Excess Rating: 3.5 out of 5

Director: Michael Bay

Shia LaBeouf, Megan Fox, Josh Duhamel, Tyrese Gibson, John Turturro, Ramon Rodriguez, Kevin Dunn, Julie White, Isabel Lucas

The battle for Earth has ended but the battle for the universe has just begun. After returning to Cybertron, Starscream assumes command of the Decepticons, and has decided to return to Earth with force. The Autobots believing that peace was possible finds out that Megatron’s dead body has been stolen from the US Military by Skorpinox and revives him using his own spark. Now Megatron is back seeking revenge and with Starscream and more Decepticon reinforcements on the way, the Autobots with reinforcements of their own, may have more to deal with then meets the eye.

Two years after the harrowing events of the first Decepticon attack on Earth, Sam Witwicky (Shia LaBeouf) attempts to lead the normal life of a college student. But contending with overbearing parents, conspiracy-obsessed roommates, and a long distance relationship with his girlfriend Mikaela, (Megan Fox) gives way to fending off lethally aggressive girls, alien symbol-induced mental breakdowns, and once again saving the world from transforming robots intent on destroying the universe.

If you’re an 80s baby and a fan of Transformers, you will over look some of the boring faults, and focus on the nearly indescribable amount of mayhem exploding across the screen. While the CG effects have virtually perfected giant robots destroying everything in sight, the story department seems to have digressed into conjuring up outlandish situations that require even more preposterous solutions. There are some super sweaty sex scenes that were slightly rated R, which makes you feel bad for the family with the five kids under 10.

It’s a summer blockbuster, so of course you’re going to see it.

Transformer 2 Trailer

If you are looking for a job right now, expect that there will be 400 or more other applicants. A coaching client in Santa Monica, Ca reported that she is competing with 500 other applicants for a two week TV production job. When the competition is that stiff even for temporary work, you need to be a peak performer — a Black belt.

Last week’s post riled some with the suggestion to Burn Your Resume. If you are still clutching that single, antiquated piece of paper I am praying that you will check it out.

Heck, don’t read my post. Check out the comments of other readers that are using the suggestions — and getting jobs! Nicky D followed the post’s advice. She customized her resume. There were 400 other applicants. The company called her — because of her PPP resume.

Become a Black Belt
How do you step to the head of the job seeker line? One of two ways:

Your Resume or Knowing Someone
Now, more than ever it is essential that you become masterful at networking. Why? It is free. If you are a black belt in networking you are the best form of advertising and promoting yourself or your business. Networking generates ideas and makes whatever you are doing richer. Asking for assistance makes it easier to accomplish. In today’s business environment only Black belts will survive and thrive.

Black Belt’s Don’t Whine
“Back in the day when I started recruiting, before email, the Internet, contact management software or even MS Windows, the only way to network was to make dozens of phone calls a day. Only the tough skinned, most persistent of us survived the process.” Says recruiter Nicole Spicer.

Today you have hundreds if not thousands of passive ways to reach out to people — there are no excuses not to network!

Four Basic Rules of Black Belt Networking:
1. Build relationships.
2. Engage as a “human being” not a “human doing.” Don’t treat others as a means to an end.
3. Consistently grow your network.
4. Do not wait until you need a network — it may be too late.

If you do nothing else:

Give First
Look for ways to contribute to those with whom you are networking. Networking is a reciprocal process.

Follow Up
Call valuable new contacts within 24 hours of meeting them. I am a big believer in the power of a hand written thank you note. Stay in touch.

The World is Your Dojo
Now, you have the basics of being a Black belt of Networking. Please take this week to go out and practice. We will do it together. I am off to a networking lunch right now!

Here are the tips to put into practice:

Black belt Tip:
Treat everyone you meet as a friend.

Black belt Tip:
Black belt’s practice.

Black belt Tip:
Always offer to help.

Black belt Tip:
Follow up. Follow up. Follow up.

Who:
Network with everyone. Help comes from the most unlikely people and places sometimes.
Network with colleagues, bosses, subordinates, vendors, recruiter, mentors, family, friends, acquaintances, supporting groups and strangers.
Network by using your Rolodex, contact list from work and play, company directories and networking websites.

When:
Network at any appropriate time.
Network all the time and consistently. Build a networking plan and work on the plan everyday.
Network specifically by reaching out to an individual, and generally by dropping it into conversations.

Where:
Network everywhere that is appropriate.
Network via email, IM, online, on the phone, in person, at job fairs, at church, on the ball field, at a party, at your kid’s soccer game.
Network by using business networking boards. Join and utilize sites like LinkedIn.com, Plaxo.com, ZoomInfo.com, Jigsaw.com, BizWiz.com, PartnerUp.com etc.
Network by joining online groups and in-person groups. Locate and join groups like alumni from colleges, past employers, industry communities and users groups. Groups put you in a community with people who have similar paths and messages.
Network via Social boards. Join and utilize sites like FaceBook and MySpace.

How:
Network directly and honestly.
Network by telling others, you just might find your next mentor, employer, funder or partner.
Network by asking for referrals and offering reciprocal assistance — immediately or into the future.
Network by building a bridge of people to enhance your current career or to start a new career.
Network by researching the companies you want to work for and find people within the company to correspond with.

What are your successes and disasters in networking? What are your tips and tricks? Please share a comment. You can receive notice of my blogs every Friday by checking Become a Fan at the top. Ask Eli a question at: info@elidavidson.com or go to http://www.elidavidson.com/

In your quest to find your signature scent, keep in mind that it is just as important to your outward style as having tailored clothes and pairing the correct tie with the appropriate shirt. However, most men simply wear a scent that was given to them as a gift or bought hastily from a cute sales girl offering tote bags and beach towels at a department store. This results in a lot of men wearing copious amounts of tobacco- and coriander-laced colognes that don’t mix well with their natural pheromones. To find your signature scent, you’ll have to do a little research, but the results usually pay off in spades when you find the right fragrance.

Before you make the mistake of using the same cologne your dad used, let us help you figure out how to find your signature scent.

Figure out your skin type

The first step in knowing how to find your signature scent is to understand what type of skin you have — whether it’s oily or dry.

Oily skin tones

Just as body hair keeps the scent of a cologne close to you, oily skin enhances and amplifies your cologne. Moist and oily skin responds best to a lighter citrus-based scent because these elements help to balance out the stronger natural odors that your skin is secreting. Stay with airy or “summertime” scents for a fresher feeling.

