Category: Sports Cars

May 16

Top 25 Most Expensive Cars in the World

Introduction to Luxury Automobiles

At duPont REGISTRY, we have an unparalleled understanding of luxury vehicles. Over the years, we have witnessed the emergence of breathtaking automobiles, both classic and contemporary, each accompanied by staggering price tags. To celebrate these masterpieces of design and engineering, we’ve curated a list of the 25 most expensive cars in the world, based on their original market prices, not including the astronomical sums they might fetch at auctions or private sales.

The Pinnacle of Luxury and Performance

Our list features some of the most prestigious and sought-after car manufacturers globally. From the engineering prowess of Ferrari to the cutting-edge technology of Bugatti, the innovative design of Koenigsegg to the unmatched luxury of Rolls-Royce, and the artistic brilliance of Pagani, these brands represent the zenith of automotive excellence. For years, these marques have set the standard for what defines luxury and exclusivity in the automotive world.

Record-Breaking Sales and Market Prices

The most expensive car ever sold is the Mercedes-Benz 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupé, which was auctioned for a record-breaking $142 million in 2022 by RM Sotheby’s. Meanwhile, the most expensive new production car is the Rolls-Royce Droptail, with an estimated price exceeding $30 million. Despite these impressive figures, no car has yet reached the $1 billion mark.

Discover the World’s Most Extravagant Cars

For a comprehensive look at the world’s most expensive cars, scroll through our meticulously curated list. From cars designed for pure speed to those epitomizing opulence, this collection showcases the ultimate in automotive extravagance. While they might not be the fastest 0 to 60 mph cars, many are incredibly quick and redefine luxury.

Exclusive Car Highlights

1. Ferrari F60 America – $2.6 million

Built to commemorate Ferrari’s 60th anniversary in the U.S., the F60 America is based on the F12berlinetta. Released in October 2014, only ten of these open-top, V12-powered beauties were made, featuring a striking blue color scheme reminiscent of the NART livery.

2. Aston Martin Valkyrie – $2.6 million

24. Aston Martin Valkyrie Price: $2.6 million
Source: Aston Martin

The Valkyrie, infused with Formula One expertise, features a Cosworth-developed V12 engine and an exterior design that screams speed and performance. It exemplifies Aston Martin’s commitment to combining cutting-edge technology with formidable aesthetics.

3. Ferrari LaFerrari FXX-K Evo – $2.7 million

23. Ferrari LaFerrari FXX-K Evo Price: $2.7 million
Source: Ferrari

The track-only FXX-K Evo, an evolution of the LaFerrari, boasts 1,036 horsepower and a top speed of 217 mph. With only 40 units produced, this car is reserved for exclusive track day events managed by Ferrari.

4. Koenigsegg Jesko – $2.8 million

22. Koenigsegg Jesko Price: $2.8 millionSource: Koenigsegg

Known for its “dihedral synchro-helix” doors, the Jesko pushes the boundaries of automotive capabilities with up to 1,603 horsepower and a top speed that remains undisclosed. It also features power-adjustable seats and Apple CarPlay, making it a blend of comfort and extreme performance

5. Ferrari Pininfarina Sergio – $3 million

21. Ferrari Pininfarina Sergio Price: $3 million
Source: Ferrari

A tribute to the late Sergio Pininfarina, this 458-based Barchetta showcases Pininfarina’s iconic design language, blending futuristic aesthetics with Ferrari’s racing heritage.

6. Bugatti Chiron Pur Sport – $3.3 million

20. Bugatti Chiron Pur Sport Price: $3.3 million
Source: Bugatti

Touted as the “purest Bugatti Chiron ever,” the Pur Sport offers substantial improvements in chassis, gearbox, and engine, embodying Bugatti’s rich racing heritage.

7. Mansory Vivere Bugatti Veyron – $3.4 million

19. Mansory Vivere Bugatti Veyron Price: $3.4 million
Source: Mansory

This German coachbuilt car is a modified Veyron featuring a signature “V” design and a classic black-and-white color scheme, known for its sophistication and rarity.

8. W Motors Lykan Hypersport – $3.4 million

18. W Motors Lykan Hypersport Price: $3.4 million
Source: W Motors

Known for its appearance in Fast and Furious 7, this exotic car features unique suicide-scissor doors, a holographic interior display, and diamond-encrusted headlights.

9. Pagani Huayra Roadster BC – $3.5 million

17. Pagani Huayra Roadster BC Price: $3.5 million
Source: Pagani

The Huayra Roadster BC is a beautiful blend of power and elegance, featuring a bright silver, black, and red color scheme, and a removable carbon-fiber hardtop.

