For Sale: Lamborghini LP400 Countach 'Periscopo' 1976

The future of Lamborghini was unveiled at the 1971 Geneva Auto Show with the first public display of the new Countach. The car’s dramatic styling with its trademark scissor doors and low, angular, wedge-shaped body left all onlookers speechless. These first LP400 Countachs however stunning in their design provided virtually no rearward visibility; a periscope-type rear-view mirror was added, lending the name “Periscopo” to the initial Countach series. Just 150 examples of the LP400 were built before the introduction of the LP400S in 1978, making these early examples, with their remarkably clean styling and purity of purpose, highly coveted and sought-after by astute collectors and marque enthusiasts today.


A somewhat rare Lamborghini LP400 has been put up for sale in Huntington Station, New York. The car, painted in Tahiti Blue with Blue/White leather interior, has been listed at $395,000.
The car uses a lightweight 4.0-liter V-12 engine with dual overhead cams that produces 375 horsepower and up to 365 Nm of torque. Mated to a five-speed synchromesh transmission, the engine reaches 100 km/h in 5.6 seconds on its way to a 316 km/h (196 mph) top speed.


This LP400 Countach received a two year restoration completed by marque specialist Ultimate Motorcars, the oldest Lamborghini dealership in the United States. This facility is renowned for the accuracy of its work, in addition to an enviable record of class victories achieved at the prestigious Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance. During the restoration process, all areas of the car were attended to including the exterior, interior, engine, transmission, suspension, brakes and air conditioning, with truly spectacular results.


Typically, the car would be valued around $80,000, according to several Lamborghini enthusiast websites. However, this car has been thoroughly restored outside and inside over two years. It has won multiple class trophies at the Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance.


During the restoration process, the noted Lamborghini expert Valentino Balboni inspected this LP 400 on two occasions and a letter from him, attesting to the quality and accuracy of the restoration, is included in the history file.

This is an extremely rare opportunity to purchase one of the finest examples on an LP400 Countach “Periscopo”, the initial version representing the clean, wild design statement of the definitive supercar of the 1970s and ‘80s.
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Jaguar observes 75-year anniversary by celebrating past, looking to the future

This year marks the 75th anniversary of the Jaguar name, and 75 years of looking forward, designing and building cars that represent the very best of technical innovation, design leadership and sporting success.

Mike O'Driscoll, Managing Director of Jaguar Cars, said: "In 2010 we celebrate our past, and 75 years of designing and building cars that celebrate the art of automobile making. We're also celebrating the promise of the future, and the introduction of the all-new XJ. In just three years we've completely revitalized the Jaguar line-up with the launch of three beautiful fast cars".


Just a few years ago Jaguar set out to re-make the brand and to revitalize the model range. It started in 2008 with the introduction of the all-new award-winning XF. This four door, five seat car has the looks of a coupe and the heart of a sports car. In 2009 Jaguar re-engineered the XK coupe and convertible, and in the process created one of the world's great grand tourers. And, 2010 sees the beginning of sales of the ground-breaking XJ, which incorporates all of the virtues that make a Jaguar.

Mike O'Driscoll added: "The development of our new range of cars is all part of making Jaguar the modern, sporting company that it was under our founder Sir Williams Lyons – a company that made its name creating cars that were innovative, exciting and always original."


Ian Callum, Jaguar Design Director, said: "Jaguar design over the next 75 years must respect and reflect on the past 75 while continuing to push boundaries of technology, luxury and sporting style. Designing cars with a presence that demands a turn of the head and an allure that pulls at the heart has been central to the Jaguar brand throughout the years.

"A successful piece of design should stand the test of time, holding it's own through passing fashions. Jaguar has a range of cars that are as iconic today as they were when launched – testament to Jaguar's legacy in creating beautiful fast cars.

"Looking at the present with the XK, XF and all-new XJ and with an eye on the future, we will continue to innovate and set the benchmark, not only in automotive design, but in luxury premium design as a whole."