Try these signature scents:
Miller Harris Coeur D’Ete – $140 at SaksFifthAvenue.com
Ermenegildo Zegna Essanza Di Zegna – $62 at SaksFifthAvenue.com

Dry skin tones

Cologne needs something to adhere to, and dry or sensitive skin does not hold a scent as long as oily skin. Contrary to popular belief, putting on more of any scent is not the answer. Instead, try heavier or thicker scents with undertones of tobacco and musk; these have a greater presence and will stay with you longer than a lighter fragrance.

Try these signature scents:
Kiton Black – $65 SaksFifthAvenue.com.
Lalique Encre Noire – $105 at SaksFifthAvenue.com.

Take your lifestyle into account

Choosing the right scent is not always about what smells good in a magazine. You also have to consider your lifestyle to narrow down your options as you try to find your signature scent. For example, do you prefer spicy foods? Do you consume large amounts of alcohol regularly or do you smoke? What you ingest comes to the surface of your skin in perspiration, blending with the cologne you wear and adds to the fragrance that swirls around you.
For a few more tips to help you find your signature scent Check AskMen… Next Page >>

How would Harold and Kumar ever find White Castle if it was always on the move?

Well the latest craze to hit the west coast, that has Los Angelinos scuttling to find and waiting hours to buy, is a $2 taco stand on wheels called Kogi. The tacos and other portable specialties are an infusion of Korean and Mexican cuisines. They serve up yummy snacks like, Spicy BBQ Chicken, Korean Short Ribs, Spicy Pork, or for the tree huggers, Tofu Tacos. A hit with both the late night party crowd and food critics alike, Kogi is more than just a hip new eatery, it’s also about the chase. See Kogi has two trucks, Verde and Roja, and to find either requires you to follow Twitter or check out their website. Changes are frequents, but that doesn’t seem to bother the masses since lines can average 90 minutes.

Check out the website http://kogibbq.com/  or one of the many YouTube videos of people chasing the Kogi truck.

(And make sure to bring something to keep you busy, you may be waiting for awhile)

Guide to Healthy Eating

The New Rules of Healthy Eating

4 simple steps to cook better, look better, and save the planet

By: Mark Bittman, Photographs by: Romulo Yanes

A few years ago, I found myself in a bit of a personal crisis. After spending nearly three decades as a food writer who eagerly devoured anything and everything, I had developed a burgeoning belly and a case of high cholesterol, and I was prediabetic. So with this gloomy prognosis hanging over my head, I did what any sane person would do: I started eating better. Just a few months later I’d lost 35 pounds, seen my cholesterollevels shrink by 60 points, and reduced my sugar levels to normal. I felt better, slept better, and lived better.

What was the secret? I started eating more plants and whole grains, and scaled back my intake of refined carbohydrates and other junk. I still ate meat, but I ate it less frequently and made sure that what I did enjoy was of the highest quality. In terms of environmental impact, this new approach turned me from a Hummer into a Prius. The best part: It tasted better than the way I ate before. Talk about a great way to cut your carbon footprint.

So I wrote a book, Food Matters, about what I’d discovered, and laid out the simple guidelines that can help you become a better eater in every sense of the word. The changes may not feel drastic — and that’s the point — but the results will be dramatic. Think about it: four simple adjustments that can help you lose weight, reduce your chances of many long-term diseases, feel healthier all around, and help stop global warming. Now that’s a change you can believe in.

Lesson 1: Eat Plants with Abandon
For breakfast, lunch, dinner, and snacks, make plants the center of your diet. Only 20 percent of men eat the recommended five servings of fruits and vegetables a day. So if your regular meat-to-produce ratio is 70:30, flip it. Salads, slow-braised or flash-saut?ed vegetables, raw vegetables dipped in olive oil, whole fruits, smoothies — diversity is the key to upping your intake, and you really can’t go overboard. Here’s a perfect way to knock out a few servings, inspired by the classic mozzarella-and-tomato Caprese salad.

Layered Salad
3 large ripe tomatoes, cored; or 3 oranges (blood oranges are nice), peeled
Salt and freshly ground pepper
1 cucumber, peeled, seeded, and sliced; or 8 thick slices of watermelon (no bigger than the tomatoes), rinds and seeds removed
1 small red onion, halved and thinly sliced
1 medium avocado, pitted, peeled, and sliced; or 8 thin slices of fresh mozzarella or feta cheese
1/4 pound jicama, or daikon or other radishes, or Asian pear, or Granny Smith apple, peeled (if necessary) and grated or finely chopped
2 Tbsp olive oil
1 Tbsp lemon juice, or rice or sherry vinegar
1/2 cup chopped fresh basil or cilantro (garnish)

1. Slice each tomato or orange crosswise into 4 thick slabs. Place a layer of them on plates and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Top them with the cucumber or watermelon, and the onion. Put the avocado or cheese slices over everything, fanning them out to cover. Top with the jicama, radish, pear, or apple, and sprinkle again with salt and lots of pepper.

2. In a small bowl, use a fork to mix the olive oil and lemon juice or vinegar, and drizzle the dressing over the salad. Garnish with the chopped basil or cilantro, and serve. Makes 4 servings.

Layered Peach Salad This is a must when peaches are in season. Cut two peaches into thin slices and layer them into the salad after the avocado or cheese, and before the jicama/radish/pear/apple layer. Dress and garnish as above.

Lesson 2: Treat Meat Like a Garnish

No one — least of all me — is suggesting that you become a vegetarian, but meat doesn’t always need to be the star of your plate, either. Some of the finest culinary traditions — Chinese, Japanese, and Italian, for instance — treat meat as a garnish rather than a staple, using it to accent dishes instead of defining them. Adding a few ounces of bacon, chicken, or (as in this recipe) grilled steak to salads, pastas, or stir-fried vegetables makes for an amazing — and virtuous — weeknight meal.

Thai Beef Salad
8 oz skirt or flank steak, leftover or raw
6 cups torn salad greens or mixed greens
1 cup torn fresh herb leaves (mint, cilantro, Thai basil, or a combination)
1/4 cup minced red onion
1 medium cucumber, peeled if necessary, cut in half lengthwise, seeded, and diced
1 small fresh hot red chili pepper, minced
Juice of two limes
1 Tbsp sesame oil
1 Tbsp fish sauce (nam pla, available at Asian markets) or soy sauce
1/2 tsp sugar

1. If you’re starting with raw meat, light a gas or charcoal grill, or heat a broiler; the rack should be about 4 inches from the heat source. Grill or broil the beef until medium rare, 5 to 10 minutes total, turning once or twice, depending on the thickness.

