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As we remember the mastermind behind some of Porsche’s very best engines, we also reflect on the genius of engineers at large. Hans Mezger & his brainchild, the 917. Credit: Remi Dargeren Photography. When we think of motor racing, we tend to think of that symbiotic relationship between man and machine—between driver and car. It’s a perfect symbol of what is natural dovetailing perfectly with what is artificial. But this is too simple a viewpoint. It really is quite a shame that the men and women who dream up these cars, and indeed bring them into reality are far too often forgotten about. Without these great minds, none of this would be possible. There were few minds greater in this regard than Hans Mezger, who passed away in June 2020 at the ripe old age of 90. Without his imagination, innovation and design, it’s safe to say that the Porsche brand would be very, very different today. Mezger began his Porsche career in 1957, when he worked as part of a team to develop the Carrera. He also worked on the 804’s engine and suspension, propelling the model to its first Formula One race.Soon after though, Mezger came up with arguably his most iconic creation, one which would go on to change the course of Porsche’s future. The 356 Carrera’s four-cylinder engine was becoming obsolete, and seemingly had nowhere to go but downhill. Mezger, now in his thirties, was tasked with delivering a new engine. It was his idea to develop a more powerful six-cylinder model, which became the very blueprint for the iconic 911 engine. Indeed, today the concept is known simply as “The Mezger Engine”. In 1965, Mezger’s impressive body of work saw him promoted to the head of Porsche Motorsports Research & Development team. He was charged with building a car that could finally win the overall Le Mans 24 hour race, something the team had never achieved. The team toiled for a number of years, but in 1969, they rolled out a monstrously powerful 4.5 liter, v12 engined Porsche 917 Hommage. That it was even allowed to enter the race was down to a loophole in the rules. Engines above 3.0 liters were banned, unless they were to be built for homologation. Mezger seized upon the loophole ruthlessly, and with mere weeks left before the race, they developed and manufactured 25 models of the 917 Hommage. When they presented them at the Geneva Car Show, the entire motoring world looked on in shock. The 917 was terrifyingly fast, and was by a distance the fastest car at the 1969 Le Mans. However the hasty build rendered it unpredictable and hard to handle. So little time they had had to actually test it! Alas, not a single 917 finished its race—technical failures and crashes saw to each and every one of them. "The Mezger Engine". Credit: Motorsport images But that wasn’t the end of the 917. By the time the 1970 Le Mans came around, the full year of preparation afforded to the mastermind Mezga paid dividends. Incredibly, Porsche Motorsport took first, second and third place in uber-dominant fashion. Mezger continued his work for Porsche right up into the mid 1990s. So numerous were his innovations and merits that there are simply too many to note here. What does warrant a second thought through, is the legacy of his designs. We know already that “The Mezger Engine” is the blueprint even for modern day Porsche models. Indeed, until as late as 2011, his two part aluminium crankcase for high performance engines was still in use. Upon his death, few words summed up his legacy better than those of Porsche’s Chief Development Officer, Wolfgang Dürheimer, who said “(for) four decades, Porsche race cars have been winning with engines designed by Hans Mezger… he made the Porsche brand become synonymous with the idea of a sports car.” Essentially, without the brains and imagination of Mezger, the Porsche we know and love today might have been very, very different indeed. So here’s to the engineers, to whom we owe it all.

By now you know full well that our team here at SpeedHolics commits a great deal of time to searching for and honoring the great makers and doers who keep motoring’s golden eras alive today. On our most recent foray, we came across the Germany based CMC (Classic Model Cars). Rarely have we come across such a stringent attention to detail in a model car. Photos courtesy of CMC - Classic Model Cars While browsing their CMC website, it was their range of the unforgettable Mercedes-Benz SSK models that really stopped us in our tracks. Considered the sportiest and most exclusive rendition of the of the super-charged six-cylinder racing sports cars from Mercedes-Benz’ S series, SSK is short for “Super-Sport Kurz” (meaning Short-wheelbase Super Sport). It debuted on race tracks in 1928, only four weeks after the SS (Super-Sport) model was introduced. Among its major modifications was a wheelbase curtailed by 450 millimeters to highlight its uncompromising characteristics. This made the SSK an ideal choice for hill climb racing. After Rudolf Caracciola won several important hillclimb races in the 1928 season, the factory decided to produce a small series of the SSK, initially meant to be a factory racing car only. However from October 1928 it was included in the official sales program. So, part of the legend of the SSK is that it was both a factory racing car and a customer vehicle. Some racing specifications, such as a more powerful compressor or a racing camshaft, were also available to private customers, while others were reserved for factory racing cars. It was common for private owners of an SSK to take part in races at weekends and use their two-seaters on weekdays as an everyday means of transport. in everyday life. With little doubt, the SSK was the ultimate supercar of its time. And so it fits that CMC has sought to authentically recreate a series of the most impactful SSK models. Among them are Carlos Zatuszek’s red model as well as “The Black Prince” -- the SSK Trossi. Zatuscek’s 1929 version, finished in a deep wine red, took home victory in a series of long distance races in Argentia in the early 30s. A household name in South America today, Carlos Zatuszak, was actually born in 1897 as Karol Zatuszek in what is now Ukraine. He attempted his first car race in 1927. Two years later, his brother-in-law Julio Berndt acquired the SSK, with which Zatuszek scored victory after victory in the following years. With starting number 14, he competed at the Autumn Prize of Argentina 1931 and won the 400-kilometer race, setting a new track record in the process. After Berndt and Zatuszek sold the car in 1935, it continued to be raced by others until the 1950s. Then, it fell into oblivion for many years, but its remains were eventually rediscovered. They were shipped to Germany where the car was restored. CMC had the opportunity to scan the car before it was repainted in the original red. And what a job they did. This is a hell of a lot more than a run of the mill recreation in model form. Made out of 1,700 individual metal parts including a true to life steel frame, the model is perfectly scaled and reproduced. The grille and rock guards are rendered from fine metals, while the rear bonnet includes a metal lock. It features a mid-hinged front bonnet complete with leather belt and buckle. The six cylinders are a faithful replica with all ancillaries, piping and cabling, and the characteristic exhaust pipes are in a metal snake conduit casing. The wheels get the same attention to detail -- alloy rims and stainless steel spokes wired by hand. The central knock-off spinners are removable, as are the two handle-fasted spare wheels. Both front and rear axles are constructed with hand-made metal leaf springs, amd even the stainless steel fuel cap can be opened. Mounted by the steering wheel you’ll find the throttle / ignition lever, and all gauges on the dashboard are authentically recreated. As for the seats inside? Real leather. That’s right. Even the wind screens are adjustable on both the driver and passenger / co-driver sides, and the brake drums come in the original copper design complete with cooling fins. When we talk about keeping the best days of motor racing alive and kicking, or at the very worst, alive and kicking on our memories and our souls, it’s the kind of work done by CMC that we’re talking about. That attention to detail, that good faith, and that sheer love and passion. See it for yourself here. Full Disclosure: SpeedHolics has not been paid to write about this product or brand. We simply choose to write about things we discover and fall for -- things that appeal to our passions, and hopefully to yours too.

