Classic Ferrari for sale

Ferrari Luce – could they have done it differently?

Posted 30/05/2026 by Terje Bjørnstad

Ferrari has taken several steps to create an electric supercar with similar driving characteristics and driving pleasure as cars with 8 and 12 cylinders. On social media, the criticism of Ferrari's new model is still relentless. Could they have done it differently?

There is no doubt that we are facing a technological shift in the automotive industry. However, it is uncertain when it will come. The fact that Ferrari is launching an electric model these days is not too early. They have to show that electric cars can replace cars with 12 and 8 cylinders. It is not an easy task.

On paper, the Ferrari Luce is one of the fastest things you can take out on public roads. With 1050 hp, 0-100 km/h can be done in 2.5 seconds, 0-200 in 6.8 seconds – and the top speed is 310 km/h. The question many will ask themselves is whether the experience behind the wheel can compare to petrol-powered models. How is the power delivered? What sound do you get? How does the car sit on the road?

Real sound

Ferrari calls it Authentic Functional Sound. The sound signals through the drivetrain shafts are amplified in a way that can be compared to a guitar amplifier. The system should not be confused with artificially generated sound that other car manufacturers offer. According to Ferrari, it has set a completely new standard for the experience of NVH (Noise, Vibration and Harshness).

Paddles for driving pleasure

Also worth mentioning are the paddles on the steering wheel. Electric cars only have one gear, but by using the paddle on the right side you can control the torque and thus influence how the power is delivered. The system also affects the sound of the drivetrain, but it should not be confused with fake gear changes that only emit sound.

The paddle on the left side controls different levels of regenerative braking.

Active driver systems

The Luce model has 4 electric motors – 2 on each axle that control each wheel. Through a system called Torque vectoring The forces to each wheel are controlled independently to ensure the best possible grip. The system can also brake a wheel to stabilize the car in tight corners, for example.

The Ferrari Luce is also equipped with the same driver assistance systems as the other models. Among other things SSC (Side Slip Control), independent 4-wheel steering, Virtual Short Wheelbase, Active aerodynamics og Active Suspension.

There's no doubt that Ferrari has taken driving experiences seriously. But since these must be experienced in real life, the flood of negative posts on social media continues.

Justified criticism?

If you expected Ferrari to present a flashy sports car, you will feel cheated. The Ferrari Luce is over 5 meters long, 2 meters wide and a whopping 1,54 meters high. The large wheels (23 inches at the front and 24 inches at the rear) give the car a sporty feel despite the fact that it has 5 seats, 5 doors and a trunk that holds a whopping 597 liters. We are talking about a real family car.

High-rise platform

Images of the chassis reveal that the car is built high – far too high for a sports car body. What strategy has Ferrari chosen?

Establishing yourself in a new car class?

By launching the new electric drive in a new car class, one can avoid speculation that could affect the sales of existing models. When the company launched the 206 GT – a car with “only” a 6-cylinder engine – it was called Dino (after Enzo Ferrari’s son) so as not to harm the market for the big V12 models. A similar reasoning could explain why the company is launching its first electric model in a completely new car class.

A high-rise future?

One could also think that Ferrari chose a crossover/SUV platform because they had no better alternative – or simply considered it the best solution. Lotus chose a high-rise platform for its sporty SUV model ElectricHowever, there are several low-profile electric sports cars – such as aston martin valhalla, MG Cyberster og Porsche TaycanTesla also uses low-profile platforms in all of its models. It is therefore not excluded that Ferrari's next electric car will be a low-profile and uncompromising supercar.

The trend is clear. The new Renault 5 E-Tech was presented as a B-class passenger car, but is actually built as a small SUV. Likewise the Nissan Leaf and Ariya, to name a few of our new passenger cars. The stream of new Chinese models shows the same trend. If this trend were to also spread to today's uncompromising supercars, the car market could change.

Let's hope that doesn't happen.

Authentic Functional Sound — Ferrari Luce with lift-back solution. The color captures the yellow color of the Ferrari logo.

See

Ferrari.com/en-NO/
All images: Ferrari.

The new life of Ferrari?

Posted 09/11/2021 by Terje Bjørnstad

Earlier this year, it was announced that Ferrari will make a pure electric car - the estimated launch year is 2025. I have no doubt that it can be a fantastic model, but will the Italian supercars appear as attractive with an electric motor?

Just another Taycan?

