scc edition 23 winter 2011

WINTER 2011E D I T I O N 2 3

PIRELLI.CO.UK

PIRELLI. OFFICIAL TYRE SUPPLIER F1.

LET’S DANCE

http://www.pirelli.com

Intro

duct

ion

3SupercarIssue 23

Welcome to the final edition of Supercar Magazine for 2011. It has been an eventful year for TheSupercar Club. We have delivered two successful and enjoyable driving events – The SupercarRun in June and the Tour Alpina in September. At the same time we created the e-Magazineformat which has allowed us to significantly increase our circulation and have worked hard toplan the Giro d'Italia event which will be taking place in June of next year.

2011 also saw the change of ownership of The Supercar Club. I am very happy that CharlesNasser and I were able to find a structure where we were able to acquire the business, makeRachael Bowser an owner and importantly keep Greg Hollamby involved in continuing to help usdeliver first class events. We have been delighted with the support we have received from ourfriends and members and I want to use this opportunity to pass on special thanks to oursponsors who continue to support us in way which really makes a difference to our ability todeliver great events.

Over the last few years Rachael has taken increasing responsibility for The Supercar Club, andthe investment by Charles and myself should be seen as an investment in her ability to run thisbusiness using all of the experience she gained from working alongside Greg. So far myexpectations have been exceeded and I am very confident that under Rachael's leadership wecan continue to deliver events that go beyond the expectations of our members in the years tocome. We really like the Supercar Club as it is though, so don't expect too many changes!This edition of the magazine feels very personal because there has been a lot of contributionfrom our members. I am grateful to everyone who has written for us and am sure that ourreaders will enjoy their articles.

We will be in touch over the next few months with the usual schedule of motoring events, drinksparties and other fun activities. In the meantime, on behalf of the whole team I wish you all aMerry Christmas and a Happy New Year and we look forward to seeing everyone in 2012.

Iain McKenzie

This magazine is published in house by The Supercar Group. All rights reserved.Reproduction in whole or part is strictly prohibited without the prior written permissionof the publisher. Opinions expressed are those of the author and not of The SupercarGroup or its’ employees, and are not endorsed by The Supercar Group. All reasonableefforts have been made to ensure accuracy of information at the time of going to press.The Supercar Run is a Registered Trademark, and all copyright work is owned by TheSupercar Group, which in turn is a trading name of Vigilant Motor Tours Ltd.

The Supercar Group, Broadwell House, Broadwell, Lechlade, Gloucestershire, England GL7 3QS

Telephone: +44 (0) 1367 860805 Facsimile: +44 (0) 1367 860605

[email protected]

www.thesupercarmagazine.com

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Hublot enters theworld of Ferrari Hublot has become the partner watchmaker of Ferrari. This isnot just an agreement to create a tie-in product for licensing orsponsorship. It is a comprehensive agreement covering all theactivities of Ferrari and Hublot, embracing brand image and thecommercial activities of both companies.

This comprehensive exchange between the two brands, pooling bothresources and information has produced a win-win agreement. It wasannounced on 5 November 2011 jointly by Jean-Claude Biver, CEO ofHublot and Luca Cordero di Montezemolo, President of Ferrari SpA atthe Mugello International circuit near Florence, the theatre of theFerrari World Finals. The World Finals is the event that traditionallyrounds off the Prancing Stallion’s season.

Issue 23Supercar4

The agreement will involve not justthe creation of watch collectionsvia a licence or sponsorship. Hublotwill become the exclusivewatchmaking partner in the fullrange of Ferrari’s activities. Thisincludes: “Official Watch” of Ferrari,“Official Timekeeper” of Ferrari,“Official Timekeeper” of ScuderiaFerrari, “Official Watch” of ScuderiaFerrari, “Official Timekeeper” of theFerrari Challenge and a partner inFerrari special events. It all starts today at Mugello and will soon to befollowed by operations in the emerging markets for example China andthe Middle East. Ferrari is one of the leading luxury brands in theChinese market and Hublot is now establishing itself in China with 3boutiques at present and 12 openings planned by the end of 2012. Thebenefits are obvious, each company complements the other.

Luca Cordero di Montezemolo, President of Ferrari S.p.A, commented:“Exclusivity, technology, passion, style: Hublot and Ferrari share manycore values and this new partnership between two highly prestigiousbrands is an important milestone for both. Here at Mugello with ourclients, tifosi and hundreds of stunning Ferraris we are provided withthe perfect opportunity to announce the start of our collaboration withHublot.

“This collaboration, rich in a host of synergies, gives Hublot a massiveboost along the road,” added Jean-Claude Biver, CEO of Hublot.

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.Prestigious

and

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refurbishm

ent for Bea

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Prestigious andluxurious refurbishment forBeards To echo the outstanding fine jewellery that Beards retails, anewly designed jewellery showroom has now been launched atBeards Cheltenham. This exciting development encompassesthe luxury feel, style, quality and attention to detail, similar tothat of our new and established designers.

The contemporary design has been created by Antone(www.antone.co.uk) and is exquisite: the overall finish reflects thebeauty of fine jewellery. The mixture of strong lighting, glass, bronzeand black finishes ultimately showcase our collections be autifully,with breathtaking results. The design not only looks stunning butbrings a whole new pleasure to purchasing a special something. Thelayout embraces the need for ever changing, enticing windowdisplays, as well as an enjoyable shopping experience once inside thestore. We look forward to welcoming you soon.

6 Supercar Issue 23

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Sergio ScagliettiMaranello, 20 November – “Today is a sad day for Ferrari.We lost a friend, a travel companion, a man who had hisname forever connected to the Prancing Horse. SergioScaglietti leaves behind the legacy of an artist who withhis talent created some of the most beautiful cars of ourhistory. Who had the luck to know him like I did will alsoremember him as a straightforward and honest man,completely dedicated to his work. We will miss him.”

These are the words of Ferrari Chairman Luca di Montezemoloregarding the death of Sergio Scaglietti, the legendary Ferraricoachbuilder, who created some of the most famous modelsfrom the manufacturer from Maranello, such as the FerrariCalifornia, the 250 Testa Rossa, the 250 GTO and the 750Monza.

Sergio Scaglietti was a real and natural talent who made carswith his hands and with his eyes, as he liked to say.

Soon the Carrozzeria Scaglietti started to collaborate with theScuderia Ferrari and a great friendship was born between Enzoand Sergio.

“He was one of my father’s best friends,” said Piero Ferrari. “Hewas next to me with Marco Piccinini also the day my father diedand stayed with me the whole night until the funeral. I loved himand he was a very important part of my life. My life will beemptier without Sergio.”

The Carrozzeria Scaglietti has been an integral part of Ferrari formany years. To underline his unique relationship with thecoachbuilder from Modena, Chairman Montezemolo dedicatedhim the 612, the 2+2 seater Berlinetta.

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- Swindo

nNew Ferrari Showroom - SwindonDick Lovett are delighted to announce details of our new Ferrariand Maserati showroom that will be built in Swindon, just oneminute from Junction 16 of the M4.

Our new showroom will be one of the first in the UK to displayFerrari’s new Corporate Identity and to feature a fully-detailed'Atelier' for both Ferrari and Maserati to assist clients with thepersonalisation of their new car.

Our new home will also feature a double-story used car showroomwith space for up to 50 cars ensuring that ourcustomers get the very best choice whensearching for their ideal car.

In terms of Aftersales care, the new facility willhave a state-of-the-art workshop with 18 multi-function ramps and a MOT bay. We will alsohave full valeting and detailing facilities on-site,so you can be sure that your Ferrari or Maseratiwill receive the best possible care and attentionwhen in for servicing.

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In our new showroom we will also have offices available forcustomer use and catering facilities. So when your car is inbeing serviced, you can work in comfort with full Wi-Fiinternet access, telephone and fax facilities.

Work on our new showroom is well underway with the buildexpected to be finished in June 2012. Visit www.dicklovett.co.uk for regular updates or callMatthew Beard on 01793-615000.