At SpeedHolics, we’re all about reigniting the magic of classic car culture. Nothing makes us feel better than seeing a classic racing car, perfectly maintained or restored, hitting the road all these years later. But classic car culture is about more than just cars, it’s an entire lifestyle. We wear our passion with pride in every way we can. Fortunately, SpeedHolics isn’t alone in this endeavor... Suixtil is a name that might ring a bell to the classic motoring lover. Founded in Argentina in the 1930s by gentlemen’s clothing merchant M.S Rudmann, they delved into the world of motor sport and began outfitting the Escuderia Suixtil, the national racing team. That team was led by none other than the great Juan Manuel Fangio, one of the first icons to don the Suixtil insignia. Throughout the 1950s and 1960s, Suixtil was all the rage on the track, and more motoring icons like Stirling Moss donned this gear with pride, grace and style. However, as the 1960s drew to a close, Suixtil vanished -- just like that. The Rebirth of Suixtil But what’s classic car culture without a re-birth? About a decade ago, the brand was resurrected by a coterie of motoring and style enthusiasts, and since then they’ve been creating high end, dapper clothing for motoring life, both on the track and off. Suixtil takes its cue from the past, from their heritage, but it’s tailored to the modern day with an impeccable eye and a craftsman’s touch. The Suixtil Barcelona Summer Bomber Jacket Now this. Is. Class. The Suixtil online shop is filled with vintage inspired clothing, accessories and memorabilia, and we’ll be writing about quite a few of them over the next while. But the Barcelona Summer Bomber Jacket jumped out immediately for being the epitome of a modern classic. If you’re like us, you want to wear a piece of clothing that tells a subtle story about you. It’s stylish, gentlemanly, refined and relaxed all in one -- perfect for a day out driving or an afternoon in the sun, with a glass of whatever you prefer. It’s available in faded red, electric blue, Argentine sky blue, or bottle green -- and to be honest, we can’t decide which we prefer. Pair it with a smart-casual pair of jeans or chinos, sports leisure shoes and some classic style sunglasses for maximum effect. Why do we love it so much? Simple -- in one minimalist, considered design, it’s both of the 1960s and of 2020. It’s timeless, just like a great car, and that’s good enough for us... SpeedHolics has not been paid to write about this product or brand, nor will we profit from any purchases you may make through the links in this article. We’re a fully independent website. We simply choose to write about products and brands that appeal to our passions, and hopefully to yours too.

What’s better for the soul than the pairing of a superb car and a thrilling stretch of road? Europe is home to a great number of jaw dropping roads with stunning scenic views. Taking to these top roads in the right car simply takes it to a whole new level. But what truly makes a road amazing to drive on? Well, we like a good mix of things. There’s the view of course -- a panoramic backdrop will elevate any driving experience, no matter the car you drive. But if you’re a car lover, you’ll want a little bit of a challenge in parts. A road that allows you to up the revs, take on swooping corners and cruise peacefully in the right places is ideal for us. Then there’s the traffic. Europe may well be home to many beautiful drives, coastal routes and mountain passes alike, but if they’re clogged up with tourist busses and slow moving traffic, the experience won’t be the same. That’s why we often hit the road in the early morning! There’s nothing quite like speeding along an empty stretch of beautiful road as the sun makes its way into the sky, dying everything gold for miles around. That, we feel, is really living. Of all the gorgeous, unforgettable drives we’ve been on, here are our Top 6 Driving Roads in Europe: Full disclosure: We haven’t yet had the chance to drive on the fabled Transfagarasan in Romania’s Carpathian mountains, so we can’t comment -- but it’s still on the bucket list. If you’ve been there, let us know in the comments how it was! Grimsel - Furka Pass, Switzerland Photo by Sven Scheuermeier on Unsplash You way well recognise these images from the James Bond film Goldfinger. The now fabled Hotel was a major location for the film. The Grimsel and Burka Passes offer up just over 70 kilometers of stunning, thrilling and at times, let’s be honest, scary driving! Located over 2,000m meters above sea level, these roads are all about tight hairpin turns, made even more challenging by the distractions of amazing scenic views. Photo by Dave Ruck on Unsplash Since the entire road isn’t so long, we prefer to take it twice, slow and then fast! Once for the thrill, and once again for the views. Photo by Cooper.ch, CC BY 2.5 Stelvio Pass, Italy Photo by David Marcu on Unsplash Located in the far north Alps of Italy near the Swiss border, the Stelvio Pass is the stuff of motoring legend. 46 hairpin bends complete with jaw dropping views make this a thrill ride if ever there was one. Photo by Jean Wimmerlin on Unsplash It can get very busy during the day though, with tourist buses and hundreds of other motorists. Therefore, the Stelvio Pass is something we’d highly recommend taking to in the early morning. Photo by Graziano De Maio on Unsplash. Wild Atlantic Way, Republic of Ireland Photo by Steve Wilson on Pixabay Frankly, it’s always shocked us that the west coast of Ireland rarely features on the top driving roads lists! The Wild Atlantic Way begins in the northwest of the country in County Donegal and runs all along the coast, overlooking cliff tops to one side and endless views on the other. It comes to a finish in the deep southwest of County Kerry. Photo by Peter Mitchell on Unsplash It’s not always ideal for speedsters though, as some of the roads are a little rutted and narrow. But in terms of the natural surroundings, this is one of the continent’s most magical roads. The main highlights are the vistas of Doolough Valley in County Mayo, and the Dingle Peninsula in County Kerry. And if you’re feeling super adventurous, take your car into the Black Valley in Killarney National Park, where narrow swooping roads are the order