Today, there are clear differences in the powertrains between different supercars such as Porsche, AMG and Ferrari. When today's boxer engines, V8s and V12s are replaced by electric motors, I fear that the differences will be erased. Take, for example, the powertrains in today's Porsche Taycan Turbo S. Two electric motors - centrally located at the front and centrally located at the rear provide a total output of 625 horses and a torque of 1050 Nm from zero. The main power to the rear wheels is controlled via a 2-speed automatic gearbox in the rear axle. This provides enough power to keep up with most supercars on the market. Ferrari's upcoming electric car can certainly match the forces, but will they be able to provide a better – or different – engine experience than in the Taycan? We're talking about how the power is delivered and, not least, the sound.

Does Ferrari have an ace up its sleeve that can replace the feel of a well-balanced V12 engine?

Supercars not just powertrains

Ferrari has come a long way in creating unique driving pleasure in the form of design, audiovisual effects and electronics - which should not only give the cars maximum grip - but also a positive driving experience for the driver. High fun factor and feeling of mastery. An example of that is Ferrari's Side Slip Control (SSC) – an overall electronic stabilization system that allows you to drive wider through the turns and thus get through the laps faster when driving on the track.

La nuova dolce vita

I took some photos of the Ferrari Roma outside Chitra House at Fornebu. The beautiful villa has been restored in a style that suits exclusive cars and a discerning public. At the weekend, the Ferrari dealer organized AutoXO Sport Ferrari Dynamic Roadshow where the Portofino M and Roma models were presented and where guests had the opportunity to test drive on local country roads. The Ferrari Roma was a new model last year. The appearance differs slightly from today's more uncompromising sports cars. In my eyes, the Ferrari Roma appears as a successor to the beautiful Ferrari 60 GT Lusso of the 250s - which in the press was associated with the good life in Rome in the early 60s. La dolce vita. Today, Ferrari uses the slogan "La nuova dolce vita" in the marketing of the new Ferrari Roma. It seems to me that it is precisely the which could become Ferrari's trump card in the battle for customers.

Ferrari 250 GT Lusso. Click on the image to enlarge.

Touring car for two

The Ferrari Roma is a 2+ car where two people can travel with a reasonable amount of luggage. It is registered as a 4-seater, but the back seat is best suited for bags. There is also a tailgate for a small luggage compartment with a narrow through-loading hatch into the compartment. The engine is a 3,9-litre direct-fed twin-turbo V8 of the same type found in, among others, the Ferrari 488 and Ferrari Portofino M. The engine location is so-called "mid-front" with transmission via an 8-speed double-clutch gearbox in a transaxle solution on the rear axle. The weight distribution is ideal – 50/50. The model has, among other things, an electronic differential lock and SSC 6.0. I mentioned that the beautiful appearance stands out from uncompromising sports cars. It has its price because the aerodynamics need the help of a computer-controlled rear spoiler at extreme speeds. The spoiler sits just below the rear window and consists of one piece of carbon fiber that automatically adjusts depending on driving conditions.

Selling on lifestyle

Ferrari Roma is an attempt to sell Italian form, style and lifestyle. Vespa, Fiat "Cinquecento" and Ferrari are examples of that. For myself, I would add beautiful Italian racing bikes, vineyards, espresso coffee, cobblestone streets, thin pizza, Amarone wine, Italian gelato made with true Italian passione. The infrastructure for electric cars is not as well developed along the Mediterranean countries as in Norway - especially not outside the big cities. But car advertisements constantly focus on electric cars. They will come. It will be interesting to see if Ferrari can maintain its hegemony as a sports car manufacturer with electric cars.

Rechargeable hybrids

Ferrari can today deliver rechargeable drivetrains on the following two models. The Ferrari 296 GTB (pictured) has a mid-mounted drivetrain based on a 3-litre V6 engine (half V12) and electric motor which together provide 663 HP. Range on pure electricity is 25 km, but the crux here is not driving on electricity, but in hybrid mode. The design is somewhat reminiscent of the Ferrari Dino - also a V6. You can even have your Ferrari 296 GTB delivered in the color Dino red.

ferrari rome — Ferrari 296 GTB (Photo: Ferrari)

The SF90 Stradale and Spider also have rechargeable drivetrains based on Ferrari's 3,9 liter V8 engine and an electric motor that can deliver a total of 780 HP. The range here is also 25 km.

We can also mention that Ferrari has developed a non-rechargeable hybrid system for racing cars. The LaFerrari was equipped with a so-called KERS system (Kinetic Energy Recovery System) which recovers braking energy to give extra boost when needed. The purpose was, of course, better acceleration - not to save fuel.

