Porsche 918 Spyder
Six minutes and fifty seven seconds. That’s the time it took the Porsche 918 Spyder to make its way around the famous Nurburgring Nordschliefe circuit, setting a new course record at the same time. Not terrible for a hybrid that pairs 279 hp electric motors with a 608 hp V-8.
Shelby Daytona Coupe
Mention Carroll Shelby and the first car that usually comes to mind is the AC Cobra. But we’re looking for something a little more off the beaten path. Like the Shelby Daytona Coupe, for example. Based on the Cobra chassis and powerplant, the Daytona was purpose built for GT racing and specifically against those dominant Ferraris. Production was almost non-existent with only 6 Daytonas made between 1964 and 1965.
Original Shelby GT350
While we are on the subject of the legendary tuner, we would also seek to try an original GT350. Taking a fastback Mustang, Shelby worked his magic to create a roadworthy version of a racecar. And while the standard GT350 was a tough competitor, the addition of the race-ready option ($1,500) added even more racing parts including the awesome vented rear plexiglass window. Handsomely finished in standard white with optional blue racing stripes.
Pagani Zonda Cinque Roadster
Made almost entirely of carbon and looking more like a race car than anything, the Zonda will ensure that all eyes will be on you. Especially when you drop the top and let the 678 hp engine roar. You’re gonna have to look hard for one of these though as Modena based Pagani only made 5 of them.
Porsche 911 Turbo S
Trying to identify the most desirable year and model of the Porsche 911 is pointless, there are tons of them. So we’re going with the new 911 Turbo S. Blending the signature 911 style with modern design and aerodynamics produces a 911 capable of sub 3 second 0-60 times. And seeing as the overall look of the 911 hasn’t changed dramatically since 1963, you’re virtually assured continued desirability.
Bentley Continental GT
Sure, we like to go fast, but sometimes you need luxury too. Fortunately, the Continental GT shows us that luxury and performance can co-exist. Interiors crafted of the finest leathers and wood veneers pair ever so nicely with the twin turbocharged 12-cylinder engine. And since the Continental GT is mass-produced, it’s less expensive than other coach-built Bentleys.
1955 Mercedes Benz 300SL
Who doesn’t love the gullwing doors on the 300SL? But why does it have those doors? Aesthetics aside, the gullwing doors were used as the superleggera style chassis did not make room for traditional open out doors. So they opened up. Interestingly enough, the ‘55 300SL was the first vehicle with a form of direct fuel injection. This particular model sold for over $2,000,000 at auction.
McLaren-Honda MP4-30
Granted, unless you’re extraordinarily skilled and licensed, you have no business behind the wheel of a Formula 1 car. Wrapped in a carbon fiber monocoque chassis is a screaming 15,000 rpm 6-cylinder with energy recovery system (lithium battery) and 8-speed transmission. Top speed is 220 mph. Even more impressive is that 0 to 100 mph and back to 0 is accomplished in less than 5 seconds.
Hummer H1
Based on the military spec HMMMV, the original Hummer was something to behold. With 16 inches of ground clearance and wide-track, it can navigate most obstacles with ease. That includes 30 inches of water and a 22 inch vertical climb. Now if there was just a way to legally mount some form of large machine gun on it. Even a rocket launcher. Just in case shit hits the fan or traffic jams up.
Adams Probe 16
The car racing through the English countryside with Alex and his droogs in A Clockwork Orange was an Adams Probe 16. Built in 1969, it was an extremely low slung sports car with one door—a sliding glass one on the roof. Power came from a 1.9 liter Austin 4-cylinder in a fiberglass body making the Probe 16 a spirited driver. And it gives you “a nice, warm, vibraty feeling all through your guttiwuts.”