of the day. Côte D’Azur, France Photo by Gerhard Bögner from Pixabay The French Riviera, or Côte D’Azur, is quite simply majestic. Picture driving in a classic car, with the roof down, along the picturesque mediterranean coast of Southern France, through hotspots like Cannes, Saint-Tropez, Saint-Maxime and Monaco. Photo by Erich Westendarp from Pixabay Perhaps the most scenic drive is through the three Corniches between Nice and Menton. Winding through pine forests from the high mountains to the glistening ocean, the Grande Corniche, Moyenne Corniche, and Basse Corniche boast some of the most dizzying, but truly awe-inspiring driving on the continent. Col de Turini, France Photo by Speedholics Famed for being the location of the Rally of Monte Carlo, the Col De Turini is a mountain pass high in the French Alps. It’s very popular with cyclists, and the road itself can be hazardous, so fair warning on this one. Trest the road, and the cyclists, with respect though, and you’re in for one one the greatest driving experiences of your entire life. Photo by Speedholics The road is chock full of tight, winding hair pin turns set against stark rock faces and cascading waterfalls. It’s best to drive this road in summer though, as the harsh alpine winter can render the road icy or snowy. Not only that, but a dense fog can come over the region in the winter months. Try it in summer and you’re guaranteed stunning views over the south of France. The Adriatic Highway, Croatia Photo by FMedic_photography on Pixabay Also known as the Jadranska Magistrala, these roads are in perfect condition, and are surrounded by amazing scenery. The Jadranska Magistrala stretches from Rijeka all the way to Karasovici on the Montenegrin border. Picture stark mountains and rock faces on one side, and the twinkling Adriatic sea to Italy on the other. Photo by Taneli Lahtinen on Unsplash In close to 700 kilometers of driving, we guarantee that you’ll not experience a single significant period of boredom. So there you have it, our favorite top 6 driving roads in Europe. If there’s anywhere you’d like to give us a heads up about, please comment and let us know. Even better, if you’d like to share some amazing road trip images, check out our contributors page or email us at info@speedholics.com to be featured!

Call us sentimental, but there’s still something evocative about the image of hightailing along open roads in North America. Between the wide open plains, mountain passes, great lakes, deserts, and winding coastal routes of the USA and Canada, there’s enough to keep drivers and their cars busy for months or even years. It’s all but impossible to sum up North America’s motoring experiences in just 6 top driving roads, but we’re going to give it a try. Just like our last piece on the Top Driving Roads in Europe, we’re looking for more than just speed and thrills, more than just a great view, and certainly more than just an overcrowded tourist hot spot. We’re looking for the roads that offer challenging surfaces, jaw dropping vistas and motoring variety all in one. Oh, and we’re not going to bring Route 66 into this. It’s incredible, no doubt, and it should be on your bucket list. But at almost 2,500 miles (4000 Km), it’s just a little bit too long to complete over a weekend! So with that in mind, we’ve combed the continent for just 6 roads worth dreaming and writing about. Here are SpeedHolic’s Top 6 Driving Roads in North America: Icefields Parkway, Alberta, Canada Photo by adrian on Unsplash We’ll start up north in Canada. Between the Banff and Jasper National Parks, Highway 93 N unfurls itself for just shy of 150 miles of driving pleasure. The surface is in great shape, and the journey itself offers a perfect blend of unending straights and meandering curves around shimmering lakes, verdant forests, stark cliffs and the snow capped Canadian Rocky Mountains. Photo by Ezra Jeffrey-Comeau on Unsplash You might be tempted to put the pedal to the floor, but fair warning -- you may well encounter wildlife like elk, deer, moose, caribou, wolves, and even black and grizzly bears! Photo by Jessica Snoek on Unsplash Sea-to-Sky Highway, British Columbia, Canada Photo by Erik Ringsmuth on Unsplash Staying in Canada for now before we head south over the border, the Sea to Sky Highway starts in the lowlands near the coastal city of Vancouver. Horseshoe Bay is the exact starting point. From there, the Sea to Sky Highway (known officially as Highway 99), winds its way up to Whistler Mountain and on to Cache Creek, a considerable 250 miles away. Photo by Tom Winckels on Unsplash The highway was upgraded to world class standards ahead of the 2010 Winter Olympics, so there’s no need to fear a poor quality road en route to the wilderness. Some of the highlights, apart from the driving experience itself, are the endless views of the mountains, a panoramic lookout over the ocean, waterfalls, glaciers and fjords. You might even want to stop along the way for a night or two and take in some hiking trails, but we digress -- we’re all about driving here! Photo by Aditya Chinchure on Unsplash Pacific Coast Highway, California, USA Photo by Cameron Venti on Unsplash The fabled Route 66 aside, there isn’t likely a more famous drive in the USA than the Pacific Coast Highway in sunny California. This is all about top-down driving in a tasty convertible, sunglasses on and music playing. The Pacific Coast Highway runs for 500 miles all the way from San Diego, through LA, and over the iconic Golden Gate Bridge of San Francisco to the great Californian countryside beyond, hugging the coastline most of the way. Photo by Gláuber Sampaio on Unsplash While it’s a feast for the senses, make sure and pay careful attention to the road as some of the corners can creep up on you. Some of the incredible highlights along the way include Point Reyes, Malibu, Monterey and Big Sur. We’d recommend taking the Pacific Coast Highway one city and day at a time, but if time is an issue, don’t worry -- you can drive the whole thing in just a day or two. Photo by Nathan Long on Unsplash Blue Ridge Parkway, North Carolina - Virginia, USA Photo by Ashley Knedler on Unsplash A world away from the sunny climes of California, the Blue Ridge Parkway runs between the historical Appalachian states of Virginia and North Carolina. It’s