Sir William Lyons founded Swallow Sidecars in 1922, and went on to create a range of 'SS' branded motorcycle sidecars and automobiles in the 1920s and early 1930s. When it came to the launch of the all-new SS 100 in 1935, Sir William wanted a new and evocative name for his company. After asking his advertising agency for suggestions, Sir William chose 'Jaguar', and the SS 100 model became the world's first Jaguar.

The 'Jaguar' name was an ideal choice - it represented the feline grace and elegance, power and agility that set his cars apart. Sir William once said that a car "was the closest thing we can create to something that is alive", a sentiment that has stood the test of time. The new brand name captured the essence of all of the cars created from that point forward.


Over the years Jaguar has built some of the world's most iconic cars; the XK120, introduced in the late 1940s, was an instant sensation and the most glamorous sports car of the period; the C Type and D Type race cars that followed, dominated motor racing in the 1950s; the E-Type, launched in the heady 1960s, has been called the most beautiful car ever built and it defined a whole generation. Sports cars have always defined Jaguar, but the Company has also built some of the Industry's most memorable sedans, such as the Mark II in the early 1960's and the renowned XJ range.


During the year Jaguar will celebrate our 75th anniversary at some of the world's most glamorous automotive settings, including the Goodwood Festival of Speed and Revival in the UK; the Concours D'Elegance at Pebble Beach in the US and at the Mille Miglia classic in Italy. Jaguar is also returning to the racetrack with its new JaguarRSR XKR GT2 and will compete in the American Le Mans Series (ALMS).
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Video: Renault Launch 2010 Car the R30 and Confirm Petrov

Renault on Sunday presented Vitaly Petrov, Russia's first formula one driver, as the occupant of its second race seat for the 2010 season.


The new car is painted in a radical yellow and black livery, quite stunning and one that harks back to the old days of Renault F1 cars. it is a move away from the white and orange of the previous title sponsors ING and a clear move away from the sky blue liveries used when Renault were sponsored by Mild Seven.


The 25-year-old, who finished the GP2 championship in second place last year and who reportedly has a big sponsorship purse, helped his new teammate Robert Kubica pull the wraps off the R30 car in the Valencia pitlane.


Robert Kubica will be joined at the team, as expected but only confirmed today with Vitaly Petrov, a highly rated youngster who was runner up in the GP2 series last year. Petrov will be the first ever Russian Formula One driver.


Meanwhile, as was predicted, Jerome d'Ambrosio and Ho-Ping Tung were unveiled as the team's new non-race drivers for 2010, and former technical director and acting team boss Bob Bell is now managing director.

James Allison, who while Bell was team boss acted as technical director, now takes up that role full time.
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Geneva Preview:2011 Kia Sportage

We're still short on details about the engine range, but chances are that the 2011 Sportage will be offered with the same 2.0-liter and 2.4-liter four cylinder engines coupled to six-speed transmissions as the Tuscon in North America, while in Europe, it will most likely get the same 1.7-liter and 2.0 liter diesels, and 1.6-liter and 2.0-liter gasoline units as the iX35.


Penned under the guidance of former Audi designer Peter Schreyer, the new Sportage carries the new Kia family look as seen on the Soul, Cadenza sedan and Sorento SUV, but it appears to have a more European flavor to it, with extra attention given to details.


The five-door crossover shares its platform with the also new Hyundai Tucson, known as the ix35 in Europe. It is longer and wider than the outgoing Sportage, something that should translate to improved cabin space.


This handsome-looking compact crossover is the next generation 2011 Kia Sportage that will be unveiled to the public for the first time at the upcoming 2010 Geneva Motor Show in the beginning of March.
Source:carscoop

Tesla to kill the Roadster in 2011, new version coming in 2013?

As everyone's aware, the current iteration of the Tesla Roadster is built in Hethel, England by Lotus using Elise/Exige underpinnings. Judging by the quote above, that means the Elise/Exige is due to be replaced by a new model (good news for enthusiasts), but that leaves Tesla up a creek without the proverbial paddle.