911 CarreraCabriolet withinnovative foldingroof• New convertible edition of 911 Carrera on sale in March 3 2012• Roof mechanism features innovative, intelligent lightweight design to reduceweight

• Choice of rear-mounted, flat-six engines offering efficient power andoutstanding dynamic performance; 350 hp 3.4-litre and 400 hp 3.8-litre

• 911 Carrera Cabriolet priced from £79,947, 911 Carrera S Cabriolet pricedfrom £89,740

On sale in March 2012, the new Porsche 911 Carrera Cabriolet offers sporting driversthe option to enjoy the renowned dynamic qualities and iconic design of the 911 Coupecombined with the added versatility and driving pleasure offered by its foldingconvertible roof.

The new 911 Cabriolet models offer the same charismatic line-up of rear-mounted,flat-six engines as the Coupé equivalents of the benchmark sportscar. The 911 CarreraCabriolet features a 3.4-litre engine generating 350 hp (257 kW), driving the rearwheels through a seven-speed manual transmission. The Carrera S Cabriolet offers a3.8-litre engine developing 400 hp (294 kW), also coupled to a seven-speed manualtransmission as standard. Consequently, the open-top 911 models share thecharacteristic efficiency for which the 911 is renowned; both models return over 28.0mpg Combined (NEDC).

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Dick LovettAshworth Road, Bridgemead, Swindon, Wiltshire, SN5 7XRTelephone: 01793 615000 www.dealer.ferrari.com/dicklovett/swindon

All trademarks and copyrights are exclusively rights of Ferrari S.p.A.

OFFICIAL FERRARI DEALER

Dick LovettAs an Official Ferrari dealer Dick Lovett is part of a select network that ensures Ferrari ownership remains a truly unique and rewarding experience. We provide the highest levels of service to Ferrari owners throughout Wiltshire. Our team is dedicated to taking care of all your requirements, making the purchase and ownership of your Ferrari a very special experience. Conveniently situated only minutes from junction 16 of the M4, we are easily accessed from Wiltshire, Gloucestershire and Oxfordshire. We pride ourselves on providing the highest levels of service and expertise through our experienced team of staff in our sales and after sales departments, from guiding you through the process of purchasing your new Ferrari or pre-owned Ferrari to maintaining and taking care of your car. We look forward to welcoming you to our showroom.

12:16

http://www.dealer.ferrari.com/dicklovett/swindon/

1212 Issue 23

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. Top MarquesMonaco It feels like yesterday when the applause echoed at Top MarquesMonaco in April as six supercar manufacturers unveiled their worlddébuts. ��

Top Marques Monaco – witness to excellence and a unique showcase ofextreme machines, sophisticated and limited series timepieces by theworld’s most prestigious master watchmakers, rare jewels, fast superboatsand bespoke luxury artistry, all bonded by visionary craftsmanship. ��

TOP MARQUES MONACO at The Grimaldi Forum 19-22th April 2012�www.topmarquesmonaco.com �

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Supercar

13Issue 23 Supercar

SCC supportsHelen & DouglasHouse

Helen & Douglas House has the time and expertise to care for children andyoung adults with life-shortening conditions, and to support their families.Helen House, the world’s first children’s hospice - now celebrating its 30thAnniversary - and Douglas House, the first hospice for young adults, offerspecialist symptom and pain management, medically-supported shortbreaks and end-of-life care, as well as counselling and practical supportfor the whole family.

The aim is to help every young person, aged from birth to 35, who visits usfrom Oxfordshire and surrounding counties, live life to the full, even whenthat life is short.

The Supercar Club looks forward to helping Helen and Douglas House in2012 and we plan to do a number of exciting events together so ourmembers and readers can learn more about their great work.

www.helenanddouglas.org.uk

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“I’m as high as a kite and strapped 14 Supercar Issue 23

I got a phone call from a friend recently. “Do you fancyspending a couple of days in Budapest hanging out with theLotus Renault GP F1 team? Oh, and we get to drive one oftheir Formula 1 cars around the Hungaroring.” ➤

As Freddie said: “Is this the real life?Is this just fantasy?”By Paul Whitbread

d into a Lotus Renault Formula 1”15Issue 23 Supercar

The words “F1 team”, “Formula 1” and

“Hungaroring” bounced around my head.

“Are you serious…?”

Yes, he was, and on 5th October 2011 we wereon a plane from Heathrow to Budapest. The firstevening was ‘meet the team’, have dinner, and tryvery hard to resist the fine wines on offer, as it wasto be a 6am start the next day.

Alarm at 05:15 - so we all needed a strong coffeebefore we piled, slit eyed, into the mini bus fortransportation to Mogyoród, the Hungaroring andmore coffee. The circuit was built in 1985/6 and in atestament to Hungarian builders’ stamina, took onlyeight months to complete. It was the first circuit tohost a Formula 1 Grand Prix behind the Iron Curtain.

And it’s a great circuit, at 4.298 km, with lots ofrun-off areas - a feature that I hoped I wouldn’t needover the coming 12 hours.

06:30 and we arrived at the paddock area to anamazing sight. Lotus Renault GP are based in Enstone,Oxfordshire, headed by Eric Boullier as Team Principleand MD, they had brought over a mini paddock F1village - everything, including four coaches, twodouble decker offices joined by four other suites forphysio, telemetry, massage and a full restaurant, witha chef! They had brought the full kit and caboodleover two days before - these guys really know how tolook after their guests. ➤


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There were six guys in our group, as well as somemajor sponsors from TW Steel watches and two guysfrom Top Gear Australia, altogether about 20 of us. Wewere met by the Lotus Renault team and herdedstraight into the changing rooms in a scrum for racesuits and helmets, then into the first of many driversbriefings. Before lunch, we were going to be out ontrack for two sessions of about 15 laps to learn thecircuit, driving Formula Renault 2.0 cars, then afterlunch move into the two Formula 1 cars. It was a tightschedule if we were to all get serious track time, butRenault insisted we would go through the day just asthough we were ‘real’ F1 drivers. This meant startingwith some aerobic exercise – basically runningaround the paddock, followed by a massage in theupstairs area of one of the double deckers.

Circuit familiarisation came next. I know thissounds really sad, but I’d learned the corners theprevious night before going to sleep. I know to mycost that track days are all about knowing the circuit,and no matter how you try to memorize the shape ofthe track, once you get out there, it all goes Pete Tong!

So – 16 turns – R,R,L,R,R,L,R,R,L,L,R,L,R,R,L,R.

Fortunately, I’d realised its basically three groupsof RRL, then one LRL, one RRL again, then a bigsweep to the pit straight via a long right.

Out on track, the Formula Renault cars were ready.I’ve had limited time in single seaters on track but thiswas quite daunting, and a lot to learn in a short time ifwe were going to prove to Lotus Renault we couldhandle Formula 1 after lunch. I took the first lap quiteslowly, learning the layout and counting through thecorners I’d memorized in lieu of fine wine the nightbefore. ➤

“I know to my cost that track daare all about knowing the circui


ays it”

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http://www.beards.co.uk

And that was so useful - being able to read thecircuit and position the car at the right place on thetrack before each turn. After four laps I was starting torelax - just as I saw one of our group go spinning intothe gravel on turn one just after the straight.

In what seemed like no time at all, the chequeredflag was out, and our first 20 minute session was over.Time for the telemetry review, and another fix of coffeeto keep the adrenaline topped up. After an hour offurther briefings, we were let loose in the FormulaRenaults again and this time we were racing.

Lotus Renault’s Romain Grosjean had been out inthe Formula Renaults and set us a target time of 1 min52.593 secs. My best time was 1 min 55.598 secs - soI was only(!) just over 3 seconds slower than Romain.

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Feeling quite pleased with myself, I headed forthe reaction testing suite. I want one of thesemachines for my games room. It’s basically a largestar shaped array of illuminated buttons which lightup at random. As each one lights up, you hit it asquickly as you can, which brings on the next randomlight. After a few minutes of this, you ache all over,and the count of the number of lights you punchedout gives a gauge of your reaction time. Great atparties.

