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One-of-a-kind Rolls-Royce with powerful V12 engine and blistering 624bhp listed for auction – and it could be yours

A UNIQUE Rolls-Royce with a powerful V12 engine that produces a blistering 624bhp has gone up for auction.

You could get your hands on the 2020 Rolls-Royce Wraith Black-Badge Sportive, which comes from a line of exclusive motors that are all one-of-a-kind.

Blue Rolls-Royce Wraith Black Badge coupe for sale at auction.
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The 2020 Rolls-Royce Wraith Black Badge Sportive is up for auction[/caption]
Interior of a blue Rolls-Royce Wraith Black Badge.
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The unique motor is finished in Salamanca Blue and is equipped with a range of comfortable amenities[/caption]
Interior of a blue and black Rolls-Royce Wraith Black Badge.
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Inside, the seats are finished in a combination of black and blue leather[/caption]

The Black Badge family of Rolls-Royce motor cars was launched in 2016 allowing one-of-one creations tailored to the desires of the customer.

Coming with just 4,796 miles on the clock, this ultra-rare grand tourer combines Rolls-Royce’s legendary craftsmanship with an incredibly powerful 6.6L twin-turbo V12 engine.

The one-off luxury car is capable of churning out 624hp and 642 lb-ft of torque.

Finished in a stunning Salamanca Blue, the beast has an interior crafted from a blend of black and blue leather.

SBX Cars is auctioning the rare motor in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, and bids have already begun flying in.

As of March 12, the bidding is at 42,020 AED, or £8,823, from two bids, although naturally the reserve price has not yet been met.

The auction will continue for another 12 days before it is eventually purchased.

Its listing says: “With the stunning attention to detail, from the exposed carbon fibre wheels to the hand-painted Coachlines adorned with the Sportive emblem, every inch of this car screams exclusivity.

“With an 8-speed automatic transmission, the power is routed smoothly to the rear wheels.

“It’s not just about performance, though; the Rolls-Royce Wraith is synonymous with effortless elegance and unparalleled luxury, making it the perfect grand tourer for those who appreciate both refinement and speed.”

The motor comes with climatised front seats, embroidered with the iconic Rolls-Royce emblem.

Analogue gauges are also in place, as is the analogue dash-mounted clock which has a colour-keyed face.

The motor also has a highly advanced central infotainment interface, which comes alongside an 18-speaker bespoke audio system, night vision, and a head-up display.

Its listing adds: “The car has been meticulously maintained since its purchase and is registered in Dubai, where it has been stored in pristine condition, showing only minor wear such as slight curb rash and minimal scuffs to the driver’s seat, as noted in the gallery.

“The seller notes that the vehicle comes with an extended warranty, valid through January 2026, which is transferable to the new owner.

“This 2020 Rolls-Royce Wraith Black-Badge Sportive is truly a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for any discerning collector.

“It’s the last word in ultra-luxury grand touring coupes, and with such rarity, it’s an unrivalled addition to any collection.”

Car Auctions: How To Nab A Bargain

Car auctions are a way to sell vehicles based on a bidding system with the highest offer securing the deal.

Auctions aren’t restricted to the rich and famous as thousands of cars are sold at motor auctions in the UK each week.

Here’s what you need to know before attending an auction:

  1. Be prepared: Do your research on the car you would like to purchase beforehand.
  2. Check the car: Cars will usually be lined up before the start, so make sure to arrive early to inspect the desired car thoroughly.
  3. Have a back-up: Be ready for disappointment as your desired motor may be sold to someone else and select a few back-ups.
  4. Be realistic: Realise that there won’t be a “perfect” car at an auction and adjust expectations accordingly.
  5. Set a budget: It is easy to overspend in the heat of the moment during bidding. Ensure you have set a budget and do not go over it.

