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Best of World Rally Championships 2025 | The Best Rally Crashes, The Best Action and All With Raw Sound!
Here’s another best of the best in 2025 video, and this one is another from the 2025 World Rally Championship. We shared the top major crashes video the other day, but this one is a much bigger video, with tons of awesome raw audio, that will surely raise the hair on your neck! Check it all out below and let us know what you think in the comments. There has never been a shortage of crash action at a World Rally Championship event, as cars often find themselves off the road, rolling over, slamming trees, and getting stuck in spectacular fashion. And the pure, raw, in your face race action is something special. The video below is full of all kinds of it, and will surely entertain you. CLICK HERE IF YOU MISSED THE TOP 5 MAJOR CRASHES OF THE 2025 SEASON! The post Best of World Rally Championships 2025 | The Best Rally Crashes, The Best Action and All With Raw Sound! appeared first on BangShift.com. View the full article
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Cameron Johnson’s Next Giveaway Engine, PLUS A Harrell Engine And Dyno Giveaway! These Engines Could Be Yours!
Wanna win a cool S10 that is HED powered? How about just winning an HED engine for your ride? How about both! Yep, you can win multiple engines, and one S10 truck, with the new HED engine giveaway and the HED powered Cameron Johnson giveaway S10. With a jillion giveaways going on at all time lately, it is hard to keep up sometimes. This latest video from Peter Harrell at Harrell Engine and Dyno talks about not only the LS engine AND tuning, that you can win from HED, but also the engine that is going into Cameron Johnson’s latest S10 giveaway truck. So if you want to see what goes into these beasts, take a look at the video and then hit the links to buy merch and get your name in the hate to win. Video Description: Let’s take a look at the engine going in Cameron Johnson’s next giveaway. Also….visit Harrellengine.com for your chance to enter our giveaway of a similar engine. The post Cameron Johnson’s Next Giveaway Engine, PLUS A Harrell Engine And Dyno Giveaway! These Engines Could Be Yours! appeared first on BangShift.com. View the full article
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The Mangled Mercury Project: This Barn Find 1939 Mercury Has Gone From Forgotten To Incredible Hot Rod! Watch The Whole Build In 30 Minutes!
The Mangled Mercury project from Iron Trap Garage has been a really fun project to watch come together. Starting out as what seemed like a simple chop top Mercury build, it has gone into full custom territory and has some great looking metal work. In the final video in the build, the Mangled Mercury build is completed in just 30 minutes. If you want to see how this all came together, check it out below. We introduced the Mangled Mercury Project several months ago and shared the first cuts, plans, etc. for this soon to be cooler ride. We continued with more videos in the series, and if you missed those then the link is below. Those episodes include massaging roof panels, changing the windshield height, reshaping, shaping, and more. Just cutting the top down doesn’t make the car look right, as it can be boxy and not smooth like the front of the car wants the rear to be. When chopping a Merc like this, it’s all about that sexy flow of the roof. And after all that and more, some good old black lacquer to finish it off. The Iron Trap Garage crew are never without projects, but this one is special because it feels like it has been forever since they chopped or channeled anything. But that is all about to change with the Mangled Mercury project. It’s time for this rough machine to get some love and that means cutting the top into multiple pieces in preparation for some pretty substantial styling changes. Changes that we totally approve by the way. I mean who doesn’t love a chop top on a hot rod? CLICK HERE IF YOU MISSED THE PREVIOUS VIDEOS The post The Mangled Mercury Project: This Barn Find 1939 Mercury Has Gone From Forgotten To Incredible Hot Rod! Watch The Whole Build In 30 Minutes! appeared first on BangShift.com. View the full article
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New Junkyard Inventory! Check Out This Farm Fresh Barn Find V-8 Auto Ford Customline with a Factory Sunvisor!