So finally, after a light lunch, a litre of Red Bull,and even more safety briefings, I’m as high as a kiteand strapped into a Lotus Renault Formula 1 car inthe pit lane of the Hungaroring. As Freddie said,“…Is this the real life? Is this just fantasy?”

As these cars have no starter motor, the guy with

the oversized Black and Decker at the back of the carwas signaled to pull the trigger, and the engine blurtedinto life. I stabbed the throttle to keep the revs up andprevent a neutral stall. We’d had half an hours lectureon how not to stall, (as famously demonstrated by TopGear’s Richard Hammond), so my nerves were likerazors by the time the pit marshal gave me thecrocodile signal – time to go. Increase revs, into first,brake off, moving forward - we’re off. As I drove downthe pit lane, the only way I could relate to what I wasabout to do was to shout at the top of my voice “…I’min a Lotus Renault Formula 1 car, driving theHungaroring…”, along with some expletives!

It’s a struggle to put the experience into words. Youare so low in the car, and the view of those huge frontwheels from the cockpit dominates the field of view.


“I felt as though my brain had been through a spin dryer”

The horizon comes at you quicker than your brain cancompute the next move, and I could now understandwhy Lotus Renault put so much effort into thepreliminaries in the FR2.0 before letting us loose inthese beasts. After exiting the pits, I took the first lapvery carefully - they had warned us about not being tooconfident too quickly. Then around turn 16, into thestraight and time to see what I can do - 3rd, 4th, 5th -through the gears, the immense power just coming likea steam train against your back. Past the pit exit,screaming my head off, watching for the brake point,down a gear, BRAKE HARD, down another gear - inertiatrying to pull my head off – second gear, turn in, feedthe power in slowly, clip the right side at turn two, andthen charge down to turn three… Before I knew it, Iwas back in the pits and being unbuckled.

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But the fun didn’t end there. Ho-Pin Tung is a ‘proper’ Lotus Renault F1 reserve

driver and he wanted to know if I fancied a trip aroundthe circuit in his modified two seater ‘tandem’ F1. Myadrenaline levels were already in the stratosphere, so Ibuckled in behind him and a marshal gave me a buttonto squeeze - if I wanted to bail out, let go of the button!Not a chance.

It’s harder to predict the braking and turning pointsas a passenger, and Mr Tung seemed to be determinedto separate my head from my body. I couldn’t believehow late he left the braking - my head being forcedaround the cockpit at almost 5g’s on braking, and bythe time we got back to the pits after just one lap, I feltas though my brain had been through a spin dryer.


Our lap time was 1min 39secs, which seemed reallyquick. But I later learned that in 2004, MichaelSchumacher set the lap record in 1 min 19.071 secs ina Ferrari - that’s an eye watering 20 seconds faster on alap - and he did this in the Hungarian GP - which is 70laps!!!

What really struck me about the whole day is thatFormula 1 is an extreme sport - it’s extreme in everyrespect. Extreme speeds, extreme technology, extremestresses on the body, extreme competition, extremeglamour, but most of all, extreme, adrenaline fuelled fun.

Somehow though, I think I’ve missed my chance tobe an F1 driver.

So, Real life or fantasy? No doubt about it – Fantasywith a capital eFFF !

w w w . t r a c - g r o u p . c o m

http://www.trac-group.com

There’s a lot going o


Modern motorsport is a fast-moving, cutting-edgeenvironment where a season-old race car is as obsoleteas a ribbon typewriter. But each and every racing car thathas ever turned a wheel in competitive motorsport is partof the fabric of the sport’s heritage, and historic racingcars are amongst the most desirable examples availableto the collector car market. ➤

on for RM right now

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Of course, like race circuits, nothing can replacereal heritage. Current circuits like Monaco and Spaand some of the now disused circuits such as Reims,all conjure images of a golden era of the sport,where some of the finest names in the sport’shistory have pitted their skills against one another.With racing cars, true desirability is driven by a fullydocumented history of that vehicle’s exploits, andthe more famous its drivers and the more successfulits history, the greater the value is likely to be.

RM Auctions is a name that is likely to be wellknown to most of you. Today regarded as the world’slargest collector car auction house for investment-quality automobiles, RM first entered the Europeanauction scene in 2007, hosting record-breakingsales in Maranello, Italy and London, England. The

company continued its European expansion in 2010with the addition of a new sale in Monaco, and in2011, added an additional two sales including one atthe celebrated Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este inCernobbio, Italy and another during London’s highlyanticipated Salon Prive event. RM’s grip on theEuropean auction market for collector cars hasbecome overwhelmingly strong and the companycontinues to be entrusted with selling many of theworld’s finest automobiles.

From an investment perspective, despitefluctuations on the financial markets, the collectorcar hobby remains vibrant, with exceptional motorcars - rare examples with important provenance anddocumentation - continuing to garner strong interestfrom discerning collectors around the world and in


turn, attract great prices at auction. A greatillustration is offered by the sale of a matching-numbers 1955 Ferrari 750 Monza Scaglietti Spider,s/n 0492M, at RM’s 2011 Monterey sale. The eighthof just 35 examples built and driven by the a host ofracing luminaries including John von Neumann, PhilHill and Harrison Evans, it attracted spirited biddingon the podium, eventually selling for an impressive$2,530,000 - a record for a 750 Monza by nearly amillion dollars. At the same sale, a 1952 Ferrari 340Mexico Berlinetta, s/n 0226AT, one of threeexamples purpose-built to contest the 1952 CarreraPanamericana and raced by Alberto Ascari, sold for$3,685,000, further reinforcing the market’s appetitefor historically significant racing cars.

There’s a lot going on for RM right now. Mostrecently, the company concluded its 2011 calendaron a high note, posting over £13.3 million at itsannual Battersea sale in London. Attracting aninternational clientele – bidders represented 22countries from around the world – top sales honourswent to a rare, matching numbers 1958 Ferrari 250GT LWB Tour de France Berlinetta, s/n 1039 GT, oneof the most desirable competition-bred Ferraris inexistence. Glistening under the auction lights, thebeautiful red and white 250 GT LWB Tour de Francegarnered spirited bidding in the room and on thephones, achieving an outstanding final sales price of£2,240,000. ➤

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“The London sale is always a highlight of our auction calendar, and as ever,this year’s event has brought our 2011 auction season to a spectacular close,”says Max Girardo, Managing Director, RM Europe.

Additional top-sellers included: a matching-numbers 1965 Ferrari 500Superfast, one of only eight right-hand-drive examples for £644,000; and, arare 1972 Autodelta Alfa Romeo 33/TT/3, a boasting Le Mans and Targo Floriohistory for £588,000.

Looking ahead to the New Year, RM returns to Monaco in May 2012 for itsbiennial sale at the Grimaldi Forum. Coinciding with the 8th Grand Prix deMonaco Historique, the May 2012 auction follows a record-setting debutperformance in 2010 which saw the company achieve over €33 million insales with a successful 89% of all lots sold. The 2012 sale is set to continuethe grand tradition, presenting an elite, handpicked selection of 80automobiles. In addition, the sale will also cater to discerning motorcyclecollectors with the consignment of the acclaimed Saltarelli Ducati Collection,the world’s most significant private Ducati collection.

“Our inaugural Monaco sale in 2010 set a new standard for collector carauctions with its high quality consignments, impeccable presentation andunparalleled client experience,” adds Girardo. ➤


31Issue 23 Supercar

Imola race by racing luminaries Nino Vaccarella andTeodoro Zeccoli, in addition to performances atMonza, Targa Florio and Zeltweg, among otherevents. Described as one of the best and mostoriginal examples in existence, it is ‘on the button’and ready to go, both road registered and an activeparticipant in a variety of leading historic events inrecent years. A great example of a historic racer witha superb provenance.

All in all, if you’re interested in buying, buy thevery best you can afford, do your research diligentlyand buy because you love it. There’s no othercollectible that appeals to our sense more, orcompares to the enjoyment and memories of owninga classic car.

