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News from The Paddock

Cybertruck wheel covers are causing HAVOC 🤯

Jeep Patriot falls into a sinkhole 🤕

Amish family’s horse and cart stolen from Michigan Walmart 👮 

Unveilings

BMW Z4 M40i Handschalter Pack: A Classic Manual Experience Reimagined

BMW introduces a thrilling update to the Z4 lineup with the Handschalter Pack, breathing new life into the Z4 M40i by integrating a manual gearbox for an authentic driving experience. This eagerly awaited package pairs the vehicle's powerful 3.0-liter in-line six-cylinder engine with a six-speed manual transmission, delivering 335bhp and enabling a sprint from 0-62mph in just 4.5 seconds. Complementing its performance enhancements are a 19-inch front and 20-inch rear, new light-alloy wheels, and an eye-catching exclusive Frozen Deep Green metallic paint. Inside, the cabin boasts M-themed details and Vernasca leather trim, promising a blend of sportiness and elegance. Scheduled for deliveries in spring 2024, the Handschalter Pack offers a unique combination of modern luxury and classic manual driving joy. Learn more 👇️ 

2024 BMW M4 Receives Dynamic Facelift and Performance Boost

BMW has revitalized the 2024 M4 with a strategic facelift and performance enhancements, boasting a more potent 3.0-liter straight-six engine now delivering 530hp, up by 20hp, allowing a swift 0 to 62mph acceleration in just 3.5 seconds for the coupé and 3.7 seconds for the convertible. Aesthetic upgrades include new laser diode technology headlights and taillights, refreshed M forged light-alloy wheels with a new double-spoke design, and a refined interior featuring a race-inspired steering wheel, electrically adjustable M sports seats, and updated trim options. Coupled with BMW's xDrive AWD system for superior traction and handling, the facelifted M4 maintains its iconic stance while introducing a more aggressive and elegant design. Production is set to begin in March, with customer deliveries anticipated by April, marking a new chapter for the emblematic M4 series. Check it out ⤵️ 

Sale of the Week

Sale of the Week: Exclusive Meissen Blue 2019 Porsche 911 Speedster Commands $442,000

In an impressive display of automotive desirability and collector appeal, a rare Meissen Blue 2019 Porsche 911 Speedster was sold for $442,000 on January 27, 2024. This striking vehicle is one of only 1,948 Speedster units produced, making it a coveted piece among enthusiasts and collectors alike. With just over 5,000 miles on the odometer, this Speedster showcases Porsche's engineering excellence through its 4.0-liter flat-six engine and six-speed manual transaxle, complemented by a limited-slip differential for enhanced driving dynamics.

The car's distinctive Meissen Blue paint, a paint-to-sample option, is perfectly paired with Espresso & Cognac leather upholstery, encapsulating the Speedster's luxurious yet sporty essence. Exterior highlights include 20" GT3 center-lock alloy wheels, carbon-ceramic brakes, and a carbon-fiber twin-hump convertible top cover panel, underlining its exclusivity. The sale, facilitated by FinestVehiclesTraded in Naperville, IL, underscores the lasting legacy and unmatched appeal of the Porsche 911 Speedster, further solidified by its clean Carfax report and pristine condition. This sale represents not just a transaction but a milestone in the ongoing story of Porsche's celebrated 911 lineage. Check out the Porsche ⬇️ 

Buying?

Pre-purchase Inspection Checklist for Used Cars

Embarking on the journey to purchase a used car can be exciting yet daunting. To navigate this process with confidence and ensure you're making a wise investment, arm yourself with a comprehensive pre-purchase inspection checklist…

Mechanical

• Engine: Check for smooth idling, listen for unusual noises, and look for smoke from the exhaust.

• Transmission: Ensure smooth gear shifts (manual and automatic). Check for delays or jerks.

• Brakes: Test for stopping power; listen for squealing or grinding noises.

• Suspension: Look for uneven tire wear and listen for rattles or knocks over bumps.

• Fluids: Check oil, coolant, brake fluid, and transmission fluid levels and quality. Look for leaks.

Exterior

• Body Panels: Check for dents, scratches, and rust. Ensure panel gaps are even.

• Paint: Look for color mismatches, indicating past repairs.

• Windows: Ensure that there are no cracks or chips and that windows operate smoothly.

• Lights: Check headlights, taillights, brake lights, and turn signals.