Chad Ehrlich is back at it with more awesome finds and more awesome parts. His collector car wrecking yard is one of the finest in the country, and we’ve been there several times and taken home multiple parts and cars. This place is great and Chad is always on the lookout for more cars and parts to stock the yard. The V-8 Auto equipped Ford in the video below is one of his farm finds and we dig it. This 1954 Ford Customline is nearly complete and is the kind of ride that someone could turn into a killer cruiser hot rod. We dig it, and we know you will too, so check it out below. And remember, all of Chad’s contact info is below so if you want to own this one you can. Video Description: If you like old cars, trucks, and automobilia, be sure to check out all of my other videos! Please subscribe so you can keep up with the new videos as I post them! If you have questions about vehicles or parts, the only way to get a hold of me is to call me, 8 AM-8 PM CST, no texts, no e-mails, no messenger, no smoke signals, calls only. 620-786-4428 If I don’t answer, I’m probably on the phone with someone else and if you don’t leave me a message, I just assume you’re another telemarketer trying to sell me an extended warranty! LOL! I am located in Great Bend, KS, BUT I am not open to the public, so if you show up without calling and making an appointment, don’t expect me to be available. Shipping is available. If you comment, message, text, e-mail, etc., don’t expect me to find it and don’t expect an answer. Thanks for watching, Chad 620-786-4428 The post New Junkyard Inventory! Check Out This Farm Fresh Barn Find V-8 Auto Ford Customline with a Factory Sunvisor! appeared first on BangShift.com. View the full article
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Breaking the Mold: A 1967 Harley Shovelhead Chopper from Wales
Full-time tattoo artist and part-time chopper builder Chris Hatton wows with a Harley Shovelhead chopper featuring a handmade frame and molded bodywork.Each new year puts the notorious COVID-19 pandemic further in the rear-view. But while it was a dark time for most, the mundanity of the global lock... View the full article
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BMW Alpina Has Officially Been Born; Here's Why It Happened and What to Expect
2026 has begun, and that means that BMW's ownership of the Alpina brand, announced in 2022, has officially come into effect. In order to understand what to expect, we first need to know how we got here. Alpina seemed to be doing just fine, and its trademark design cues had continued to work well with modern Bimmers, but a company cannot succeed only by focusing on the present; it needs to consider what the future holds and how that future might fundamentally change its processes. Alpina prided itself not only on design but also on increased luxury and performance. And three years ago, things didn't look good for companies of Alpina's particular scale. Why Alpina Sold to BMW and What It Will Do Now Noah Joseph/AOL In 2022, an increasingly tightening legal framework made it appear completely untenable for a niche, small-series manufacturer like Alpina to continue meeting emissions requirements. While ultra-low-volume manufacturers like Pagani could bet on possible exemptions from these rules and larger manufacturers like BMW could plan to offset overall fleet emissions with their cleanest vehicles, Alpina fell somewhere in the middle. Therefore, Alpina sold its brand rights to BMW. Related: Alpina’s Next Chapter: BMW Plans To Reinvent Its Most Elegant Performance Brand At the time, an Alpina representative told Bimmer Today, "The sale is an early reaction to the constantly tightening legal framework." The representative added, "Due to the politically decreed transformation towards electromobility and the increasing regulations worldwide, the requirements and thus also the costs and risks for small series manufacturers are increasing significantly." Moving forward, instead of heavily reimagining contemporary Bimmers, the Buchloe-based company will restore and maintain its past creations as Alpina Classic. Since it has sold the Alpina brand rights, it cannot continue in the same vein as before, even if regulations would allow it. And what will BMW do with its new asset? BMW Alpina: What the Future Holds Tom Wood/RM Sotheby's BMW's press release hints that things will appear to continue as before, noting that "key elements of the BMW Alpina brand are its unique balance of maximum performance and superior ride comfort, combined with hallmark driving characteristics [...] complemented by an exclusive portfolio of bespoke options and custom materials along with unmistakable details." It goes on to say that BMW is aware of the weight of responsibility it has in preserving the pride of this brand, as well as its "independent personality within the BMW Group." Therefore, we can expect future BMW Alpina vehicles to come with luxurious finishes, effortless performance, and some classic design cues. One of the first vehicles to get this treatment under BMW's stewardship could be an enhanced version of the XM or future X8, or it may be an even fancier take on a V8-powered 7 Series. Earlier reports suggested that BMW Alpina would become a Bavarian version of Mercedes-Maybach, and it's not a stretch to think that the BMW Group will use this brand for more limited editions like the Skytop. These could be indications that smaller, less expensive vehicles like the 3 Series may not be given the Alpina touch anymore, but we'll have to wait and see. View the full article