About the cars in the pictures

The three cars are probably stock cars at AutoXO Sport in Billingstad. The titanium gray car on the plates is a 2020 model with 15000 km and an on-route price tag of NOK 3. The other titanium gray car without plates is a 249 model with 000 km and a price tag of 2021. The blue car is also a 2500 model with 3 km at a price of 349. Further specifications and contact info can be found on the dealer's pages below :

AutoXO – Ferrari Roma 620 HP (car 1)
AutoXO – Ferrari Roma 620 HP (car 2)
AutoXO – Ferrari Roma 620 HP (car 3)

More photos of the Ferrari Roma

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5 cars – 5 stories

Posted 27/01/2021 by Terje Bjørnstad

When I have taken photos from car meets and exhibitions, I want to show several cars of the same model before they are published. Then it becomes more legitimate to write a story about models not knowing. But what do you do when you've only managed to take one picture? Here are 5 cars from carspotting that I haven't found a match for.

Ferrari Testarossa

The Ferrari, which was produced between 1984 and 1996, became super popular. "All" royalty and celebrities wanted a Testarossa.

Miami Vice

There was a wait of several years. Many got to know the car through the TV series Miami Vice. Ferrari had donated two cars to the production company. They were in black metallic with a cream colored interior, but were repainted because white probably suited Don Johnson better. The last two sales went for 175 and 000 dollars respectively.

Here is one that was for sale but has now unfortunately been sold.
Barrett-Jackson: Miami Vice Car

Celebrity car

Several celebrities have owned - or own a Testarossa. Elton John is said to have received one from the record company MCA Records. It was red with a "tan" interior. It is said that Elton John regularly drives all his cars. Also the Testarossa which was eventually auctioned off - and which has probably been auctioned off at least once more later. Other celebrities behind the wheel of the Testarossa are Mick Jagger, Miles Davis, Michael Jordan, Mike Tyson, Rod Stewart, OJ Simpson, Tom Selleck, MC Hammer and Vanilla Ice.

Facts about the Ferrari Testarossa

Engine: 4,9 litres, 12 cylinders (boxer), 48 valves, naturally aspirated, dry sump, 390 HP at 6300 revs, 490 Nm at 4500 revs. 0-100 in 5,8 seconds.

About the pictures

The main picture was taken near the old control tower at Fornebu on the occasion of one of the Norwegian Sportscar Club's spring rallies at Fornebu. The bonus picture is taken of the traffic on the E18 exiting at Holtet in Bærum. Car spotting and car spotting.

Lotus spirit

It is hard to imagine that the Lotus Esprit, the cool James Bond car, has become a proper old car.

There is no getting away from the truth. Beneath the handmade fiberglass bodywork hides one old car, technologically low-tech by today's standards. I heard one owner state that "you don't buy an Esprit because of performance - you buy it because it's an Esprit".

Engines

The Esprit model was produced in several series from 1976 to 2004. The first cars were equipped with mid-mounted 2,2-liter inline-four engines developed by Lotus itself. Performance was a modest 160 HP. The Esprit was never a supercar until 1980 when it got a turbo and 210 HP. Eventually, Lotus managed to extract 300 HP from the turbo engine. In 1996 – twenty years after its introduction – the Esprit got V8 engines. The twin-turbo engine produced 350 horses and lifted the Esprit into the supercar class.

Heavy on the steering. Poor turning radius. Low stance and very direct contact with the road. "Everything" is communicated to the driver. This is a car that takes some getting used to.

The statements come from car testers who viewed the Esprit with today's eyes. One thing everyone agrees on. The interior. Everything is covered in genuine leather - handmade English quality - designed like a "man-cave". It is not only comfortable, but gives a real good feeling.

Source: Supercars.net Lotus Esprit

About the picture

The picture was taken at one of the Norsk Sportsvogn Klubb's spring rallies in Fornebu. It is a Turbo Esprit with an estimated 210 HP. Car spotting.

BMW 503

Only 413 of this BMW model were produced. There should be one other BMW of the same model somewhere in Norway, but the probability of meeting any of them on the road is very small.

A beautiful baroque angel

BMW's distinctive 50s models 501 and 502 were colloquially called baroque angels. First appearing as a 503 model, the 1956 Coupé model was a 2-door, 2+2-seater GT model that was offered with only one engine option. The engine was taken from the BMW 502. 3,2 liter V8, 2 carburettors, 140 HP and 4-speed manual gearbox. There is no doubt that under the beautiful costume was a baroque angel - a very beautiful baroque angel.

