiration from, it feels so enjoyable to drive, comfortable to live in, and overall fun to drive on the road and track. You should really thank BMW for this new model for sure.

Photo: BMW AG

Ferrari F8 Spider and 812 GTS

The fastest Ferrari convertibles on the road, the F8 Spider and the 812 GTS, are uncaged and ready to stun the world with its speed and style with or without the roof. If you were to choose between the newest open-top Ferraris available, which would you like to have a go at?

2020 Ferrari 812 GTS

First, let's get to know the 812 GTS and at last, a V12 open top supercar from Ferrari after five decades. For starters, the GTS delivers the same performance as its hardtop equivalent with the retractable roof that can be opened in just 14 seconds at cruising speeds of 45kph.

It still comes with the rather wonderful 6.5L V12 engine which sounds so wonderful while driving with the roof down and this engine produces an Aventador-crushing 800PS of power and 718Nm of torque. It is mated to a 7-speed dual clutch gearbox which fits perfectly for its flagship open-top Super GT and despite being a convertible, it is almost as quick as the hardtop because not only the weight is almost as close to it, it goes from 0-100kph in less than three seconds and onwards to over 340kph, similar to the hardtop 812 Superfast can do.

The 812 Superfast is the flagship Ferrari grand tourer that works brilliantly on the road and on the track and with the open-top GTS, it still bears the same experience as its hardtop equivalent, allowing playboys to drive this super grand tourer faster and harder for longer until they are fully satisfied.


2020 Ferrari F8 Spider

If drivers are fully satisfied with the 815 GTS, they can move on to another fast Ferrari convertible and this time, it's a midship V8 one that can easily tickle their fancies even more. Of course, the Ferrari F8 Spider offers the same charismatic thrill as the instant classic F8 Tributo but with the roof down, drivers will love it even more.

The 488 Pista-derived 3.9L V8 Twin Turbo engine may produce 80PS less than the 812's but because it's mid-engined and armed with a 7-speed F1 DCT, it does 0-100kph in 2.9 seconds and onwards to 340kph. That's almost the same as the 812 GTS can do although it is heavier compared to its hardtop equivalent but nevertheless it still works just like the F8 Tributo. It zooms into the unknown at breakneck speeds and handles nearly perfectly on the road and on the track with precision and poise, putting this open-top mid-engined supercar in a different league.

Going back to the question above; if you were to choose between the newest open-top Ferraris available, which would you like to have a go at? It depends on the outcome but because the 812 GTS and the F8 Spider delivered similar speeds and performance even with the roof down, it's fair to say that these two open-top supercars have reached an honorable stalemate. No contest but these two are worth driving.

Photo: Ferrari

Friday, October 18, 2019

Toyota Copen GR SPORT

What a pleasant surprise for car enthusiasts across Japan. Having appeared in last January's Tokyo Auto Salon, the Copen GR SPORT is now a living thing but with a major twist; while this is based on the Daihatsu Copen Robe, it's sold as a Toyota, judging by the fact that Daihatsu is under the Toyota umbrella.

2020 Toyota Copen GR SPORT
The Copen GR SPORT joins the Copen range consisting of the Robe, the throwback Cero, the rugged-ish X-Play, and the sold-out Copen Coupe, and since this is sold in most Toyota dealerships despite being a Daihatsu, the 2,380,000 Yen ($24,000 estimated) price tag is reasonable enough for drivers who can't afford either the 86 or the GR Supra, but sadly, that pricing wasn't enough in the case of a newbie that started his driver life with just one million yen in the pocket.

For that pricing, what do you get in this slightly-tweaked Copen Robe? Well, for starters, there's the sporty exterior design, the sporty rims, the RECARO sports seats, the specially-tuned suspension, and that's it. They didn't bother with the turbocharged 660cc engine that can be mated with either a 5-speed MT, which is somewhat a toy to own, or a CVT with 7 simulated gears on it.

It's hard to explain why a Daihatsu Copen Robe is branded as a Toyota with this GR SPORT version but whatever the reason, the so-called Toyota Copen GR SPORT is a reasonably-priced open-top sportscar accessible to almost anyone who wants a fun-sized car with sporty handling that will make them familiarize the way of a sportscar from start to finish and until you are fully satisfied with this car, the Copen GR SPORT could or could not be your first car to start your driving life.

Photo: Toyota Motor Corporation