The Model S is due to come out in 2012, which means Tesla might not have any revenue coming in until the all-electric sedan goes on sale. If there's a snag with anything in the launch of the sedan – design, production, engineering, you name it – then Tesla's in serious trouble. That might make investors wary when the upstart automaker finally begins offering shares.


So, bottom line: If you want the current Roadster, order now, or wait until the all-new Roadster goes on sale in 2013.
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Toyota Releases new Auris 2010 model range

On sale throughout Europe from early spring, the new Auris 2010 model range will make its European debut at this year's Geneva motor show.

Building on a solid reputation for roominess, comfort, practicality and reliability, the Auris 2010 combines marked improvements in exterior style, perceived interior quality and ergonomics with a wide choice of clean engine technologies and a more refined driving experience.


The Toyota Auris 2010 engine range features a choice of three petrol and three diesel units offering the performance- and economy-enhancing benefits of Toyota Optimal Drive. Complemented by the Auris HSD's full hybrid technology, this unique line-up will offer customers the most comprehensive range of powertrains in the C segment.
Source: Toyota

Fashion Friday: The Grammys

Of all the awards shows, the Grammys consistently feature the most cutting-edge fashion. These four gowns could be seen on such stars as Fergie, Lady Gaga or Alica Keys.


Row 1: Jean Paul Gaultier
Row 2: Valentino, Jean Paul Gaultier

How to Choose the Right Veil?

Many brides ask if they should wear a veil, and if so what kind? Jolene Picone of Veil Trends, as created a veil chart that addresses the basic veil lengths and description of each. Fly Away veil is the shortest length veil. This veil is also sometimes called a shoulder length veil. Fly Away veil to be any veil 20" long or shorter.
Blusher is the veiling that covers the face when you walk down the isle. The blusher can be worn during the entire ceremony until the first kiss as husband and wife or it can be pulled back over the bride's face before she is given away by father. ( or by person that walks the bride down the aisle. ) A blusher can be any length from about 20" to even a dramatic 60" or more.
Elbow length veil is just that; a veil that hits the bride below the shoulder or near the elbow. A common length is around 28".
Fingertip length hits...you guessed it, right at the fingertips or around the hand. A typical length for this veil is 36".
Ballet length is a veil that hits your body somwhere between your knees and calves. This veil is also sometimes called a waltz veil. Veil Trends measures a ballet length veil at 56".
Chapel length veils are 108" long and extend all the way to the ground. The width of the veil can range anywhere from 56" wide to 108" wide, depending on the width of your dress or personal preference.
Cathedral veils are the longest veil length and extend well past the end of your dress train. They are typically worn in church settings for a dramatic walk down a long aisle. A cathedral veil is aprox. 120" or longer.

Traditions - Chinese Tea Ceremony

Image Via Nealy

It's the quintessential Chinese wedding tradition: the tea ceremony. This time-honored exchange was created to show respect for the family. Historically, after they exchanged vows, the couple would serve tea to the groom's family (the bride would have served tea privately to her own family that morning). Today, many couples choose to honor both the bride and groom's families by hosting tea ceremonies for both sets of parents.

How It Works If you are hosting two separate ceremonies, traditionally, it's appropriate to honor the groom's family first. Likewise, if you are holding an all-inclusive tea ceremony, the groom's family should be served first. During the ceremony, the couple serves tea to the groom's parents and elders in order of seniority. The groom's parents are served, followed by his paternal grandparents and then his maternal grandparents. Next, are his oldest uncles and aunts, and finally his oldest brother is served. After each elder takes a sip, they hand the couple a lai see (a lucky red envelope), which usually contains money or jewelry. The envelopes are placed on the platter that holds the teacups. The ceremony is then performed in the same manner for the bride's family. The tea ceremony is also the time when the Chinese wedding contract should be witnessed and signed with a traditional signature seal or personalized stamp.