10. Lamborghini Sian – $3.6 million

16. Lamborghini Sian Price: $3.6 millionSource: Lamborghini

The Sian is Lamborghini’s most innovative hybrid, featuring lithium-ion supercapacitors for immense power without compromising weight, boasting 819 horsepower and a top speed of over 220 mph.

11. Bugatti Chiron Super Sport 300+ – $3.9 million

15. Bugatti Chiron Super Sport 300+ and Chiron Super Sport Price: $3.9 millionSource: Bugatti

Celebrated for its ability to exceed 300 mph, this car is a testament to Bugatti’s pursuit of breaking speed barriers, making it one of the most desirable cars for speed enthusiasts.

12. Lamborghini Veneno – $4.5 million

14. Lamborghini Veneno Price: $4.5 milion
Source: Lamborghini

Designed to mark Lamborghini’s 50th anniversary, the Veneno is an Aventador-based supercar optimized for aerodynamics and cooling, offering a distinct Lamborghini design.

13. Bugatti Bolide – $4.6 million

13. Bugatti Bolide Price: $4.6 milionSource: Bugatti

Initially a study project, the Bolide is now in limited production, embodying Bugatti’s quest for ultimate performance with only 40 examples planned.

14. Koenigsegg CCXR Trevita – $4.8 million

12. Koenigsegg CCXR Trevita Price: $4.8 million
Source: Koenigsegg

Featuring a unique carbon fiber diamond weave finish, only two Trevitas were made due to the complexity of its production process, making it one of the most exclusive cars.

15. Bugatti W16 Mistral – $5 million

11. Bugatti W16 Mistral Price: $5 millionSourc: Bugatti

Marking the end of the W16-powered Bugatti era, the Mistral is a highly collectible car with only 99 units produced, all sold out at its reveal.

16. Pagani Huayra Imola – $5.4 million

10. Pagani Huayra Imola Price: $5.4 million
Source: Pagani

Dedicated to speed, the Huayra Imola features a special paint that saves 11 pounds of weight and a powerful 827 horsepower engine, epitomizing Pagani’s commitment to performance.

17. Bugatti Divo – $5.9 million

9. Bugatti Divo Price: $5.9 million
Source: Bugatti

Known for its exceptional cornering abilities, the Divo features an aerodynamic body and increased downforce, making it a true performance car.

18. Pagani Huayra Codalunga – $7.4 million

8. Pagani Huayra Codalunga Price: $7.4 millionSource: Pagani

Inspired by 1960s racing cars, only five Huayra Codalungas will be made, each featuring a unique Long Tail design and a twin-turbo V12 engine.

19. Bugatti Centodieci – $9 million

7. Bugatti Centodieci Price: $9 million
Source: Bugatti

An homage to the EB110, the Centodieci improves upon the Chiron with a lighter body and additional downforce, with only 10 units made.

20. Bugatti Chiron Profilée – $10.8 million

6. Bugatti Chiron Profilée Price: $10.8 millionImage Source: Bugatti

This one-off creation is the final Chiron with a W16 engine, sold at auction for a record $10.8 million, making it the most valuable new car ever sold at auction.

21. Rolls-Royce Sweptail – $13 million

5. Rolls-Royce Sweptail Price: $13 million
Source: Rolls-Royce Motor Cars

Inspired by yachts, the Sweptail features a tapered rear end, a glass roof, and luxurious interior materials, priced like a high-end yacht.

22. Pagani Zonda HP Barchetta – $17.5 million

4. Pagani Zonda HP Barchetta Price: $17.5 million
Source: Prestige Imports

A tribute to the iconic Zonda, the HP Barchetta features a unique design with partially covered rear wheels and a roofless body, making it one of the most expensive cars ever.

23. Bugatti La Voiture Noire – $18+ million

3. Bugatti La Voiture Noire Price: $18+ million
Source: Bugatti

A one-of-a-kind homage to the Type 57 Atlantic, La Voiture Noire features a stunning design with six exhaust tailpipes and a pronounced dorsal seam.

24. Rolls-Royce Boat Tail – $28 million

2. Rolls-Royce Boat Tail Price: $28 millionSource: Rolls-Royce Motor Cars

Inspired by nautical design, the Boat Tail features an aft deck with a sophisticated hosting suite and custom-made timepieces, showcasing unparalleled luxury.

25. Rolls-Royce Droptail – Over $30 million

1. Rolls-Royce Droptail Price: Over $30 millionSource: Rolls-Royce Motor Cars

  1. The Droptail, with only four planned examples, continues the legacy of ultra-exclusive, coachbuilt automobiles, setting a new benchmark for luxury and personalization.