Little profitable

Production continued from 1956 to March 1959. Considering the gorgeous design and motorization, the model could certainly have been produced well into the 60s. But BMW stopped production due to poor profitability. A total of 413 cars were produced. Of these, 270 were Coupés with a fixed roof and 143 cabriolets with electric raising and lowering of the canopy.

Expensive car

A simple search on mobile.de after BMW 503 tells about prices between 200 - 250 euros for coupés and 000 - 400 euros for cabriolets. There are several factors that dictate a high price - few copies, built as a quality car, beautiful and lavish for its time. It's a wonder these cars didn't do better. The BMWs could not keep up with the American cars of the time in terms of chrome and external dimensions - but neither could the Mercedes-Benz SL. Despite that, the SL sold well in the US in the 500s.

About the picture

The picture was taken at one of the Norsk Sportsvogn Klubb's spring rallies in Fornebu. The car is a Series II Coupé with a fixed roof – a variant of which only 134 were produced. Car spotting.

Alfa Romeo Giulietta Spider

It was typically Italian to make a model with many bodies. The Alfa Romeo Giulietta was initially a compact family car, but could also be delivered with special bodies.

The Giulietta Spider follows a genuinely minimalist roadster concept. Under the hood is a 1,3-liter aluminum engine with wet cylinder walls, DOHC and single Solex carburettor (Normale) or twin Weber (Veloce). It produced 80 HP in the Normale and 90 HP in the Veloce version – enough to give a lot of driving pleasure in a car that weighs only 860 kg.

Lived on as the Giulia Spider

The Giulietta range (2- and 4-door) was produced from 1954 to 1965, but the Giulietta Spider was called Giulia Spider when Alfa Romeo started producing the legendary Giulia in 1962. The "New" Giulia Spider got a 1,6 liter engine and an extra air intake on the hood. Otherwise, there were few visual changes between the two models.

Prices

The Giulietta Spider is a real classic, which is also reflected in the prices. They are between NOK 500 and one million mobile.de.

About the pictures

The white Spider is one of the last cars produced as a Giulietta. It is a "tipo 101.03" - as the registration number indicates. The photo was taken at one of the Norsk Sportsvogn Klubb's spring rallies in Fornebu. Car spotting.

giulietta spider — The dashboard – Alfa Romeo Giulietta

Opel Kapitän

1959 was a good year. Lolita topped the charts with "Seemann". Mercedes-Benz launched a brand new model and Opel got a new Kaptein.

It has been a long time since an Opel could measure up to a Mercedes. It could do that in 1959 when both came with completely new models. Mercedes' new W110 and W111 – the so-called "find Mercedes" was perhaps the best mass-produced car of its time. The year before, Opel had launched a brand new Opel Kaptein with large fins and panoramic windows at the front and rear. The P1 looked like an American, but was too strong a diet for sane Europeans. Many complained about poor visibility through the panoramic windows and tight access to the back seat because the rear window actually curved into the door opening. It sold so poorly that the management at Opel began to design a new Kaptein – the P2 – which came already the following year in 1959.

Most beautiful Opel ever

It was no secret that the P2 was designed on the same platform as the P1. The two cars had the same wheelbase, while the new one was a little wider, a little longer – and a little less American. The new Opel Kaptein was not only beautiful – it also sold better than all the Kapteins both before and after.

Facts Opel Kapitän P2

Production time: 1959-1963
Engine: 2,6 liter inline six.
90 HP at 4100 rpm
191 Nm at 1900 revolutions
Front suspension: Double A-arms
Rear: Rigid rear axle with leaf springs
Brakes: Drums
0-100: 16 seconds
Top speed: 150 km/h
Consumption: 1,21 litres/mile
Source: Auto Zeitiung test of Mercedes 220SE against Opel Kapitän

The picture was taken in the parking lot at the Bendix meeting at the Bendix house (old Lunner Dairy). Car spotting.

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Champagne and Ferrari

Posted 12/06/2019 by Terje Bjørnstad

I recently attended the London Concours - an exhibition of exclusive cars in the surrounding park The Honorable Artillery Company near the City of London. The event spanned two days and was primarily aimed at the business world. The park became an arena where business associates, colleagues or the entire office could meet for breakfast, lunch or Champagne in particularly beautiful surroundings. I myself invited the wife and our London-posted daughter for Champagne and Ferrari.

The mid-mounted Ecoboost 3,5 V6 looks small from the outside, but delivers performance worthy of a supercar.

Fords in the Ferrari class?