probably best experienced in the Autumn season, when the vast swathes of forest begin to change from green to golden brown. There is a speed limit of 45 miles an hour though, but it’s a necessary one. Allow your car and your mind to settle and just breathe in your surroundings -- the magnificent Appalachian and Smoky Mountain ranges. Photo by Clay Banks on Unsplash Along the way, some of the best places to stop and admire are the low-lying James River, and the high points of Apple Orchard Mountain and the Groundhog Mountain Overlook, which offer stunning vistas over the land below you. Image by skeeze from Pixabay Route 12, Utah, USA Photo by Rick Sanchez on Unsplash Just to prove that North America is a stunningly diverse land, we head west again to the otherworldly plains of Utah. Any open road in the state is a thrill, and there are plenty of them, but Route 12 takes home the prize for Utah’s top driving experience. There’s something almost Martian about the vast, dusty plains. The only indication that they’re of this world are the black ribbons of asphalt that seem to run right to the horizon. Photo by Alessandra Zani on Unsplash Route 12 stretched around 125 miles from Capitol Reef National Park to Bryce Canyon National Park, with quaint little western towns like Tropic and Boulder allowing you to stop, refuel and rest for a time. Photo by Donald Giannatti on Unsplash Death Valley, California - Nevada, USA Photo by Rosie Steggles on Unsplash The hottest place on earth, the record books say. And with a name as terrifying as Death Valley, you’d be inclined to avoid it, but no! Bring plenty of water, turn on your AC, roll your windows down or drop the roof to let the wind wash over you. Death Valley is home to some of the USA’s greatest driving roads. Just like in Utah, some of them seem to go on forever, promising adventure and the thrill of the unknown. Photo by Matteo Di Iorio on Unsplash Route 190 is one example of these endless roads, but trust us, it does end -- as it leads you down into the intimidatingly named Furnace Creek. Like we said, don’t let the names put you off -- just bring plenty of water and sunscreen, and enjoy the ride through one of America’s greatest driving roads. Photo by Jakub Gorajek on Unsplash It wasn’t easy coming up with our favourite top 6 driving roads in North America. Let us know which one you’d love to drive. And if there’s anywhere you’d like to let us know about, please comment and fill us in. Even better, if you’d like to share some amazing road trip images, check out our contributors page or email us at info@speedholics.com to be featured!

And so the SpeedHolics fantasy world tour rumbles on... We’ve covered our top roads in Europe, and we’ve had a look at the best North America has to offer. Now we head East to explore the top 6 six driving roads in Asia. Other road trip destinations may come to mind quicker than Asia, but prepare to be welcomed with open arms into a different style of exploration. Some of these destinations will introduce you to new luxuries of road tripping -- Who knew road-side snack carts selling fresh fruit and coconuts, or pull-over rest stops with hammocks are what you’ve been missing all along? This is by no means a conclusive list as this continent’s vastness means endless possibilities. We’ve selected routes that will challenge you, thrill you, and hopefully, leave you going back for more. However, some of these countries don’t play by conventional driving “rules”, and the motorbike reigns supreme over the car in a few. But that doesn’t mean you can’t take to these roads on four wheels -- just make sure to pay close attention to all those bikes. Hai Van Pass, Da Nang - Hue, Vietnam Photo by JumperDomi321 on Pixabay The first of two trips to feature from the stunning Southeast Asian country of Vietnam. Snaking up from the coastal city of Da Nang to the ancient capital of Hue, you’ll find the Hai Van Pass. Once the key strategic position between North and South Vietnam, its viewpoint at the top of the traverse was called one of the best coastal roads in the world by the Top Gear UK team. Its feature in Top Gear’s 2008 Vietnam Special makes this road a no-brainer. There are plenty of places to stop and enjoy the views over the ocean and surrounding forest. Photo by Gabriella Fregona The road has also become much more traffic-light in recent years, as a newly built tunnel allows trucks and busses to cut right through the mountain, leaving the Hai Van Pass open to wayfarers and roadtrippers. The tight switchbacks and unpredictable nature of driving in Vietnam can make it hazardous, but here’s the good news: At only 21km long, you can easily do it once, twice, or three times, each a little faster and looser than the other. Hualien, Taroko Gorge National Park, Taiwan Photo by Robert Pastryk on Pixabay The popular hiking destination also harbours an infinitesimal National Park road that winds alongside the Liwu river. Depending on the time of year, you’ll appreciate the permeated blue or grey waters cutting through the gorge with a ferocious rumble. Throughout the Taroko Gorge National Park, there are many trails and points of interest. However, the pinnacle of this location is the ribbon of tar that unwraps from its entrance to the tunnel of nine turns - and beyond. Photo by Falco on Pixabay The road continues through the park onto a highway linking west, so why not enjoy the trip up and then back down again? Just like the Hai Van Pass in Vietnam, you might want another go at the bends of this one. Punjab - Karakoram Highway, Pakistan Photo by Pakistan Tourism on Unsplash This 1300km stretch starting in Hasan Abdal, Punjab continues right on into neighboring China. This route is the victor for the highest elevation on our list (and one of the highest paved roads in the world) at a maximum elevation of 4,714 meters. More commonly known as the Friendship Highway, the journey is nestled between most of the peaks in the Gilgit-Baltistan group, as well as the Baltoro and Siachen Glaciers. Photo by Andreas Felske on Unsplash Prepare to be humbled by five of the world’s “eight thousandths” (mountains higher than 8000m), some of the world’s largest glaciers, and petroglyphs. You’ll need a four-wheel or an all-wheel-drive for this one most, so leave the classic car at home