Conclusion

In this exclusive journey through the world’s most luxurious and expensive cars, we celebrate the artistry, innovation, and engineering excellence that define these remarkable vehicles. Whether you are an enthusiast or a potential buyer, this collection represents the ultimate in automotive luxury and performance. Enjoy the journey through automotive opulence and discover what makes these cars truly exceptional.

May 16

Motorcycle vs. Car Speed: Which Reigns Supreme on the Road?

The Eternal Rivalry: Motorcycles vs. Cars

The debate between motorcycle enthusiasts and sports car aficionados about which is faster has raged for years. Generally, the fastest cars in the world slightly outpace the top motorcycles. However, in many everyday situations, motorcycles often come out on top due to their agility and acceleration capabilities.

Speed Records and Real-World Performance

The highest official motorcycle speed recorded is 376 mph, achieved in 2010. Despite this impressive feat, motorcycles face challenges at extreme speeds, such as maintaining stability and keeping the rider securely on the bike. In contrast, the ultimate land speed record for any vehicle stands at 763 mph, achieved by a jet-powered car, while the fastest wheel-driven car reached speeds of 458 mph. When comparing high-end production models, the Kawasaki Ninja H2R holds the motorcycle record at 249 mph, yet it’s outstripped by the Bugatti Chiron Super Sport’s 304 mph as the fastest street-legal production car.

Practical Speed: Everyday Riding vs. Racing

While Formula 1 cars can outperform MotoGP bikes on racetracks due to superior downforce allowing faster cornering, the situation reverses on public roads. An entry-level sport bike can navigate corners quicker than nearly all standard cars, offering a thrilling ride for a fraction of the price. Additionally, motorcycles can navigate through traffic more efficiently via lane splitting and filtering, often making them quicker in urban settings than even the fastest cars.

The Verdict: It’s About More Than Just Speed

Historically, motorcycles have enjoyed a better power-to-weight ratio than cars, making them faster off the line. This advantage is a key reason why many police forces initially used motorcycle units. When choosing between a motorcycle and a car, the decision often boils down to personal preference and the specific needs of the driver. Both vehicles serve different purposes and excel in different scenarios, making them unique tools for different automotive jobs.

Feb 18

2024’s 10 Best Electric Sports Cars

As electric vehicles (EVs) become more and more commonplace, new models and vehicle types are constantly being introduced to the market.

A few years ago, the EV was a relatively new market — which meant that options were limited. Now, consumers may feel overwhelmed with choices.

There are a handful of factors that determine an EV’s purchasability. One of them is vehicle range — a growing concern due to the lack of EV charging stations throughout the nation. For EV sports cars, range and speed are important factors to consider. Take a look at how speed and range factor into 2024’s 10 best electric sports cars below:

1. 2024 Porsche Taycan

Price Point: $92,550

Range: ~246 miles

From reputable luxury sports brand Porsche, the Taycan is a four-door sports car perfect for any driver who favors speed and a sleek vehicle look. The Taycan also comes in the Turbo S form, going 0-60 in 2.3 seconds.

2. 2024 Porsche Taycan Sport Turismo

Price Point: $142,850

Range: 233 miles

The Taycan Sport Turismo is the wagon version of the Taycan, with a hatchback trunk. It has impressive speed, and can go from 0-60 miles per hour in around 3 seconds.

3. Hyundai Ioniq 5 N

Price Point: $63,000

Range: ~210 miles

Though one of the cheaper vehicles on this list, the Hyundai Ioniq 5 N does not sacrifice quality. This car comes with some software to make a drive feel more engaging, such as a paddle-shifted dual-clutch automatic transmission.

4. 2024 Rimac Nevera

Price Point: ~$2.2 million

Range: 205 miles

This 1914-hp vehicle is extremely fast and at a high-price point. It is the fastest electric vehicle on the market, going 60 mph in 1.74 seconds.

5. 2024 Pininfarina Battista

Price Point: ~$2.2 million

Range: ~230 miles

Similar to the Nevera, the Battista has the same advanced speed and horsepower capabilities. This vehicle’s top speed is over 220 mph.

6. 2024 Lotus Evija

Price Point: ~$2.3 million

Range: ~200 miles

In 9 seconds flat, the Evija can go from 0-186 miles per hour. Additionally, it is a 1972 horsepower vehicle.

7. 2023 Maserati GranTurismo Folgore

Price Point: ~$215,000

Range: ~240 miles

The GranTurismo Folgore is the EV version of Maserati’s legacy grand tourer coupe, going 60 mph in around 2.7 seconds.

