It’s that time again, when we gaze into the awesomeness that is out list of best tuned cars of the year. I have to tell you, this is really difficult; I mean picking out just 10 rides from our extended collection is torture. Obviously, I love everycar I’ve written about – almost – for different reasons and since I can’t afford any of them, you wouldn’t hear a peep out of me if I were to get one as a present – are you reading this Santa? Takes note, ’cause this year you did not deliver.
I have to say I wasn’t as thorough and technically-oriented this year, and decided to focus on unique projects; the kind that just make you go: wow, I didn’t think of this! Well, somebody else did. However, I stand behind my belief that tuned-up rides should feature extensive modifications, on aeestheticlevel as well as ona a technical one. So, let’s not stand around for nothing and go down the list. Here we go!
10. Toyota Tundra Diablo by Devolro
No matter your preferences in super-car or off-road vehicles, you hate to admit that the factory-built Ford F-150 Raptor was a hit. So, the most obvious question is: how about a Toyota? This menacing modded Toyota Tundra courtesy of Miami-based Devolro garage. This ride looks like is more than capable to handle whatever you throw at it: a Baja race, some Russian mountains or a zombie apocalypse. The Toyota features massive wheels and off-road tires, a lift kit (a 7-incher, in this case), plus new body components, such as a tougher front bumper/grille guard combination, fender flares, and a cap to turn the bed into and enclosed cargo area.
9. Volkswagen Scirocco R by Bruxsafol
Usually, a Volkswagen is not what you usually consider hot, or fast; everyone instantly thinks Beetle, or Golf. But German foil wrapping specialists from Bruxsafol are really trying to change our minds, with their newly introduced aftermarket program for the Volkswagen Scirocco R. Now, that’s one sexy Volkswagen, and Bruxsafol’s power-kit for the Volkswagen Scirocco R enables the 2.0-liter 4-cylinder turbocharged engine to develop 370 hp, via a re-mapped ECU and a Bull X-exhaust system.
8. Rolls-Royce Ghost Series II by Mansory
Well-known tuning garage Mansory has released a visual & power package for the recently introduced Rolls-Royce Ghost Series II. As if the stock vehicle wasn’t outrageous enough, the team decided they could do better; it features a new front apron hoss bigger air inlets and optional LED daytime running lights, along with carbon wings and a redesigned hood also manufactured from carbon fiber. Let’s not forget the reworked side skirts, fresh rear apron, integrated stainless steel exhaust pipes and a subtle rear spoiler lip. The tuner installed a new exhaust system and tweaked the control unit; this translates into a 0 to 62 mph (0-100 km/h) time of 4.3 seconds and a top speed of 174 mph (280 km/h).
7. Porsche RUF 964 by RWB
Porsche tuning specialists RWB have done it again, and released the RWB RUF 964. Based on a standard 1991 Porsche 964, and with a selection of impressive RUF upgrades already installed in the U.S., the Porsche 911 recently had a complete engine rebuild, so it made for the perfect starting point for some more upgrades. The previously fitted performance parts on this RUF 964 included a 964 RS light flywheel and clutch, 964 RS engine supports, 993 airmass meter and throttle body, air filter and Motoric upgrade, Sport exhaust with bypass pipe, new engine covers and high tension cables. Now that’s one upgraded Porsche! But, RWB added their touch to the ride, as well.
6. Mercedes-Benz A45 AMG by GAD Motors
Whenever I hear of a new Mercedes A-classe tuning project, I get all excited. I think the little German car is somewhat unappreciated, although its looks and performances deserve the attention. The team at GAD Motors agrees, which is why they’ve developed a power boost program for the Mercedes-Benz A45 AMG. In its standard form, the four-cylinder, 2.0-liter turbocharged petrol engine develops 360 PS (265 kW) and 450 Nm (332 lb-ft). By remapping the engine’s ECU, the aftermarket specialists increased the output to 430 PS (316 kW) and 550 Nm (406 lb-ft)., and this is only the first stage of their upgrade program, as GAD Motors says there’s still room for improvement. As a result, the A45 AMG will now do 0-62 mph (0-100 km/h) in 4.1 seconds and 0-124 mph (0-200 km/h) in just 14.3 seconds. Awesome!