2. Toss the lettuce with the herbs, onion, and cucumber. Combine the remaining ingredients with 1 tablespoon of water (the dressing will be thin) and use half of this mixture to toss the greens. Remove the greens to a platter, reserving the remaining dressing.

3. Slice the beef thinly, reserving its juice; combine the juice with the remaining dressing. Lay the slices of beef over the salad, drizzle the dressing over all, and serve. Makes 4 servings.

To continue reading this article, visit Mens Health  here

Who can forget that September 2004 episode of Oprah, where she gave her entire audience brand new Pontiacs? Didn’t we all wish we were in the audience that day…

 Well Oprah Winfrey is giving back once again, and this time she is feeding the entire country. Until May 19^th download the coupon and you can get 2 pieces of grilled chicken, two sides and a biscuit, for free from KFC.  Conscious of our waist lines, the new Kentucky Grilled Chicken is a low calorie option to the Original Recipe. Compared to the OR chicken breast at about 400 calories, the grilled chicken breast is about 180 (and I’ve tried it, it’s yummy).

 The “O” effect swept the nation (as usual), and KFC’s all over the country were inundated with customers. Lines wrapped around city blocks, and stores ran out of chicken.

 “I thought it was just a nice gesture. I thought it was a nice thing, and what I realized is, is that people are hurting even more than I recognized.

 -Oprah “The Gayle King Show” Oprah Radio/Sirius Satellite Radio

 If you try to go to the Oprah site now, the coupon is no longer available, but KFC is sticking to its promise, and will eventually give out free meals to 10 million Americans.  I got my free meal last night, and it hit the spot.

 Roger Eaton, KFC President released this statement:

 Rain Check Policy from KFC

We are so sorry, but due to the overwhelming response to our FREE Kentucky Grilled Chicken meal coupon, we can no longer redeem the free coupon at this time. But we will honor our commitment to giving you a free Kentucky Grilled Chicken meal. Please visit a participating KFC restaurant for a rain check form. Complete the form, attach your original coupon, and give it to the KFC restaurant manager or postmark per the form’s instructions, by May 19, 2009, and we’ll send you a rain check for your free Kentucky Grilled Chicken meal at a later date, plus a free Pepsi with our compliments. Your participating KFC restaurant will provide you with the form you need. Please note that the redemption periods of the rain checks will vary. All other terms and conditions of the original free Kentucky Grilled Chicken coupon will apply. Thank you for your understanding,

 Roger Eaton

KFC President

Gentlemen, are you ready to start taking “The Pill”?

The time is rapidly approaching where the contraception question will include more male involvement besides the folded condom in your back pocket. Science has been working on equal opportunity birth control for sometime now, but thanks to some research spearheaded by China (who clearly has birth control issues) the “Man Pill” is no longer science fiction.

How will it work?

The pill or injection contains desogestrel, a synthetic hormone that is the main component in the female pill, as well as the male hormone testosterone. This combination blocks the production of sperm while maintaining male characteristics and sex drive. As with the female contraceptive pill, it must be taken daily.

Testosterone can inhibit sperm production. A study sponsored by the National Institute for Family Planning in Beijing China tested the experimental drug in a 1,000 men. In men ages 20 – 45, the injection of testosterone was about 99% effective. It’s reversible within 4-6 months, meaning sperm production would go back to normal. The study also noted that the drug was not as effective on Caucasian men verses Chinese men.

Too much testosterone messes with your prostate, which raises Cancer concerns. And sorry guys,  you’re not going to get any kind of anabolic steroid effect because of the shot. Nothing has been approved by the Food and Drug Administration, and the study in China didn’t focus on safety concerns, but I can hear the new line already,

 ”Don’t worry baby, I’m on the shot”

Source: National Institute for Family Planning: Beijing, China

Billionaire Clusters

by Duncan Greenberg
provided by

Want to become a billionaire? Up your chances by dropping out of college, working at Goldman Sachs or joining Skull & Bones.

Are billionaires born or made? What are the common attributes among the uber-wealthy? Are there any true secrets of the self-made?

More from Forbes.com: • In Depth: Billionaire Clusters • The 2009 Billionaire List • The Next Billionaire Boom

We get these questions a lot, and decided it was time to go beyond the broad answers of smarts, ambition and luck by sorting through our database of wealthy individuals in search of bona fide trends. We analyzed everything from the billionaires’ parents’ professions to where they went to school, their track records in the early stages of their careers and other experiences that may have put them on the path to extreme wealth.

Our admittedly unscientific study of the 657 self-made billionaires we counted in February for our list of the World’s Billionaires yielded some interesting results.

First, a significant percentage of billionaires had parents with a high aptitude for math. The ability to crunch numbers is crucial to becoming a billionaire, and mathematical prowess is hereditary. Some of the most common professions among the parents of American billionaires (for whom we could find the information) were engineer, accountant and small-business owner.

Consistent with the rest of the population, more American billionaires were born in the fall than in any other season. However, relatively few billionaires were born in December, traditionally the month with the eighth highest birth rate. This anomaly holds true among billionaires in the U.S. and abroad.

More than 20% of the 292 of the self-made American billionaires on the most recent list of the World’s Billionaires have either never started or never completed college. This is especially true of those destined for careers as technology entrepreneurs: Bill Gates, Steve Jobs, Michael Dell, Larry Ellison, and Theodore Waitt.

Billionaires who derive their fortunes from finance make up one of the most highly educated sub-groups: More than 55% of them have graduate degrees. Nearly 90% of those with M.B.A.s obtained their master’s degree from one of three Ivy League schools: Harvard, Columbia or U. Penn’s Wharton School of Business.

Goldman Sachs has attracted a large share of hungry minds that went on to garner 10-figure fortunes. At least 11 current and recent billionaire financiers worked at Goldman early in their careers, including Edward Lampert, Daniel Och, Tom Steyer and Richard Perry.

Several billionaires suffered a bitter professional setback early in their careers that heightened their fear of failure. Pharmaceutical tycoon R.J. Kirk’s first venture was a flop–an experience he regrets but appreciates. “Failure early on is a necessary condition for success, though not a sufficient one,” he told Forbes in 2007.

According to a statement read by Phil Falcone during a congressional hearing in November, his botched buyout of a company in Newark in the early 1990s taught him “several valuable lessons that have had a profound impact upon my success as a hedge fund manager.”