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Red Bull's RB17 Hypercar Makes the Aston Martin Valkyrie Look and Sound Tame
When Formula 1 designer Adrian Newey completed the Aston Martin Valkyrie, it seemed as if nothing could top that, but the man has outdone himself, and with the reveal of the production body of his Red Bull RB17 hypercar, he's showing the world what might be possible when there are no rules to abide by. In a new video from Top Gear, not only do we get to see the latest iteration of the RB17 and grab a peek at the cabin for the first time, but we also get to hear its 15,000-rpm 4.5-liter V10 scream. That video is at the bottom of this article; in the meantime, let's take a closer look at what's changed between the original prototype and this nearly finalized version. One Small Design Alteration Equals One Big Challenge Red Bull Advanced Technologies View the 4 images of this gallery on the original article The British publication that shot the video spoke with the technical director of Red Bull Advanced Technologies, Rob Gray, and he revealed that "one of the last changes Adrian made was to move the exhaust onto the spine of the engine cover," which required a lot of work "on the thermal side of things" to stop parts of the car from catching fire. Other changes over the prototype revealed at Goodwood in 2025 include the addition of L-shaped LED headlights, finer cooling vents, and a large Le Mans Prototype-style fin over the engine cover. Hey, if you've got no rules and want to be the best on any circuit in the world, why not take advantage of every conceivable aerodynamic device? Red Bull Advanced Technologies View the 2 images of this gallery on the original article A look inside shows a rectangular steering wheel with a screen in the middle and various knobs and dials on the center console. Happily, Red Bull has confirmed that, while the placement of various items and the decisions over lines of sight have not been set in stone yet, haptic controls and touchscreens are not even under consideration because everything must be tactile and easy to operate in a car capable of such astonishing performance. Speaking of which... Mind-Bending Performance Red Bull Advanced Technologies The RB17 will allegedly be capable of allowing its buyers to set lap times that would put them on pole for Formula 1 races, and to achieve that goal, the car is targeting a curb weight of under 900 kilograms (1,984 lbs). The two-seater will have a footprint comparable to that of today's F1 cars, and it'll be powered by a Cosworth-developed 4.5-liter V10 engine coupled to an electric motor. Combined, the powertrain is aiming for around 1,200 horsepower, and the electric motor also acts as a reverse gear for the six-speed sequential, saving weight. With a price tag of £5.75 million, or around $7.2 million, this has a lot to live up to. Then again, all 50 examples have already been allocated, so whether it sounds like the McLaren-Mercedes MP4/15 as Newey intends, and whether it's quicker than an F1 car around a track, it's already a mammoth success. Testing is expected to take place on tracks at various grand prix over the summer, and full-scale production will begin next spring. Will anything that follows ever be more mind-bogglingly focused on performance? Time will tell. Until then, treat your ears. View the full article
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Mercedes Is Bringing the Electric GLC to America and It’s Packed With Tech
Mercedes-Benz has just confirmed that the all-new, all-electric GLC will make its American debut at the Consumer Electronics Show next week (January 6-9). Along with showing off the final production-ready design, which bears star-shaped LED daytime running lights and an illuminated grille plate filled with hundreds of pixelated squares, the German automaker has also provided a first look at the cabin of the new EV. That's arguably the most important part of this premium crossover because the interior will be filled with new technologies designed to maintain the GLC's status as a strong seller for Mercedes. Let's see what's in store. A Cabin Brimming with Technology Mercedes-Benz Mercedes highlights partnerships in making the new GLC what it is, with the vehicle featuring Spatial Audio with Dolby Atmos in Apple CarPlay, operated by an AI-powered MB.OS software system whose interface is, optionally, a 39.1-inch MBUX Hyperscreen, the largest continuous screen in a Mercedes so far. As in the CLA, this system integrates AI from both Microsoft and Google, and for those who'd rather listen than look, native audiobook streaming in Dolby Atmost will be available. Also optional will be an independently certified vegan interior and an intelligent air suspension system. Related: Mercedes-Benz EQB Owners Told Not to Charge Past 80% Until This Fix The 800-volt platform promises rapid charging, and Mercedes has confirmed that this new GLC 400 will produce 483 horsepower. The estimated range is 443 miles, though this is based on WLTP estimates, so expect a slightly more conservative figure when the crossover is tested on the EPA cycle. Speaking of which, the GLC EV will arrive in the U.S. "in the second half of 2026." Pricing is yet to be announced, but since the gas version starts at just under $50,000 for 2026, we expect the electric one to carry a base MSRP in the mid-$60,000 range. Video Streaming Coming to Mercedes-Benz's Smallest EV Mercedes-Benz Along with the U.S. debut of the GLC, Mercedes will use CES 2026 to show off a new feature in the all-electric CLA sedan: video streaming with DTS AutoStage video from TiVo. In addition, RIDEVU by Sony will offer IMAX content and DTS:X sound, turning the cabin of the CLA into an entertainment hub. Presumably, similar movie-watching capabilities will come to other vehicles in the Mercedes lineup soon enough. For those interested, the CLA is already on sale with a $47,000 starting price in all-electric form, though some might want to wait for the hybrid, which will likely be cheaper. View the full article
