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Liam Lawson shared a post of him riding a tricked-out Red Bull-stickered GasGas MC 250F around a motocross track during the offseason.View the full article

Maryland’s Historic Plate Shake-Up Hits Early-2000s CarsMaryland’s long-running historic license plate program is facing a reckoning, and plenty of car owners are feeling the sting. As we previously reported, state lawmakers signaled their intent to crack down on misuse of vintage and historic tags as part of a broader package of new traffic laws. Now, Maryland has enacted a House Bill that puts real teeth behind that bark, freezing historic plate eligibility at model year 1999 and older. The change immediately disqualifies vehicles from 2000 to 2005 that previously qualified under the old 20-year rolling rule, catching many owners off guard. For many enthusiasts, historic plates weren’t just a badge of honor. They slashed registration costs to about $50 every two years, eliminated emissions testing, removed inspection requirements, and often enabled cheaper collector-car insurance. Now, owners of early-2000s vehicles are receiving letters from the Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA) telling them their plates won’t be renewed once they expire, forcing them back into standard registration, emissions testing, and higher fees. Mecum Auctions Why the Change Matters—and Why It’s ControversialThe immediate impact is financial. Maryland has one of the most expensive registration and insurance rates. Vehicles losing historic status must turn in their plates, pay roughly $150 more in registration fees, and report to a Vehicle Emissions Program (VEP) station. For collectors with multiple cars, those costs add up fast, prompting accusations that the move is little more than a revenue grab rather than a safety or environmental measure. At the same time, even critics of the new rule admit the system has been abused. Historic plates are intended for limited-use collector vehicles, not daily drivers or work vans dodging emissions testing. According to a report from the Baltimore Sun, examples of commercially used vehicles wearing historic tags have fueled frustration and helped justify the state’s tougher stance, even among enthusiasts who oppose the fixed 1999 cutoff. House Bill 4 Could Reset the Rules—AgainNow, lawmakers are attempting to undo part of the damage. House Bill 4, introduced by Delegates Miller and Morgan, proposes redefining a historic vehicle as one that’s at least 25 years old, restoring a rolling age requirement instead of a frozen model year. If passed, a 2005 vehicle would once again qualify by 2030, something impossible under the current law. The proposal has split the car community. Some want stricter limits, others support keeping the 1999 cutoff, but a large portion of collectors favor the 25-year rolling standard paired with better enforcement. That could mean proof of collector insurance, evidence of limited use, and confirmation that the owner has a separate daily driver. For now, Maryland owners wait, hoping lawmakers recognize that fixing abuse doesn’t require penalizing every enthusiast caught on the wrong side of an arbitrary date. Bring a Trailer View the full article

It’s been over 12 years since the Porsche 918 Spyder with the Weissach Package became the first street-legal car to lap the famous Nürburgring in under seven minutes. The plug-in hybrid supercar set new performance and technical benchmarks for the German automaker, and when you consider its rarity (fewer than 1,000 examples were produced), its steadily rising values are no surprise. Even so, the Pure Orange 918 Spyder you see here just set a tremendous world record for the car, selling for $6.05 million and far surpassing the previous record of $3.93 million. It figures, then, that this is a rather special example of the electrified Porsche. One-of-One Paint Job 2015 Porsche 918 Spyder Mecum View the 5 images of this gallery on the original article You’ll never lose this 918 Spyder in the parking lot, thanks to its vivid Pure Orange paintwork. This paint-to-sample option cost a staggering $21,000 when the car was purchased new in 2014 and is the only 918 Spyder in this finish. The desirable Weissach Package is also equipped, shaving about 90 pounds off the standard car’s weight. It includes key components manufactured from carbon fiber, including the windscreen frame and rearview mirrors. Magnesium wheels and an extended rear diffuser also form part of this upgrade. A front axle lift system for $10,500 is also added. The interior piping dispenses with the usual Acid Green and is matched to the Pure Orange exterior, too. This orange 918 sold for $964,875 in 2014, including all options and the destination charge. With just 845 miles covered, this 2015 918 Spyder has barely had the opportunity to stretch its legs. The attractive spec and ultra-low miles contributed to the record sale of $6,050,000 at Mecum’s Kissimmee auction this past Friday. This jaw-dropping figure is double some of the previous high bids we’ve seen for 918 Spyders, and over $2 million more than the previous record. Related: Every Porsche 918 Spyder Took 100 Hours to Build – Here’s What That Looks Like A Groundbreaking Era For Hybrids 2015 Porsche 918 Spyder Mecum View the 4 images of this gallery on the original article Back in 2013 when the 918 Spyder went into production, hybrids were still very much fuel-saving alternatives to conventional powertrains. But, together with the Ferrari LaFerrari and McLaren P1 introduced at around the same time, the Porsche showed how combining electric motors with a gas engine could be used to boost performance to unprecedented levels. In the case of the 918 Spyder, the 4.6-liter naturally aspirated V8 engine was combined with front and rear electric motors; one motor joins the V8 in powering the rear wheels, while the other electric motor powers the front ones. It was a deadly combination, with the Spyder producing 887 horsepower and 944 lb-ft of torque. Independent tests confirmed 0-60 times of below 2.5 seconds, and it flew way past 200 mph at the top end. Even today, the 918 Spyder’s performance matches up to the very best; it’s roughly as quick to 60 as the modern Lamborghini Revuelto, a 1,001-hp PHEV. Now that one 918 Spyder has crossed the $6-million mark, the effect of this sale could spill over to used values of other pristine, low-mileage examples. For now, though, this is the most valuable 918 Spyder on the planet. View the full article