Several current and former billionaires rounded out their Yale careers as members of Skull and Bones, the secret society portrayed with enigmatic relish by Hollywood in movies like The Skulls and W. Among those who were inducted: investor Edward Lampert, Blackstone co-founder Steven Schwarzman, and FedEx founder Frederick Smith.

Please visit Forbes.com to check out the  full list of billionaire clusters by clicking  here.

Forbes.com is the original owner of the content in this article.

I once heard from a song once, “Don’t ask for permission, ask for forgiveness.” Look how far that went for Christopher Columbus. For God’s sakes, we have a day off to celebrate his futile efforts. So before I say what I’m about to, I’M SORRY. This is kind of going to change your life.

Always the jovial optimist, I wanted to express my concern and quarantine my negative feelings of the spread of an epidemic more bubonic than what plagued Europe in the 14th century. Often times, education and practice will guarantee you to be a master of the English language. The formula is simple: put 10,000 hours into a craft, and become a master. (That rounds out to about 417 days; chances are you are a master 100 fold by now) Almost everyone across the board has put in this amount of time into engaging conversation with others, writing, reading, public speaking, and I hope THINKING. But everyday, I lose more hope than George W. in people. It seems as though everyone’s vernacular is involuntary rather than voluntary. We are captains of our own ships; yet why are so many people missing the boat?

Let me illustrate this behavior first before I spill the beans. What is the inherent difference between urinating and vomiting? Both are considered excrement that help combat disease, infection, and a hang over. Yet urinating is voluntary. I remember aimlessly walking 30 city blocks holding my pride and piss, refusing to be a savage and succumb to peeing in an alley way. Instead, I opted for the civilized route, to have enough patience to see a yellow M awning and go to the McBathroom, supersized. That was a voluntary decision. For my 21st birthday, I wasn’t so lucky. It was an ominous night of revelry and imbibing, leaving my friend Pat with chunky streaks that was the sum of 21 shots that included SoCom lime, Tequilla, and General Tso’s Chicken. If it was voluntary, I’m sure it would have ended in the toilet, and not a “Pat on the back.”

One: I apologize for being extreme in my illustration. Two: again I’m sorry; for I’m about to say will change your life.

There is such beauty in the English language. We have options. The second edition of the Oxford English Dictionary boasts some 173,000 words plus. I have infinite beef with two.
It came to my attention in my last year of grad school. Here I am, among some of the smartest people that ever made an imprint in my life, with a sickening disease of diarrhea in the mouth, including myself. It is a word that everyone says INVOLUNTARILY, AND IT IS…

A C T U A L L Y.

Think about it for 30 seconds to yourself.

HOW MANY TIMES HAVE YOU SAID IT TODAY?

HOW MANY TIMES HAVE YOU HEARD SOMEONE SAY IT IN CONVERSATION WITH YOU?

Now think about this. Really, really think.

How many times was it a conscious decision for you or the other party to say it? The dictionary defines it as “In act or in fact; really; in truth; positively.” ACTUALLY, IT HAS BECOME OBSOLETE. IT HAS TURNED TO NOTHING BUT A FILLER, THAT GIVES SOMEONE TIME TO THINK. I petition it to be banned from colloquialism permanently.

The phrase “you know” is no better. Listen to yourself speak next time, see how many times you say it, along with the person that’s speaking to you. If we both knew, we wouldn’t talk about it, now would we?

I’m not here to preach. I’m just making an observation that everyone is sick. Today, I can report that I haven’t used the “A” word except when I’m voluntarily trying to prove a point. I have been sober for two years running, and I encourage others to step forward. As for “you know”, everyday, I use it less and less. PRACTICE MAKES PERMANENT. I have the same beef with uhhh, but that is much harder.

Remember less is more.

This is just food for thought. Y’all do the dishes.

“It is better to remain silent and be thought a fool than to open one’s mouth and remove all doubt.” ABRAHAM LINCOLN, SIXTEENTH PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA.

Bridget Foley of WWD is questioning  where the love has gone for big name designers like Donna Karan, Calvin Klein, and Ralph Lauren. She claims that it would be a great boost to a fashion industry in economic crisis and fashion designer Oscar de la Renta couldn’t agree more.

“American fashion right now is struggling,” says Oscar de la Renta. “I think I understand what [Obama and her advisers] are doing, but I don’t think that is the right message at this particular point….I don’t object to the fact that Mrs. Obama is wearing J. Crew to whatever because the diversity of America is what makes this country great. But there are a lot of great designers out there. I think it’s wrong to go in one direction only.”

He also took a jab at the outfit the first lady wore to meet Queen Elizabeth: “‘You don’t…go to Buckingham Palace in a sweater.‘”

Donna Karan took a more positive tone:

“I hope and believe that this is just a moment,” says Karan. “And I hope to be able to dress her, and not only dress her but address her, sit down — I’m interested in her totality as a woman.”

And Vera Wang also weighed in:

“I love seeing young designers and their vision and how they grow and all of that,” she says. “On the other hand, of course, I wish she would consider some of us, because I think we also have contributions to make.”

Michelle Obama’s style has been a big focus since election night. Her desire to go with designers outside of the high fashion beltway has garnered her praise from most and criticizim from many.  We will see if the 1st lady will at some point choose to wear a more high end label.

All-New BMW X6 M and BMW X5 M Make World Debuts in 2009

Woodcliff Lake, NJ – April 5, 2009… The modern, sustainable legacy of BMW M GmbH began in 1985 when engineers placed the snarling, race-bred inline-6 engine from the M1 supercar into the production BMW 5 Series sedan, reworked the suspension and brakes, and created the first M5. Through this industry-first combination of attributes, the M5 redefined the capabilities of a sedan with levels of power, precision, balance, and linear control never before imaginable. Since then, finding new ways to expand the boundaries of what is possible with existing BMW models has been the singular purpose of the craftsmen at BMW M. Now the BMW X5 M and the BMW X6 M are the first all-wheel-drive models to offer the remarkable performance, dynamic driving experience, athletic design, and premium quality of a BMW M product.

Both models are powered by a newly-developed 4.4-liter V8 M engine delivering 555 hp at 6,000 rpm and 500 lb-ft of torque from 1500 to 5,650 rpm. This new M engine is the world’s first with a pulse-tuned exhaust manifold encompassing both rows of cylinders combined with high-performance twin-scroll twin turbo technology.

For the X5 M and X6 M, engineers at BMW M pushed the capabilities of BMW’s intelligent xDrive all-wheel-drive system and the Dynamic Performance Control system to manage the power and performance potential of these two new vehicles. The special M suspension includes Adaptive Drive and newly-developed Servotronic power steering. These features combine to push the limits of what was previously possible with a sports-oriented vehicle, and guarantee driving behavior characteristic of a BMW M product: incredible stability and precisely controlled steering qualities abound throughout the performance envelope.