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That Folding Motorcycle Helmet Has the Worst EMS Access We've Ever Heard Of
A normal motorcycle helmet has an easy-access pull tab that allows emergency responders to get to your head. The Roof Djagger requires a screwdriver...View the full article
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Japanese Students Turn a Kei Car Into a Mini Toyota GR Supra
Kei MadnessIf there's one segment of the automotive world (though odd and quirky) that has captured the world's attention – yes, even President Donald Trump – it is the Japanese Kei Car. "Kei," meaning "light," cars have been built and sold since after the war as a means of offering affordable, practical mobility to a rebuilding Japan. It has then become a primary model for those who live in the cramped streets of Japan's metropolitan areas. Kei cars have generally been a curiosity for the rest of the world, and in some cases are imported into other countries (they aren't sold outside Japan). Kei cars are usually cutesy in design and take the form of small vans or SUVs, but a college in Japan is taking it to extremes with an upcoming project. GR Supra Kei Edition?The Nihon Automotive College (NATS) is a group of college students embarking on an ambitious yet unique project. NATS is developing a concept for the 2026 Tokyo Auto Salon, one of the world's largest aftermarket auto shows. Their showcase will be a Kei car dressed up as a Toyota GR Supra. Since there's no Kei Supra, NATS are using the Daihatsu Copen, a small Kei roadster, as the platform. As inspiration, the group is basing its design on the 2020 Toyota Supra Concept, also built by NATS. For this Kei Supra concept, the students are using as many authentic GR Supra parts as possible. Putting it all together was no small feat; the students at NATS had to reshape and fit custom fibreglass parts (made in-house) to accommodate the larger Supra parts in the smaller Copen frame. Both the headlights and taillights are genuinely Supra, with the front and rear bumper also coming from the sports car, but are heavily modified to fit this new body. Visually, the only parts retained from the Copen are the doors, mirrors, windshield, and detachable hardtop. Mechanical and Chassis upgrades haven't been disclosed yet. However, NATS may have done the usual lowering of the ride height and a bigger brake package while still retaining the Daihatsu Copen turbocharged 658cc engine, which is a hallmark of the Kei car regulations. NATS Youtube One of Three BuildsThis impressive project will be accompanied by two more cars at the NATS display at the 2026 Tokyo Auto Salon. Alongside the Kei Supra will be a Toyota Vellfire Sedan based on the underpinnings of a Lexus LS, and a low-rider concept of the Nissan Gloria. You can also check out the NATS YouTube page to see them explain the Kei Supra Build. NATS Youtube View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article
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The Forgotten Wagon That Marked the End of Oldsmobile
The Last Traditional OldsmobileWe now live in a generation in which people in the workforce were born after the demise of Oldsmobile. It's almost hard to believe that this once-proud carmaker was frequently seen in the top-ten best-sellers lists back in the day, only for it to go out with a whimper in 2004. But even prior to that, the brand was already seeing many lasts. Case in point, the Custom Cruiser sold from 1991 to 1992 was the last full-size wagon to wear the Oldsmobile badge. It was also the final V8-powered, rear-drive vehicle the company ever produced, and the often forgotten sibling of the Chevrolet Caprice and Buick Roadmaster. Oldsmobile 1991: A B-Body Revolution1991 saw drastic changes to GM's B-body vehicles. While their chassis dated back to 1977, the body on top of the frames would feature radical redesigns. The Caprice featured a rounder, more aerodynamic look that garnered amusing nicknames such as the Bubble Caprice, jellybean, upside-down bathtub, Shamu, and, er, suppository. Meanwhile, the Roadmaster had a more formal and unashamedly traditional land-yacht design that still looks pretty cool today. But while the sedans looked markedly different from each other, the same couldn't be said about their wagon versions. The Caprice, Custom Cruiser, and Roadmaster wagons shared the same panels and sheetmetal. The main differences were in exterior trims, grilles, wheel choices, and some interior details. Oldsmobile Facts and FiguresUnlike the Caprice and Roadmaster, the Custom Cruiser only came as a wagon. That aside, the mechanics were virtually the same across the board. That meant either a 5.0-liter V8 or a 5.7-liter that also packed eight cylinders. The base engine made 170 hp and 255 lb-ft of torque, while the bigger motor put out 180 hp and 300 lb-ft. The 5.7 would be the sole engine choice in '92. Okay, it's not mind-blowing numbers even in