On affected bikes, which were produced between certain calendar dates only, normal engine vibration could break the side stand spring.View the full article

The LS2 Rebellion helmet has been recalled because it may lack proper impact protection and fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 218.View the full article

It’s been a bumpy couple of months for the Nissan Rogue, the Japanese automaker’s top-selling vehicle in the United States. Around mid-year last year, the crossover was affected by a massive engine recall, which was followed more recently by another recall regarding spare tires. Now, Nissan is facing a class action lawsuit involving Rogue SUVs with exploding rear windshields. The plaintiffs claim Nissan was aware of the defective windshield and failed to disclose the potentially dangerous defect. Related: 2026 Nissan Rogue Recalled After Spare Tire Mixup Violates Federal Rules Nissan SUV's Windows Go Rogue C According to the lawsuit, the rear windshields of several Nissan Rogues have spontaneously exploded. The issue occurs long before the normal lifespan of the rear windshield, with incidents reported within the first three years/36 months of the standard warranty. In one case, a Rogue owner’s rear windshield exploded at just 9,400 miles. Some Rogue owners say that Nissan has not replaced these windows, claiming normal wear and tear. This has forced Rogue owners to pay out of pocket to third parties to have the windows replaced. The issue, which affects 2021-2025 Nissan Rogues, can allegedly occur whether the vehicle is in motion or not, and even in the absence of extreme weather conditions. Besides a theft risk from a broken window that exposes the cargo area, the exploding windows can distract the driver if the car is in motion, increasing the risk of a crash. Steven Paul “The loud explosion and flying glass distract and startle drivers and occupants,” the class action lawsuit says, as per Top Class Actions. “The broken rear windshield can also result in an increased risk of vehicle break-ins and theft.” The lawsuit seeks claims for breach of express and implied warranties, violations of the New York General Business Law, and common law fraud/fraudulent omission. Related: Nissan Rogue Generations Overview: How It Became The Top-Selling Nissan What Can Cause Exploding Rear Windshields? Steven Paul The cause of the exploding rear windshields is unknown, but it certainly points to a manufacturing flaw and not standard wear and tear. Thermal stress, such as an extreme and quick change between very hot and cold temperatures, could be a contributing factor. If the tempered glass has a flaw or there’s an issue with the installation process, even pressure changes (like closing the tailgate) can eventually lead to the glass shattering. Joe Stanson, a store manager at Gatto’s Tire and Auto Service in Florida, told Fox 35 that rear windshield defrosters and tinted windows can also cause sudden explosions. According to a 2024 report by the news broadcaster, mechanics are seeing this issue more often. We found a Facebook thread where multiple Rogue owners reported experiencing the same problem, and not all related to the current, third-gen Rogue that's the subject of this lawsuit. The class action lawsuit, Delucia-Roitman, et al. v. Nissan North America Inc., et al., has been filed in a Tennessee court, and we await an official response from the automaker. View the full article

One of Ferrari’s Most Mythical CreationsThe Ferrari 250 GTO is already a legend in its own right. It's widely regarded as one of the most important models in the Italian marque’s history, alongside icons such as the Enzo and F40. As such, it came as little surprise when Mecum Auctions sold one of the just 36 examples in Kissimmee for $38.5 million – the highest price achieved at the event. This particular 250 GTO (chassis 3729GT) is even more special, as it is the only example finished in Bianco Speciale (white), standing apart from the sea of red cars. Its provenance is further elevated by the drivers who raced it, including legends such as Richie Ginther and Graham Hill, a two-time Formula One World Champion and the only driver to achieve the so-called Triple Crown of Motorsport – winning the Indianapolis 500, the 24 Hours of Le Mans, and the Monaco Grand Prix. @ferraricollector_davidlee on Instagram The Price That Sparked a Double TakeHowever, those who closely follow the 250 GTO market may find the recent sale price somewhat underwhelming – especially considering that another example reportedly sold for around $70 million in 2018. One could argue that the final figure was influenced by the fact that this car no longer retains its original engine. The original powerplant suffered an internal failure that punched a hole in the sump during an on-track incident involving former F1 driver Karun Chandhok at the Goodwood Revival in 2023, resulting in a brief fire. According to the listing details, the car is now fitted with a Colombo V12 that has been built by Ferrari Classiche. Nevertheless, the winning bidder, David Lee, was proud of acquiring the multimillion-dollar car. Lee is a well-known Ferrari collector who already owns several of the marque’s most revered halo cars, including the 288 GTO, F40, F50, Enzo, and LaFerrari—often collectively referred to as the “Big Five.” His collection also includes Ferrari’s latest flagship, the F80, which notably breaks from the brand’s traditional V12 lineage in favor of a twin-turbocharged V6 hybrid setup. Completing a Ferrari StoryIn an Instagram post, Lee wrote, “I am proud to be part of Ferrari’s history book as the newest custodian of this masterpiece.” He went on to describe the car as the “last infinity stone of Ferrari.” Other big-ticket lots at the 2026 Mecum Kissimmee auction included a Ferrari Enzo, sold for $17.9 million, and a Ford GT40 MkII Factory Lightweight, which fetched for $12.3 million. The latter is derived from the Blue Oval's GT40 race program, developed to challenge Ferrari for overall honors in Le Mans, most notably during the 1960s. Mecum Auctions View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