unless you want a heavy repairs bill. This trip will take extra preparation as the high altitude requires some care. There are some great stretches of straight road to put your vehicle to the test, as well as some steep climbs. West Coast Road, Phuket, Thailand Photo by Vitaly Sacred on Unsplash Back at sea level, it might seem a bit strange to go on a road trip on a small island - but hear us out. Starting at the southernmost point of Phuket at Som’s beach, follow the iridescent waters of the Andaman Sea to the stretch of Mai Khao beach. This road makes for fantastic window views. The road follows closely to the land’s edge for most of the route, so you’ll have ample time to enjoy the scenery. Photo by Vitaly Sacred on Unsplash Phuket can be quite busy, so once you’re in tune with the flow of traffic you’ll be able to enjoy the rolling green hills, jagged cliffs, and expansive views. Ha Giang Loop, Vietnam Photo by Quang Pra Ha on Pixabay Vietnam’s driving experiences are special enough to warrant two places on this list. A world away from the central Hai Van Pass, the 350km Ha Giang Loop is buried deep in the northern mountains, close to the Chinese border. Photo by Quang Pra Ha on Pixabay The road itself follows the natural curvature of the land -- its pinnacle the Ma Pi Leng Pass overlooks a river enveloped by a steep expanse of rice terraces. Expect to cruise slowly, as the spaghetti-ish road snake and unfurl with a wild unpredictability. It’s challenging, it’s thrilling, it’s beautiful. It’s simply wonderful. Colombo Circuit, Sri Lanka Photo by Agnieszka Kowalczyk on Unsplash Sri Lanka has gained popularity for its railroad that follows the tea farming area of the island. However, we offer an alternative to the train journey. If you’re feeling particularly adventurous, it’s possible to hire a tuk-tuk. We know it’s not quite a car, but things are a little different here! Make your way from Colombo, inland to Kandy and Nuwara-Eliya, before heading Southwest and curving back along the ocean through Mirissa and Galle. Photo by Tomas Malik on Unsplash You’ll be rewarded with twists and turns throughout the journey. Beginning with steep climbs up to the lush tea growing region before making your descent to palm-lined beaches which follow the railroad. So there you have it, our favorite top 6 driving roads in Asia. If there’s anywhere you’d like to give us a heads up about, anywhere that you’ve driven yourself and feel is worth a mention, please comment and let us know. Even better, if you’d like to share some amazing road trip images, check out our contributors page or email us at info@speedholics.com to be featured!

­­A well-built hot rod inspires me. Something from the early 1930’s, generally a Ford, built with perfect proportions, stance and growl. A lot of people try to build a perfect hot rod with varying levels of success but to me some of the coolest hot rods are built in a small, unassuming former cow barn in Upstate New York. Yes, these hot rods are born in a barn. Many years ago, a good friend shared a movie with me made by Brian Darwas titled “3 Mile”. It was a story of a group of crazy people from the Rolling Bones Hot Rod Shop who were driving from New York to Bonneville in cars from the 1930’s. These cars don’t have modern brakes, air conditioning or any modern or safety conveniences that we enjoy today, so you have to be a bit crazy to do this, right? They break down and get fixed on the road and then they continue to Bonneville at 70-80 miles an hour (allegedly), and damn it, they look cool. Oh, and here’s the kicker. Once they arrive these same cars are sometimes refitted to meet safety inspection and then set records at the Bonneville Salt Flats before being returned to street legal form and then driven back to New York. If that isn’t a true hot rod, then I don’t know what is. I was honored to meet Ken and Keith, who are the co-founders of the Rolling Bones Hot Rod Shop, a couple of years later at the Grand National Roadster Show in Pomona, CA–my hometown. I showed them some of my work over way too many drinks and they invited me to their shop in Greenfield Center, New York and then to accompany them to the Race of Gentlemen in New Jersey. I certainly couldn’t say no to that. Now, a few years and thousands of miles later I am honored to call these people friends and proud to be a part of telling their story. There is a lot more to a hot rod than bolting a bunch of parts together and it being a true hot rod. In my opinion, a true hot rod has a soul. A soul that is earned by how it is built, what parts are used, who built it, who loves it AND HOW IT IS DRIVEN. These cars are built to be driven and driven hard they are. The Rolling Bones hot rod owners and a select group of friends (affectionately named The Circus) have traveled all over the USA making more friends and incredible stories along the way. Now, while I cannot account for the full truthfulness of all of the stories, I can say they are mostly true. The Rolling Bones have now published two beautiful coffee-table style books of their hot rods, adventures, misadventures and other stories that you won’t find anywhere else. Titled The Book of GOW and GAS-OIL-WATER these 200 page+ books will take you on a journey in time through photographs, stories as well as build details as to how these beautiful beasts of iron and steel are built. I was honored to be asked to be one of the artists to be a part of the latest book GAS-OIL-WATER alongside artists like Tom Fritz, Dale Habberfield and Jeremiah Adametz and others to help to create a book that I am very proud to be part of. This is all-American history being made right now and a beautifully produced way for you to see this incredible family in ways that most people can only dream of. Tim Scott Scott Photo Co. www.ScottPhoto.co (not .com) IG: @scottphotoco These are available as individual books or as very limited-edition collectables with aluminum covers. Order yours here: https://www.rollingboneshotrodshop.com/gear-barn Shipping is available worldwide or email kwschmidt319@gmail.com for more details and availability options SpeedHolics has not been paid to write about this product or brand, nor will we profit from any purchases you may make through the links in this article. SpeedHolics is a fully independent website.