The BMW X5 M and BMW X6 M set new standards of acceleration, lateral grip, steering response, balance, and stopping power among high-performance activity vehicles. Both models accelerate to 60 mph from a standstill in 4.5 seconds and feature impressive delivery of power from the V8 twin-turbo engine which provides maximum torque of 500 lb-ft from 1,500 and 5,650 rpm. From a handling standpoint, both vehicles are notable for superb balance through careful tuning of xDrive, Dynamic Performance Control, and Dynamic Stability Control with M Dynamic Mode for linear buildup of cornering forces. These capabilities place the performance of the X5 M and X6 M on par with the performance of other recent BMW M vehicles.

The athletic character and amazing performance abilities of the BMW X5 M and X6 M result from levels of development never before applied to this type of vehicle. As it did when creating the original M5, BMW M has once again shown that applying new technologies and innovations to a solid BMW production vehicle type will produce startling performance and an exhilarating drive. Both of these new models offer capabilities and dynamic driving experiences which are quite unique, and promise to provide thrills from everyday traffic to the race track.

Exterior Design: BMW M heritage reflecting function, purpose, and style.
The outstanding potential of both models is communicated clearly in their looks and design, their performance-bred heritage presented convincingly by the common design of the front end with its large air intakes.

The hood, front air dam, and headlights are virtually identical on the BMW X5 M and X6 M. Both models feature special gills in the front fenders, as well as model-specific 20-inch light-alloy wheels. The signs of distinction of BMW M are presented in individual style at the rear, confirming the athletic character of each model. The rear diffuser on each model communicates a particularly powerful presence, and the quad tailpipes of the exhaust system are again a signature of BMW M’s masterful work.

Compared with the standard BMW X5 and BMW X6, the body-color surface area on the side skirts are designed to place greater emphasis on their road-going orientations. On both models the body designs fulfill major functions in terms of aerodynamics and the carefully controlled flow of cooling air.

The first modern turbocharged M engine: twin scroll twin turbo technology with a patented exhaust manifold.
Using BMW’s innovative, 4.4L reverse-flow V8 engine with High Precision Direct Injection and twin turbochargers as a basis, the new M engine introduces twin-scroll twin turbochargers and patented exhaust manifold technologies to achieve outstanding thrust and pulling force, while preserving the most compact dimensions possible. Two low-mass twin-scroll turbochargers are positioned together with the catalytic converters in the “V” section between the two banks of cylinders. By reversing the flow of gases through the engine from traditional arrangements, the intake and exhaust ducts are shortened and widened. The result is that pressure losses on the exhaust side are minimized.

The goals: virtually eliminate turbocharger lag while maximizing combustion efficiency and power output. Tremendous power and performance are delivered by the engine in the BMW X5 M and BMW X6 M through a new design and construction principle. The new M V8 engine with twin-scroll twin turbo technology uses a single exhaust manifold with tuned-length runners, incorporating both cylinder banks and connecting cylinders in carefully-selected pairs. This configuration, patented by BMW M and known as Cylinder-bank Comprehensive Manifold (CCM), offers lightning-quick response, a linear build-up of engine power, and a broad, consistent torque curve by feeding each of the twin turbochargers with a “charge pulse” at approximately every 90 degrees of crankshaft rotation, rather than the more traditional “irregular schedule” of charging.

The managed flow of exhaust gas provided by the CCM ensures high-velocity flow of combustion gases. The appropriate separation of exhaust gas flow from different cylinders is maintained until the gas reaches the turbine wheel, spooling the two twin-scroll turbochargers without back-pressure. With maximum boost pressure of 1.5 bar (21 psi), the use of twin-scroll twin turbo technology and the CCM exhaust manifold allows complete exploitation of the benefits of turbocharging.

Immediate response and remarkable thrust characterize the new V8 twin-turbocharged engine from BMW M GmbH. The impressive onset of power is accompanied by unique, engaging engine sounds that accentuate the quick-revving characteristics with the dynamic acoustic effect typical of a BMW M product. The sounds are always civilized, but transform from relatively calm to extraordinarily intense as the boost and revs build from idle.

Reflecting the tremendous power of the engine, the turbocharged M V8 is equipped with an advanced cooling system developed specifically for the two new models. One notable feature in this context is the presence of two high-capacity water-to-air intercoolers which consistently optimize performance under the most demanding driving conditions. An aluminum oil sump exclusive to BMW M with a special finned surface guarantees optimum cooling at all times even under an extremely demanding style of driving.

The turbocharged M V8 engine develops its outstanding power with remarkable efficiency. In addition to BMW’s High Precision Direct Injection, both the BMW X5 M and the BMW X6 M are equipped with a range of technologies from BMW’s EfficientDynamics engineering strategy. These include on-demand control of the electric fuel pump, an on-demand compressor for the air conditioner, and a flow-controlled supply of hydraulic fluid to the Active Roll Stabilization system. By operating these features specifically on demand, energy waste is minimized. The engine fulfills the requirements of the US LEV II standard as well as the EU5 requirements in Europe.

M Sports Automatic and M shift paddles on the steering wheel.
Featured for the first time on a BMW M model, the 6-speed M Sports Automatic transmission enhances the high-performance character of the BMW X5 M and the BMW X6 M through its instantaneous response, direct connection to the engine, and a high degree of shifting comfort. The new M Sports Automatic is commanded by an electronic selector on the center console and offers the driver not only the Drive mode, but also Sport and M Manual modes for absolute control of gear selection.

Aluminum pull-style paddles on the steering wheel exclusive to BMW M allow manual shifting (Right for upshifts, Left for downshifts). Upshifts occur significantly quicker than in the past thanks to new technology that reduces torque in the transmission through momentary deactivation of individual cylinders. This significantly enhances the athletic character of the vehicle. In the M Manual mode, each chosen gear is held up to redline in order to give the driver perfect throttle-steering control of the vehicle under the most demanding driving conditions. The transmission does not upshift or downshift automatically in this mode. A further option in the M Manual mode is to activate the Launch Control feature, which enables the driver to accelerate from a standstill with maximum performance. To activate Launch Control, the driver stops the vehicle, moves the gear selector into the M/S position and activates the Sports Power mode, as well as the M Dynamic mode, or respectively, the DSC-Off mode. Then, with the transmission in stage M1, the driver presses down the brake pedal and moves the accelerator to at least 60% throttle, setting Launch Control to standby. Standby status is confirmed by “starter’s flag” symbol in the instrument cluster. As soon as the driver releases the brake pedal, the vehicle will accelerate with full power in “genuine racing style.” In the process, the M Sports Automatic transmission automatically upshifts at the ideal points, with the fastest possible shifts and optimum wheelspin control. The driver may terminate the Launch Control process at any time by reducing the throttle position.