Volvo’s next big electric SUV has leaked with less than three days before its official unveiling, giving us our clearest look yet at what the brand has planned for one of its most important future models. The images were uncovered by Kindel Auto, and if the early reaction is anything to go by, the Volvo EX60 is shaping up to be a very worthy sibling to the EX90 – possibly an even better-looking one. And with Thomas Ingenlath, the man responsible for the Polestar 1's design, returning to Volvo, it might get even prettier down the line. A Familiar Face With a Smoother Silhouette The leaked images show a front end that is unmistakably Volvo. The EX60 largely sticks to the proportions of the outgoing XC60, the model it effectively replaces, but it adopts the cleaner, more minimal look first seen on the EX90. An updated take on Volvo’s signature Thor’s Hammer LED headlights dominates the front, while the grille has been pushed lower, leaving a mostly flush and closed-off face. It is a restrained design, but that's not necessarily a bad thing. As Volvo slowly phases out its remaining gas-powered models, with the Volvo XC90 still sitting at the top of the ladder, the EX60 acts as a middle ground between the brand’s past and its electric future. Beyond The Design Volvo Earlier this month, Volvo teased the EX60’s interior and confirmed some headline specs, including a claimed 400-mile range and the ability to add around 173 miles of range in just 10 minutes. The EX60 will be the first model to ride on Volvo’s new SPA3 platform, which promises faster processing, smarter driver assistance systems, and improved efficiency across the board. The real goal behind it is cost savings – the same philosophy as Ford's $30k electric pickup. Hopefully, this means the EX60 will undercut its rivals because it already has more range than the BMW iX3, Tesla Model Y, and Mercedes-Benz GLC Electric. One of The Few Good-Looking Electric SUVs Instagram @kindelauto You don't have to shout to stand out. Porsche has proven that point with the Porsche 911, which has evolved ever so slightly over the decades without losing its identity. The problem comes when brands abandon that philosophy altogether, something Porsche learned the hard way when the Porsche Macan made the jump to electric power. Volvo seems determined not to repeat that mistake. With its smallest EV, the Volvo EX30, and now the EX60, the brand is showing that EVs do not need to look like futuristic appliances. As Volvo continues its march toward an all-electric lineup by 2035, the EX60 is a reassuring sign that good design still has a place in an increasingly digital, minimalistic, electrified world. View the full article

Big truck frame repair is kind of mezmorizing sometimes. Whether it’s the guys in eastern Europe that take a completely pretzeled chassis and straighten it out so they can weld it all back together, or the Pakistani truck guys who straighten up outside frame rails and then make their own new ones to fit inside as doublers or triplers. I like both, but this one is from an eastern European shop where they have all the tracks, hydraulics, and induction heaters to make these repairs. If you haven’t watched one of these yet, you won’t believe how far these parts and pieces can be pushed to get back into shape. The post Big Truck Frame Repair: This Scania Truck Is Totaled. Can This Frame Be Straightened Out And The Truck Repaired? appeared first on BangShift.com. View the full article

When I got my gooseneck trailer, I installed a 17,000 lb Anvil winch and a couple of batteries and thought about getting one of those solar powered battery chargers to keep the batteries charged up while it’s sitting. But then I saw some reviews on a few of them that said they weren’t much good. So I quit paying attention to them. Until now. Yesterday, on Project Farm, he put out a video testing and reviewing a bunch of solar battery chargers, and now I want one! How about you? Would you use a solar battery charger? Video Description: Solar car battery chargers compared for performance charging a car battery in overcast and sunny conditions, reverse polarity testing, impact resistance, maximum watts, minimum voltage to begin charging, float charge cut in and cut out voltage. PulseTech, Schumacher, SUNER POWER, FlexSolar, TogoPOWER, NXQWLL, SOLPERK, Grecell, EBL, Newpowa, TBER, VOLT HERO, Hoysicy, and SHASUXTING. I purchased all of the solar battery chargers to ensure an unbiased review. So, thank you for supporting the channel! The post Solar Battery Chargers: Are They Worth Having? Can They Do Real Charging, Or Are They Just A Battery Tender? appeared first on BangShift.com. View the full article