In the coastal Tuscan town of Forte dei Marmi, startup design & motoring enthusiasts MAGGIORE have a big ambition: to create unique cars using a blend of traditional craftsmanship and forward thinking technology. Founded in 2019 by Gianluca Maggiore, the company employs a network of quality suppliers, expert consultants, creatives and innovators to provide avant-garde technical solutions and top of the line materials, with the goal of creating limited edition machines for their clientele. Every car produced is then tailored for completion according to each client’s specs. Thus, each car becomes a true one of a kind. MAGGIORE’s flagship project “Restomod” sees them restore iconic vehicles of times gone by, updating them for the modern day while remaining faithful to the heritage of each model. The MAGGIORE 308M First out of the workshop is the 308M, a revitalization of the iconic Ferrari 308. It’s been totally modified both mechanically and aesthetically, without overwhelming the original, inspirational design. Each piece of bodywork has been reproduced in carbon fibre, while all the mechanical parts have undergone redesign or refurbishment. The engine has been upgraded while holding onto its original characteristics, and the handling, fuel consumption and power have all been enhanced. In short, the 308M drives like a new car. From an aesthetic perspective, the interior still looks vintage, harking back to the 70s and 80s, but MAGGIORE have used carbon fibre, Alcantara suede, and marble detailing to pay homage to their own Tuscan origins. A Boyhood Dream MAGGIORE founder Gianluca Maggiore dreamed up the 308M Restomod Project out of a desire to drive an iconic motor from his youth, but with all the safety and performance upgrades provided by modern technology. It’s a subtle and delicate craft -- reinterpreting classic style and performance while keeping with the car’s identity and heritage. Here’s the challenge though: How can the brains behind this project make us feel the way the first drivers of the Ferrari 308 felt? At that time, this motor was cutting edge. And so, stepping inside the 308M is like stepping back to the 1980’s, while still feeling that you’re driving one of the world’s most high performance cars. MAGGIORE’s vision therefore, goes much, much deeper than simply restoring these classic cars. They want to pay tribute, but not simply by cultivating nostalgia. Rather, they want to pay tribute by breathing new life into these machines. 308M: Design Specs The most iconic components of the original 308 have been preserved, including the rear hood grilles, mudguards, air inlets and general interior shape. Meanwhile, the bodywork, windscreen and interior has all been reconditioned for the modern day. Elsewhere, components have been redesigned with the utmost respect for the originals, breathing new life into the car. The style of the front section has been completely renewed, the increased track width imply new mudguards that redefine the front bumper. It’s still familiar, but wider and designed to accommodate a sleeker carbon fiber bumper than the original that englobes two latest-generation halogen headlights. The iconic disappearing headlights, which are considered illegal according to modern homologation standards, have been replaced by horizontal LED strips that define the daytime running lights (DRL) and the indicator lights which give the whole “look” of the car a more imposing look. The mudguards on the side have been increased in width, together with a carbon fiber side skirt. Both contribute to the sinuosity of the car, and to change the perception of its height from the ground. The famous lateral air inlets have been elongated with the help of a carbon fiber trimming to give the side of the car even more dynamism. 17” alloy wheels have been custom built in a classic style for this project, allowing for a more proportioned general appearance -- in line with modern times without seeming excessive. Behind the side glass there is a triangular volume in carbon fiber, in place of the original grille. This includes an extra air inlet to allow the more advanced version of the engine to breathe. At the back end as well as at the front, the entire look has been revisited -- Reapportioned general volumes and an integrated spoiler with an 80s look and feel. The integration of a spoiler on the side in the shape of a light tick is a tribute to famous Ferrari models of the past. Notes of modernity can be seen in the group of back headlights, made with LEDs and floating elements enclosed in cylindrical supports in carbon fiber that recall the historic style of the car in the shape alone. carbon diffuser and a new exhaust system in stainless steel in the lower part of the back bumpers evoke and allow us to feel the work that has been put into the engine. The back hood has been redesigned for the project and created in carbon fiber, reusing the original iconic grilles. At the centre of the back hood there is a porthole of cloudy glass, a tribute to the more modern Ferraris, from which you can admire the changes made to the beating heart of this car. 308M: Engine & Performance Specs The engine is the historic Ferrari V8 Quattrovalvole with injection system. To guarantee the highest performance with the maximum reliability, it has been completely disassembled and all its internal components have been reviewed and/or improved. All the mechanical transformations have been curated by Italtecnica, a leader in the field of sports competitions for almost 30 years. The changes aim to give the engine more power but above all make it fuller even with low rpm to have a particularly pleasant performance for a more edgy use on daily roads, without being exasperated. In keeping the original cylinder/head, it was possible to enlarge the bore to increase the engine capacity to 3146cc. New oversize nodular cast iron liners were developed and combined to new oversized forged pistons that were designed and produced specifically for this use, with graphite coating to improve the wear durability and with a modified head to increase the squish effect and the compression ratio. Oversize new valves have been designed with an optimized profile for greater air flow, combined to new and more powerful camshafts. A new larger butterfly valve has been included and the mechanically controlled fuel injection system is now electronically controlled by a specific control unit to reduce the overall inertia. The exhaust manifolds have been blindfolded for thermodynamic reasons and to give a vintage tone to the engine compartment and the new exhaust is made entirely of stainless steel. To complete the engine compartment a lightweight flywheel has been added to a racing clutch. Thanks to all these changes the engine has more favourable torque curves and greater power, which brings this configuration to reach a 300HP at 7000rpm and a maximum torque of 300Nm at 5500rpm, with 250Nm already available at 3000rpm. The chassis is original but it has been completely restored. The track width has been widened by 50mm in the