INGEAR
Prepare for some high-speed action in the world of motorsports this month
Perfect Porsche is a must-have
Only the Porsche Cayman could compete with the sumptuous Hostellerie Au Vieux Hêtre
When the call came from Robert Dedouaire, one of Belgium’s most notable chefs, to dine at his Hostellerie Au Vieux Hêtre in Jalhay, close to Spa- Francorchamps – home of the Belgian Grand Prix – it coincided with our week-long test drive of the Porsche Cayman.
Ferraris, Maseratis an d Aston Martins have all made their way to Jalhay, 30km from Liège, many driven by Formula One stars such as former world champions Alain Prost and Mika Hakkinen. But few have made a bigger impression among the diners overlooking the car park than the Cayman.
It’s a real beauty, enjoying the finest aspects of the Porsche 911 and Boxster, but with an identity all its own. Its behaviour, first on the straight-line dash from Brussels, then around the narrow and hilly approach to Jalhay, was impecca ble, with a rewarding return of 30mpg. It would have topped 250kph if we’d wanted to attract the attention of the traffic police.
For desirability and residuals, it far outstrips its rivals, the BMW Z4 Coupe, Mercedes CLK and Volvo C70. The 2.7-litre, petrol, two-door, mid-engined coupe is priced at around €51,500, and is worth every penny. porsche.co.uk
France turns to Alesi for F1 youth drive
Grand prix legend Jean Alesi is determined to break France’s lack of representation in Formula One. The former Ferrari ace, who contested 201 races in a career spanning 12 years, is leading an initiative to promote young French drivers into the top flight.
“La Tricolore has been too long without a full-time driver in F1,” says the 42-year-old Frenchman. “We must change that situation.”
For a country that boasts four world championships, and 79 race wins by 12 different drivers, it’s a sad situation.
Alesi, who started more grand prix than any other French driver, is leading the French Federation of Motorsport’s programme to find, develop and progress young home-bred talent in his wheel-tracks.
“I shall be the captain of a team of six young drivers who’ll be tutored in every aspect of F1, including fitness and how to handle themselves, as well as making sure they get the best possible return from their talent,” he says.
Star stays on track
World Superbike star James Toseland has shelved plans to become a pop star. Despite being signed by Sony, the 26-year-old member of Dutch team Hannspree Ten Kate Honda has remained true to his love of motorcycles. He says: “I had a terrific offer to switch to music, but motorcycle racing is my first passion and I want to win the title again.
“I know people think I’m crazy – my mother and all my family certainly do – but racing is in my blood. I can’t help myself.”
Lambo hits the brakes
If you want to get your hands on a brand new Lamborghini, you’d better get your order in quickly
Here’s a unique twist to sales targets – a car manufacturer that intends to sell fewer models this year.
Italian car giant Lamborghini has announced it’s putting the brakes on production of its supercars.
Last year, the marque enjoyed a massive 20% boost in sales of its €166,140 Gallardo and the Murcielago, which has a price tag of nearly €270,000. Now the company says it is planning a slowdown in the number of cars it sells.
The reason? “We’re aiming to protect the mystique of the brand,” says chief executive Stephan Winkelmann.
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