BMW xDrive and Dynamic Performance Control with a special M setup for optimum dynamics.
The outstanding success of BMW’s intelligent xDrive all-wheel-drive technology is based on quick, electronically-controlled power distribution to the front and rear axles. When combined with the superb, near 50-50 static weight distribution of any BMW, xDrive can prevent the tendency for the vehicle to oversteer and understeer as long as possible, reducing the need for Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) to provide electronic assistance.

BMW’s Dynamic Performance Control was presented for the first time in the BMW X6 and is now featured in the BMW X5 M and the BMW X6 M. Put succinctly, Dynamic Performance Control enhances driving stability in demanding situations and is thus perfectly suited to a powerful M vehicle. Vectoring of torque between the right and left rear wheels (both on throttle and off) significantly improves steering precision and tracking stability at all speeds, with DSC being required to stabilize the vehicle only under extreme lateral acceleration. Ultimately this offers the driver an unparalleled standard of performance, agility, balance, and traction, and re-establishes the benchmarks in drivetrain and suspension technology for all types of performance-oriented vehicles.

In the BMW X5 M and BMW X6 M the potentials of both xDrive and Dynamic Performance Control are maximized by BMW M, with the driver able to activate the M Dynamic Mode (MDM) with the DSC button on the center console or the steering wheel-mounted M Button. This mode raises DSC thresholds of intervention and ensures throttle-steering behavior typical of BMW M by shifting the xDrive bias more to the rear and involving the Dynamic Performance Control in the process. A pictogram in the Control Display in the instrument cluster allows the driver to monitor the activity of Dynamic Performance Control and xDrive through a clear visual depiction, which shows the driver how much power is being distributed to each wheel.

As a result, M Dynamic Mode allows maximum speeds in bends and on winding roads with the DSC system intervening only when the vehicle reaches the absolute physical limits of grip. Even under maximum load in the apex of a bend, the vehicle follows steering inputs with tremendous precision, giving the driver very high speeds when exiting a turn in the interest of optimum performance. Last but not least, DSC may be completely deactivated by experienced drivers at the touch of a button.

Beyond the stabilizing effects of Dynamic Stability Control provided by individual brake activation and engine power reduction under extreme conditions, DSC in the BMW X5 M and BMW X6 M includes a wide range of additional features tuned to BMW M standards to promote safe and exciting driving. These include ABS anti-lock brakes, Trailer Stability Control, Hill Descent Control, Dynamic Brake Control which maximizes brake force when required, Cornering Brake Control for advanced trail-braking, Brake Fade Compensation for extreme driving conditions, automatic Brake Drying when the windshield wipers are activated, Start-Off Assistant for driving on steep hills, and a braking function for use by the standard cruise control.

Both vehicles come with an electrohydraulic parking brake which features the Autohold (Auto H) function. Auto H is a convenience feature that holds the vehicle in position as soon as it comes to a stop at an intersection or in stop-and-go traffic, without requiring the driver to hold constant pressure on the brake pedal. As soon as the driver touches the accelerator again, the brake is instantly released.

M Suspension with standard Adaptive Drive.
The suspension developed specifically for the BMW X5 M and BMW X6 M with its double-wishbone front control arms and integral four-link rear axle offers M-specific geometry and damping. This is accomplished through optimized control arm and A-arm bushings at the front, as well as stiffer axle support mounts at the rear.

As part of the advanced Integrated Chassis Management system which networks all drivetrain and suspension components, both models feature standard self-leveling rear air suspension and Adaptive Drive with Electronic Damping Control (EDC) and Active Roll Stabilization (ARS). The special version of Adaptive Drive tailored to the requirements of BMW M lowers the entire vehicle by 10 millimeters or 0.4″ versus the standard BMW X5 and BMW X6.

To quickly and reliably process data, Adaptive Drive uses the high-speed FlexRay data transmission protocol. FlexRay enables Adaptive Drive to transfer data through the vehicle’s on-board network at an extremely fast rate. This enables lightning-quick changes to settings for individual shock absorbers, swaybars, and other components as conditions and driving demands warrant. For example, if the front wheel encounters a bump, the system responds quickly enough before the rear wheel reaches the same bump. On the X5, X6, and 7 Series, BMW is the first carmaker in the world to use FlexRay as a regular technology.

The special Servotronic steering developed for the BMW X5 M and BMW X6 M provides variable steering assistance geared to the road speed of the vehicle. This allows the driver to negotiate parking maneuvers with lower effort while preserving exact feedback and the highest standard of steering precision at higher speeds.

The degree of power steering assistance is defined by two control maps. Apart from the standard configuration, the driver is able, through the Adaptive Drive button or the M Drive button on the steering wheel, to call up the Sport Mode. This activates a sports driving control map with higher control forces for particularly dynamic driving conditions.

When changing from Normal to Sport Mode, the system alters not only the Servotronic steering control map, but also the damper setting, with the shock absorbers of the vehicle being significantly stiffened in Sport Mode. In conjunction with Active Roll Stabilization, this allows an exceptionally high standard of linear lateral forces in dynamic bends and on fast, winding roads, and keeps body roll to a minimum.

M Brakes and tires to match the M Power.
Outstanding stopping power with fade reduced to a minimum is guaranteed by the high-performance M brake system, which combines giant four-piston fixed calipers at the front with floating calipers at the rear, combined in each case with large, internally-vented lightweight brake discs. The brake rotors themselves measure 15.6″ in diameter at front and 15.2″ at rear. They feature a riveted connection to join the aluminum rotor hats with the cast-iron rotor discs.

The BMW X5 M and the BMW X6 M are the only vehicles of their type equipped with staggered-size tires front and rear, running on 20-inch light-alloy wheels. The choice of runflat tires in sizes 275/40 R 20 at the front and 315/35 R 20 at the rear is a result of the special setup of both models, with the emphasis on rear-wheel power and dynamic handling balance. This promotes exceptionally good transmission of power to the rear axle and precise, razor-sharp steering behavior of both models. Transitional stability is also world-class.

