Archive for the ‘Gallardo’ Category

Many investors and auto hobbyists alike are understandably still pretty shaky about putting money down on the stock market. But that hesitation hasn't shown any lasting sign of translating to the top of the market for collector cars.

That's the verdict after last weekend's big Monterey auctions, long considered some of the top sales of the year, and strong indicators of what's moving and shaking.

According to the LA Times, this year's Monterey auctions together made more than $116 million; that's down from last year's pre-stock-market-plunge $130 million total, but very respectable all considering.

While those without a personal fleet...

The 2009 Lamborghini Gallardo's spun off another new edition, and the latest version's a little bit of heresy for the normally four-wheel-driven brand.

The newest Gallardo LP550-2 is a rear-driver--while all other Gallardo models offer standard four-wheel drive. It's a spin on the usual drivetrain that Lamborghini's done before with the Murcielago, as a special edition to add a little more luster to the supercar's performance image.

The LP550-2 also wears a tag for Valentino Balboni, Lamborghini's retired test driver who helped define the brand's handling characteristics since 1973, and acts as an ambassador for the brand.

Tech specs for...

♦ At left, you see the Smart fortwo and its lower-priced doppelganger (i.e. Chinese knock-off), the Shuanghuan Noble. But which is which? To Daimler's dismay, a Greek court has ruled that informed buyers totally know the difference, so Shuanghuan is clear for takeoff. But let's see Shuanghuan try that in France. [WorldCarFans]

♦ Policemen and policewomen of America: we know you were crushed to hear that you'd lost your shot at the Pontiac G8. Perhaps a fleet of Lambo Gallardos would make you feel better? Yeah, we thought so. [Autogespot]

♦ We love innovation, but a car that runs on compressed air? Have those guys never had...