 MERCEDES-BENZ CLK DTM AMG Cabriolet (2006-2007) (Orange, CA / August 2, 2009) - For some Mercedes-Benz fans, a CLK63 Black Series simply isn't rare enough, and an SLR McLaren isn't worth enough money. This DTM Cabriolet was the biggest surprise at the grand opening party for Premier Protective Films in Orange. Only 100 were built, and very few of them came in black. This is one of just couple black Cabriolets in the states. Before deliveries began in 2006, all 100 cars were already sold out. It's hard to question why this car is considered the world's fastest four-seat convertible. The handbuilt AMG supercharged V8 produces 582 horses, and the car can do 0-60 mph in under 4 seconds and reach a top speed of 186 mph. Like the CLK DTM coupe, the Cabriolet features an aggressive bodykit inspired by the CLK DTM race car, and the interior is filled with carbon fiber parts to remind the drive that this is no ordinary CLK. Thanks to the kind owner, a former WWII fighter jet pilot, those present at Premier's party got to enjoy the rare car's exterior, interior, and engine from just about every angle, and it left me with no doubt that this car is worth every penny of its $336,000 base price. Due to its rarity and its incredible fusion of high performance and open-top fun, the car's value has already tripled. The owner, whose Mercedes-Benz collection also includes a classic 300 SL and a DTM Coupe, plans on selling it for $1.2 Million. But don't worry; to fill the empty spot, he has already placed an order for AMG's next supercar, the 2010 SLS Gullwing! |
 | SCION Fuse (2006) (Los Angeles, CA / August 9, 2008) - Everyone can find a rare exotic car on the street at some point, but what are the chances of catching a one-off concept car cruising alongside everyday traffic? During an exciting afternoon at the Gumball 3000 where dozens of Ferraris, Porsches, and other exotics appeared on the streets of Los Angeles, this Scion was definitely the most unexpected vehicle to show up. I was fortunate enough to be at the right place at the right time, and snapped several photos of this extraordinary sighting. Unveiled at the New York International Auto Show in 2006, the Fuse was a concept hinting at Scion's future sports coupes. Its myriad of special features include butterfly doors that open with a sensor, headlights that can change colors, drive-by-wire steering interface, and media screens across the entire dashboard. Unfortunately, most of these features will probably not make it to production anytime soon, especially for a brand that targets budget-conscious consumers. But it is through concepts like this that Scion can showcase its most advanced technology and boost its image without worrying about production costs. In fact, this picture helped Scion make its appearance on Exotics On Road (an international car-spotting website) among other pictures of cars from the world's most expensive brands. It's a true exotic indeed. |
 | LAMBORGHINI Gallardo Superleggera (2008) (Beverly Hills, CA / April 9, 2008) - Ever since production of the Gallardo began in 2003, Lamborghini has been keeping the model line fresh with several limited production models and special variants. The Superleggera began production in the summer of 2007, and even though it was not officially sold as a limited edition, it was built for not even one full year; Lamborghini announced in March 2008 that production of the Superleggera has ceased, probably to make room for future models. Only 172 were built, making it more rare than even the limited edition Gallardo Nera. Easily identified by special wheels, side graphics, and a rear spoiler, the Superleggera is, as its name suggests, a lightweight version of the standard Gallardo. The rear diffuser, undertray, interior door panels, and engine cover are all made of carbon fibre, and power is upgraded to 530 horsepower. Built to compete with cars such as Ferrari's F430 Scuderia, the Superleggera, like its rivals, is a rare sight compared to its standard models. Only 46 were finished in this eye-catching orange color, and it is sure to remain a highly desirable car among Lamborghini collectors. |
 | CAMPAGNA T-Rex (????) (Beverly Hills, CA / December 8, 2007) - Even to people who think all cars look the same, this one is sure to catch their attention. Built in Quebec, Canada, the T-Rex combines technology from both cars and motorcycles to create a vehicle with incredible handling. Registered in the U.S. as a motorcycle, it uses a motorcycle engine to power a single wide rear wheel. This example is the most recent model, powered by a Kawasaki 1352 cc inline four. The seating position, steering wheel, and suspension are all derived from cars. The result is a vehicle that reaches 60 mph in under 4 seconds, has an unusually low center of gravity, and handles better than most 4-wheeled vehicles can. Despite all its good features, the T-Rex definitely isn't practical. It has no windshield or doors, and trunk space is next to nothing. And let's not forget that it costs nearly $50,000. But practicality isn't what buyers look for in a vehicle like this. T-Rex owners certainly have other vehicles to use as a daily driver, and if they are willing to put in the money, they can find themselves behind the drivers seat of a vehicle that delivers a unique driving experience no other car can give. Besides, even in places like Beverly Hills where Ferraris are an everyday sight, a ride like this is sure to make people whip out their cameras. |