“We are thrilled to be returning to Monaco in 2012and look forward to bringing another exceptionalroster of automobiles, and for the first time,motorcycles, to the auction stage. The Grand Prix deMonaco Historique weekend is a ‘must attend’ on theglobal collector car calendar and a wonderfulcelebration of the hobby. We are delighted to be partof the weekend festivities once again and lookforward to building on our strong debut results.”

Leading early automobile entries for the sale is acompetition-bred 1968 Alfa Romeo Tipo 33/2‘Daytona,’ chassis number 75033-029. One of aselect few built for the 1968 international season,this superb and highly-original example boasts one ofthe few vetted racing histories by marque experts,who contend it was driven to victory at the 500-km


prestige & sports car specialists

Please call for more information or to book your Winter Protection

Bespoke Valeting Solutions 07903 105143

Swissvax Winter Protection Detail Process• Pre-spray car with power wash to loosen roadfilm and brake dust build up.

• Pre-spray wheels using a pH-neutral wheelcleaner and soft wheel brushes to agitate andloosen any embedded dirt.

• Pre-spray lower half of the vehicle, door shutsand wheel arch liners with a de-greaser, toremove road film, followed by rinsing off.

• Stage 1 Snow foam covering the whole car, whichis left to dwell then power wash off.

• Stage 2 Snow foam as above, then soft brushesand soft lambs wool mitt used to wash carthoroughly incorporating the two bucketmethod, then rinse off.

• Hand-dried using 'deep pile' micro fibre dryingtowels.

• Road tar deposits removed.• Full Paintwork decontamination using Swissvaxpaint rubber, which will remove embeddedcontaminants and leave a glass like finish.

• Single stage machine polish using SwissvaxCleaner Fluid Pro, removes light swirls andscratches prior to applying wax.

• Apply 2 coats of Swissvax Shield for ultimateprotection.

• Full wheel decontamination and protection usingSwissvax Autobahn, containing ptfe formaximum protection

• All exterior vinyl and rubber trims dressed.• Dress tyres with Swissvax Pneu.• All bright work (chrome and aluminium) surfacespolished.

• Interior dry vacuum and dust down.• Estimated time: approx 4-5hrs

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Without question, winter is the time of year when your vehicle requires the most care to be taken as itwill be constantly exposed to the extreme harsh elements such as: road salt, ice, snow, constant rainand cold temperatures that could potentially cause damage to your paintwork if it is not protected.

The Swissvax winter paint protection detail usually starts from £200.00. However, Bespoke ValetingSolutions are offering this service at a fixed price of £150.00

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Christmas with

The Supercar

Club and

Quintessentially

Gifts


In the lead up to the holiday season we’ve enlisted thehelp of bespoke gifting specialists Quintessentially Giftsto give us the run down on their top 10 most exclusiveChristmas finds that will keep on giving well into theNew Year. ➤

35Issue 23 Supercar


Cigar Style

The last word in timeless luxury, Airdiem’s impressive,purpose-built Macassar ebony cigar cabinet is bothstylish and practical for the avid smoking enthusiast.This French company is the world’s leadingmanufacturer of deluxe smoking accoutrements anddesigner narghiles (or shisha pipes), and their limited-edition handmade cabinet holds up to 150 cigars. Thisis an entertaining centrepiece if ever we saw one.£3,680

Child’s Play

Everyone covets the memory of driving their first car –it is one of life’s most memorable milestones. Whyshould your nearest and dearest wait? Bring it forwardwith Nika Zupanc’s Konstantin B brass polished Toy Car.This charming sit-on ‘child’s’ toy (although we’re quitesure that adults will enjoy it too) has been polished tostreamlined perfection (coming in a choice ofblack, yellow, green, red or white) and harksback to the day of hand-made wooden toys,rather than one-play mounds of plastic. Andbest of all it doesn’t need registration, tax orinsurance. £1,036

Customised Time

PARMIGIANI PERSHING 002 CHRONOGRAPH WATCHParmigiani Pershing 002 watch. Solid 18ct rose gold42mm case with an 18ct rose gold unidirectional bezeland anti-reflective sapphire crystal glass. Case backengraved with Pershing boat. Graphite Cotes de Genevedial with a date display at 3 o'clock. Parmigiani in-house automatic chronograph calibre 334 movement.Fitted on a black Hermes alligator leather strap with apush release 18ct rose gold deployment clasp. Waterresistant to 200 metres. www.beards

37Issue 23 Supercar

Hermès Bag Sourcing Service

Why wait two years for the Hermès Birkin or Kelly bagthat you or your partner has been lusting after all year?Quintessentially Gifts offers a bespoke Hermès bagsourcing service that will have an emerald greenCrocodile Birkin or gris Togo leather Kelly in your veryhands before the week is out. Perhaps you’d prefer thehardware heavy Medor studded clutch, mini Mykonosblue Birkin (it’s just large enough to carry an iPhone andis the ultimate evening accoutrement), or the cultclassic Constance – carried by style icons from Jackie Oto Mary-Kate Olsen. Simply contact Quintessentially Gifts with yourrequirements, and they’ll help you skip right to the frontof the queue. C'est formidable!

Skating Spot

For kids (big kids)and teens alike, sportmeets art withDamien Hirst’s customprinted skateboard deck.Stamped with the superstar artist’s signature, this deckis both for the wall and for the floor. And perhaps bestexhibited in that order. £480

Stjx Showers

It’s difficult to stand out from the crowd when itcomes to the heavens opening – read: boringblack brollies. Personalise your standardumbrella with Stjx, the Italian company whospecialise in unconventional accessories withthe contemporary man in mind. Their valuesstart from saving the handicraft tradition andrenewing it with cutting-edge technologies.Case in point: the ‘smart’ linen used for theirBilliard Ball Umbrella that is treated with a100% waterproof breathable membrane. Nowthat’s a custom crafted brolly. £900 ➤


Spur Of The Moment

It’s not often you find a jewellery brand thatcaters for both men and women in the onepiece. Describing her collections as “jewelleryfor men that girlfriends will steal,” at HannahMartin you can buy a gift for her, which youcan borrow and vice versa. Win-Win andespecially when it comes to these 18 caratgold and pavé black diamond Spur Cufflinks.£3,250.

Constant Companion

Have a roll-on case in need of an urgentupgrade? It’s time to get serious about luggagethis holiday season with Globe-Trotter’sCentenary Trolley Case. This cool roll-on is thenatural companion to any seasoned jet-setterand will take you from New York to St. Barthsor Hong Kong to Gstaad looking both stylishand timeless. And what’s more, you cancustomise the Centenary with your own colour-ways. Now that’s first class. £680

Bespoke Briefcase

Start the new working year with a trulypersonalised briefcase of the finest quality byEthan K. The London-based design talent is afourth generation leather artisan, specialisingin limited-edition bags made from the highestquality exotic skins. The skins he uses aresourced from his family’s renowned Singaporetannery which is the largest independentsupplier to the world’s leading luxury goodshouses from Louis Vuitton to Hermès. Sit downwith Ethan to design your own briefcase from awide range of leathers, choosing your ownpersonalised hardware and interior linings. Theexperience is just as impressive as theoutcome. This deluxe croc version is pricedfrom £7,980.

39Issue 23 Supercar

McQueen’s Motor of Choice

Commemorate the legend that is Steve McQueen and hissporting prowess with this collector’s edition vintagePorsche poster. This rare original commemorate SteveMcQueen’s 1970 racing successes at Sebring (whereMcQueen drove with a cast on his left foot from a motorcycleaccident two weeks prior), Holtville and Phoenix driving thePorsche 908. The poster is conservation linen mounted,framed and glazed - ready for instant hanging. Size: 105 cmx 74 cm. £7,800.

For further information on any products click throughwww.quintessentiallygifts.com for endless creative giftsuggestions.

Quintessentially Gifts’ Managing Director Lee Colemanshares her top 5 tips for making Christmas gift giving easy.

1) “Think outside of the present box when it comes to thetypes of stores you choose to shop at. Instead of departmentstores, what about a gallery gift store? Unusual stores equalunusual presents.”