Having just finished watching all the racing action from the Dakar Rally, and their famed trucks, it’s cool to see what a BAJA 1000 support rig looks like. They aren’t the same, as the BAJA support rigs aren’t actually racing each other, but they are still pretty cool since they have to get to various pit areas out in the desert in order to get these race vehicles gassed up, and sometimes repaired, before sending them on down the course. Check it out as Chris Polvoorde walks us through the big Ford that supports his Trophy Truck. The post Desert Racing Tech: The SCIENCE Behind BAJA 1000 Support Vehicles! Check Out The Optima Batteries, Ford, Steel-It, Polvoorde Racing Support Rig. appeared first on BangShift.com. View the full article

Now that the top has been cut off, the real critical stuff has to happen. We’re talking about fitting and welding this original roof back in place, just a few inches lower. This isn’t unique to this 1932 Ford Tudor, as this is the next step in the process regardless of the car. This is where the grinding and welding begins. There’s no turning back now! The last couple of videos showed you everything that has to happen to plan and prepare to chop an all original 1932 Ford Tudor Sedan, and then how to actually cut it. There is a lot of measuring and taping and measuring and measuring and marking and staring and measuring and staring, and measuring, before any of the cutting starts. Check it out in the link below, and if you missed the first episode on this epic machine, use the link below as well. This 1932 Ford Tudor Sedan is an amazing survivor. It is completely stock and untouched and has spent the last few decades stored in a storage container in Canada. It recently got shipped all the way to Australia to Bennett’s Customs where it is getting a 48 hour hot rod transformation, and it might even get chopped which is going to piss some folks off I’m sure. But you know what? It’s not ours, so if the guy who owns it wants to chop it then I say chop away! CLICK HERE TO SEE THE OTHER VIDEOS IN THE SERIES ON THIS ALL ORIGINAL 1932 FORD TUDOR SEDAN Video Description: In this episode, we refit and weld the roof back onto our chopped 1932 Ford survivor. From dialing in proper fitment to tackling welding challenges – especially around the rear window section – we walk through the most crucial steps of welding in a roof chop. The stance and overall look of the ’32 are really coming together! The post How to Chop An All-Original 1932 Ford Tudor: Chopping a True Survivor – Fitting and Welding It Back Together Are The Most Crucial Steps! appeared first on BangShift.com. View the full article

The Rotsun is, well, rotten. Hence the name. But how much rust is too much? Is this thing structurally okay, is it a total loss, or does it just need a little love. I once drove from Dallas, TX to Buffalo, NY to buy a 1967 Camaro Stock Eliminator car only to find that the floor pans and trunk pan were as much fiberglass as steel. Unfortunately for me it was a long drive to find out that this otherwise wonderful car was not safe or good for me. Because the roll bar was bolted to floors that weren’t strong, and I had no way to really know how much of them would have to be cut out and replaced, I wasn’t willing to take the risk. So how rotted out is the Rotsun? Let’s find out. Video Description: The Roadkill Rotsun, my 1971 Datsun 240Z is falling apart. It’s in need of massive surgery to prevent the floor from disintegrating from the body and also, it keeps breaking rearend parts. In episode 387 of Finnegan’s Garage we locate a donor body and put a plan in place to make sure things don’t get worse. If you’d like to keep up with the further progress of The Rotsun before it’s next racing event, Sick Week 2026, then give my friends a follow at: ‪@RowdyStreetCars‬ and ‪@FilthyBuilt‬ . Welcome to my channel. This is a fun place to learn about modifying, repairing and upgrading your hot rod car, truck and even boat! I’ll teach you how to weld, how to build high performance engines, how to fabricate your own parts while you learn from watching me wrench on my own project vehicles. I’ll even take you on the adventure as I leave my workshop on epic road trips and racing events as we test out the mods done to all of my projects. Along the way we’ll meet new and interesting people and share in the joy of their automotive creations! Thanks for watching! The post Unsafe At Any Speed! Is the Rotsun Too Rusty? The Answer Is Yes, Definitely Yes. Watch To See Just How Bad It Is! appeared first on BangShift.com. View the full article