 | FORD GTX1 (2007-2008) (Irvine, CA / August 4, 2007) - When Genaddi Design Group presented its open-top conversion of the already exclusive Ford GT at the 2006 SEMA Show, it received plenty of attention from the media and graced the covers of countless automotive magazines. Even though the company had already done several conversion projects for exotic vehicles such as an Arnage station wagon and a Phantom stretch limousine, the GTX1 was the car that brought it mainstream attention. The following summer, the first production GTX1 was delivered. With a design that remains true to the original GT while also allowing the roof to be removed or configured as a T-top, it was an instant hit among those who could afford it. While some may argue against the idea of customizing an already exotic car, most cannot deny that this design is simply amazing. Genaddi Design has already announced that in order to maintain exclusivity, production will end in August 2008, and only 600 GTX1's will be built - 500 built to customer specifications and 100 SEMA Editions in the original Valencia Orange paint of the show car. As shown by this example, Genaddi Design offers a wide array of options for its GTX1 program. In fact, the carbon fiber front splitter, custom rims and tires, "hidden" rear bumper and reworked interior are all among the options. Finished in special "Candy chrome red" (also an option) without stripes, this is definitely one of the most radical GTX1's built so far. Even though many aftermarket conversions make exotic cars depreciate more quickly, one like this is sure to stand the test of time and become a collector's item. |
 | LOTUS Sport Elise (2006) (Beverly Hills, CA / June 10, 2007) - Frequently confused with Elises with 'sport' or 'track' packages, this Lotus Sport Elise is a limited edition model built by Lotus Sport, Lotus' factory tuner. Lotus Sport debuted in the U.S. with this car, along with a track-only Exige, of which only 15 were built for the states. The Sport Elise is also quite rare, with only 50 brought stateside. This example, spotted on Wilshire Boulevard, has all the features that distinguish the Sport Elise from regular models - saffron yellow & storm gray paint, black rims, and "Lotus Sport" badges. While it uses the same engine as a standard Elise, it has many features that contribute to improved handling - something hard for most people to imagine, since the base Elise is already known for its incredible handling. Almost all the new hardware components are (or will be) available as dealer options, but to owners of cars as rare as this, having a vehicle that is numbered as among 50 built is something beyond what money can buy. |
 | BENTLEY Arnage T24 Mulliner (200#) (Beverly Hills, CA / April 27, 2007) - To commemorate the marque's sixth win in the 24 Hours of Le Mans, Bentley built a special edition of the Arnage T. The T24 Mulliner is most easily recognizable by the unique vents in the front wings, with a Union Flag badge on top. Much of the car's chrome, including the headlight and taillight surrounds, is replaced by body-colored inserts. Also, it has a unique rear bumper with four exhaust pipes, emphasizing its performance capabilities. This T24 Mulliner was spotted at a valet parking area behind a store, parked next to three other Bentleys - a Continental GT, a Flying Spur, and a second-generation Azure. Bentley built a handful of these special editions for Europe, but only 24 were bound for the US. While there is no doubt Bentleys are an everyday sight in Beverly Hills, special models like this are always a special find! |
 | FERRARI 599 GTB Fiorano (2007-present) (Beverly Hills, CA / May 19, 2007) - The latest in a line of V12-powered Ferraris including the Testarossa and the 550/575 Maranello, the new 599 GTB Fiorano keeps the front-mid-engine layout of the Maranello series, but uses a revised version of the Enzo's engine that produces 611 horsepower. Its design was largely based on aerodynamics, with unique features such as a pair of buttresses along the rear windows that help with stability. The 599 is the most powerful front-engine Ferrari ever, and has been proven to outperform even the F40 supercar. Not long after its introduction, the 599 is already becoming a common sight in Beverly Hills. This is the first of two I saw on the same Saturday afternoon, and what caught my attention first was its yellow paint, which is still relatively rare compared to the more typical colors. Parked quietly in an alley, it was almost completely hidden from public view, except those who could recognize its rear design from far away. On the street, this car is sure to grab plenty of attention, and it clearly offers the performance to deserve it. |