Maximum performance at the touch of a button: M Drive button on the steering wheel.
In addition to the DSC mode (On, MDM, or Off) and the specific setup of the shock absorbers and Servotronic steering, the driver may also configure the setup of the drivetrain on the BMW X5 M and the BMW X6 M. Activating the Power mode influences both engine and transmission behavior, and the driver can choose from the Sport and Efficiency driving programs. The Sport program allows precise control of engine power under the most dynamic driving conditions, and ensures a linear build-up of the power delivery. The Efficiency program, in turn, upshifts at earlier points not only to significantly reduce fuel consumption under normal driving conditions, but also to allow a relaxed style of driving by taking advantage of the new M engine’s prodigious torque and power available from low engine speeds. The result, therefore, is an ideal combination of flexibility for daily use and all-out performance when desired.

When customizing the response of the steering wheel-mounted M Drive button, the driver uses the M Drive menu to preselect the desired Power Mode and the setup of DSC and EDC, making a personalized combination of settings that can be activated on-demand. The driver’s favorite setup settings are saved and subsequently activated at any time simply by pressing the M Drive button on the steering wheel. Pressing the M Drive button again returns the vehicle to its previous configuration.

M-specific cockpit and sophisticated driver assistance systems for even greater ability at the wheel.
The BMW M philosophy naturally continues into the design and configuration of the driver’s “office.” Both of these all-wheel-drive high-performance sports vehicles come with a special M cockpit with the instrument cluster featuring a variable redline, specific vehicle function displays, and white display backlighting. Both the BMW X5 M and the BMW X6 M feature power, heated front M sport seats, an M sport leather steering wheel, M door sills, and driver’s footrest.

Infotainment functions, standard on-board Navigation with Real-Time Traffic data and communication functions are all controlled by BMW’s 4th-generation iDrive. The standard HiFi audio system features 12 loudspeakers and a 230 watt amplifier. In addition, both the BMW X5 M and the BMW X6 M may be equipped with a Head-Up Display programmed specifically by BMW M. This option enables the driver to customize the type and scope of data projected onto the windshield through settings available in the M Drive menu.

Innovative driver assistance systems are fitted as well, with both models featuring standard Dynamic Cruise Control, Rain Sensor, Auto-Dimming Mirrors, Park Distance Control, and BMW’s Xenon Adaptive Headlights. The list of optional features includes a Driver Assistance Package which includes High-Beam Assistant, Head-Up Display, and Rear View Camera with the spectacular new Top View feature. Top View provides the driver with an “birds-eye view” of the vehicle on the iDrive control screen, using input from a camera on each side of the vehicle and the traditional rear-view camera. Top View provides the driver with additional confidence for tight parking scenarios.

Stable bodyshell and advanced safety equipment.
The BMW X5 M and BMW X6 M come with extremely stiff bodyshells. To ensure maximum solidity, BMW’s body engineers focused on the use of intelligent lightweight materials technology. Both the choice of materials and the arrangement and geometry of the support bars, braces, and mounts on both models are based on an overall concept that combines maximum crash safety with supreme agility – which helps avoid crashes in the first place. At BMW, the ability to avoid a crash is the best safety feature of all.

Forces acting on the unibody in the event of a crash are diverted through the engine carriers and the chassis along several load paths in order to avoid extreme loads acting on individual structures and help keep impact energy away from the stable passenger cell.

Both the BMW X5 M and BMW X6 M come with frontal and hip/thorax airbags, as well as curtain head airbags to protect the occupants both front and rear from injury. Three-point inertia-reel seatbelts are at all seating positions with force limiters and, on the front seats, an additional seatbelt pretensioning function. To help protect occupants from cervical spine injury in the event of a rear impact, the front seats feature crash-activated active head restraints. ISOFIX child seat anchors are standard on the rear seats.

All restraint systems are controlled by the vehicles’ central safety electronics, which take the type and severity of a collision into account so that the most effective safety elements are activated in any given crash. The frontal airbags feature two-stage activation, to allow deployment in varying intensity as a function of crash severity. Networked with Dynamic Stability Control, the standard rollover sensors activate both the curtain airbags and the seatbelt pretensioners, to ensure occupants are best positioned for and protected from the unlikely event of a vehicle rollover.

After much speculation, Rolls Royce has taken the wraps off of it’s upcoming 200EX sedan. The 200EX, which was at the center of many an internet rumor, was announced by Rolls earlier in February and will be on hand for the 2009 Geneva Auto Show. The 200EX will be the companies first “baby” rolls since having been purchased by BMW. Built on the new BMW 7-series platform the 200EX spans 212.6 inches long, 83 inches wide and 61 inches tall, with a wheelbase of 129.7 inches. A new air suspension system hides behind the seven-spoke, 20-inch wheels, with the front hoops wrapped in 255/45 tires and the rears coated in 285/40 rubber. Rolls remains mum on engine details, only saying that the 200EX is powered by a new V12.

Just when you thought you had enough of Kanye West, with his fashion week appearances, his new girlfriend and his American Idol performance, he’s back keeping the spotlight solely on him. Kanye West, via Louis Vuitton, has launched his all too exclusive sneaker line set to release in June, and he definitely wasn’t thinking of the recession when you see the price (courtesy of Nice Kicks). Kanye’s release of his kicks marks his first dabble into the world of fashion.

Kanye West for Louis Vuitton – Don’s – $870

Kanye West for Louis Vuitton – Don’s – $870

Kanye West for Louis Vuitton – Don’s – $870

Kanye West for Louis Vuitton – Don’s – $870

Kanye West for Louis Vuitton – Don’s – $960

Kanye West for Louis Vuitton – Jasper’s – $990

Kanye West for Louis Vuitton – Jasper’s – $990

Kanye West for Louis Vuitton – Jasper’s – $1140

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He is lampooned by the UK press for his hats and kilts but fashion bible Esquire has named Prince Charles as the world’s best dressed man.

The 60-year-old Prince of Wales eclipsed smart dressers Barack Obama, tennis champ Roger Federer and the robe-wearing Kuwaiti royal Sheikh Majed al-Sabah to take this year’s title.

Aside from the sometimes comic head gear the British heir to the throne is forced to wear when visiting tribal chiefs or Commonwealth nations, Prince Charles was admired for his suits from Saville Row tailors Gieves and Hawkes.

Esquire concluded his favoured double breasted suits showed he was a man of style, impeccably dressed befitting his position as heir apparent.

“He is perfectly turned out in a double-breasted suit,” magazine judges stated.