8. 2024 Audi RS e-tron GT

Price Point: $148,595

Range: 232 miles

This sporty EV sedan can reach 60 mph in approximately 3 seconds, and has a similar vehicle foundation to the Porsche Taycan.

9. 2023 Tesla Model 3 Performance

Price Point: $54, 880

Range: 315 miles

The Tesla Model 3 Performance is the most inexpensive car on this list, and the Performance trim on this popular EV makes a great commuter car.

10. 2023 Tesla Model S Plaid

Price Point: $110,130

Range: 396 miles

The Model S Plaid has nearly 400 miles of use per full charge. The Model S Plaid can go up to 60 mph in under two seconds.

Aug 20

Toyota Targets Unrivaled Driving Pleasure with New Electric Sports Car Prototype

Toyota is taking a bold step into the future of electric vehicles (EVs) with a new prototype that promises the exhilarating thrill of sports cars with the added benefits of electric power. While electric vehicles have penetrated nearly every market segment, the void of an affordable, electrifying sports car remains. Toyota aims to fill this gap with an innovative electric prototype that could potentially earn the prestigious GR (Gazoo Racing) badge.

Akio Toyoda’s Personal Involvement in the EV Sports Car Prototype

The development of this new electric sports car is personally overseen by Akio Toyoda, the passionate former president of Toyota and a seasoned motorsport enthusiast. Despite stepping down as president, Toyoda’s deep involvement in the project underscores his commitment to blending performance with electric technology. He envisions an electric vehicle that delivers a driving experience so engaging it mirrors the dynamism of traditional gas-powered sports cars.

During a revealing discussion at the 24 Hours of Le Mans, Toyoda expressed his vision for Toyota’s electric vehicles to be indistinguishable from their gasoline counterparts in terms of fun and driving satisfaction. He highlighted his recent test drive of the battery electric vehicle (BEV) GR prototype, emphasizing that the primary goal is to craft vehicles that are exhilarating to drive, regardless of their powertrain.

Innovations Enhancing the Electric Driving Experience

Toyota’s new prototype is not just another electric vehicle; it’s a testament to the company’s innovative approach to preserving the joy of driving in an era of electric mobility. The prototype is set to include realistic engine sounds piped into the cabin and an experimental manual transmission with a three-pedal setup. This setup aims to replicate traditional driving experiences, such as the possibility of rolling backward or even stalling, enhancing the authenticity of the drive.

Toyoda also noted that while the vehicle will incorporate modern EV design elements like the absence of a traditional grille, the core philosophy of “fun to drive” remains paramount. This commitment is part of Toyota’s broader exploration of green energy alternatives, including hydrogen-combustion technologies. Despite challenges, including opposition to his leadership over these innovations, Toyoda’s dedication to this project is unwavering, driven by his foundational role in establishing Gazoo Racing.

As Toyota continues to refine its approach to electric sports cars, the industry watches closely. The potential introduction of this GR EV prototype could redefine expectations for electric sports cars, marrying environmental consciousness with uncompromised driving pleasure. Toyoda’s involvement not only enhances the project’s credibility but also aligns it with his vision of what future mobility should embody—thrill, innovation, and sustainability.

Jul 12

The Suzuki Cappuccino: How a Tiny Engine Powers a Fun Driving Experience

Compact Design and Kei Car Regulations

The Suzuki Cappuccino, produced from 1991 to 1998, was a delightful alternative to the Mazda MX-5 Miata. Designed to adhere to Kei car regulations in Japan, it featured a compact 657 cc turbocharged inline-three engine. Although it was not available in the U.S., this quirky roadster made waves in European markets with its unique blend of style and performance.

Lightweight and Agile Performance

What makes the Suzuki Cappuccino thrilling despite its modest 63 horsepower is its incredibly light weight. At just 1,543 lbs, it is roughly 29% lighter than the early Mazda MX-5 Miata. This low curb weight, combined with its balanced design, enhances the driving experience, allowing enthusiasts to enjoy the roadster’s nimbleness and responsiveness without breaking speed limits.

Engineering Innovations and Enthusiast Appeal

The Cappuccino incorporated several engineering techniques to maximize performance from its small engine. It featured a turbocharged and intercooled setup, and its dual overhead cam (DOHC) design improved engine efficiency. Although the horsepower may seem modest, the combination of these features, along with an optional limited-slip differential and standard four-wheel disc brakes, contributes to a driving experience that remains exciting and engaging.

Fans of the Suzuki Cappuccino appreciate its dynamic handling and the joy of driving a lightweight sports car. As imports have become more accessible since 2016, the Cappuccino has developed a devoted following among enthusiasts, with its appeal continuing to grow among younger generations.