 | TVR Tuscan (2000-present) (Beverly Hills, CA / March 2, 2007) - If you're a fan of small independent British sports car marques, then chances are you've fallen in love with a TVR at least once. The only problem is that TVR's were never sold in the United States, and it would be nearly impossible to get one registered for street use. TVR's have no airbags, traction control, or anti-lock brakes, because the company believes they are unnecessary. The American government may frown upon this philosophy, but to many enthusiasts it is the key to the ultimate driving experience. I found this rare Tuscan speeding down Rodeo Drive and pursued it for several blocks until I got several good pictures of it. It had been spotted a few times before by other car spotters, but so far these are the best pictures of it on the web. The Tuscan became popular after John Travolta drove one in the film Swordfish. TVR provided three of four identical cars for use in the movie, and the cars were supposedly all shipped back to Blackpool after the filming was done. Needless to say, it is almost impossible to find one driving down American roads, even in a city where exotics are an everyday sight. |
 | ROLLS-ROYCE Phantom Beverly Hills Edition (2007) (Beverly Hills, CA / March 2, 2007) - Look closely, this isn't just another ordinary black Phantom. I was just about to dismiss it as a common sight on Rodeo Drive when I noticed the exhaust pipes, which are entirely hidden on regular Phantoms. A peek inside revealed a unique interior trim and the words "Beverly Hills Limited Edition" on the passenger-side dashboard. This is one of several limited edition exotic cars sold exclusively through dealers in Beverly Hills; Aston Martin offered a Beverly Hills Edition DB7 for 1998, and Ferrari built a Beverly Hills Edition 612 Scaglietti for 2005. The Phantom Beverly Hills Edition, which features mother of pearl inlays, commemorative plaques, chrome 21-inch wheels, and a lounge seat DVD system, was priced at $370,000, about $40,000 more than a base Phantom. Only six were built, making it the rarest production car on this site. I'm glad I noticed those exhaust pipes before dismissing it to continue my car hunting expedition, and this car will always serve as a reminder to myself that even an "ordinary" exotic should not be overlooked, especially in Beverly Hills! |
 | ROLLS-ROYCE Corniche Last-Of-Line Series (2002) (Beverly Hills, CA / May 7, 2006) - To commemorate the end of Rolls-Royce production at the Crewe factory, home of Rolls-Royce and Bentley Motorcars since 1946, special versions of the Corniche and Silver Seraph were built during the final year of production. Only 45 Last-of-Line Series Corniches were made, recognizable by unique rims and a plaque on the side. This example was photographed the evening of the 2006 Gumball 3000 Finish Line, shortly after Rodeo Drive was re-opened to traffic. I saw it again in Beverly Hills in December. It wasn't until months later did I realize it was a special edition, since very little information about the Last-of-Line Series was made public. Fifth-generation Corniches are already rare, with only 374 built, but this special edition takes exclusivity to a new level, and is one of the rarest cars in my photo gallery. |
 | ASTON MARTIN Virage (1989-1995) (Beverly Hills, CA / December 14, 2006) - Aston Martins are rare to begin with, not to mention two-decade-old ones in excellent condition. When the Virage was introduced in 1989, it was the top model in the Aston Martin line, replacing the V8 Vantage (1977-1989) and ultimately leading to today's V12 Vanquish / Vanquish S. 365 Virages were built, and only 54 were imported to the USA. I saw this rare car driving down Rodeo Drive on a Thursday afternoon. Not many people paid attention to it, probably because it's not as attention-grabbing as a Ferrari or Lamborghini. I later found it in a parking structure where I had plenty of time to admire it and take pictures. Because of its rarity, I was surprised to see it mingled with everyday traffic. This is likely to be the first photographed street spotting of a Virage in America. |
 | FERRARI Enzo (2002-2004) (Beverly Hills, CA / October 3, 2006) - Every car fanatic has heard of the Enzo, the latest in a line of Ferrari supercars including the F40 and F50. Only 400 were built, making it an instant collector's item. The car's value quickly doubled its $643,330 price tag. With a carbon fiber body, Formula 1 technology, and a newly developed V12 capable of almost 220 mph, the Enzo is considered by many one of the greatest supercars ever made. Almost all Enzos are red or yellow, even though a few black, blue, and silver examples exist. This example is particularly unique, as it is the only one built with a yellow (giallo Modena) exterior and a tan interior. The car had been seen previously by other carwatchers, who caught it parked in Malibu and driving around Beverly Hills. I found it at the Beverly Hilton during a carwatching trip to the Golden Triangle. Even though there is almost always at least one exotic parked at the hotel, something this expensive, fast, and rare is always a surprise. |