The cars near the champagne tent weren't really Ferraris - "just" Fords. But when we talk about the new Ford GT, we are actually in the Ferrari class. One might wonder if EcoBoost will do? The engine is beautiful, sitting under the rear window with two separate, recessed exhaust pipes. The 3,5-litre V6 actually looks small compared to the Ferraris beyond. The performances are nevertheless impressive. 646 turbo horses, torque of 678 Nm and top speed of 347 km/h. This is undoubtedly a supercar. A privately owned car. The owner was very sympathetic and let us study his car in detail.

Classic Ferrari for sale

1958 Ferrari 250 GT Berlinetta "Tour de France".

The Ferraris were a little further behind. The majority belonged to one of London's Ferrari dealers. A new Ferrari ticks all the boxes of features an exclusive car should have. V8 and V12 engines. A blue F150 LaFerrari caused a stir. It looks like it's eating the road – even when it's standing still. I would characterize it more as raw than beautiful. I don't know what lies behind the model designation LaFerrari, - but interpret it as a kind of "this is it - definitive Ferrari", or something like that. The engine is – not unexpectedly – a V12. A 6,3 liter that produces 800 HP and provides a torque of 700 Nm at 6750 revolutions. Performance is delivered at high revs in pure sports car spirit without turbo. But the LaFerrari is equipped with a so-called KERS system (Kinetic Energy Recovery System) which recovers braking energy to give extra boost when needed. Together, it is possible to extract a boost effect of 963 HP and a torque of 900 Nm.

Of classic Ferraris, the Ferrari 250 GT from the 50s and 60s is perhaps among the most beautiful. It was clear that the crowd really liked them, especially the Lusso variety. And while we're on the topic of sex, we can also bring the yellow 275 GT. All models are true representatives of the Gran Turismo concept.

The world's largest Miura collection?

It's not every day you can study the Lamborghini Miura, - one of the world's most beautiful cars - and among the most expensive. On a French auction earlier this year sold a barn wreck with rotten interior for €560 plus fees. I would argue that the Miura must be one of the world's most preservation-worthy cars.

This is the same Miura used in the 1969 film Italian Job.

It is an experience to study every detail.

The characteristic eyebrows give the car a feminine touch.

Details from the Lamborghini Miura - signed Bertone.

Among the 7 Miuras at the exhibition, one could find the same car that was used in the opening scene of the movie "Italian Job" - the original from 1969 ( - not from 2003). In the film, the car and driver end up in a fatal crash inside a tunnel. The car is then mercilessly pulled out by a bulldozer and pushed off a cliff into the river below. Many believed that the film company had scrapped a well-functioning Miura until one day it appeared to the public. In 2015, it was put up for sale at $1,5 million. And now the orange Miura was on display at the London Concours! The car that was sent off the cliff was a wreck someone else had crashed earlier…

Bugatti's first resurrection

EB-110 — The detail picture says something about the finish on this Bugatti.

In the late 80s, some Italians decided to buy the rights to the Bugatti brand and create a new model. The EB-110 was named after none other than Ettore Bugatti, and was produced from 1991 until the company was liquidated in 1995. The EB-110 is in every way a supercar. It has a quad-turbo V12 engine which in the EB-110 Super Speed produces 612 HP.

The first re-creation of Bugatti did not end so well, in terms of business. The few cars that were made were obviously too expensive for the market. Everyone knew that New Bugatti was actually a completely new player. You had to be either rich or naive - or both - to buy a copy of this model. In retrospect, it has turned out that the cars are alright. Today, they are classics that sell for high sums. If you own such a car, you are unlikely to meet the same car on the road.

In retrospect, Bugatti has been resurrected again under the Volkswagen group. This has probably been a positive for EB-110 owners, although the "All-New" Bugatti is unlikely to have any obligations to original EB customers.

The world's toughest Aurelia?

1955 Lancia Aurelia B20 "Outlaw" in profile.

The Lancia Aurelia from the 50s is one of the world's most beautiful cars. Especially the coupe version. A company has specialized in making a hot rod variant of the Lancia Aurelia B20 GT. They call it "Outlaw". Each car is made to order and designed in consultation with the customer. A typical styling involves cutting the roof as shown in the pictures. The drivetrain is based on Flaminia. It therefore probably works with two classic cars to create one. In any case, the result is breathtaking.
Read more about the projects

More pictures

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Aston Martin ONE-77 - made in only 77 copies. Price exhibited model: 2 million GBP.