front and 100mm at the back. This has been combined to suspension updated with changes to the connection to allow for the use of a braking system with 4 piston calipers from Brembo with radial connections, racing pads and self-ventilating 280mm discs, both at the front and at the back, bringing about an increase of 50% in the braking power with respect to the original system. The car also boasts a brakeforce distributor. To complete the suspension package there is a series of Koni racing shock absorbers with adjustable coaxial springs. The Brains Behind 308M The research into the materials and colours to use was carried out by the Studio Stefan Scholten, a Design studio based in Amsterdam with many Italian influences. It was precisely this union of modern Northern European design blended with Italian culture and Mediterranean styles that inspired us to choose this studio as partner for the development of this project. Stefan Scholten, creative director of this project, has decades of experience in product design and has recently turned his work to the automotive sector for the MINI/BMW group. The work carried out on the interior follows the same philosophy as the exterior, with few functional changes to the volume, and an attention to detail and an almost obsessive care in the choice of materials. Carbon fiber, machined aluminium, leather, fabric and even marble define the new door panels, the tunnel and the panel, which has been rendered more linear and conducive to accommodate original and new components in an intriguing fusion. The tunnel maintains the same shape and configuration as the original car but with redesigned and modernized elements for daily and durable use. The door panels are built in carbon fiber and modified for a more modern and functional aspect in terms of modern user-friendliness. The materials used for the interior upholstery and finishing are of the highest quality and entirely customizable according to the client’s personal taste. The leather and the fabrics are supplied by Maharam, a celebrated famous US leader in textiles for over a century who are recognised worldwide as lead suppliers for high end design projects. The vintage atmosphere has not precluded the implementation of a sophisticated hi-res sound system, incorporated in the cabin and developed by Delta Sigma, a long-established supplier for car brands of note in limited series. A modern touch can be found in the preparation for a HUD display behind the dashboard that remains hidden so as not to disturb the vintage mood of the car. The Final Touches To complete the project, and in keeping with the philosophy of tailoring and craftsmanship, a package of accessories has been created to complement the car, such as luggage sets, keyrings and wallets and a leather clothing line. These are tailor-made items and therefore made-to-measure for each client by some of the most renowned local craftsmen. More info on the Maggiore 308M on: www.automobilimaggiore.com/ Facebook Instagram LinkedIn SpeedHolics has not been paid to write about this product or brand, nor will we profit from any purchases you may make through the links in this article. SpeedHolics is a fully independent website.

One thing we value most highly at SpeedHolics is curiosity. It’s the thing that drives us to seek out the most inventive, imaginative classic motoring & car culture projects around the world. The way we see it, whomever said “curiosity killed the cat” suffers from a worrying lack of ambition. Lately however, our curiosity has been piqued by a tight team of creatives in Spain -- the brains behind leather brand Café Leather. Nestled in the shadow of a range of Andalusian foothills, the quaint town of Ubrique stands out for its characterful white-painted buildings and its proclivity for world class leather craftsmanship. Add to that an appreciation for authenticity, a passion for motoring style, and a commitment to quality, and we’re sold. The leather tells the story Leather is cool again. It always was in truth, but it’s seen a complete resurgence in the last few years. But where there are popular trends, all too often there are charlatans looking to cut corners and make quick cash. Café Leather, we’re happy to know, are not amongst this group. They use only premium vegetable tanned leather, a robust and hard wearing leather which doesn’t require the use of chemicals. In short, it’s the most natural and environmentally friendly leather available. Eco-consciousness aside, we love this kind of leather for how beautifully it ages -- each product develops its own distinctive patina over the years. While you may buy the same item as someone else, after a few years yours will be unique to you. I’ve had a pair of leather boots for ten years now. They’re still going strong. But every time I see the scuff marks and creases around the toes of the left boot, I’m reminded of seven exhilarating years spent riding a motorcycle. Your leather tells your story. It’s a truly amazing product, one that we humans have used for thousands of years, yet here it is today, still as classic and refined as ever. Café Leather’s Triton 53 Driving Gloves We’ve taken quite a few admiring looks at Café Leather’s collection of wallets, bags, clothing, notebooks and personal accessories, but it’s the driving gloves that we’ve admired the most. There’s a selection of just under thirty pairs of classically influenced driving gloves, but it's Triton 53 that's caught our eye time and time again. Designed in collaboration with Madrid based artist and motoring enthusiast Manu Campa, the Triton 53 Driving Gloves “Pay tribute to the great pioneers of motor history who dared to do what no one had done until then.” Handcrafted with specialty lamb skin, as well as the aforementioned vegetable tanned leather, the look and feel of these gloves immediately evokes the noise and atmosphere of track day circa 1960. And we’re totally OK with that. In fact, we love it. But being old fashioned just for the sake of it doesn’t stoke our emotions so much -- there has to be something innovative too. A half century on from the golden era of motor racing, we now have far more advanced technology and quality at our disposal. The team at Café Leather understand this too, and have thus built their products to stand up the demands of the modern day. The perforated leather allows more breathability, and therefore less perspiration, while the button snap and elasticated wrist adds a great deal of freedom and comfort. While we wait for ours to arrive in the mail, we’re dreaming of the next track day or relaxed road trip along the coast -- sunglasses on, windows open, radio turned down low to hear the growl of the engine, and gloved hands gripping the steering wheel. Bring it on. Full Disclosure: SpeedHolics has not been paid to write about this product or brand, nor will we profit from any purchases you may make through the links in this article. We’re a fully independent website. We simply choose to write about products and brands that appeal to our passions. Hopefully the appeal to yours too.