When to Have It
The tea ceremony traditionally takes place following the wedding ceremony. Today, some couples wait to host the tea ceremony until the day after the wedding (think postwedding tea, instead of brunch). Others host the ceremony just before the wedding, during the cocktail hour, or just after the ceremony. When the tea ceremony takes place usually depends on the amount of privacy a couple wishes to keep. If you just wish to include immediate family, you could serve your parents before the wedding ceremony, in the privacy of home. Another option is to perform the ceremony during the cocktail hour, while your guests enjoy hors d'oeuvres and cocktails. If you want all guests to pay witness to your tea ceremony, build in time between the ceremony and cocktail hour for this event to take place.

Where to Host It
If you want to host a private tea ceremony, you can choose to have it just about anywhere. To add contrast to a formal indoor reception, a private outdoor tea ceremony is the perfect way to incorporate a breath of fresh air into your day. Host the ceremony in a nearby garden while your guests enjoy predinner cocktails at the reception. If you want to keep it more low-key, opt to have a small ceremony with family at home. If you wish to include your entire guest list, you'll need to reserve a space big enough to accommodate everybody. Find out if there is a big enough outdoor patio at your reception venue, or perhaps the hotel has a smaller banquet room near your reception space. You could even set up the tea ceremony in your reception room and then have the room "turned over" before dinner is served.

What You Need
You'll want to have an altar or table to display photos or candles in recognition of each family. If you are hosting just one tea ceremony, you may choose to have two small ancestral altars. A lot of times the bride and groom will light two wedding candles (one with a phoenix, the other with a dragon motif) to represent each of their families. The couple can also light one candle together (symbolizing the joining of two families). Other items for the ancestral altar: white flowers, fruit, offertory wine, and burning incense. Of course, a tea set is a must. The type of tea served can be left up to each family, but popular choices are black dragon, orange blossom, and classic green tea.

The Setup
Just like a Western wedding ceremony, the general rule is that the bride be on the left and the groom on the right. Those family members served should sit in chairs facing the couple. (For example, the bride would kneel in front of her father-in-law, while the groom kneels in front of his mother.) If you opt to invite your guests to the ceremony, have them sit in chairs facing your elders. You can seat them in rows just as they might have sat for the vow exchange or seat them at round tables where everyone is able to see what's going on.

The Decor
From the very simple at-home ceremony to the lavishly decorated affair, there are a ton of options for decking out your tea ceremony space. A couple motifs to keep in mind when looking for décor items: the Double Happiness symbol, phoenix and dragon motifs, Chinese marriage gods, gold and red colors, and decorative strands of firecrackers. You can drape a red and gold banner over the altar; fly red silk scarves in trees for an outdoor setting; hand out red rice-paper parasols to all your guests; or string small red paper lanterns along the ceiling. Your decor choices are truly endless so don't be afraid to get creative.

The Finishing Touches
If you do plan to invite all your guests to the tea ceremony, be sure to have someone there who can explain the significance behind the ceremony to those unfamiliar with the tradition. If you don't have a spokesperson, print out the meaning of the Chinese tea ceremony on an insert for your wedding program, so that your guests can follow along. You can make the programs as casual or elaborate as you want them to be -- from simple pieces of paper to card stock inserts that match the traditional wedding programs, invitations, and save-the-dates. Of course, when it comes to extras, you don't have to stop there. To entertain and impress guests, some couples hire lion dancers -- an expression of joy, celebration, and happiness -- to perform to the sounds of drums, gongs, and cymbals at the close of their ceremonies. For the ultimate wow factor, consider setting off traditional Chinese firecrackers (just be sure to get permission from your venue first, of course!).

Article by Anja Winikka of the Knot

Fashion Fridays: Happy Birthday Michelle Obama

Michelle Obama celebrated her birthday Sunday! Cheers to the First Lady!