period, but those V8s were made for smooth cruises and towing. It was paired to an equally understressed four-speed automatic that slushed through the gears. Again, it's for cruising and towing, not acceleration pulls. Kids today probably won't be able to comprehend the size of these full-size wagons. It was 217.5 inches long, 79.7 inches wide, 60.3 inches tall, and had a wheelbase of 115.9 inches. To put things into perspective, it's a wagon about the size of a midsize pickup. Oldsmobile Doomed From the Start?While the Caprice and Roadmaster are celebrated to this day, the Custom Cruiser is all but forgotten except by the few old enough to remember and car history buffs. It probably won't come as a surprise that it was far from a sales success, with just over 12,000 built from 1991 to 1992. The official reason for its discontinuation was Oldsmobile focusing more on the Bravada SUV and Silhouette minivan, which were selling in far greater numbers. But perhaps an underlying reason was the Custom Cruiser being stuck between a rock and a hard place. The Caprice was the value-oriented option, while the Roadmaster was the plusher version. The Olds? Well, there wasn't much to further differentiate it from its siblings. And whereas the Custom Cruiser had to contend with an SUV and a minivan within Oldsmobile's stable, the Buick Roadmaster did not. Sure, the Caprice wagon had the same challenge, but its sales weren't virtually non-existent. It is a rare sight then, and an even rarer sight now; there aren't a lot of them left on the road. That said, we'd like to think there are still a few examples out there being cherished by their owners. Oldsmobile View the 6 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article
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DI 30 Under 30 2025: Austin Kardules
Like so many second-generation racers, Austin Kardules has always been around the sport. But what started out as a hobby has become a multi-faceted career that sees the central Ohio native reach new audiences in hopes of growing the sport he loves. Editor’s Note: This story originally appeared in DI #197, the 30 Under 30 Issue, in November/December 2025. Kardules’ father started racing motorcycles in the late 1970s. When Austin and his older brother, Camron, came along, the boys were out at the track as babies. Austin, now 29, started racing Jr. Dragsters in 2003 and traveled with the MyChron series. He had some success, ultimately winning the points runoff at Summit Motorsports Park to take home a brand-new Half-Scale dragster custom-painted by R&R Auto Body. Driving took a back seat as Kardules grew up, but he filled the void by going to work for Pure Speed Drag Racing Experience, previously known as Doug Foley’s Drag Racing School. He started working with Foley and his family – including sons Doug Jr. (a 2016 honoree) and Joe (a 2024 honoree) – as a driving instructor on a part-time basis in 2012 before going on the road full-time in 2015. Through that experience, he helped hundreds of people make their first passes down a dragstrip. Kardules then stepped away from racing completely for about two years to start a career in sales and marketing, which actually led him back to Foley and drag racing. After Foley decided to get back into NHRA Top Fuel competition, Kardules got involved with the Foley Lewis Racing sponsorship efforts. Over the last few years, he’s helped secure partnerships with Alloy Employer Services, United Garage Door, CHI Overhead Doors, and LiftMaster, introducing new brands to the sport in the process. “That’s probably the most rewarding part about what I do,” says Kardules, who counts Foley as a mentor. “Bringing new companies into the sport, and seeing them realize what all goes into it – not just on track, but off track – and how beneficial it can be on the B2B side with the experience they’re able to give their customers.” That led to one of Kardules’ proudest moments in the sport earlier this year when Foley qualified No. 1 at the IHRA Nitro Outlaw Series event at Darana Raceway, previously known as National Trail Raceway, outside Columbus, Ohio. “That was surreal,” Kardules says. “The last NHRA national event that was there was 2006. I was 10 years old. Growing up there, it seemed like we would never have a Top Fuel race there ever again. So, for that to happen almost 20 years later is kind of unbelievable. But to be a part of a team while that happened, with my dad standing on the starting line, and to get the No. 1 spot when we weren’t in the show on the last qualifying session? I couldn’t even dream of that happening.” A few years ago, the Kardules brothers also worked with future 30 Under 30 honoree Jeb Bolyard to bring back the King of Columbus event to National Trail. Austin focused on sponsorships and promoting the event, which later expanded to two events. “I think the most rewarding part is all the appreciation from racers that we put a focus on what we would want if we were in their shoes,” he says. “Because a lot of races they go to, sometimes the focus is not the racer’s experience.” Though Kardules is no longer involved with the racing school, he and his brother continue to mentor local racers both young and old who are just getting started. He even coached a former student who bought a race car, truck, and trailer after attending a Pure Speed school event. “My brother and I always try to help people getting into the sport, understanding the dos and don’ts, and helping them get their start and feel comfortable at the