“Admirably, the Prince keeps his wardrobe in appropriate style: we’re told he has a room laid out like a tailor’s shop.”

Charles was also admired for his accessories usually including a pocket handkerchief, silk tie and shoes by John Lobb, where they cost more than $6000 a pair.

The royal’s sartorial elegance pushed comic Ronnie Corbett – described as “always immaculately turned out” – into second while “stylish” British actor Bill Nighy came third. Mr Obama came fourth in the list.

Both Prime Minister Gordon Brown and London mayor Boris Johnson were criticised for their poor clothing choices.

“Gordon Brown turned up in the Iraqi desert wearing black lace-ups and Boris Johnson wears odd socks, has jacket pockets like second-hand bookshops, and hair the result of an encounter with a ghost in a wind tunnel,” judges reported.

Esquire editor Jeremy Langmead said: “It’s the men who dress like grown-ups who really caught the judge’s eyes this year; as well as those who have developed their own distinctive style and stuck with it.

“I love the fact that we have such a diverse list: from artists to royals, to one of the Two Ronnies.”

Federer was described as easily the best dressed player on the circuit providing “old-fashioned Wimbledon elegance” while actor Adrien Brody dressed “in a manner that suggests he enjoys clothes”.

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Getting tired of your 6-suit rotation for work? Don’t be afraid to mix or match any longer.  From New York to Paris, designers are sending mix-n-match separates down runways this season. Perhaps this is the answer to our recession styling prayers.

There are many perks to wearing separates. Usually the pants portion of our suits wears much faster than the jacket, but by mixing and matching you can increase suit longevity and add some style to your wardrobe.

Two very important factors to think about when matching separates; color and texture. Start simple by wearing a patterned jacket with a plain colored pant, especially if the pants are a color found on the jacket.  Another good tip is to buy separates made by the same designer. They will more likely mix and match easier, and with a little bit of color from a button down, you can make a multitude of outfits from only 3 or 4 pieces. Color is a huge issue. The slightest difference in color shades can turn chic into discolored very quickly.  Instead try brown and khaki, black with grey or pinstripe, and for that prep-school look, try a blue jacket with khaki pants.

The recession’s widening influence is now causing turbulence in the sky.  Over the summer when the airline industry went on a fee binge, charges were tacked on for any service imaginable. In a desperate attempt to cut the bottom line, U.S. Airways even started charging for non-alcoholic in-flight beverages. But after seven months of non-complimentary drinks, the airline has decided to reverse the in-flight beverage fee.

So why the sudden change?  MSN Money reports: “Well, in this airline’s case, it was more about what didn’t happen. First, other airlines didn’t follow US Airways’ lead. Sure, they were fine with fees for checking bags and other things, but they drew the line when it came to charging for drinks. Second, passengers didn’t accept the fee. It became about more than a soda.”

Granted an in-flight soda will only run you a few bucks, but in our current economy, adding any black to your bottom line is helpful.

Check out pics of Maserati’s new model, the 2009 GranTurismo S Automatic, which is set to reveal this week at the Geneva Motor Show (March 5-15, 2009).  The car’s stunning exterior stays true to Maserati’s unique design while packing a powerful engine an a six-speed ZF automatic transmission for a smoother driving experience.

The engine, same as the GranTursimo S, is listed as:

4.7-liter V-8

433 hp at 7000 RPM

361 lb-ft of torque at 4750 RPM with a 7500 RPM redline

Read more about this impressive machine here in the Automobile article by Andrew Peterson.

With the recession hitting our pockets hard, consumers are opting to stay at home rather than fork over their hard earned pennies for food delicacies.  Tom Coliccho, head judge of the of the Bravo reality TV show Top Chef and co-owner of the Craft restaurant empire, has a solution to our financial woes. Now, Damon Wise, executive chef of Craft, the restaurant will host a weekly Friday dinner that features inexpensive tapas style meals. Craft, known for its haute cuisine, fine ingredients, and celebrity chef, comes with a hefty price tag.  Just a few months ago, Coliccho introduced Tom’s Tuesday Dinner, where the busy chef would prepare an expensive impromptu tasting menu for a select few every other Tuesday, which started around $150 per person. Damon’s Frugal Fridays, which will be held in New York City at the 47 East 19^th Street private dining room, offers a wide range of food and beverages that all cost under $10. And don’t think just because it’s frugal that it’s not fancy, the 9 category menu includes such items as fried quail in a chutney and roasted garlic puree, four cheese risotto balls, and octopus, golden pineapple, and duck ham on a stick. Unlike the 6 week in advance reservations needed for most of the Craft restaurants, Frugal Fridays is first come first serve. Beware, there are already rumors of 2 hour waits, but try the “19^th Street Headache,” a lethal cocktail offered on the Friday menu that will make the wait much easier and at $4 each, you can afford to have a few.

Damon: Frugal Friday 47 East 19th Street, between Broadway and Park Avenue New York, NY http://www.craftrestaurant.com/

Paris– Thousands of onlookers gathered yesterday at the Grand Palais to view the extensive Yves Saint Laurent, Pierre Berge art collection.

The 733 piece collection–predicted by the Associated Press to collect between $250 million-$380 million– was previewed over the weekend and is being auctioned through Christies.com fine art auction.

But in the midst of a global financial and credit crisis, many wonder who will be willing and able to participate in what many observers believe to be the “auction of the century.”

This auction is being shown live at christies.com

Below are some of the images from the auction.  

Not considered a four-door coupe by its makers, the 2012 Lamborghini Estoque will be what Manfred Fitzgerald, head of brand and design, calls “the world’s first supersedan.” Revealed at the Paris Auto Show, the stunning Estoque will be the maker’s third model and Lamborghini’s only sedan in what execs call the maker’s quest for a third leg.  “The [exotic car] business is quite volatile,” claims Lamborghini CEO Stephan Winkelmann. “So three legs are invariably better to stand on than two. That’s why we have been thinking for several years about a third model to complement the Murciélago and the Gallardo.”

“In the end, we decided on the four-door supersportwagen. Despite its unconventional architecture, it perfectly matches our key brand values, and research tells us that it will work in all markets – especially in Asia and Russia, which will soon account for one-third of our total sales volume. Perhaps most important, it addresses a very wide customer base, from sports car aficionados with families to style-conscious businessmen with full-time chauffeurs. To satisfy these clients, who are used to the space, comfort, and convenience of a full-size luxury sedan, we created a generously roomy car free of head- and legroom compromises.”

Read more about this impressive machine here in the Automobile article by Georg Kacher

Photography by Peter Burn