On exhibition

Posted 28/08/2017 by Terje Bjørnstad

Have you ever been inside a Ferrari dealer, - one that sells new Ferraris? - Or Lamborghinis?

London has at least 2 authorized Ferrari dealers and 1 authorized Lamborghini dealer. You can go there to order a brand new car. You just ring the doorbell and you'll be let in to look at the exhibition models. Perhaps see the color swatches and feel the skin samples in the next room, while enjoying a cup of tea...

Or, you can stand outside and look at the models through the glass pane. Alternatively, you can do a virtual visit. Ferrari and Lamborghini have presentations on Google, where there is a Streetview function to move you inside the narrow business premises of Kensington. Click on the images to make a virtual visit to these car dealerships.

Looking at new cars you can't afford can be a mixed experience. Well, it's nice to see great cars up close, but it's not nice to be reminded that you don't have enough money.

"NOK 19 per month" , it said on a McLaren at the showroom. I was standing outside the premises of AutoXO in Ramstad outside Oslo. It was Sunday, and the shop was closed. I just wanted to take a look. I wasn't alone. There was a stream of people who came by to look at the cars parked outside. From background chatter, I heard someone who wasn't just dropping by by chance. They seemed to be in buying mode.

It is typical that when a new model appears at a dealer, it disappears with the sales manager on a trip to the cabin instead of being available to potential customers. What do I know? Maybe one of AutoXO's salesmen will bring some cool car to the cabin, for example a Lamborghini Levante? But, on behalf of car enthusiasts in the Oslo area, I really appreciate the beautiful cars that are currently parked close to the Esso station in Ramstad, on the E18 west just after passing Høvik church.

If you don't have the opportunity, you can join me for a viewing here!

McLaren 570S. 3,8 liter V8, 570 HP with 7-speed double clutch gearbox. In the background, inside, a magnificent classic Shelby Mustang.

McLaren, 3,8 liter V8, 650 HP with 7-speed double clutch gearbox.

McLaren is a pure sports car. With a view towards Ferrari California - and the motorway.

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Photo Sunday – Cars on display along the road

Autoxo.no

Sports cars at Fornebu

Posted 15/05/2017 by Terje Bjørnstad

norwegian sports car club — A wet day at Fornebu.

Norsk Sportsvognklubb ... Just chew on the name. When cars are referred to as carts you are either very "Oslo West" or very old.

I think of the actors in the old feature film "Sons of Norway buy a car" from 1962. From what I can see, many of the members are a bit older. I imagine they have tolerant spouses. At our house, the atmosphere gets a little tense when I talk about getting a "toy car".

"We still play with cars", is the Norsk Sportsvognklubb's slogan. It affects the enjoyment of the car. You don't need a lot of money or horsepower to have fun with a car. At the year's biggest event, you'll find everything from lightly patinated Mazda MX-5s and Toyota MR2s to Ferraris and McLarens, to name a few.

When you, like me, drive around this winter with hybrids, electric cars and fuel-saving diesel (mentioned on Terje's cars), it is an experience to see and hear cars running on 8, 10 and 12 cylinders for no other purpose than enjoyment. I have taken some photos from this year's spring muster at the old air tower at Fornebu. The cars are only a small number of all that were on display. Terje's cars will return with a separate post about the popular sports car Mazda MX-5 "Miata" as well as photo material of new cars from Germany.

Norwegian Sports Car Club

Porsche GT3 in front of the old airport building.

Lots of beautiful things to see in the parking lot.

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From Ferrari to Cressida

Posted 11/04/2017 by Terje Bjørnstad

Cars & Coffee at Øvrevoll

The event is a meeting place for car owners with brand new cars. It is also open to audience, those of us who park outside and stroll around the cars for the relatively short time they are on display. Some look under engine hoods, some check the distance between tires and wheel arches, some look in through open windows.

It is difficult to single out some favourites. A couple of nice Ferraris, maybe? – or a Cressida? There are more Ferraris on the road than Toyota Cressidas, - such as the one that met us when we arrived. I don't know how many Cressidas are left today. The car on display is at least a real nostalgia gem!

The Ferrari 430 is a "small" Ferrari, but just as much a proper driving machine

It has a mid-mounted V8 – not the V12 that the bigger Ferraris have. This is a Scuderia with carbon fiber for lower weight, and that the engine has received an increase in power. I think we are talking about 510 HP in a car under 1300 kilos. Despite the fact that the model has a few years behind it, there are modern electronics and equipment.