racetrack,” Kardules says. “The only way to keep people coming back is make them feel comfortable and understand what they’re doing.” Kardules’ efforts in various arenas of the sport achieve different outcomes, but the overarching theme is bringing in new fans, racers, and sponsors. He says the sport sells itself once people see it in person. It’s getting them out to the racetrack that can be a challenge. “One thing that is universally the same, whether it’s driving a 10-second dragster for the first time or sponsoring a Top Fuel car – or just coming to watch Top Fuel – is that people underestimate what it is until they get there,” says Kardules, who thanked his parents and brother as well as Joe Clark with United Garage Door, Palmetto State Armory, and Kyle Fischer with Hot Shot’s Secret for supporting his various endeavors. “When they get there, they realize it’s a lot cooler than they expected. There’s a lot more involved. Especially when someone gets in the driver’s seat for the first time, they realize it’s a lot faster in the seat than it looks.“Those people who have never even heard of drag racing, or have a lower expectation of what it truly is, how do we get them to the racetrack and get them to see it?” The post DI 30 Under 30 2025: Austin Kardules first appeared on Drag Illustrated. View the full article
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Bugatti Is Building a $20 Million One-Off Hypercar Inspired by the Original Veyron
Bugatti’s Programme Solitaire Expands With a Clearer VisionBugatti’s ultra-exclusive Programme Solitaire is gaining momentum with new details emerging about its next one-off hypercar. When news first broke that the marque was planning another bespoke model following the Brouillard, speculation ran rampant, but clarity is finally coming into focus. Bugatti confirmed that Solitaire will remain limited to just two coachbuilt hypercars a year, each built to embody a unique chapter of the brand’s history. With the second commission scheduled for January 2026, the next entry in the Solitaire lineup is already shaping up to be more than a design exercise; it’s a tribute to one of Bugatti’s most defining road cars. Initial reports hinted that the car would ride on the same foundations as the Chiron, following the Tourbillon’s recent spotlight debut. That assumption remains largely accurate, but new insider information has added weight to the project’s historical significance. Sources now claim the upcoming one-off will directly honor the legendary Bugatti Veyron 16.4, signaling a return to the car that redefined performance in the mid-2000s. Bugatti A Veyron-Inspired Homage Keeps the W16 AliveNew details from an exclusive report by The Supercar Blog suggest the 2026 Solitaire commission will be a direct nod to Veyron chassis number 001, the car that launched Bugatti’s modern era. That original 16.4 not only set a new benchmark for speed and technology but also became a symbol of what a modern hypercar could achieve. Now, two decades later, Bugatti appears ready to revisit that moment with a modern interpretation that celebrates the Veyron’s 20th anniversary. The homage is expected to feature the Veyron’s signature red-and-black two-tone color scheme, one of the most recognizable visuals in Bugatti history. Beneath the surface, the upcoming model reportedly retains the legendary quad-turbocharged 8.0-liter W16 engine, an increasingly rare sight in today’s electrified supercar landscape. Early figures suggest output could once again reach up to 1,600 horsepower. Bugatti Rolling Time Capsules for the Elite CollectorTogether, the Brouillard and the upcoming Veyron-inspired Solitaire commission define what the programme stands for: automotive storytelling at the highest level. Each Solitaire build is conceived not as a display of wealth, but as a narrative-driven artifact, reserved for collectors who see their cars as cultural heirlooms. Like La Voiture Noire before them, these vehicles blend historical reverence with modern artistry, making ownership less about acquisition and more about legacy. While pricing remains unconfirmed, expectations are sky-high. With La Voiture Noire fetching over $15 million in 2019, today’s Solitaire commissions are expected to surpass $20 million easily. Production will stay capped at just two cars per year, ensuring extreme exclusivity and enduring allure among the ultra-wealthy. Bugatti View the full article
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Suzuka Is Selling Its Old Asphalt And Yes, I Kinda Want Some
Racing fans and enthusiasts can buy real asphalt cores removed during Suzuka Circuit’s 2026 resurfacing and renovation worksView the full article
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6 People Fell Through the Ice on Snowmobiles, a Cautionary Tale to Check Ice Depth
Ice depth can vary, and it's important to always check it before setting off onto it with a vehicle or even on foot. These six snowmobilers found that out the hard way.View the full article
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Subaru Teases More STI Models—and One Car Is Still Under Covers