2) “It sounds obvious but when you are choosing a gift forsomeone, put yourself in their shoes. What’s new in their life,what may they need? What wouldn’t they splurge on forthemselves? The best gifts are ones that someone wouldhave thought about, but never indulged in buying forthemselves.”

3) “Don’t forget experience gifts – such as a cooking classwith their favourite chef, a Ferrari drive package or a butlerservice for a week. These are the types of gifts that reallykeep on giving.”

4) “Present wrapping: Always ask at the store that you areshopping at if they do gift wrapping. Most do in the lead upto Christmas. It will save you on paper costs, time and alsothe possibility of ruining the surprise by someone bursting inon you at home.”

5) “Finally – if you really have no interest in shopping - avoiddisappointing your family and friends and get someone elseto do it for you. We’re here to help. And at our offices, it’snever too late!”

What happens when you combine two British brothers working as design andtechnical engineering consultants at some of the finest automobile manufacturers inthe world, who also have backgrounds in driving race cars professionally? The answer,one day following a moment of boredom or insanity they decide to make their ownsmall production, single seat, road legal, track inspired Supercar.

Breath taking! By Tommy Wareham


The results could have been catastrophic, costly and acomplete disaster. In most other cases this is generallythe result. The Brother’s Briggs however have created astunning vehicle, compliant on both road and track,wonderous to look at with build quality comparable tothe most elite of Supercars. The BAC Mono is quitesome vehicle and from the look of their sales charts,doing remarkably well.

Looking at the Mono, which the brothers tell me hastaken styling indications heavily influenced by Bjork’smusic video “All is full of love” and the F-22 Raptor

fighter jet, which makes for an interestingcombination. However the car is quite possibly one ofthe most intriguing cars you will find on the roadtoday. Parked on a side street it simply looks asthough Lewis Hamilton has popped off the racetrackmid-flow to pick up a loaf of bread and a pint of milk.Which I hasten to add the shopping for the morningsbreakfast can be carried in the ample, if you use theword loosely, boot space, normally used to houseyour crash helmet should you choose to wear one(which is not essential). ➤

41Issue 23 Supercar

The heart of the Monocomes from a very proven and tested Cosworth 2.3litre engine, generating 280bhp and 206 lb ft, coupled with asix speed Hewland gearbox lifted straight out of an F3 race car,AP racing brakes, Sachs racing dampers and Gems EM40electronics. The cars construction components are like a who’s whoof the racing industries big hitters. The body construction is carbonfibre, compliant to FIA safety structure, which whilst being safe andrigid, allows the cars weight to be an incredibly low 540kg. Thiscombination produces a spectacular 520bhp per tonne, 0-60mph in 2.8seconds, 0-100mph in 6.7 seconds and a top speed of 170mph.

So just what is this car like? Well with near perfect weight distribution and all theequipment loaded into it from the industries finest, simply put… breath taking!

From the moment you step foot into the Mono’s single seat, you sink into the belly of thebeast. Connect your detachable steering wheel and instantly you feel like you are about todo 70 laps with the worlds best. The feeling you get from just being sat in this car in yourgarage is quite phenomenal and completely different compared to any car which you willhave owned or driven before. There is no passenger space or room for someone to accompanyyou on this journey, which to begin with is strange, however when you start to drive the car youinstantly understand why.

The balance this vehicle has through the corners is simply perfect, you become in tune and atone with the Mono from the off. For those who have raced single seaters, or driven go-karts then youcan understand the feeling of just being part of the machine, which you are controlling. Every turn,every change in road camber, your body simply knows how the car will react and instinctively youknow how to control it. Within 10 minutes of driving this car on roads you know, you could excitedlyhave the tail sliding and entering or exiting corners at speeds you never thought possible, all undertotal control and with the confidence and skills of a F1 driver. The grip and braking ability on this car isnothing short of spectacular. ➤


The grip and braking ability on thiscar is nothing short of spectacular

43Issue 23 Supercar

It is expected that 50% of these cars are unlikely tosee a track in their time, so it was important to ourbrothers that the car was as good on the road as itwould be on the track. The standard suspensionsettings are incredible; drive along a bumpy road andrather than your bones breaking at the sight of your firstcats eye the ride is quite smooth, absorbing mostsurfaces. The gearbox has a clutch and the car hasthree pedals like a conventional road car, however thebenefit with the Hewland gearbox is to either use theclutch for a little more smoothness to your ride orengage the perfectly balanced gears with a punch ofthe carbon fibre paddle shifters. The ride height is set totackle speed bumps and the visibility near on 360degree perfect.

There has been no other road car that I have everdriven which gives you this much feel or involvement inthe drive. Near perfect in how it handles, the mostrewarding feelings it gives when you just get it right.Couple that with the ability to park a £90,000 car nextto a £1m car and upstage it, why do we not all have onealready… The answer, they are simply not buildingenough of them!


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- a lightweight, ultra high performance, road legal sports vehicle designed and manufactured using the latest racing technology. 280bhp - 540kg - 0 to 60 2.8seconds -170mph

Throughout the last few months The Supercar Club team have beenfull steam ahead with planning the return of the Giro d’ Italia in June2012, something that we are very excited about. We are currentlywell on our way to filling the event and have been delighted by theresponse we have received from our friends, members and sponsorswho continue to be as enthusiastic as ever. ➤

The 2012 Giro d’ItaliaBy Rachael Bowser


47Issue 23 Supercar

Having said all of that, we are also very keen tointroduce new members to our events and look forwardto welcoming people for their first time next year. Forthose of you who haven’t been on an event before, TheSupercar Club events and the Giro d’Italia in particularare about driving great roads with like-minded peopleand enjoying some of the best accommodation anddining Europe has to offer.

As always the scenery will be spectacular and willvary from mountain passes, rolling countryside,beautiful coastlines and ancient cities. Next summer wewill visit some of the most famous roads and routesknown to supercar enthusiasts, along with a whole hostof spectacular but unknown roads which I knoweveryone will enjoy.

Starting in Florence on the 2nd of June, the routewill see you driving your supercar from luxury hotel toluxury hotel, typically driving between 200 and 250miles per day.

The variety and quality of roads will be superb asyou tour the beautiful country side passing throughToscana, Emilia Romagna, Lombardia, Liguria, and thePortofino coast before finishing in Monte Carlo. Hereyou will spend the night at the fabulous Hotel de Parisand the gala dinner and prize giving will take place inthe spectacular Salle Belle-Epoque at the Hermitage.


A TYPICAL DAYFollowing a hearty breakfast you will depart your hotelat around 8.30am to head off on a route of carefullyresearched empty roads that wind their way throughthe Italian countryside.

Throughout the day you will stop at pre- determinedplaces to try and solve the clues that we set en-route,call in for coffee in local cafés, or perhaps lunch in ahistoric town. You should arrive at your next hotelbetween 5.00pm and 6.00pm in time to relax, have aswim and to freshen up before pre-dinner drinks at7:45pm followed by a delicious dinner.

Throughout the event you will experience thesupport and benefits that follow, together with a wholehost of small details which make this holiday anunforgettable experience.

Event Marshals and Technicians – A team ofexperienced marshals and fully qualified technicianswill be on hand to provide you with day-to-dayassistance during the event.

Tyres – A dedicated Pirelli truck will follow the eventwith tyres specific to your car should you require anyrepairs and/or replacements along the way.

Route – You will be provided with a fully researchedand detailed, specific route together with all necessarymaps.

Luggage – As many supercars have minimal luggagespace, for an additional cost, we will provide a luggagevan to transport your suitcases to and from the eventand between the hotels during the event.event andbetween the hotels during the event.

Car Logistics – Fully insured and covered cartransportation is available to take yoursupercar to Florence, thus giving you theoption to fly. The same service is availableto take your car home again from MonteCarlo.

Giro d’Italia2-7 June 2012

The cost per car, with a team of two people,including six nights’ accommodation in luxury hotels,drinks receptions and dinner each evening, Gala dinnerand prize giving on the final evening, event literature,road book, maps, prizes, memorabilia, branded clothing,a full support package and much more besides is£7,500 inclusive of VAT.