Auctions are amazing because you can get insane deals on some stuff, and other stuff goes for insane money. And sometimes the things that go for big money aren’t worth it. On numerous occasions I’ve been at an auction and seen an item sell for a price that would have bought a new one. Other times you get to buy something for a fraction of what it is really worth. And then there are things worth a jillion dollars that go for a jillion dollars. That’s what happens at a big auction like Barrett-Jackson, Bohner, Mecum, etc, and at Mecum in Kissimmee big, big, money was spent. Check it out. Video Description: The 1962 Ferrari 250 GTO Bianco Speciale delivered one of the most remarkable sales of Mecum Kissimmee 2026, achieving a hammer price of $35,000,000 and a final price of $38,500,000 including the buyer’s premium. Known as chassis 3729GT, it is the only Ferrari 250 GTO ever finished in factory white, a singular distinction that sets it apart within one of the most exclusive groups in automotive history. Among the mere 36 Ferrari 250 GTOs built between 1962 and 1964, Bianco Speciale stands alone as a one of one factory special order. Finished in Bianco by Ferrari, it represents a rare departure from tradition and a defining moment in the marque’s competition history. The car’s racing pedigree, originality, and preservation have long cemented its status as one of the most significant GTOs in existence. This historic result underscores the enduring importance of the Ferrari 250 GTO and the exceptional stature of Bianco Speciale within that lineage. Its sale at Mecum Kissimmee 2026 stands as a defining moment for collectors and enthusiasts alike. Key Details: 1962 Ferrari 250 GTO Bianco Speciale Chassis 3729GT One of 36 Ferrari 250 GTOs produced The only 250 GTO finished in factory white Only eight of the 36 were configured in right-hand drive Sold for final price of $38,500,000 The post Huge Money Auction Purchase! This One-of-One Ferrari 250 GTO Sells for $38.5 Million at the Mecum Kissimmee! appeared first on BangShift.com. View the full article

Moser Engineering has a new line of stamped Ford 9-inch rearends. These rearends are designed for many applications and horsepower levels. View the full article

2025 St. George MCC Summer Series Round Two – SMP With Nick Edards – Images by Half Light The second round of the St George MCC Summer Nights series (SNS06) hit the track at Sydney Motorsport Park (SMP), during one of the most brutal heatwaves this year. I think it’s fair to say that no […] The post Recapping a scorching second St. George Summer Series bout at SMP appeared first on MCNews. View the full article

The Solution to Rising Car PricesA report from Reuters says the Trump administration’s top auto policy officials are seeking to lower vehicle prices by scaling back emissions regulations. This aligns with the fact that average new car prices surpassed $50,000 in December 2025. Despite what some view as opposition to electrified vehicles, Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy said the market should not depend on “government policy to encourage EV purchases while penalizing combustion engines.” That regulatory tilt was evident in recent automaker product strategies, with Dodge – a brand long associated with muscle cars – going so far as to discontinue the gas-powered Charger as the nameplate transitioned to a new generation initially led by an all-electric version. Cole Attisha The Policy Winds Change DirectionAt the same time, combustion-powered vehicles appear to be regaining momentum, highlighted by the return of models such as the 777-horsepower Ram 1500 TRX. The shift follows policy changes under the current administration, including the elimination of the $7,500 federal EV tax credit and the removal of penalties tied to fuel-efficiency requirements. Even California – long viewed as a leader in EV adoption – saw its plan to phase out new gasoline-powered vehicle sales by 2035 rescinded. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) head Lee Zeldin reiterated that view, arguing the government “should not be forcing, requiring, mandating that the market go in a direction other than what the American consumer is demanding.” So how can easing emissions regulations affect car prices? One factor is that automakers must invest in additional hardware to meet emissions rules and avoid penalties. This often includes electrified components such as electric motors that form part of hybrid systems. While these technologies improve fuel efficiency and performance – by operating in parallel or in series with an engine, as seen in Nissan’s e-Power system - they also add complexity and cost to vehicles. Nissan The Market’s Verdict So FarThe shift in EV policy may have weighed on brands such as Tesla, but overall U.S. new-vehicle sales still reportedly rose 2.4% in 2025 to 16.2 million units. U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer added that the removal of EV incentives and the introduction of new tariffs are “not really getting down to the consumer,” suggesting that lower vehicle prices could still materialize. The report also noted that the EPA is expected to finalize a rule in the coming weeks that would remove federal tailpipe emissions mandates. Ford View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

Defending NASCAR O'Reilly Auto Parts Series champion Jesse Love was taking part in the Chili Bowl Nationals this past week, and he was impressive in a car prepared by Hendrick Motorsports Cup Series crew chief Blake Harris. On Friday night, he started 17th and drove all the way up to fourth at one point. After passing 10+ cars, he ultimately finished sixth in the A-Main prelim. However ...Keep readingView the full article