 | NISSAN Skyline R32 GT-R (1989-199?) (Irvine, CA / August 25, 2006) - The Skyline GT-R is arguably the most coveted Japanese sports car. Popular in street racing and featured in many video games, it leads the way for the growing Japanese tuner car culture. The GT-R name became popular with the Skyline R32 in 1989, and continued its success with the R33 and R34 models. A future model, based on the GT-R Proto concept, is currently under development. Aside from its incredible performance statistics, the GT-R was made even more exotic by the fact that it was never sold legally in America, except through one company, Motorex, which specializes in importing and modifying Skylines to meet U.S. standards. Because the process takes over half a year and costs as much as a new Altima, Skylines are extremely rare in America. There are many imitation Skyline bodykits built over other cars, but this R32 example is not a fake, and the easiest way to tell is to look at which side the driver is sitting on. Found in a plaza in Irvine, it's unique exhaust note helped me locate it while searching for it on foot amidst a sea of parked cars. The driver smiled at the camera, looking very proud of his ride. It must be great to own a car more rare than Ferraris and coveted by every kid who's ever played Gran Turismo or Need for Speed. |
 | LAMBORGHINI Jalpa (1981-1988) (Los Angeles, CA / March 20, 2006) - Like today's Gallardo, the Jalpa was made to be an "affordable" and practical Lamborghini, sold alongside the Countach. Powered by a 255hp V8, it was capable of 146mph. Less than 420 were made before production ended in 1988 due to falling sales. This rare Jalpa was spotted behind an exotic car rental/dealer near Santa Monica Boulevard, parked next to a Bentley and a Ferrari. It had no licence plates, and had a missing windshield wiper and an aging paint job. The car was left outside for at least several weeks, as I saw it multiple times while commuting to/from Santa Monica. Even though the Jalpa wasn't a very successful Lamborghini, it paved the way for future models including the Gallardo, the best-selling model in Lamborghini history. Today it is a rare sight among carwatchers, and this is one of the only photographed Jalpa street sightings in the world. |
 | PORSCHE Carrera GT (2004-2006) (Beverly Hills, CA / February 20, 2006) - With a price tag of $440,000, the Carrera GT is a rare sight even in Beverly Hills. Its 5.7L V10 takes it from 0-60 mph in under 3.5 seconds and can reach a top speed of over 210 mph with a unique sound almost incomparable to any other street car. After speeding around the Golden Triangle for a few minutes, the owner finally found a parking spot, and left the car with its roof off and windows down. I was the first spectator at the scene, followed by a photographer who abandoned his task of shooting the front of a store in favor of the Porsche. A large crowd soon formed, with some people who recognized the car as exotic and others who simply admired its red paint and sleek design. |
 | LAMBORGHINI Murcielago 40th Anniversary (2003) (Los Angeles, CA / March 8, 2006) - Part of a series of Lamborghini limited edition anniversary models including the Countach 25th Anniversary and the Diablo SE30, this rare Murcielago is easily recognized by its Verde Artemis (jade green) special effects paint and grey anthracite rims. Production was limited to only 50 units. I heard this car's engine before seeing it at the gas station in Westwood Village, and immediately ran to the scene to shoot pictures. As shown in this picture, the owner backed up the car leaving the vertical door open. It received plenty of attention from pedestrians and other drivers as it sped away towards the Bel-Air area. |
 | SHELBY Series 1 (1988-1999) (Los Angeles, CA / October 5, 2005) - The first car Carroll Shelby built from the ground up, the Series 1 uses an aluminum honeycomb frame and a carbon fiber body. With an Oldsmobile V8 engine producing 320 horespower, it can reach a top speed of 185mph. Production was originally set at 500 units, but because of new safety and emissions regulations, only 249 units were ever built. I spotted this rare car during a walk down Sunset Boulevard (near the Bel-Air West Gate) on a Wednesday morning, and luckily captured it with my camera just as it sped out of sight. Half a year later, it continues to be one of the only photographed street sightings of of this car in the world. |