If you would like to join the event there are still asmall number of places available – please contactmyself or Chrissie on 01367 860 805 if you have anyquestions or to enquire about availability.

49Issue 23 Supercar

51Issue 23 Supercar

GTO London’s iconic range of gentlemen’s accessories has evolved out of apassion for classic Ferrari cars – the inspiration for this luxury lifestyle brand.Each design owes its distinguishing features to the elegant interiors andcomponents that grace these glamorous automobiles. ➤

Perfect gifts for the discerning gentleman


For 30 years GTO Engineering, a companyfounded on an enthusiast’s intrigue, has beendedicated to locating, refurbishing andreconstructing antique collectible Ferraris. Byfusing the aspirational with engineeringexpertise, the company hasdeveloped into one of the world’sleading makers and suppliers ofFerrari parts.

Decades of refurbishing, restoringand reconstructing the most iconic ofmachines, is the heritage of GTO London.A collaboration of skills brought together –from the designers and craftsmen who createeach piece to the Ferrari mechanicalengineers who check for accuracy and exactdetailing. GTO London’s appreciation andrecognition of exceptional quality is reflectedin this ever expanding range of ‘collectable’designs.

Lovingly made by hand, using qualitymaterials, every detail is painstakinglyreplicated - and the finest processes are usedto produce a supreme collection that is to bedesired and enjoyed.

Gift Sets

GTO London has created a diverse selection ofnew luxury gift sets, including a bespoke‘create your own’ option; so you can select theperfect gift for the discerning gentleman.

Carefully chosen from GTO London’s widerange of jewellery pieces, these luxury giftsets include cufflinks, wallets, tie pins, keyfobs and more; they are available in fourvariants.

Large Wallet CollectionThis exquisite gift set includes a hand craftedDaytona Nero Wallet which is created usingsoft cowhide, monogrammed satin lining anda sterling silver wheel emblem. In addition isan 80’s Cambio key fob, handmade usingsterling silver and black rhodium metal;completing this set is a specially processed,‘cross hatch’ engraved premium pen.

53Issue 23 Supercar

Pocket Wallet Collection Featuring a popular 250 GTO Nero credit card wallet, handmade frompremium cowhide, monogrammed satin lining and a sterling silver wheelemblem; this gift set also includes a charming set of 60’s Cambio cufflinksand a specially processed, ‘cross hatch’ engraved premium pen.

Gentlemen’s Accessory Collection To compliment your shirt and key’s, this gift set includes a distinct set ofsterling silver Pneumatico ‘Tyre Tread’ cufflinks, a beautifully hand-craftedVolante ‘Steering Wheel’ key fob featuring sterling silver and an enamelledcentre; and a specially processed, ‘cross hatch’ engraved premium pen.

Custom CollectionIn true GTO London style, you can customise your gift set to include any ofthe products available. You can team your preferred wallet with a set ofcufflinks, key fobs, tie pins or any other gentlemen’s accessories of yourchoice. RFM (Real Ferrari Metal) metal is available to include in your customgift set and the number of items is unlimited.

Bluebird CufflinksIn celebration of the 100 years since Sir MalcolmCampbell first named a car Bluebird – at Brooklands, in1911 – GTO London have created a range of strictlylimited-edition gents’ accessories. Just 100 pairs ofhand-crafted cufflinks are available, replicating theiconic wheel design of the 1920s Bluebird land speedrecord-setting car. Each are formed from hallmarkedsterling silver, finished with Iolite stones in the clasp andwheel centres.

GTO London founder, Victoria Lyon, said of the newrange: “Bluebird is an automotive icon and a triumph ofdesign and engineering. Marking the centenary of thename with beautifully-designed and precisely-engineered cufflinks was a natural thing to do. They area perfect extension to our accessories range and adddiversity to our core products.”

All GTO London Bluebird Centenary pieces havebeen developed with the Campbell family and carrytheir official approval, as part of their wider centenarycelebrations of the Bluebird legend.

FragrancesNew from GTO London are fragrances. Offered withinthis varied gift set are three unique blends of fragrance.Berlinetta combines top notes of citrus teamed withwarming compilation of nutmeg, cinnamon and cloves.Prototipo, combines woody notes with spices andleather. Finally Competizione, arranges a scent deliveredby precious woods, fresh herbs and spicy floral notes.

The entire GTO London range is available, with itemspriced from £60, on the official websitewww.gtolondon.com or call +44 (0) 118 940 4430.


During an exclusive interview with evo,Ferrari CEO, Amedeo Felisa confirmed wewill see the arrival of an all-new FerrariEnzo at the later part of 2012 and it will bepowered by a normally aspirated V12.

2012 Ferrari Enzo

“When we started the Enzo replacement program,we made some 8-cylinder development cars but later,we decided that we needed to maintain a V12 on thiscar because, for me, the V12 engine is Ferrari. The veryfirst Ferrari was a V12 and I think we have to try tomaintain this tradition but give it meaning in today’smarket.” Felisa explains. “Today, our V12 in the FF and599 GTO is one of the best engines we have ever done,so why throw it away? I think the V8 bi-turbo, GDiengine we are working on is a big step forward towardsCO2 reduction but we don’t need to use it first on thissort of car.”

I’m surprised, as fitting a V12 engine has to result ina heavier car, yet back in 2007, Ferrari were keen toshow us the Mille Chilli concept (which translates as1000kilos), which was described then as being a visionof what a replacement Enzo would be like.

“Agreed, we did not make the 1000kilo target butthanks to extensive use of carbonfibre, the new Enzowill weight just 1200kilos.”

That’s still an amazing achievement, when youconsider Felisa’s next surprise when he tells me thenew Enzo will come with a performance boost function,similar to the system used in Formula one and knownas ‘KERS’.

“In a way, having a performance boost functionwhen you already have a very powerful 12 cylinderengine is stupid but I still wanted you to be able to‘percieve’ when the extra torque was delivered.”

Evo understands the V12 engine in the Enzoreplacement is closely related to the one fitted in theFXX and will be tuned to deliver around 800bhp inroad-legal form. Felisa later hints you need a boost ofat least 10% (say 100bhp) to give the driver theperception of this extra power being delivered, so evoexpects the new Enzo to have a total of around900bhp available, giving the new Enzo a the power toweight ratio of around 750bhp/tonne.

“You can chose between either using a steeringwheel boost button or on the throttle to deliver theextra power but my preferred option is through thethrottle. By using this electric power boost to helpwith emissions, we can achieve official fuelconsumption figures very close to today’s Ferrari458.”

I ask whether you be able to drive the new Enzoon electric only power? “We have the capability but Idon’t think we will use it. We need more experiencebefore we enter this field. The duel clutchtransmissions lets us move to hybridisation but I onlywant to use it to protect our V12 engine, we don’trequire it on the 8-cylinder cars as we have othersolutions like turbo charging and 6-cylinder engines.”


Combat Stress, the UK’s leading charityspecialising in the treatment of Veterans’mental health, today launches a campaignto battle the stigma of psychologicaldisorders that prevents hundreds ofVeterans from seeking help.

Combat Stress tobattle the stigmaof Veterans’mental health

The campaign, funded by Comic Relief and launching onWorld Mental Health Day (Monday 10th October), willaddress the stigma that surrounds Veterans’ mentalhealth disorders. It will raise awareness of the charity’sservices, and battle the perception of shame that deters

these brave ex-Service men and womenfrom seeking treatment for their mental wounds.

In a recent survey carried out by Combat Stress,81% of Veterans who responded revealed that they feelashamed or embarrassed about their mental ill-health.The fear of stigma and discrimination means that morethan one in three of those people don’t even feel able totell their families about their problems.

On average Veterans wait 13.1 years between leav-ing the Armed Forces and seeking help from CombatStress, the charity that has been caring for Veteranswith mental ill-health since 1919. This delay often re-sults in their mental health needs becoming worse. In2010/11, seven of our new Veterans had waited 40years or more.

Without a diagnosis, appropriate treatment or sup-port, Veterans’ psychological problems can lead to theirmarriage breaking up, unemployment, social isolationand substance abuse, and even suicidal.