Michelle's Style by ħαυτє•соυτυяє featuring Emanuel Ungaro

Emanuel Ungaro Satin jersey drape dress, $820
Charles By Charles David Pompadour Slip On High Pumps, $70
D&G - STUDDED MINI LILLY TOP HANDLE, 580 EUR
Lana Jewelry Two Strand Magic Necklace, $2,340
earrings w rubies - MODEL 2628R, 1 695 PLN

Inspiration Board: Russian Ballet

This inspirational board created by Fri of Wedding Nouveau, reminds me of a night my husband and I had in Moscow, when we stumbled upon an outdoor dance performance that was absolutely transcendent. We were walking back to our hotel late one night from dinner when, out of the blue, a processional of dancers in elaborate costumes passed us, leading people to a neighborhood square where they began a performance of visionary theater. It was a magical surprise to end our night.

(Above: St. Petersburg Tower by Bridgepix ; Gown by Atelier Aimee; Bouquet by Fantasy Floral Designs; Ballerina photo by Jonathan Skow; Russian Matryoshka necklace by Sea Unicorn; Ornament photo by Ken Marten via here; Gold Ballet flats by JCrew via here; Music box; Russian Table Setting via here; Mirror photo by Sarah Maingot; Male Model by GQ Russia ;Slicked Hair Model ; Russian doll and Sari Pillow by Ceci New York; Pink and Gold Platter photo by Sarah Maingot; Sitting Ballerina photo by Marina Danilova ; Stair photo via here)

Party Attire Etiquette

What's a girl to wear? Here's a quick reference to dress codes for your social event!

Black Tie

A Black Tie invitation calls for formal attire. Men wear tuxedos, women wear long dresses or dressy evening separates.

Formal usually means the same as Black Tie, but in some trendier cities like New York or Los Angeles, it could mean a black shirt, no tie with a tux. Women wear cocktail, long dresses or dressy evening separates.

A White Tie or Ultra-formal invitation requires men wear full dress, with white tie, vest, shirt. Women wear long gowns.

Black Tie Optional

A Black Tie Optional or Black Tie Invited gives you the option of wearing a tuxedo or formal dress, but it should clue you into the formality of the event, meaning a dark suit and tie would be your other option. Women wear cocktail long dresses or dressy evening separates.

Creative Black Tie

Creative Black Tie leaves room for trendy interpretations of formal wear. He can go more modern with a tux -- maybe a black shirt, no tie. She wears long or short dresses or evening separates.

Sometimes, themed parties call for dress codes like Texas Black Tie or other variations of Creative Black Tie. In that situation, you can have more fun with it, choosing a dressy look with a theme (for him, it could be a tux with boots and for her it could be a long dress paired with Southwestern style silver belt and jewelry).

Semi-Formal

Semi-Formal or After Five means that tuxes are not required, nor are long dresses. An evening wedding (after 6 PM) would still dictate dark suits for him, and a cocktail dress for her. Daytime semi-formal events mean a suit for him and an appropriate short dress or dressy suit for her.

Business Formal is the same as Semi-Formal for him, but for women it suggests that women opt for more tailored dressy suits and dresses (nothing too slinky or sexy).

Cocktail Attire means short, elegant dresses for her and dark suits for him.

Informal is often interpreted as the same as Casual but it actually calls for the same dress as Semi-Formal -- dark suits for him, short dresses for her -- especially when associated with a wedding or special event.

Festive Attire is usually seen around the holidays, with the mood of the party being InformalSemi-Formal. For her, it means to choose looks with a bit of sparkle or holiday bent (i.e. a beaded sweater with black pants, a red silk blouse with a black skirt).

Dressy Casual calls for dressed-up versions of casual looks. For him, it could be trousers and a sportcoat, for her a dressy pants look. Jeans, shorts, T-shirts and other casual looks are not appropriate for Dressy Casual.

Casual generally means anything goes.

Help the People of Haiti

Our prayers go out to the people of Haiti. Every donation helps! You may go to the Red Cross or Habitat for Humanity to make a contribution to the disaster relief efforts.

Image Via the Guardian

Hip Button Boutonniere

If you want an out of the ordinary and creative boutonniere, try a pin-back button. Unique and affordable, it can be customized for your whole wedding party!

