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Connoisseur Ep 108
Location, Luxury, Life and F1
Welcome Connoisseur.
We are back with another packed episode.
Connoisseur is a luxury magazine, similar to a mini-Robb Report, focused mainly on the automotive industry. It is all about the good life, from the latest cars to the newest yachts and the most exotic travel destinations. Every week, the core features of the magazine include supercars and luxury vehicles, as well as coverage of F1. Additionally, we regularly explore a mix of motorcycles, jets, art, fashion, watches, homes, and whisky.
Connoisseur is designed for you if you have a passion for cars and the luxury lifestyle. We have a passion for all beautifully designed and made machinery, whether it be four-wheeled or two-wheeled, on land, sea, or in the sky.
Thanks again for joining us on a trip around the world of 'cool'.
Metro 6R4 revival
Motorsport Tools (MST), a Wales-based motorsport engineering company, has created a buzz on the internet by announcing the revival of the MG Metro 6R4 for 2024 as a high-performance rally recreation, boasting around 450bhp supplied by an Audi V6 engine.
Sadly I was the unfortunate owner of an old Austin Metro when I was younger, it was a work run-around at my first real job. It was so uncool, but it does beg the question, how can I love the 6R4 so much when it's origins are the humble, unloved Austin Metro?
The MG Metro 6R4, is one of the most notorious Group B rally cars of the 1980s. It has a rear mounted V6 engine, but it was in the main 'unreliable' so was never really as good as it looked. Then Group B cars were banned from competing, end of story.
Until now, MST is well-known for its exceptional Ford Escort-inspired recreations. The company has confirmed that the revived model will be powered by Ingolstadt's 3.0-litre V6 engine, which is featured in the B8-generation Audi S4, but with a series of modifications for extra power. The car will deliver 450bhp, compared to the original 350bhp. The power will be transmitted to both axles through a Sadev six-speed sequential gearbox.
MST plans to produce only five cars in 2024, each priced from £295,000 before taxes. Buyers can choose between a road-focused set-up with a bespoke interior or a "lightweight" version designed for race and rally activities.
That price may seem lofty, but you are looking at close to £200k for the mid 80s original which no doubt will require a further investment to get it rally ready.
Watch the Late Brake Show video to see what an old 6R4 is like. 😍
Best of British
Great Britain has a rich history in the automotive industry and has produced some iconic and influential cars over the years, the Metro was not really one of that. However, if I was to have a blank cheque and a large building and call it my dream garage, what would I put in my dream British garage?
Now when I started this list I didn't realise quite how long it would become so I have split this into two parts, as I wrote a theme also developed along the lines of what is Britishness, of course, you have the 'luxurious' spirit embodied in Rolls-Royce but what about the 'fast and light' that Britain is also very well known for. This week will feature the more luxurious end and next week, the other half will follow.
Jaguar E-Type: The Jaguar E-Type, launched in 1961, is widely regarded as one of the most beautiful cars ever made and therefore number one on this list. Its sleek lines and impressive performance made it an instant classic.
Aston Martin DB5: The Aston Martin DB5, really was tied with the E-Type for the number one position, it was made famous by its appearance in the James Bond films and is a classic British sports car. Its elegant design and impressive performance have made it a favourite among car enthusiasts.
McLaren F1: The McLaren F1, launched in 1992, was a groundbreaking supercar. Its lightweight design, powerful engine, and exceptional performance made it the fastest car in the world at the time. I was always a McLaren F1 fan but this car cemented my love for the McLaren brand. Carfection Video also featuring 911 GTR and CLK GTR.
Land Rover Defender: This is one of the most iconic British vehicles of all time. This car was never made for a luxury market, it was made to be a utility vehicle, and its hardy simplicity has made it one the most flexible vehicles made. The Defender was based on the original "Land Rover" series that launched in 1948 by the Rover Co. Land Rover later becoming the brand name and Defender the model.
Range Rover: The Range Rover was originally introduce in 1970 by British Leyland the group of companies who produced Jaguar, Rover and Land Rover. Range Rovers, old or new, are a combination of comfort and utility. Where I live you can see a Range Rover used as an everyday 'child shuttle', a trailer pulling off-roader with straw in the back or an elegant people mover fit for royalty.
Rolls-Royce Wraith: Sublimely designed, the pinnacle of luxury. Rolls-Royce is world-renowned for its brilliance. And the Wraith is the one that fits the bill for me. I want to drive my cars, I do not want to be driven.
Bentley Continental GT: With a top speed of 208MPH the Continental GT did not get the memo about British 'fast and light' because it went with 'fast and luxurious'. 650BHP coming from the W12, now before you point out the obvious I do know that the Bentley and Rolls-Royce are now German cars more than they are British cars. But their DNA is British so that is the final say. Watch Harry's Garage.
Aston Martin DBS Superleggera: One last Aston Martin to finish off with 'fast and light and luxurious'. Superleggera means super light in Italian(?), this modern James Bond car shares its underpinning with the DB11 but it has shed 72kg with a carbon bonnet and roof. Then it has a twin-turbo V12 engine that churns out 715bhp, with a top speed of 211MPH.