A significant minority of Service men and womensuffer from mental ill-health as a result of their experi-ences. Research suggests that of the 191,000 person-nel who have served in Iraq and Afghanistan, about

7,600 people (4%) could develop Post TraumaticStress Disorder. Another 37,600 people (19.7%) maybe battling other debilitating mental health problems,such as depression, mood disorders and anxiety.

4,600 Veterans are currently receiving supportfrom Combat Stress. The charity has a UK-wide net-work of multidisciplinary Community Outreach Teamswho provide clinical care and welfare support at acommunity level.

Commodore Andrew Cameron, Chief Executive of

Combat Stress said:

“Combat Stress was founded in 1919, so we’veseen the effects of stigma for the last 92 years.Every week I meet men and women who havebravely fought for their country but, now battlingmental health problems, are too ashamed or em-barrassed to seek help.

“At Combat Stress we have found that on aver-age people wait just over 13 years after leaving theArmed Forces before getting in contact with us.This is too long. The longer they wait the worsethey get. I am urging Veterans and their loved onesto pick up the phone and call our Helpline (0800138 1619 or text 07537 404 719).”

“We are also hosting an online pledge on ourwebsite where members of the public can showtheir support for Veterans. Visit www.combat-stress.org.uk to sign the pledge.”

57Issue 23 Supercar

At the end of September’s Tour Alpina I joined some of themembers on a private flight back from Switzerland to Oxfordairport. Flying privately is a huge treat which I really enjoy,but this flight was particularly noteworthy because theaeroplane is owned by Robert and Teresa Foster’s company,Oasis Flight. Robert and Teresa have been friends of theSupercar Club for many years having been on many eventswith us. I really enjoyed the flight so thought it would be funto look them up and find out what they have been up to byspending a day at their offices in Oxford. ➤

Oasis Flight a personal touch By Iain Mckenzie


59Issue 23 Supercar


As one might expect from Robert and Teresa, theyare not hanging around. In two years Oasis hasgrown into a multi-million pound operation with twoKing-Air Turbo-Props and a couple of smaller planes.And in the early part of 2012 they are going to takedelivery of their first jet. Serious stuff - but with apersonal touch and a level of service that is lackingwith some of the aeroplane brokers out there.

The King-Airs are a great proposition for privatetravellers. Most importantly, our in-flight experiencewas fantastic. Great food, a customisable wine listand a cabin which is spacious, quiet and barelydiscernable from that of a jet. I thought it would beslow and noisy, but it wasn’t. In fact the flight timesare very similar to those in jets. Journeys can evenbe quicker because turbo-props have better “short-

field performance” – meaning they can land onshorter runways. So they might be able to get youcloser to your final destination.

And if you ever tried to charter a jet for a familygroup with small kids and all of the kit they need totravel with, you might have found Oasis Flight a lotmore accommodating for luggage space given theweight capacity of the King-Airs versus other planes.All for about half the cost of the same flight by jet.

In addition Oasis Flight have a couple of smallerplanes that can get you around the UK very quicklyand for a lot less money than I would have expected.

“Our current fleet allows us to appeal to mostprivate charter requests. The King Airs are spacious,have amazing range and capacity and the TwinPistons are excellent cabin class Air Taxis offering ➤

61Issue 23 Supercar

very economical private travel around the UK and northern Europe. We believethat our key difference is service,” said Teresa. “If our customers want achauffeur driven car from home to the airport, we can organise it. We cancustomise food, wine and champagne. And if people want to take a flight forwhich one of our planes isn’t suited then we work with a network of partneraviation companies to source the right plane for you anywhere in the world,whilst at the same time maintaining the customer service which Oasis Flightis becoming known for. The addition of our first jet next year will open up anew market for us bringing new opportunities and exciting new destinationslike Russia and the Middle East.. We have come a long way in the 2 yearssince achieving our AOC in 2009 and we are hoping that the next couple ofyears will be just as exciting.”

It was a real pleasure to visit a new, fast growing business which hascome so far so quickly. My visit got me thinking that private flying is moreaccessible than I thought. If you ever need to make a trip which commercialairlines can’t accommodate or want to perfect a European weekend by takingaway the hassle of airports, I highly recommend you give Oasis Flight a call.


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The ‘Rather Cool’Porsche PanameraBy Greg Hollamby

I am trying to recall when the first super saloon was built,and am thinking Mercedes 300 SE 6.3 which was launchedin 1968 and had a 0-60 time of around 6 seconds, which inits day was pretty impressive. Doubtless there are otherexamples of similar cars out there, and the point could beargued until people are blue in the face for other cars thatmay have come before it, but a small production run Bentleydoesn’t qualify in my book. ➤

65Issue 23

What followed the 6.3 were few and far between,with AMG and BMW’s M department leading the fieldand with AUDI joining in with the S8. Everything elseanyone built was an oddity or deeply unreliable andin some cases a bit of a joke.

This to a great extent continued to be the caseuntil very recently when Porsche decided to have ago.

But Porsche don’t really have a go at anything,they either throw everything at it and succeed ordon’t bother. This is why they have managed toproduce a very sleek and (in my opinion) rather coolSuper saloon. In turbo form it is shockingly fast,giving enough performance to pretty much knock onthe rear bumper of anything short of a Ferrari 458,and yes I know if you were in the Alps in your

Supercar, and the sun was shining and you weredriving well, you think you could outrun a PanameraTurbo, but you are probably wrong (unless yourname is Nick and you sell lots of bicycles).

In all other formats its either very fast or just fast.They don’t do a slow one, although that is how somerather slow people still see diesel cars.

The Panamera we are looking at here is the‘slow’ one and I think its makes rather a lot of sense.

Like many people, I potter about Europe and theUK covering some reasonable mileage and I am notkeen on standing at a fuel pump, freezing to deathwhilst watching money pouring away into the fueltank when I am merely heading from A to B. This ofcourse must be balanced with some driving pleasureand I am the first to admit that as good as I am sure


some small hatchbacks that do north of 60 mpg are,I do not want to drive long distances in one.

So what do you think the MPG is on a Panamera?Well its a lot more than most people think, and ontest we drove the car in normal driving conditions ona good run, including A roads, B roads andmotorway, keeping up with the traffic and using theoutside lane on the motorway. The result was a jawdropping 45.6 MPG.

I know, impressive stuff and when you then lookat the car that manages this feat, you have toscratch your head and wonder why on earth youdon’t have one. I did. ➤

67Issue 23 Supercar


It handles nicely, is more than fast enough, has a sporting character whenyou want to press on, is supremely comfortable for four people, has ahatchback so is easy to load kit into, including the dog, is beautifullyappointed, and has all the latest kit on board. It’s also quite rare, so you don’tsee many about.

Add to this what appears to be glacially slow depreciation, due in somepart to rarity I should think, and its compelling.

Quite a package then, and you are no doubt thinking, “oh it can’t be thatgood”. Well it is, and I am fortunate enough to be able to afford one, so Ibought one.

Not much more to say really, other than if you have the budget and don’tlook at this when you want to buy a new car, you are mad.

69Issue 23 Supercar

When Max invited me to join him on the Supercar Run(June 4th – 9th 2011) in his newly acquired and as-yetunseen Ford GT, it was with great excitement and, due toa rather hair-raising experience on a previous rally, just alittle trepidation that I agreed to co-drive. ➤

RM’s Max Girardo and Peter Wallman Spring From Paris

to Monaco in a Ford GT (via some very nice hotels)

Super FunStory & Photography: Peter Wallman, RM Auctions

20112011


Neither of us had even seen –never mind driven – the Ford GT

71Issue 23 Supercar

Being the work-conscious types that we are, wemade a very early start on the 6:30 a.m. Eurostar onSaturday to visit a couple of clients and their cars inthe Paris area, followed by a hearty and excellentluncheon with a French colleague in a Parisianfavourite of his. We headed off after lunch to join theother Supercar ralliers at the start from the TrianonPalace Hotel in Versailles. Neither of us had evenseen – never mind driven – the Ford GT, and there itwas: low, aggressive and ready to go...well, it wouldbe once we had cleaned it, got the number platesfitted (they were in a paper bag on the passengerseat), filled up with fuel and decorated it withsponsors’ stickers. We registered with big smileyfaces with the delightful young ladies responsible forthe event; Greg Hollamby, the man behind the

Supercar Club, had taken ill a couple of days beforethe start and sadly could not be there – we wish himwell and a very speedy recovery. We dumped ourbags and met by the car with our sleeves rolled-upready for action. Slithering into the very comfortableseats (perforated for fear release), we were carefulnot to slice the tops of our heads off when closingthe doors, fired the beast up and realised that therewas about the same amount of fuel in her as in anaverage-sized Ronson lighter. No one seems to carryrivet guns with them anymore, so we headed outinto Versailles in search of jet fuel and a caraccessory shop to fit the number plates.

