Words: Charlie Thomas
Every summer, the world’s richest petrol heads come together to participate in a mammoth 3000-mile automotive rally, which sees them race through countries all over the planet. Given that the entry fee is £40,000, only those with a high net-worth tend to take part, but this does mean that the wealthy owners bring out some of the finest and rarest cars on the planet, which can only be a good thing for the spectators.
The range of cars that take part is truly diverse, with everyone trying to show off their rides to enthusiastic crowds at checkpoints across the planet. This also means that plenty of outrageous machines are on show too, so we thought we’d take a look some of them in more detail.
BATMOBILE TUMBLER, , Who wouldn’t want to get behind the wheel of a Batmobile? This street-legal replica of the one used in the Dark Knight trilogy features a powerful V8 engine and mammoth tyres, which wouldn’t look out of place on a tractor.
BRABUS SUPER 6 700 6X6, , Outrageous in every sense of the word, this Brabus 6-wheeler is a showstopping machine of luxury, power and aesthetic dominance. Rising high above most of the other cars in the rally, it boasts a 690bhp V8, so despite its immense 4-tonne weight, it can still rocket from 0-60 in 4.4 seconds.
REBELLION R2K, , The Rebellion R2K is based on the already well-sorted Ultima GTR, but the standard power output wasn’t quite enough for its creator, Jon Olsson. He fitted the car with a V10 Lamborghini Gallardo engine tuned to deliver a maximum of 1000bhp and, as the car only weighs around 1050kg, it’s more than likely this is one of the fastest cars to ever compete in the Gumball 3000. Of course, we can’t overlook its Le Mans car styling, which makes it look race-focused and menacing in equal measure.
SHELBY COBRA CSX400 427 S/C, , In standard form, the Cobra is an absolute classic and although this one looks fairly original on the outside, it’s what’s under the bonnet that really grabs our attention. Powered by an 800bhp, 925 lb-ft torque Shelby V8, this baby can fly, hitting 60mph from a standstill in just 3.1 seconds.
MCLAREN P1, , The P1 has already achieved legendary status among the automotive world. It borders on technical genius with its active aerodynamics, complex hybrid system, and unique carbon chassis. This particular car features a unique paint job that was designed specifically for the 2014 Gumball 3000, and although we’d rather go without it, there’s no denying that it adds an extra dimension to the car.
Become a Gentleman’s Journal Member?
Like the Gentleman’s Journal? Why not join the Clubhouse, a special kind of private club where members receive offers and experiences from hand-picked, premium brands. You will also receive invites to exclusive events, the quarterly print magazine delivered directly to your door and your own membership card.