All Roads Lead to STIOne of the hottest news items in the automotive scene right now has been the Subaru WRX STI teasers. We've extensively covered teaser after teaser, trying to dissect clues to further crack the case about what Subaru is really hinting at. The first teaser broke on X on Christmas Day, showing what appeared to be a WRX with the STI badging on the grille. The second teaser video was released a few days later, showing more interior details and even giving our ears a tease with an engine note. Subaru Subaru 2026 Tokyo Auto Salon STI ShowcaseFollowing these teasers, Subaru has just announced exactly what will be shown in its booth during the 2026 Tokyo Auto Salon (TAS). Considering the importance of TAS to the overall global performance and aftermarket scene, the brand is pulling out all the stops. Subaru has confirmed that there will be a showcase of three (semi) STI models. The first is the Levorg STI Sport R-Black Limited Ⅱ STI Performance, based on the STI Sport EX variant. This Sunrise Yellow Levorg features 18-inch aluminum wheels (painted matte black), a black front fascia, door mirrors, and a roof antenna. Inside, it'll have Recaro front seats with yellow perforations and an STI logo, as well as a suede-like instrument panel, creating a sense of exclusivity and presence. In addition to these features, the car is also fitted with genuine SUBARU accessories and STI performance parts. Next up is another Sunrise Yellow WRX S4 STI Sport R-Black Limited Ⅱ STI Performance. This one is based on the STI Sport R EX variant of the WRX lineup; it has the same matte black finishes as the Levorg, as well as the same interior enhancements, with the most notable difference being the rear wing of the WRX, which really looks eerily like a WRX STI, but sadly isn't. Lastly, there is the Impreza ST-H STI Performance Edition PLUS package. Which, as the name suggests, is based on the hatchback Impreza ST-H. It has its own STI enhancements, leaning more toward performance than aesthetics. Other cars to be displayed include the new Super Taikyu race cars, the 2026 Subaru BRZ GT300, and the Subaru WRX VBH All Japan Rally Car. Subaru View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article Hiding in Plain SightThe official press release lists six cars for the whole exhibition, but a closer look at the supporting image for the booth shows five uncovered and two covered cars. This suggests that while the brand is keen to amp up anticipation for the show, it's still holding some cards close to its chest. Could it be that the seventh car not announced is the all-new reborn Subaru WRX STI? We'll have to wait until January 9 to find out when it breaks cover for all the world to see. Subaru View the full article
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How a Wrecked Nissan Leaf Brought a 1962 Mercury Comet Back to Life
A Budget EV Swap With Big AmbitionsElectric car conversions are often seen as luxury projects, the kind reserved for classic showpieces and deep-pocketed hobbyists. But one DIY builder has turned that perception upside down. A neglected 1962 Mercury Comet station wagon, once a dusty, non-running relic, has been reborn as a fully electric daily driver using salvaged parts from a wrecked Nissan Leaf. The entire conversion came in under $6,000, relying on resourcefulness rather than rare parts or big funding. The idea stems from a growing opportunity in the used EV market. Early Leafs, Bolts, and similar models are now cheap, plentiful, and mechanically simple, making them ideal donors. Chronicled on the This Old Jalopy YouTube channel, the Comet project documents a step-by-step transformation that blends mid-century style with 21st-century sustainability. The goal was to build a zero-emissions classic while maintaining its vintage character and proving that electrification doesn’t have to cost a fortune. Old-School Wagon Meets Mass-Market EV TechThe donor car, a 2014 Nissan Leaf, had crash damage but an intact high-voltage system—perfect for repurposing. For just $3,000, it provided the motor, inverter, charger, and its 24-kWh battery pack. To make those components function outside their original chassis, the builder added a Resolve EV controller for about $900, allowing seamless communication between the Leaf's battery management system and its power electronics. Installing the Leaf's front-drive motor in the Comet’s rear required inventive fabrication. It now powers a custom De Dion rear axle supported by upgraded leaf springs, with shortened CV shafts to match the new layout. Up front, where the original gas engine once sat, the Leaf's 48 battery modules are housed in a custom cradle, maintaining good weight balance and serviceability. Only a few modules were replaced, keeping the pack mostly original and cost-efficient. Trial, Error, and a Surprisingly Stock ResultLike most EV conversions, the Comet project hit a few snags. Early tests revealed a no-drive condition traced to wiring mistakes, an inverted high-voltage line, and a faulty charger. Replacements and careful rewiring fixed the issues, after one brief mishap that sent the wheels spinning backward. Finishing details tie the project together. The charging port now hides behind the factory fuel door, while the control unit sits discreetly in the glovebox. From the outside, the wagon looks original, belying its modern electric heart with an estimated range of about 78 miles - not much, but it should be usable within the city. View the 2 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article
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Watch 30 Years of Isle of Man TT Motorcycle Racing For Free!
Three decades of the historic Isle of Man TT motorcycle road racing moments are now easier than ever to explore, no passport required.View the full article
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Horsepower Wars: Why Did the Engines Go Back to the Builders?