5. MINI Cooper S by Cam Shaft & PP-Performance
When two tuning garages come together and work on a project, you know we’re in for some greatness. Cam Shaft and PP-Performance did just that, working together on a previous generation MINI Cooper S. It features an awesome shiny orange body wrap, wheel arches, ATS 17-inch alloy wheels, 215/45 R17 Toyo semi slicks and KW variant 2 coil-overs. The tuners also fiddled around under the bonnet, which means the 4-cylinder, 1.6-liter turbocharged engine now develops 240 PS (176 kW).
4. Range Rover CLR SR by Lumma Design
There’s yet another Lumma Design creation on the roads, impressing the hell out of everyone: a customized Range Rover, fitted with a CLR SR body-kit meant for the Vogue and Sport versions. The after-market package includes a front spoiler bumper bar with the original fog lamps and dual daytime running light, an apron bumper with a built-in diffuser as well as glossy polished 105 mm quad pipes attached to a stainless steel sports exhaust system. Aside from other visual enhancements, the tuner is also offering a 30 PS (22 kW) and 60 Nm (44 lb-ft) power boost for the 3.0-liter V6 diesel.
3. Ford Mustang Gymkhana 7 by Hoonigan Racing Division & RTR
Ken Block knocked our socks off with his new 845hp all-wheel drive 1965 Ford Mustang and his Gymkhana SEVEN video project. This unique ride was a joint effort between Ken Block, Hoonigan Racing Division and tuning brand RTR, and was dubbed the Ford Hoonicorn RTR. On an aesthetic level, this Mustang boasts a mix of influences from current WRC and DTM cars, as well as toy cars from Block’s youth. The attention to detail with the fabrication and bodywork is mindblowing, and is probably the most impressive Gymkhana yet.
2. Ferrari F-340 Competizione by Gullwing America
I just had to share this awesome Ferrari with you guys, although I have to admit I have been staring at every single detail and sexy line of this incredible machine for hours now. Coach-builder Gullwing America are responsible for this incredible project, an exquisite and unique Ferrari F-340 Competizione, based on the 1952 Ferrari 340 Mexico Berlineta. Originally, the 1952 model was built for competition in the Carrera Panamericana race in Mexico and only 3 cars were ever made. It’s beyond stunning!
1. Audi S8 Talladega by MTM
The Ingolstadt-based manufacturer is pretty content with its Audi S8; it has reasons to be. Audi has no plans for a future RS8 that we know of, but German tuner MTM has decided tnot to wait any longer and developed the S8 Talladega, which might as well be the RS8. In stock form, the S8’s 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 engine develops 520 PS (510 hp), but after MTM’s hardware and software mods, the eight-cylinder lump gains 240PS (237hp). I guess a total of 760 PS (750 hp) at 5,950 rpm and 945Nm (697 lb-ft) between 1,700 and 5,500 rpm would satisfy anyone. The S8 Talladega will do 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 3.48 seconds, will reach 200 km/h (124 mph) in 10.51 seconds while towards a top speed of 325 km/h (202 mph).
Mention: Ducati 749 By Gustavo Penna
I’m not a super-bike fan; I prefer the bike the T-101 rode in the Terminator: Judgement Day – I got the jacket, I”m working on the muscles, so all I need is the bike. I will admit, however, that this modified Ducati is so awesome I wouldn’t mind seeing it in the next Terminator movie. This is the Ducati 749 by Gustavo Penna, a cinematographer who shoots car commercials in Los Angeles. Gustavo calls his Ducati 749 “Francesca,” and she’s already attracted quite a bit of attention. One replica is almost ready to hit the streets, and two more commissions are in the works, including a 999 version. No clue on pricing, although true Ducati fans will probably ignore the price-tag and go straight to Gustavo for their very own custom project.
I’m curios as what the next year will bring. All the best, people!
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