Automobilist isn’t a company that does things in half measures. They make fine art prints, posters, and 3D models of epochal cars, racing drivers, and motoring moments. They even curate a beautiful magazine. Photo: Automobilist But what’s caught our attention at SpeedHolics isn’t just what the team at Automobilist does, but the way they do it. Much like the moments recreated and portrayed in their artwork, it’s a case of, “go big, or go home” for the team at Automobilist. This is much more than a paintbrush and artistic flair. It’s also much more than a vast image bank and a top of the range printer. The Automobilist Way Automobilist uses 3D modelling to delve into every last detail. The team at Automobilist executes a lengthy process of up to three months, involving as many as eight creatives, and fifty cast and crew. They employ 3D modelling, CGI imagery, car blueprints, and historical records to eke out every little detail they can. This meticulous approach has garnered great praise and also won Automobilist partnerships with Formula One, WRC, and Automobile Club de l'Ouest. With a collection of portrayals of names like Michael Schumacher, David Coulthard, Lewis Hamilton and Sir Jackie Stewart, it’s a challenge to settle on just one to showcase here. But while browsing Autmobilist’s work, the team here at Speedholics became taken with one man who remains close to our hearts and minds -- the legendary Brazilian, Ayrton Senna. Ayrton Senna Artwork by Automobilist Formula One fans will remember 1988. The inimitable Ayrton Senna joined McLaren and powered home to his first world championship. This image recreated by Automobilist shows Senna swooping past Nelson Piquet in the 55th lap of the San Marino Grand Prix—not taking Piquet’s position, but lapping him. Ayrton Senna laps Nelson Piquet, San Marino Grand Prix, 1988 San Marino was only the second round of the 1988 world championship, but the performance of Senna, teammate Alain Prost, and their Honda V6 turbo powered McLaren MP4/4, augured misfortune for the chasing pack. That it was Piquet—a three time world champion himself—that they lapped, speaks volumes to the power and skill they had. We love this piece, suitably named The Best and The Rest, for a whole bunch of reasons, but to collect and distil that moment, suspending it in infinity, is one. Then there’s the wild attention to detail and the painstaking lengths gone to to achieve the perfect print. To see this process in more detail, check it out here. The McLaren MP4/4 Top car and top driver -- that’s the symbiosis often required to achieve legendary status. And in the McLaren MP4/4, Ayrton Senna found the perfect match. To this day, that 1988 season remains the most dominant by any car, thanks to Senna and stablemate Prost. As mentioned above, the McLaren was powered by Honda, after an underwhelming 1987 campaign with the Porsche TAG V6 engine. 1988 would also be the very last year on which turbo engines were allowed, so McLaren went big. A new low line chassis inspired by McLaren technical director Gordon Murray’s Brabham BT55, combined with that new Honda V6 gave McLaren a performative edge. The new, more reclined seating position is considered to be the basis on which modern F1 cars are built. The McLaren MP4/4 didn’t just change its present, but the future to boot. For the team at Automobilist to reproduce such a piece of cutting edge technology, performance engineering, and beautiful design so loyally really is something to behold. And the print, which comes in three sizes and a selection of frames, isn’t the only McLaren MP4/4 offering by the Europe-based company. If something smaller, perhaps a desk, shelf or coffee table centerpiece is desired, they also have a beautiful 1:18 scale model available here. Measuring 25cm in length, it’s big enough to draw the eye and do justice to the level of detail in the build, while the acrylic cover keeps it safe from dust and smudging -- easy to clean and shine. Now the only thing for us to do is decide which of these McLaren MP4/4 fine art pieces we need. Both? Full Disclosure: SpeedHolics has not been paid to write about this product or brand. We simply choose to write about things we discover and fall for -- things that appeal to our passions, and hopefully to yours too.

Inspired by the Alfa Romeo Carabo and adopting newest and most advanced aerospace materials in manufacturing including lightweight carbon fiber and Kevlar, the Vector W8 is the result of the dreams of Gerald Wiegert, company founder and chief designer of the Vector Aeromotive Corporation. With a 6.0L Rodeck twin-turbocharged V8 engine able to reach 1.200 bhp during dyno testing at the factory, Vector claimed the W8 could reach a top speed of 242 mph (389 km/h). Photo The Image Engine http://ow.ly/PWyg50E5rlb

This Shelby Daytona Coupe, built on a real Cobra chassis (CSX2469), is probably the closest to the real car without being one of the original six cars. Photo by Desert-Motors.com