There is a long way between the hybrid cars at Cars & Coffee

I'm a bit ambivalent about the front of new Lexuses. I don't think it suits the tall SUVs very well, but this Lexus RC300h looks amazing from this point of view. The grill looks like it's devouring the road and looks extra good on a lowered car, like this one.

In the standard RC300h, there are two engines, – a 2,5-litre petrol that produces 181 HP, and an electric motor that produces 143. Together, it is possible to get 221 HP and a torque of 450 Nm. The new car price of the top model with F-Sport is 637. The fees make it relatively favorable to choose a hybrid. And then they can be modified into nice street cars, like this one.

Real manor carriages

It is difficult to pass two Volvo Amazon estate cars parked next to each other. The Amazon (121) and 140 series got B20 engines from model year 1969. The two Amazons are one of the very last to be produced. I note that they have the wide steel rims. Volvo introduced the term "manor car" as a Scandinavianisation of the English "Estate car". No other manufacturer adopted this designation. There are few 5-door cars that are more manor than these two.

Curant to this day

The other day I came across a picture of an old engine on Facebook. The engine belonged to a forest wreck. I punched the serial number into Google and found that it was a six that had sat in a W180, the Ponton Mercedes from the 50s - none other than the 220 S. The engine was also used in the finest Mercedes minibuses of the 50s with extra windows in the roof, as well as in the Unimog. There are still parts on eBay for these fine cars. A car that today looks rather small to be a prestige car. But in its day it was priced like a Cadillac.

The Fiat 850 Coupé was a common sight on Norwegian roads

However, I don't recall ever seeing the Abarth version. I didn't get to hear the tune of this particular car, but I expect it to sound like a proper Abarth. In its time, several 850 owners retrofitted exhaust systems from Abarth to get the right sound. The engine produces 64 HP compared to 47 HP in the standard model. The Fiat 850 and 850 Coupe have never been slow on the road. Nor in the Abarth edition.

Audi's grandmother

"How many rings are there?" asked one fellow while the other counted the rings in the DKW logo.

“There are four! Doesn't Audi also have four rings, then?”

"No, it must have at least five!" replied the first fellow.

Many people find it hard to believe that Audi has its roots in DKW. One talks about prestige brands, such as Horsch and Wanderer, - but the first independent Audi model, the Audi 60, was visually almost a copy of the DKW AutoUnion F102, which otherwise shared mechanics with the DKW Autounion 1000 "Der Sonderklasse", - which again descended from the F91 – also the Sonderklasse. All of these were light two-strokes with good driving characteristics.

Despite the simple motorisation, nothing has been spared inside. Radio, speaker in the dash with the inscription "Sonderklasse", wood under the side windows, umbrella gear and four Audi rings on the steering wheel.

"Großer 3=6" should mean that a 3-cylinder two-stroke engine should be as good as a 6-cylinder four-stroke engine... Understand that who can.

And Cressida…?

Think you've seen this blue Japanese before? You probably have. It is shown on TV during the day, in an advertisement for the Information Service 1881. A young man drives around the country and beach in this particular Cressida in search of "The woman in his life". See the advertisement here

The Toyota Cressida is a rare sight on Norwegian roads. Was a big seller in the late 70s.

Ferrari holiday

Posted 07/04/2017 by Terje Bjørnstad

Virtual Ferrari experiences.

Ferrari land

Today, April 7, opened Ferrari land - a newly built wing to the popular amusement park PortAventura Park in Salou, one hour south of Barcelona. The main entrance is built like a solid red Ferrari sculpture.

The attractions and experiences are designed around the Ferrari theme. A ride on a roller coaster is of course conveyed as a driving experience with a Ferrari. More options for more or less realistic driving experiences, including driving simulators. Among the quieter pursuits in Ferrari Land is the experience museum where you can get to know Ferrari through the ages - the cars, the man and the legendary racing team. If you are a Ferrari lover, you can shop for authentic Ferrari effects, including clothes.

Salou is a popular holiday destination, not least for the Spanish themselves. There are nice beaches down towards Cambrils. Ving sells package tours where you land at Reuss Airport, just a few minutes away. You can also combine with a stay in Barcelona. From the airport (BCN) take the air train from terminal 2 to Sants, - from there train to Salou. The train tickets are popular, so it can be worthwhile to pre-order the day before Renfe.es - or rent a car at the airport. Follow the signs for Tarragona, then signs for Salou and PortAventura.

This is how Ferrari Land markets itself

This is my dream...