Here comes Stage 13! It’s the final stage of Dakar Rally 2026, and will determine who’s going to take home the win. These racers are still going to have to race in this stage, and there are definitely finishing positions that could flip flop. The bike guys are particularly tough and crazy, but everyone has to earn it whether on two or four wheels. This race is still very much up in the air, as anything can happen in the desert. We’ve been sharing every day’s coverage from the 2026 Dakar Rally and today is no different. Watch the video to see all the Stage 13 action, highlights, and more below! Bodies and vehicles are being put to the test and the carnage and emotions are real! This tough and technical stage was toughernastier than many expected. Dakar Rally 2026 is on! The worlds longest, toughest, and most infamous off-road race has started and we couldn’t be more excited! Famous racers and teams, well known for their prowess in the sand and on Dakar in general, have already been struggling which is just more proof of how gnarly this race really is. There are a lot of new cars and new teams mixed in with proven cars and older teams, but it’s the little things that matter at Dakar. If you don’t take care of your equipment, and keep your teams and people healthy, then you’ll never finish and if you don’t finish you can’t win. This race goes all over Saudi Arabia and will subject drivers and riders to all kinds of sand terrain and more. But the sand is what swallows teams. It’s the most fierce of the challenges. Will 2026 prove to be even tougher than last year? Would you run at Dakar if given the chance? Let us know in the comments section below. CLICK HERE IF YOU MISSED ANY OF THE COVERAGE FROM PREVIOUS STAGES! The post Dakar Rally 2026 Coverage: It’s The Last Stage Of Dakar 2026! Dramatic Stage 13 Racing Action Is Below! appeared first on BangShift.com. View the full article

Bespoke for a ReasonAt a certain level of automotive manufacturing, things take a very sharp turn towards unbelievably custom parts building. What this means is that the more expensive and sought-after hypercar models require very specialized production methods that no mass manufacturer can provide. That type of production applies to a brand like Bugatti, the go-to for extreme performance, luxury, and brand presence. When one owns a Bugatti, it's a statement to the world that "I own the very best." So it isn't a surprise that if someone claims something "iffy" about the brand, it ticks some people off, in this case, the owner himself, Mate Rimac. Bonhams Cars High MaintenanceYouTuber Mat Armstrong has gone on record to say something very controversial. He claims that when it comes to repairing Bugattis, one can simply 3D-print replacement parts. What makes this claim outrageous is that any car made by the brand costs upwards of $2 Million. In any case, the claim has gone viral and has prompted a response from a brand representative, none other than the owner himself, Mate Rimac. Rimac is a very successful automotive mogul, getting his reputation for first building the extremely fast Rimac EV hypercars. He's now the CEO at Bugatti-Rimac and is one of the most outspoken executives in the industry. In response to those claims, he has responded by posting a video on his personal IG account, wherein he dispels some claims circulating on the web. But first, he addressed the rumors about the price of some replacement parts. It has been claimed that headlights, for example, cost $150,000 apiece, when in fact they only cost $25,000 each. Furthermore, he says prices are high because their goal is to have current Bugatti models last for 100 years, just like the brand's classic models from eons ago. 3D Printed Parts?Rimac then proceeded to answer Armstrong's claims that parts can be 3D-printed for the Chiron. Rimac said that while they themselves use 3D printing as a component of part production, their process works because of the huge amounts of money invested in the R&D required to make parts. Not to mention that simply 3D-printing parts at home is not recommended for cars costing millions of Dollars. While Mr. Armstrong is entitled to his opinion, he is in the business of YouTube and, as such, has used his platform to raise what he claims to be issues regarding the maintenance of his Chiron. The fact is, those who can fork over the cash for a brand-spanking new Bugatti can, with almost 100% certainty, pay the amount required to keep them running, without "shortcuts." View the full article

This week's edition of Speed Read kicks off with a stonking supercharged Suzuki GSX-R / GSX 1100 hybrid from Finland, built for flat track racing of all things. We shift gears to profile a svelte Honda CB750 café racer from an award-winning Japanese workshop, before focusing on a Baja racing-inspire... View the full article

A Mustang With Something to ProveFord hasn’t released a new mid-engine supercar to rival the Chevrolet C8 Corvette ZR1, but one could argue the Mustang GTD effectively fills that role. Thanks to Hagerty, its performance has now been put to the test against the Blue Oval’s true supercars from two different eras—the first- and second-generation GT. With 815 horsepower from a 5.2-liter supercharged V8 on tap, the Mustang GTD would appear poised to dominate both its supercar siblings in a drag race. However, weight plays a crucial role in this type of test – and that’s where the GTs held a clear advantage on paper over the much heavier pony car. The Math Behind the MatchupThe Ford Mustang GTD tips the scales at over 4,300 lbs – roughly 1,000 lbs heavier than the 2020 GT, which produces 660 horsepower from a 3.5-liter EcoBoost twin-turbo V6. Given the performance gap and the technological advancements separating the two eras, the 2005 GT might seem outmatched from the outset. However, this particular example was equipped with the optional Performance Upgrade package, allowing its 5.4-liter supercharged V8 to deliver as much as 650 hp, though it was riding on tire technology that dates back nearly 20 years. In the standing-start drag race, the Mustang GTD emerged on top with a quarter-mile time of 10.8 seconds at 132 mph. It was followed closely by the second-gen GT, which recorded a 10.9-second pass at 132 mph. The first-gen GT completed the quarter-mile run in 11.6 seconds at 128 mph. To further level the playing field, Hagerty also conducted a rolling-start test, eliminating variables such as the launch control advantage of the 2020 GT and the manual shifting required in the older GT. Hagerty on YouTube Rewriting the Mustang RulebookEven under these conditions, the Mustang GTD continued to outperform the supercars. The 2005 GT finished in second place, while the newer iteration crossed the line in third – likely due to turbo lag, according to the test drivers. A decade ago, arguing that a Mustang could outperform a Ford GT would have sounded almost unthinkable. Yet this head-to-head comparison highlights just how far Ford has pushed the Mustang nameplate since its introduction in the 1960s. As appealing as it may be, however, the Mustang GTD remains an exclusive offering, with production reportedly capped at 1,000 to 2,000 units, each carrying a starting price of around $325,000. Ford View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

