| http://www.motorcities.com/contents/05FH0005007551.html
17 June 2005
smart LAUNCHES RARE AND RACY RCR
A racy, limited edition roadster-coupe is just launched, paying homage to the V6 bi-turbo roadster BRABUS, smart announced today.
Only 50 of these exclusive models are available worldwide, and each is numbered individually. Modelled on the jaw-dropping good looks of the prototype, V6 twin-engined, roadster BRABUS, the new roadster-coupe racing edition (RCR) has bespoke racing red body panels and silver tridion. To complete its sleek looks, the front and rear grille and rear roof spoiler are also in racing red.
The engine of the RCR also packs a punch, with a retrofit BRABUS SB2 power upgrade kit, bumping the power output to a thrilling 111 bhp per tonne.
The hand finished, exclusive interior of the RCR includes BRABUS leather and Alcantara sports seats, trimmed with stitching to match the racing red exterior. BRABUS has added an aluminium gearshift, handbrake handle and pedal pads, three-spoke steering wheel with paddle shift, BRABUS floor mats and red accent parts to complete the luxurious finish.
Jeremy Simpson, Head of smart in the UK and Ireland, said: "smart’s relationship with BRABUS allows us to build bespoke tailored vehicles and bring them to market at the best possible prices. The RCR is a thrilling and desirable special edition and pays homage to the V6 bi-turbo, which we were inundated with requests to buy even though the car was never officially on sale."
More than 1000 roadster models have been sold in the UK this year, taking the total since launch to 5,561.
Since the announcement that roadster production will end prematurely, experts are predicting it will become a classic, collectable sports car. Jeff Paterson, Senior Editor at Glass’s Guide, said: "The roadster is innovative and will be quite sought-after and collectable now. It could creep up in classic status because it has been withdrawn so early in its life."
Simpson continued, "The roadster has captured the hearts of many sports car enthusiasts and models have been selling better than ever since we announced production was stopping at the end of the year. There are now under 1000 new cars left to sell and we have already seen prices of used roadsters rising this year."
The 50 RCRs go on sale in June, priced £17,295 otr.
| |