Key phrases to look out for:

  • ‘No major mechanical faults’ – suggests that there shouldn’t be any issues with the car’s drivetrain, gearbox, suspension, or engine. 
  • ‘Specified faults’ – the auctioneer will read out specific faults.
  • ‘Sold as seen’ – the vehicle is sold with any problems it may have. The auction company will rarely entertain complaints regarding the mechanical or cosmetic condition of these vehicles after sale.
  • ‘Sold with a warranted mileage’ – The car is being offered based on the report, which confirms the mileage through an independent check.

This comes as a retro Ford Capri 1973 raced by a member of the Royal family and driven by a Formula 1 icon is set to go up for sale for £120k.

The remarkable motor, which remained in storage for 36 years before a mechanical rebuild in 2014, is set to go under the hammer in April.

The genuine Ford works car, decorated with a blue and white ‘Shell Sport’ livery, was originally built for the 1973 Avon Tour of Great Britain.

It was during this event that HRH Prince Michael of Kent took the wheel of the Capri, which has the registration ‘XWC 713L’.

The royal achieved a respectable 16th place finish after driving in circuit races, rally stages, and across 1,000 miles of public roads.

Later that year, it was driven by Formula 1 World Champion Niki Lauda at a one-off race at the Österreichring circuit in Austria.

Front view of a blue Rolls-Royce Wraith Black Badge.
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The unique motor is on auction now in Dubai[/caption]
Close-up of a Rolls-Royce Wraith Black Badge V12 engine.
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It’s powered by a 6.6L V12 engine[/caption]
Blue Rolls-Royce Wraith Black Badge interior.
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Just two bids have been submitted for the car[/caption]

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British motor company reveals its first EV sports car that weighs under a tonne and is going for just £65k

A NEW motors company has revealed its first EV sports car – and it weights under a tonne.

British manufacturer Longbow is set to launch the Roadster electric vehicle in 2026.

Longbow Speedster electric sports car.
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The lightweight Longbow Roadster is set to be released next year[/caption]
Overhead view of a silver Longbow Roadster electric sports car.
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Motorists can scoop the keys to the vehicle for £64,995[/caption]

Its single motor chugs 322hp and the motor can go from zero to 62mph in less than four seconds.

While it is a lightweight motor, the Roadster’s weather-tight roof and windscreen weigh a hefty 100kg.

The motor also features a bespoke aluminium chassis for stiffness and minimal weight.

Petrol heads will need deep pockets for the Roadster, with prices starting at £64,995.

Longbow Motors was founded by British engineers Daniel Davy and Mark Tapscott.

“I used to design and build Lotuses, but realised electrification was the future and the other day I spoke to ex-Lotus CEO Phil Popham, and laid it on a bit thick that this is the car the Chinese won’t let Lotus build,” Daniel said.

“If you want to sell cars, make it cheap.

“Whatever anyone tells you, if you’re not Ferrari or Bugatti or a known brand, if you want to sell cars, make it as affordable as possible.

“That’s how you move volume. That’s a lesson from both Tesla and Lucid.”

He added: “Amidst the e-mobility revolution, we have lost something important. Many modern ‘sportscars’ tip the scales at 1,500kg and BEVs can reach almost double that.

“There is a need for a more driver-oriented, featherweight, electric sportscar – one that is attainable and accessible, for those who love driving and the places it takes them.

“That is why we have created Longbow.

“Our first two cars, Speedster and Roadster embody everything a modern driver’s car should be: agile, balanced, electric, and exhilarating.

“We are reviving an icon, the lightweight British sportscar.”

Are electric cars cheaper to run?​

This is a complex question.

If we simply compare the cost of filling up a petrol-powered car compared to an EV, there’s a clear winner.

Maintenance and servicing costs for EVs are lower, too, with much fewer moving parts to go wrong.

Bookmygarage estimates the average EV service to be £103, that’s almost half of a typical service.

VED (commonly known as road tax) on EVs is currently £0, which can save you compared to a petrol or diesel-powered car. (How long this lasts, we can’t be sure so don’t bank on this saving over the long-term.)

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