Two $7-Million Missiles, One Big QuestionAt nearly $7 million each, the Bugatti Chiron Super Sport and Koenigsegg Jesko Absolut are hypercars built with one goal: speed. These are the ultimate expressions of what happens when brands throw out the rulebook and chase performance above all else. Most of us will never get close to driving one, so seeing them go head-to-head is as real as it gets. Carwow on YouTube lined up both cars for a series of drag races, but with a twist: factory test drivers from Bugatti and Koenigsegg were on hand to ensure everything went smoothly. And right from the start, it was obvious this wasn’t going to play out the way the numbers suggest. On Paper, the Advantage Isn’t ObviousOn paper, the Jesko Absolut should have the upper hand. It tips the scales at just over 3,060 pounds – about 1,300 pounds lighter than the Chiron Super Sport. Power is close when the Jesko runs E85, so both are in the same league for horsepower. Usually, less weight means quicker acceleration once traction no longer limits acceleration. Specification Bugatti Chiron Super Sport Koenigsegg Jesko Absolut Engine configuration 8.0-liter Quad-turbo W16 5.0-liter Twin-turbo V8 (flat-plane crank) Transmission 7-speed dual-clutch automatic 9-speed Light Speed Transmission (LST) Horsepower 1,578 hp 1,280 hp (E85) Torque 1,180 lb-ft 1,106 lb-ft Drivetrain AWD RWD Curb weight (based on the video) 4,398 lb (1,995 kg) 3,064 lb (1,390 kg) 0–60 mph < 2.4 seconds < 2.5 seconds Top speed (customer cars) 273 mph (electronically limited) Theoretical 330+ mph But that’s where the Bugatti pushes back. The Chiron Super Sport’s all-wheel drive gives it instant traction, especially off the line. The Jesko Absolut, even featuring its advanced gearbox, is still rear-wheel drive and much more sensitive to the road, gear selection, and how you use the throttle. It’s a classic matchup: traction versus lightness. Bugatti So Who Actually Won?The Koenigsegg Jesko Absolut walked away with the overall win by clinching the standing half-mile sprint. However, there’s a huge asterisk. The Chiron Super Sport proved more dominant when traction mattered most, particularly in a short quarter-mile sprint – all thanks to its all-wheel-drive system and sheer weight. Distance Winner Bugatti Chiron Super Sport Koenigsegg Jesko Absolut Standing quarter-mile Bugatti Chiron Super Sport 9.6 seconds 9.9 seconds Standing half-mile Koenigsegg Jesko Absolut 14.8 seconds 14.6 seconds (at around 211 mph) But as speeds (and gears) climbed, the Jesko’s advantage came through. Its lighter build allowed it to pull ahead. The Absolut shined in longer runs, even if it lost ground at the start. Neither car showed a real weakness – just two different takes on what it means to be the fastest. The Jesko Absolut gets the bragging rights, but the close margins and changing advantages show this wasn’t a clear-cut win. In the end, the real winners are the drivers who get to push these cars to their limits – something most of us will only ever watch from afar. Koenigsegg View the full article