We found the perfect petrol station nearby as avery nice French chap in biker leathers approachedus to admire the Ford GT – or at least that’s what we

As the week unfolded and the roadsSouth just got better and better


thought until he proceeded to present us with hisbadge and question why we were driving such amonster with no licence plates. “Documents please.”Do you think that Monsieur Girardo could charmadditional bids in French out of French punters atauction without being able to charm nosy Frenchcoppers? Of course not! “Oui, oui MonsieurPoliceman [smile], just arrived [cheesy smile], rivetgun [cheesy, cheesy smile], [giggle…]”

Somehow, we got away with it, filled-up (ouch)and found a little tire-fitters around the corner whoimprovised, made up some brackets and got ournumber plates riveted on, finally all set to go. “Howquick do you think this thing is? Whoa...speedhump!”

Great hotel, excellent dinner, an observation: “Ohlook, there’s the Miura SVJ that we sold at theLondon auction in October. Oh no, that would be allwe need if it doesn’t start in the morning.” Nextmorning we wake up, bright and fresh after a coupleof aspirin and several gallons of water, to see thatthe heavens had opened during the night and theMiura wouldn’t start. RM to the rescue! We said helloto the owner and his wife, who were on their first oldcar experience, and lifted the back to find that theengine was submersed in water. We advised that thecylinder heads needed “blowing off,” yes exactly,and all would be fine. Twelve plugs, aching wristsand 90 minutes later, all would have been well hadthe starter motor helped by engaging! ➤

73Issue 23 Supercar

Sleeves rolled up again, we bump-started the car,and after a bit of coughing and wheezing, one by one,all 12 cylinders came to life. It sounded absolutelyglorious. “Yes, but you’ll have to bump start it all theway.” And so, “as part of the RM post-auction service,we’ll run with you on the Rally, pick your brains for thetreasure hunt clues and be your pushers...as long asyou always park facing downhill.”

The owners, Leigh and Vicky, were great company,and we were joined by John and Debbie in a Ferrari 360Spyder to run in convoy and had a superb time runningbehind the Miura SVJ (some of the time), reveling in theexhaust note and drooling over the sublime andpurposeful super-low-slung stance through the twistymountain roads.

Next, we picked up a Ferrari 275 GTB Alloy 6-carb inour cavalcade and the owners of this particularly rareand cool Ferrari turned out to be rather good at treasurehunting, eventually going on to win the overall prize oftwo very nice timepieces. However, after a day or two ofdriving in our company, they realised that we wererubbish, no help whatsoever at working out Greg’srather odd clues (a cross between the telegraphcrossword puzzle and the crypton factor), so theypretended to drive really slowly and we lost them.

As the week unfolded and the roads South just gotbetter and better, twistier and twistier (“slow down,that’s a huge drop with no barrier and there are cyclistscoming down the mountain!”), we gradually familiarizedourselves with the incredible yet smooth power-band

The rally ended with reservedparking in Casino Square in Monaco


and go-cart-like handling of the Ford GT. The hotelswere all up to the same high standard, the food andwine continued to hit the spot, and the company waslots and lots of fun and extremely engaging. Quiterefreshing on this rally was that most of theparticipants, being traditionally Supercar owners (Ferrari599 GTOs, Mercedes SLSs, California Spyders, Ferrari458s, etc), were genuinely curious and interested inwhat we do and shot us many probing questions aboutRM Auctions, the world of collecting classic cars and theassociated bonus of not worrying about piling-on themiles and losing £50,000 each year. We may just haveconverted some “new-car guys” into “old-car guys,”although obviously the topic of non-engaging startermotors on Miuras was taboo at dinner. ➤

75Issue 23 Supercar


We covered about 1,000 miles of superb, windingFrench roads on-route to Monaco, drove over thehighest mountain pass in Europe and were pleasantlysurprised that the Ford GT did not miss a beat after lotsof horror stories about the clutch and that its fuelconsumption was nowhere near as bad as people makeout. The GT was comfortable, even docile whereneeded, head-turning and had a turn of speed deliveredin a very controllable way that could easily run away ifyou allowed adrenalin to take over too much (I admit tosquirting Max with my water bottle at one point).

The rally ended with reserved parking in CasinoSquare in Monaco, a black-tie gala dinner on theterrace of the Hotel de Paris overlooking the cars andthe Casino, a couple of cartwheels for good measureunder the instruction of Vicky, formerly a member of theBritish gymnastics team, and a few quick ones at SassCafe after dinner, before being safely tucked-up in bedat the Hotel de Paris and ready for the Easy Jet flight

home. Back to reality with a big bump! Our very bestwishes and sincere thanks to Greg, Rachel and Chrissiefrom the Supercar Club for the excellent organization,for inviting us and for making our week extremelymemorable.

Story courtesy RM Magazine, www.rmauctions.com.

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I thoroughly enjoyed owning a 599 GTB. It was a true GT car in every sense of theword and ideal for longer journeys. So when the announcement of the GTO was brought to my attention by Nigel

McMorrough at Meridien Modena I was very excited about what was to come. By theway I can only say good things about Meridien - nothing is ever too much trouble. ➤

Owning and driving By Peter Saywell


g a Ferrari 599 GTO

“It was ‘I’ve got to have one’ scenario”79Issue 23 Supercar


I could write pages on the rest of the options for thiscar (a lot of which should be standard) but oneparticularly nice touch on the GTO was a plaqueinscribed “Part of the Saywell Collection” which makesthe car fit in nicely with the others.

So the car finally arrived in December 2010 andwas immediately “grounded” by bad weather. I didfinally summon up enough courage to take it out intothe raw of winter and was finally able to experiencewhat it’s like to drive: Exhilarating, but you feel safeand importantly I felt in charge of its shatteringacceleration. Windows are constantly down for tunnels

My introduction to the GTO was a visit to my workfacility from Nigel and two representatives from Ferrari.They took me through a very professional presentation,refreshingly different from the hurried 5 minute salespitch you get in a lot of cases. I new straight away thatthis was one of those “I’ve got to have one” scenarios!

Choosing colours and specifications is very complexwith Ferrari and in my view colours on a larger carmake even more of a difference than they might onsomething like a 458. I this case I chose yellow. Or tobe more accurate, Giallo Tripili Strato. Not for everyone,but I think it looks great.

“Yellow it was to be or more technically correct Giallo Tripli Strato”

and the noise is music to the ears. We are all schoolboys at heart! It’s a huge car but it doesn’t feel like it.And noise-wise it is borderline on most tracks but withsensible driving you can meet the limits.

During the course of the year it has been to variousevents including a trip to the Nurburgring where mywife was very brave and did a number of laps - livingto tell the tale. It has also been to Le Mans and took partin the Driver’s Parade with one of my son-in-lawsdriving and that was televised and broadcast on localTV.

In September we joined the Supercar Tour Alpina,driving from Austria-Italy-Switzerland which involvedlots of mountain passes. Once again my wife was verybrave as she isn’t keen on speed or heights but Ithoroughly enjoyed both experiences and the car was adream in all aspects of the event.

So this is something rather special. Definitely one tokeep for some years!

81Issue 23 Supercar


keltbrayFine Jewellers

The Supercar Club would like to thank all their sponsors fortheir support during 2011

scc edition 23 winter 2011

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