The amusement park's website
Ferrari Land videos on YouTube

Rome - the good life again

How will supercars like Ferrari survive as an electric car? Does Ferrari have an ace up its sleeve that can replace the feel of a well-balanced V12 engine? Ferrari Roma has something that could be decisive. **See more**

The cars in Kensington

Posted 27/03/2017 by Terje Bjørnstad

Kensington is not only famous for its green spaces, - its Victorian and Edwardian architecture. There are few streets in the world where the luxury cars are so close together. Few have garages. The original stables in the back streets have long since been converted into homes, small shops or business premises. Therefore, cars must be parked along the street.

Several of them have already been caught by car spotters and spread on social media. The diversity is great. Italian sports cars, British classics, German prestige cars, vintage cars and a couple that look like they've been in Wacky races. If you explore the small, narrow back streets, you can find places where the owners of local vintage car dealers have placed their cars on the street for public viewing. Within Kensington you will find no less than two authorized Ferrari dealers and one Lamborghini dealer. Norway has - by comparison - none.

This is Mecca for car enthusiasts. I chose not to include pictures of newer, German cars. Here they are so close that they would have filled the blog pages on Terje's cars right up until Christmas.

Aston Martin Rapide S. Probably the world's most beautiful 4-door vehicle. 6,0 liter V12 produces 552 HP.

Early spring in Kensington. This great T2 camper is a decorative element together with the fruit bloom.

1963-66 Rolls-Royce Silver Cloud III with its lovely Spirit of Extacy.

The Ferrari 612 Scaglietti is a rare sight with a 5,7 liter V12 mounted just behind the front axle.

Ferrari California T probably bought from one of the Ferrari dealers in South Kensington.

It can hardly get more British than this. This is probably the last Limited Edition, 1275 ccm from 1990-95.

Ferrari California (closest), Lamborghini Quattroporte and Ferrari 599 GTB (the red one across the street).

Mercedes Benz 200 (W115) facelifted model with wide grill has been in these streets for several years. I think the color Signal Orange suits the brick facades well.

Wandering through Holland Park I found this beautiful W126. I had almost forgotten how great the over 30 year old design actually is!

Near Holland Park I found this Fiat Nuova 500 L. Ideal car for getting around London.

Lightly patinated 1994-2000 BMW 3-series (E36) convertible.

This 1998 Infinity Q45 with a retrofitted Bentley grill makes tourists smile. Pictures of this donning abound on the web.

KENSINGTON

Kensington's southern boundary is a line between Harrods and Stamford Bridge (Chelsea FC). In the north, the district extends to Westfields (Shepard's Bush) in the west and Hyde park in the east. Westfields is a huge shopping center with many shops - many very exclusive. You will also find large chain stores along Kensington High Street.
Along Old Brompton Road in the south you will find several smaller shops, cafes and restaurants. Kensington is a quiet district with almost no nightlife. I can recommend the following three hotels: Hilton, 179-199 Holland Park Avenue. Great location for Westfields and Central Line to Oxford Street. Lexham Gardens Hotel, 1 Lexham Gardens, is a cheap hotel, with good rooms and friendly service. Regency/Doubletree, 100 Queens Gate has nice newly refurbished rooms, and good access to shops and cafes.

See also:

Real sound

Paddles for driving pleasure

Active driver systems

Justified criticism?

High-rise platform

Establishing yourself in a new car class?

A high-rise future?

See

Just another Taycan?

Supercars not just powertrains

La nuova dolce vita

Touring car for two

Selling on lifestyle

Rechargeable hybrids

About the cars in the pictures

More photos of the Ferrari Roma

See

Ferrari Testarossa

Miami Vice

Celebrity car

Facts about the Ferrari Testarossa

About the pictures

Lotus spirit

Engines

About the picture

BMW 503

A beautiful baroque angel

Little profitable

Expensive car

About the picture

Alfa Romeo Giulietta Spider

Lived on as the Giulia Spider

Prices

About the pictures

Opel Kapitän

Most beautiful Opel ever

Facts Opel Kapitän P2

See

Fords in the Ferrari class?

Classic Ferrari for sale

The world's largest Miura collection?

Bugatti's first resurrection

The world's toughest Aurelia?

More pictures

See

See

Cars & Coffee at Øvrevoll

The Ferrari 430 is a "small" Ferrari, but just as much a proper driving machine

There is a long way between the hybrid cars at Cars & Coffee

Real manor carriages

Curant to this day

The Fiat 850 Coupé was a common sight on Norwegian roads

Audi's grandmother

And Cressida…?

See also:

Ferrari land

This is how Ferrari Land markets itself

Rome - the good life again