• Tires: Look for even wear and sufficient tread. Check the age of the tires.

Interior

• Seats and Upholstery: Check for tears, stains, and excessive wear.

• Controls and Dash: Ensure all buttons, knobs, and switches operate correctly.

• Electronic Functions: Test the air conditioning, heater, audio system, and any navigation or infotainment systems.

• Odors: Be wary of strong smells that could indicate mold or leaks.

• Dashboard Lights: Check for warning lights on startup.

Documentation

• Vehicle History Report: Check for past accidents, service records, and ownership history.

• Title: Ensure the title is clean, not salvaged or rebuilt.

• Service Records: Look for regular maintenance and major repairs.

• Recalls: Check if the car has any outstanding recalls.

Test Drive

• Performance: Assess acceleration, handling, and braking.

• Noise: Listen for any unusual sounds from the engine, brakes, or suspension.

• Comfort: Make sure the seating and ride quality meet your needs.

Final Steps:

• If possible, have a trusted mechanic perform a thorough inspection.

• Use any issues found as leverage in price negotiations.

Upcoming Automotive Events

Miami Boat Show: Miami, USA, Wednesday, February 14th - Sunday, February 18th (Learn more here)

Atlanta International Auto Show: Atlanta, USA, Thursday, February 29th - Sunday, March 3rd (learn more here)

This Week In Automotive History

The Shelby GT350: A Racing Icon's Birth

This week commemorates the pivotal launch of the Shelby GT350 on January 27, 1965, a day that significantly altered the racing circuit and solidified the Shelby Mustang's legacy. The GT350 was crafted from the 1965 Ford Mustang fastbacks, initially equipped with a 271 HP 289 V8 engine and manual transmission, which were then masterfully transformed by Carroll Shelby and his team into racing legends.

The Birth of the Shelby GT350

On January 27, 1965, the automotive world was introduced to the Shelby Mustang GT350, marking a historic moment in racing history. Engineered by Carroll Shelby's team in Venice Beach, California, these vehicles underwent rigorous modifications, including weight reduction and the addition of performance upgrades such as high-riser intake manifolds, a four-barrel carburetor, and custom exhaust headers, boosting horsepower to 306.

Legacy and Revival

The Shelby Mustang, including the GT350 and GT500 models, continued production through 1971, becoming some of the most sought-after muscle cars. In 2005, Ford reignited the Shelby flame with a second-generation lineup, paying homage to the original with the GT350-H "rent-a-racer" models available through Hertz rental cars, echoing the legendary status of the Shelby Mustangs in automotive history.

The Shelby GT350 Today

Decades later, the Shelby GT350 remains a symbol of automotive excellence and racing heritage. Whether discovered as a barn find or cherished in a collector's garage, each Shelby Mustang continues to captivate enthusiasts and collectors alike, representing a storied legacy of speed, innovation, and design.

Industry Insights

🚗 Tesla's Massive Recall: Software Fix for 2.2 Million Vehicles

Tesla is initiating a recall for nearly 2.2 million of its electric vehicles in the U.S. due to a software issue that renders the font size of some warning indicators on the instrument panel too small, potentially increasing crash risks. This concern involves the park, antilock brake systems, and brake warning lights not meeting the minimum size standards set by federal safety regulations. Models affected include the 2012-23 Model S, 2016-24 Model X, 2017-23 Model 3, 2019-24 Model Y, and the 2024 Cybertruck. The recall, prompted by heightened scrutiny from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), will be addressed through an online software update. Additionally, Tesla is under investigation for steering issues, which may lead to another recall. This follows recent recalls for rearview camera software problems and a flaw in the Autopilot feature.

Read More Here →

🔧 Montgomery Hyundai Employees Push for Unionization

Workers at Hyundai's Montgomery, Alabama, plant have initiated a union drive, marking the second such effort in the state's auto industry within a month. The United Auto Workers (UAW) reported that 30% of Hyundai Motor Manufacturing Alabama (HMMA) employees signed union cards, voicing concerns over pay and workplace safety. Hyundai responded by highlighting recent wage increases and safety records. The move follows a successful UAW strike against Detroit automakers and ongoing union drives at other plants amidst Alabama's rising union membership rates and debates over unionization's economic impact.

Read More Here →

Thanks for tuning into this week’s TurboTimes. See you at the same time next week!