Image Via Hatch Creative Studio

Fashion Fridays: Winter Wonderland

JILL STUART Cream Slouchy Teresa Boot $625
Tory Burch Metallic logo shoulder clutch, $315
Fiorelli Rose Frame Clutch Bag, Dove, 30 GBP

A Groom's Guide

You're newly engaged and excited to get started planning, but your groom was done planning when he put the ring on your finger. Don't get made, get him Groomology: What Every (Smart) Groom Needs to Know Before the Wedding. This book will help him through the planning process all the way to the honeymoon.

Cup Cake Stands

These vintage ceramic cupcake stands from Farm House are the perfect way to make your cupcakes look even sweeter!

Available at Farm House

New Year's Resolution

You're getting married this year--now there's something to toast to! We all know planning a wedding can be stressful, so make resolutions to help make your lives a little easier.



Here's a great list from Naomi Gladen.

Resolve not to do all the wedding planning. Brides seem to get stuck with all the phone calls and trips to the flower shop and all of those other tasks. You don't have time for that, girl! Make sure your fiance understands that this is both of your responsibility. And don't' be afraid to delegate. Hire a wedding planner will help tremendously.

Create a wedding planning schedule (if schedules don't make you crazy). If you're the kind of person who works better with detailed to-do lists, then make yourself one, complete with deadlines, and resolve to stick to your schedule. However, if to-do lists make your feel more stressed out instead of less, this might not be the best strategy.

Be nice to your partner. It's almost inevitable that you two are going to bicker a little bit about all this stressful planning, but resolve to keep this to a minimum. Spend as much time as you can together doing something other than wedding planning.

Resolve to concentrate on your new marriage, not just on the wedding. This commitment you're making is much more serious than your choice of party favors. Spend some quality time talking to your fiance about your relationship and about this big change you're about to experience together.

Remember to enjoy yourself. This is supposed to be a joyful occasion. Don't forget that!

Read more at Suite101: New Year's Resolutions for Brides: Resolve to Make Your Wedding Planning Less Stressful http://wedding-planning.suite101.com/article.cfm/new_years_resolutions_for_brides#ixzz0bULWBOSN

Resolve to concentrate on your new marriage, not just on the wedding. This commitment you're making is much more serious than your choice of party favors. Spend some quality time talking to your fiance about your relationship and about this big change you're about to experience together.

Remember to enjoy yourself. This is a joyful occasion. Don't forget that!

Resolve to concentrate on your new marriage, not just on the wedding. This commitment you're making is much more serious than your choice of party favors. Spend some quality time talking to your fiance about your relationship and about this big change you're about to experience together.

Remember to enjoy yourself. This is supposed to be a joyful occasion. Don't forget that!

Read more at Suite101: New Year's Resolutions for Brides: Resolve to Make Your Wedding Planning Less Stressful http://wedding-planning.suite101.com/article.cfm/new_years_resolutions_for_brides#ixzz0bULWBOSN

Resolve to concentrate on your new marriage, not just on the wedding. This commitment you're making is much more serious than your choice of party favors. Spend some quality time talking to your fiance about your relationship and about this big change you're about to experience together.

Remember to enjoy yourself. This is supposed to be a joyful occasion. Don't forget that!

Read more at Suite101: New Year's Resolutions for Brides: Resolve to Make Your Wedding Planning Less Stressful http://wedding-planning.suite101.com/article.cfm/new_years_resolutions_for_brides#ixzz0bULWBOSN

Resolve to concentrate on your new marriage, not just on the wedding. This commitment you're making is much more serious than your choice of party favors. Spend some quality time talking to your fiance about your relationship and about this big change you're about to experience together.

Read more at Suite101: New Year's Resolutions for Brides: Resolve to Make Your Wedding Planning Less Stressful http://wedding-planning.suite101.com/article.cfm/new_years_resolutions_for_brides#ixzz0bULfg7TT