Your questions answered: here's the rundown on why the LS vs Coyote 3 engines were sent back to the builders before the C10 Shootout.View the full article
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Mustang GTD Sales Show People Are Willing to Pay Over $300,000 for a New Ford
The Mustang's Cool Price SpreadA Ford Mustang starts at $32,640 for the entry-level EcoBoost model. If you want V8 power, you'll pay at least $46,560 for the GT. Should that not be enough, there's the Dark Horse that carries a base price of $64,080. But then, we get to the Mustang GTD. The most extreme and expensive Mustang one can buy with a warranty retails for a whopping $318,760, sans destination and gas-guzzler tax. Throw those in, and you'll have to cough up $327,960 for what's essentially a Mustang race car with license plates. Ford A Huge HitJust to further highlight the insanity, the Mustang's price spread is a cool $295,320, meaning you can buy nearly every trim of the pony car for one GTD — and we're not even kidding, either. From base EcoBoost to Dark Horse Premium, the total price of the six regular trims amounted to $299,780 when we added it all up. Still, that hasn't put off people from filing an application to buy a GTD and pray they'll be lucky enough to be one of the chosen few. According to CarBuzz, Ford had shifted 231 examples of the GTD, likely giving the Blue Oval a healthy profit over each one sold. By the way, that figure doesn't include December's tally yet. Ford What Makes the GTD so Expensive?For starters, nearly every panel fitted to the car is carbon fiber, and its design is unique to the GTD. The driveshaft is also made of the same material, as is that massive wing at the back. Its bones and appearance are those of a Mustang, but it's essentially a street-legal race car at this point. The Predator 5.2-liter supercharged V8 engine has been massaged and breathed on to produce 815 hp and 664 lb-ft, making it the most powerful factory Mustang ever produced to date. Such engineering bumps up the price tag, and we haven't even gotten to the suspension system yet. Whereas regular Mustangs use struts at the front and integral-link independent suspension at the back, the GTD throws all of that away for a far racier setup. The struts have been swapped out for double-wishbones with a wider track. As for the rear, it gets an active and adaptive pushrod suspension that wouldn't look out of place in a competition vehicle. Ford is particularly proud of it, too, by placing a window where the back seats were supposed to be so its proud owners can show it off or see it work. More Extreme Factory Mustangs Coming Soon?Given the sales success of the GTD so far, it has all the potential to inspire Ford to build more bespoke and limited-edition models for its pony car. Granted, the idea of building highly exclusive versions of the Mustang isn't new, but the fact that people are more than willing to pay over $300,000 for one opens up new possibilities for the Mustang as a brand. We could see Ford pulling a Porsche 911-like hierarchy level down the line. Perhaps the next special Mustang won't be as extreme as a GTD, but some of the hardware and tech applied to it could trickle down to a model that bridges the gap between the Dark Horse and GTD — something along the lines of the Shelby Super Snake R. It's an interesting and exciting prospect, and one that the Blue Oval could explore soon. Besides, it already seems that the market is comfortable with a Mustang that comes with a six-figure base price. Ford View the 11 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article
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This 100-Year-Old Motorcycle Is Basically A Bicycle With A V8 Engine That Did 137 MPH
Jay Leno’s Garage features a fully functional Curtiss V8 replica that redefines what 100 miles per hour once meant. View the full article
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KTM's CEO Is Staying In His Job, Let's See How That Plays Out for Them
KTM's current CEO, Gottfried Neumeister, is staying in his role after being positioned there by prior CEO Stefan Pierer, and after Bajaj took control of the struggling Austrian manufacturer. View the full article
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Here's Why Polaris' Military MRZR UTV Will Always Be Cooler Than Your Regular RZR
Polaris’ MRZR Alpha shows why military side-by-sides get blackout mode, adjustable suspension, and tech that civilians will never need. View the full article
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FIRST LOOK – David Spade’s 1978 Ford F250 Ranger XLT – BARRETT-JACKSON 2026 SCOTTSDALE AUCTION
David Spade is a hell of a car guy and has bought and sold many cars at Barrett-Jackson, but this one might be his biggest. In size that is. This dentside 1978 Ford F250 Ranger XLT is something special. With the crew cab and the lift, this is a pretty rad truck. It’s powered by the 400 as well, and with creature comforts and all that wheelbase it should be a pretty nice driving rig going down the road. If you think you need to own it, register now as it is going up for auction at Barrett-Jackson in Scottsdale this year! Here’s the video. Video Description: Yes, that @davidspade Spade. Join @CraigJacksonCollection for a First Look at Spade’s custom 1978 @ford F-250 Ranger XLT, powered by a 400ci V8 with a rebuilt automatic transmission and performance camshaft. Watch it sell during the 2026 Scottsdale Auction with No Reserve, Jan. 17-25 at WestWorld. Learn more about this David Spade’s 1978 Ford F250 Ranger XLT Custom Pickup: https://www.barrett-jackson.com/2026-… The post FIRST LOOK – David Spade’s 1978 Ford F250 Ranger XLT – BARRETT-JACKSON 2026 SCOTTSDALE AUCTION appeared first on BangShift.com. View the full article
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Steve Magnante Isn’t Slowing Down Any! Check Out This RARE TUXEDO BLACK 4-SPEED ROAD RUNNER He Found In The Snow!
We’re so glad to see Steve back out in the wild, hunting hot rods and muscle cars in the wrecking yard, and sharing all his muscle car knowledge with us.He’s as hard core as they come, and it shows when he’s walking around in the SNOW in the wrecking yard just to highlight fun rides he’s found. We dig it, and appreciate his efforts and know that you guys do too. If you want to get parts or cars from his videos, don’t forget to watch and listen for the name of the yard if you want to contact the sellers. In this video he’s highlighting another rare Mopar, and this one is a Tuxedo Black 4-speed car that you are going to want to take a look at. I mean who doesn’t love a good Road Runner? The post Steve Magnante Isn’t Slowing Down Any! Check Out This RARE TUXEDO BLACK 4-SPEED ROAD RUNNER He Found In The Snow! appeared first on BangShift.com. View the full article