These are just a few of the best British cars, but there are many more that could be added to the list. Great Britain has a rich history in the automotive industry and continues to produce some of the world's most iconic and innovative cars.
Frauscher 1414 Demon
When it comes to high-performance sports yachts, the Frauscher 1414 Demon is in a class of its own. This luxurious and powerful vessel is designed to offer an unparalleled boating experience, combining cutting-edge technology, sophisticated design, and exceptional performance.
At 46 feet long and 12 feet wide, the Frauscher 1414 Demon is a large and spacious yacht that can comfortably accommodate up to 12 passengers. Its sleek and modern design features sharp lines and bold angles, making it a true head-turner on the water.
The Frauscher 1414 Demon is powered by a pair of Volvo Penta IPS 800 engines, each delivering 600 horsepower. This gives the yacht a top speed of 44 knots, making it one of the fastest sports yachts in its class. The IPS system also provides exceptional maneuverability and fuel efficiency, making the Frauscher 1414 Demon a joy to operate.
Inside, the Frauscher 1414 Demon is just as impressive. The yacht's interior is designed to be both stylish and comfortable, with high-quality materials and finishes throughout. The main cabin features a spacious seating area, a fully equipped kitchen, and a large dining table, making it the perfect space for entertaining guests. Below deck, the yacht has three luxurious cabins, each with its own en-suite bathroom, providing ample space for overnight trips. There is a two person cabin, but the font area can be converted to sleep two more.
Overall, the Frauscher 1414 Demon is an exceptional sports yacht that combines power, luxury, and style in a way that few other vessels can match. Whether you're looking to entertain guests, explore the open water, or simply relax in style, the Frauscher 1414 Demon is the ultimate high-performance yacht for the modern boater.
Frauscher boats are luxury day boats the kind you would see in Monaco and Saint-Tropez, they are at the £1m price point but obviously like anything in this range the boat has a degree of customisation that would be reflected in the price.
It is the kind of boat that would make you feel like you were living in a Bond movie.
If you really want to geek out on the boats production.
Speaking of Saint-Tropez, how about this beautiful property.
Seabob
Seabobs are innovative water sports equipment that allow users to experience the ocean in a unique and exciting way. They are essentially electric water scooters that propel riders through the water with ease, allowing them to explore the underwater world like never before.
These devices are equipped with a powerful electric motor and can reach speeds of up to 20 km/h, making them perfect for adventurous water enthusiasts who love to explore the depths of the ocean. They are also highly manoeuvrable, with the ability to dive, surface, and turn quickly, giving riders a lot of control and freedom in the water.
One of the most significant advantages of Seabobs is that they are environmentally friendly. They have a low carbon footprint and do not produce any harmful emissions, making them an ideal option for eco-conscious individuals who want to enjoy water sports without damaging the environment.
Seabobs are highly versatile, with a range of models available to suit different needs and skill levels. They can be used for snorkeling, diving, or simply cruising along the surface of the water, and they are suitable for all ages and abilities.
Seabobs are an exciting and innovative way to explore the ocean and experience the thrill of water sports. They offer a unique combination of speed, manoeuvrability, and safety, making them an ideal option for anyone who loves to be in the water. So, if you are looking for a new and exciting way to enjoy the ocean, consider trying out a Seabob and see what all the fuss is about!
The Seabob F5 SR is the fastest personal underwater scooter and can nearly hit 10mph. It can dive to 130 ft with electric engines, it retails for about €15kThis video is actually one of the best videos on how and why you want a Seabob.
Some alternatives to Seabob can be found in this video, but I am smitten by the F5 SR.
Our Favourite News
Race Car Hire
Capture Motorsport rent race cars on UK tracks. They have hosted ex Moto GP riders, celebrities and those looking to take their first steps into motorsport.Prices range from £3500 to £13500.
Formula One
McLaren News
McLaren have announced the departure of executive technical director James Key, after a poor start to the season it sees the team last in the Formula 1 constructors championship. Zak Brown CEO says it's a change that has been needed "for some time", ouch.
With Mercedes still being off the pace there is still much speculation surrounding Lewis Hamilton and whether he would move. Of course Christian Horner says not to Red Bull, but we know that is because Max and Lewis would be a terrible mix for team unity. Neither Max or Lewis are easy team mates.
Other than McLaren quietly rearranging the chairs on the Titanic, it's been a quiet week for F1 and no juicy rumours either. So we'll just have to wait for Melbourne Australia. 💪
Australian Grand Prix - 31st Mar - 2 Apr
31st Mar - Practice 1
31st Mar - Practice 2
01st Apr - Practice 3
01st Apr - Qualifying
02nd Apr - Grand Prix
Any-Other-Business
Other dates for your diary
Silverstone Grand Prix - Fri 7– Sun 9 July
Goodwood Festival of Speed - Thu 13 – Sun 16 July
Goodwood Revival - Fri 8 – Sun 10 Sept
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