What's Old Is Still Brand NewIt's no secret that automakers still pump out pretty old cars in this day and age. One prime example of that is the Chevrolet Express. Introduced in 1996, the van turns 30 in 2026, and is just a few years away from matching the almighty Ford Panther platform that underpinned the Crown Victoria, Mercury Grand Marquis, and Lincoln Town Car. But even then, that van beats all those as it's been that way for an entire generation. But we digress, as GM is far from being the only one that's been selling something old as brand-spanking new. The world's biggest automaker, Toyota, has several cars that fit the bill. We're talking single-generation cars that still have roots well planted from decades prior, here. With that, here are five of them. Lexus IS (Since 2013)Yes, we just had to throw in a Lexus product here. The current Lexus IS might look miles different from the one released back in 2013, but it still rides on the same chassis as it did 13 years ago. It's easily the oldest car in the company's lineup with no successor seemingly in place. It's been facelifted three times already, with a radical update for the 2021 model year. The 2026 version also gets a few tweaks here and there, taking some cues from the redesigned ES. Lexus Toyota Yaris Sedan/Vios (Since 2013)If you frequently travel to Southeast Asia, the Yaris Sedan and the Vios should be a familiar sight. It's Toyota's entry in the subcompact sedan class, a hugely popular segment in the region but now officially extinct in America. An all-new model was introduced in 2022, but Toyota still sells the previous generation in huge numbers across the region. Like the IS, it's been around for 13 years and has undergone several facelifts. Toyota Toyota LiteAce (Since 2007)Moving to commercial vehicles, what we have next is the Toyota LiteAce. Also known as the Daihatsu GranMax, it's primarily for small businesses and probably one of the smallest vans you can still get apart from kei vans. This one's old enough to go to college, as it was launched 19 years ago. This one hasn't had a major facelift throughout its life, either, and it doesn't seem it'll ever get one, given its utilitarian purpose. The Toyota version isn't sold in Japan anymore, but is still around in most parts of Asia. Toyota Toyota Hiace (Since 2004)If you think the LiteAce is old, then meet its bigger brother, the Hiace. Mind you, we have to be specific and mention the flat-nose version. A thoroughly redesigned model was rolled out in 2019, moving its engine to the front so the driver's knees don't become part of the crumple zone. Still, this literal box on wheels is a massively popular delivery vehicle in Japan, and it even has loads of user-choosers out there, too. Facelifts have been largely tweaks to the front bumper and headlights, and its most recent one, quite literally, just came out. It now sports LED daytime running lights. Wow. Toyota Toyota Land Cruiser 70 Series (Since 1984)You totally saw this from a mile away. The daddy of all brand-new old-school Toyotas is still, of course, the Land Cruiser 70 Series. Launched in 1984, it was intended to replace the 40 Series and to continue the heavy-duty, utilitarian branch of the Land Cruiser family tree. The 40 Series lived on until 2001, although it and the 70 Series were being made at the same time for 17 years. To give you a better idea of the 70 Series' longevity, it's already outlasted the 40 Series in terms of production years. Its predecessor ran from 1960 to 2001 for 41 years, but the 70 Series? It's turning 42 in 2026, and it last got an update in 2023. It looks like there are no signs of it being discontinued, either, as demand remains strong, particularly in Oceania and the Middle East. Far From the OldestThe Land Cruiser 70's 42-year (and counting) run sounds impressive, but those are rookie numbers to a couple more models worth mentioning. For true automotive fossils, you have to take a look at what's still available brand-new over in Russia. There's the Lada Niva that came out in 1977, so it's close to reaching its golden anniversary. Then there's the even-older UAZ-469 from 1971, so that one turns 55 this year. But at the top of the pile is another model from UAZ with the 452. This one dates back to the Johnson Administration, as it was launched in 1965. Yes, a car (okay, van) born in the mid-'60s is still alive and kicking with just a few tweaks since the original. U Lexus View the 15 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

Pushing the Revuelto Further Into Visual ExtremesThe Mansory Initiate once again proves that subtlety has no place in the tuner’s vocabulary. Based on the Lamborghini Revuelto, the Initiate layers an aggressive carbon-fiber body treatment over an already dramatic hybrid supercar. A redesigned hood, exaggerated front splitter, sculpted side skirts, and an oversized rear wing dominate the exterior, ensuring the Initiate is impossible to mistake for a factory build. This approach feels familiar, especially following Mansory’s recent high-profile Revuelto tied to Formula 1 driver Esteban Ocon, a project that signaled the brand’s push into F1-adjacent visibility. Much like that car, the Initiate leans heavily into shock value. And while Mansory claims functional aerodynamic improvements, the visual result remains divisive at best and, to some, outright revolting, as the Revuelto’s original design is buried beneath excess. Slight Power Upgrades, Impressively ExecutedUnlike its dramatic exterior, the Mansory Initiate’s mechanical changes are relatively restrained and low-key impressive. Lamborghini’s 6.5-liter naturally aspirated V12 and three-motor hybrid system remain intact, with Mansory extracting additional output from the combustion engine alone. Power rises to 880 horsepower, bringing total system output to 1,070 hp, but technically impressive given the Revuelto’s complexity. Credit where it’s due: tuning a high-revving V12 hybrid without compromising integration or drivability is no easy feat. The Initiate retains the Revuelto’s brutal acceleration, hitting 0–60 mph in 2.4 seconds, and carries a claimed 220 mph top speed. These upgrades may be incremental, but they are executed with precision, reinforcing Mansory’s engineering competence even if the aesthetic choices remain controversial. Mansory&sol;Instagram Interior Customization Completes the Polarizing PackageInside, the Initiate sticks closely to Mansory’s established formula. Carbon fiber accents, bespoke leather upholstery, contrast stitching, and customizable color themes define the cabin. The craftsmanship is high, but the layout and digital architecture remain largely Lamborghini, which may be the wisest decision in the entire build. Ultimately, the updates made to the Mansory Initiate based on the Lamborghini Revuelto feel a tad underwhelming, a slightly more powerful, slightly more aggressive, and just as polarizing as previous Mansory projects. Much like the Ocon-linked Revuelto before it, the Initiate won’t convert skeptics. It exists to satisfy a specific audience that believes excess is the point, even if that excess continues to repel everyone else. Mansory&sol;Instagram View the 15 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article