All posts by Francis Mitterrand

Porsche 911 GT3 Lëtzebuerg Legacy

A blend of national pride, artistic expression, and Porsche engineering prowess has culminated in a singular automotive masterpiece: the Porsche Lëtzebuerg Legacy 911 GT3 with Touring Package. Commissioned to mark 75 years of Porsche Luxembourg, one of the brand’s earliest international importers, this bespoke vehicle was unveiled at an exclusive customer event on June 28.

Crafted through Porsche’s Sonderwunsch (special request) program and in collaboration with Luxembourg artist Jacques Schneider, the project honors the enduring relationship between the German marque and the Grand Duchy. The result is far more than a car—it’s a cultural statement on wheels.

The Art of Personalization

From its hand-painted Fire Red lion graphic overlaying Ice Gray Metallic bodywork to the meticulously embroidered Luxembourg national anthem on the headliner, nearly every element of this GT3 tells a story.

“This project pushed the boundaries of what we do,” said Alexander Fabig, Vice President Individualization and Classic at Porsche. “Our experts created never-before-seen design features that honor Luxembourg’s heritage while staying true to the understated elegance Porsche is known for.”

The lion motif, a proud emblem of Luxembourg, appears both on the car’s exterior—across the hood, doors, and even the fuel filler cap—and subtly throughout the cabin. Discreetly printed leather panels, aluminum seat backs with white “Vive” lettering, and illuminated ‘Porsche Lëtzebuerg’ door sills in Schneider’s own handwriting elevate the interior to the level of high art.

Under the Skin: A Pure GT3 Experience

The car is based on the 911 GT3 with Touring Package, a driver-focused variant that forgoes the fixed rear wing in favor of a more refined silhouette and a retractable rear spoiler with Gurney flap. Beneath its striking skin lies a 4.0-liter naturally aspirated flat-six, delivering 510 hp (375 kW) and 450 Nm of torque. True to GT3 form, the powertrain promises spine-tingling performance and razor-sharp responsiveness.

Despite the extensive customization, the model retains all of the GT3’s track-honed DNA—only now, it’s wrapped in an extraordinary artistic vision.

An Homage in Every Detail

More than 700 hours of work went into the vehicle’s exterior paint job alone, making it the most labor-intensive finish ever created under the Sonderwunsch banner. The red lion—a recurring symbol in Schneider’s artwork—was applied by hand in over 20 separate steps.

Other details speak directly to Luxembourgish identity. The words “Vive Vive Vive”, short for Vive Luxembourg, are laser-etched into the GT3’s 20- and 21-inch alloy wheels, subtly contrasting against the Graphite Gray surface. The same phrase appears in bold lettering on the car’s underbody—visible only on display, making it a hidden message of national pride.

The interior continues the tribute: Schneider’s own handwriting was digitized to embroider an excerpt from the national anthem, paired with the outline of the Grand Duchy itself. The headliner, finished in Racetex, represents the first time such personalization has been attempted in a Porsche production car.

Past, Present, and Future of Porsche in Luxembourg

Operated by the Losch Group, Porsche Luxembourg has been an official importer since 1950, with roots going back even further to 1948, when Martin Losch began building the automotive legacy. Over decades, the company has evolved into one of Luxembourg’s leading mobility providers, with 13 retail operations and a comprehensive approach to modern transportation.

“This car is more than a collector’s piece,” said Tom Weber, Brand Manager of Porsche Luxembourg. “It’s a symbol of trust, innovation, and shared values between Porsche and the people of Luxembourg. We’re incredibly proud of what we’ve created together.”

An Icon Reimagined

As a product of both German engineering precision and Luxembourgish cultural richness, the Porsche Lëtzebuerg Legacy 911 GT3 exemplifies how tradition and innovation can coexist. It speaks to collectors, enthusiasts, and patriots alike—a truly one-of-a-kind creation that bridges performance and identity.

With this latest Sonderwunsch project, Porsche doesn’t just celebrate an anniversary—it redefines what it means to personalize an icon.

Source: Porsche

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Maserati MCXtrema Honors Racing Heritage at the 24 Hours of Spa

The Trident has returned in full force. Maserati, the iconic Italian marque with racing in its blood, made a commanding presence at the legendary CrowdStrike 24 Hours of Spa, marking a symbolic moment in its countdown to a century of motorsport history. With deep ties to Spa-Francorchamps and a legacy built on passion, performance, and prestige, Maserati’s appearance this year was far more than ceremonial—it was a triumphant statement.

A Celebration of Legends Past

At the heart of the week’s festivities stood the MCXtrema, Maserati’s wild, track-only creation, wearing a bespoke livery that echoed the past while charging into the future. Serving as the official Leading Car for the 2025 edition of the race, the MCXtrema paid tribute to a golden moment: the 20th anniversary of the MC12’s unforgettable 2005 victory at Spa, achieved in unpredictable weather by the legendary Vitaphone Racing Team trio—Michael Bartels, Timo Scheider, and Eric van de Poele.

That win, followed by further triumphs in 2006 and 2008, cemented the MC12’s place in motorsport history and elevated Maserati to near-mythic status in GT racing. Today, the MCXtrema honors that heritage—not merely through its aggressive silhouette and raw power, but through a symbolic blue and black livery adorned with a bold Trident, the names of Maserati’s icons, and the circuits where the brand left its mark.

Leading the traditional parade of GT cars through the city of Spa, the MCXtrema, driven by none other than multiple world champion Andrea Bertolini, was more than just a showpiece—it was a roaring reminder of Maserati’s enduring presence and relevance in top-tier motorsport.

Back on Track in the GT2 Arena

While the MCXtrema ruled the streets, Maserati’s GT2 program returned to the grid for Round 3 of the GT2 European Series by Pirelli. The #7 DINAMIC Motorsport GT2, piloted by Roberto Pampanini and Mauro Calamia (Pro-Am class), and the #1 LP Racing GT2 with Philippe Prette (Am class), showcased the marque’s competitive ambitions in modern GT racing.

Their participation signifies more than just points on a leaderboard—it reflects Maserati’s strategic and spirited return to racing, with eyes set on victories that will carry the brand into its centennial year in 2026.

A Complete Support Role – Maserati Takes Over Spa

Beyond the grid, Maserati provided a full fleet of support vehicles for the 24-hour spectacle. From Safety Cars to Medical Cars, the Italian brand’s modern range was everywhere. The line-up featured the MCXtrema, the GT2 Stradale, and the MC20, along with two versions of the Grecale SUV—one packing the fire-breathing 530-hp Nettuno V6 in the Trofeo trim, the other showcasing Maserati’s all-electric future with the Grecale Folgore.

This collaboration with SRO Motorsports Group represents more than logistics—it’s a fusion of motorsport tradition and the technological evolution of one of Italy’s most storied manufacturers.

A Road to 100 Years of Racing Excellence

Speaking from the paddock, Maria Conti, Head of Maserati Corse, reflected on the brand’s dual mission. “Celebrating the MC12’s historic victory with the MCXtrema is not only about honoring the past,” she said. “It’s also about embracing our next chapter. With every lap, every car, and every celebration, we’re writing the story that leads to our 100th year in motorsport.”

That story began nearly a century ago in 1926, when the Maserati Tipo 26 claimed class victory at the Targa Florio with Alfieri Maserati at the wheel. Today, the Trident’s journey continues—electrified, globalized, and forever driven by passion.

A Future Anchored in Heritage

As the engines cooled and the champagne flowed at Spa, one truth stood clear: Maserati’s past may be glorious, but its future is electric—figuratively and literally. The brand’s modern range, from the GranTurismo Folgore to the GT2 Stradale, reflects a new vision rooted in old values: performance, elegance, and Italian soul.

As the 2026 centenary approaches, and with Spa once again echoing the sound of Maserati engines, the legend rolls on.

Source: Maserati

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2026 Mercedes-AMG CLA 45 S 4MATIC+ Final Edition

Mercedes-AMG is sending off its beloved CLA 45 S 4MATIC+ Coupé and Shooting Brake models in the most fitting way possible — with a bold, performance-packed “Final Edition” that merges engineering excellence with visual drama. Available to order now and until the end of 2025, this special edition marks the last chapter in the CLA 45 S lineage before Mercedes-AMG turns the page on its compact high-performance portfolio.

A Proper Send-Off for a Compact Supercar

Under the sculpted bonnet remains the crown jewel of AMG’s compact class: the handcrafted M139 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine, producing a staggering 310 kW (421 hp) and 500 Nm of torque. As the most powerful series-production four-cylinder in the world, it launches both models from 0 to 100 km/h in just 4.1 seconds, with an electronically limited top speed of 270 km/h. The engine, built in Affalterbach under AMG’s revered “One Man, One Engine” philosophy, exemplifies the brand’s commitment to craftsmanship and performance.

Power is sent to all four wheels via the lightning-quick AMG SPEEDSHIFT DCT-8G dual-clutch transmission, paired with AMG’s fully variable Performance 4MATIC+ system and torque vectoring via AMG TORQUE CONTROL. Whether you’re chasing apexes or unleashing drift mode, this compact AMG leaves nothing to be desired.

Visual Drama with Edition-Specific Details

The “Final Edition” doubles down on exterior exclusivity. Available in either MANUFAKTUR mountain grey magno or night black uni, it boasts eye-catching decals featuring large “45 S” lettering and yellow AMG logos on the mirrors. Matte black 19-inch AMG forged wheels with yellow rim flanges and bespoke yellow AMG wheel hub covers underscore the model’s extroverted character.

The AMG Night Package and Night Package II are standard fare here, blacking out mirror housings, window trim, grille struts and badges. Meanwhile, buyers craving enhanced performance can opt for the AMG Aerodynamics Package, which adds a suite of wind-tunnel-honed features — from an enlarged front splitter to a bold rear diffuser — all in high-gloss black.

Interior: Black and Yellow Precision

Step inside, and you’re greeted by a dark, motorsport-inspired cabin brightened by vibrant yellow accents. The AMG Performance seats are wrapped in a mix of ARTICO man-made leather and MICROCUT microfibre, with contrast yellow stitching and “45 S” embroidery. The same yellow detailing is echoed throughout the door panels, dash, and AMG floor mats.

A special “Final Edition” emblem adorns the centre console, while the AMG Performance steering wheel in Nappa leather and MICROCUT, complete with yellow stitching and aluminium trim, provides the ideal connection between driver and machine. Illuminated AMG door sills with yellow logos and pattern detailing elevate the premium feel even further.

A Rare Opportunity

This is more than just a limited trim level; the CLA 45 S “Final Edition” is a celebration of one of AMG’s most revered compact models. As the automotive industry moves towards electrification and downsizing, it may be one of the last opportunities for enthusiasts to experience a truly visceral, combustion-powered AMG in this form.

With ordering open until the end of 2025 and deliveries commencing upon order confirmation, the clock is ticking for those who want to own a piece of AMG history — finished in black and yellow, and powered by one of the most thrilling four-cylinders ever built.

Source: Mercedes-Benz

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