Supercar makers need to do things differently today than just a decade or so ago. Back then, you see, the concept of a supercar was a bit simpler. It was about power and as much of it as technically possible. Today, the power element remains vital, but like so many other cars, supercars are now being jam packed with electronic technology. Everything from sat/nav infotainment units to complex computer-regulated engines are the name of the game today.
And that's fine, but for many purists the added technology takes something away from the raw simplicity of those old Ferraris and Lamborghinis. Ironically, both of those automakers are now at the forefront of those very advanced technologies. For better or for worse, that's simply the way it is now. But there are a few supercar builders who still subscribe to that almost now ancient formula. Enter Rossion Automotive. Founded by Ian Grunes and Dean Rosen, they developed what they saw as their ideal supercar which should have the perfect balance between performance and luxury.
Their project began in 2007 by acquiring the rights to the Noble M400 with the goal of designing an all-new car that had the power of the M400 but with more luxury. The result was the Q1, which features a redesigned body with a new front-end, integrated air intakes, and even ram air side window ducts. Rossion also added a rear diffuser and a flat under tray in order to create chassis downforce that improves high speed grip and stability. Additionally, the Q1 has some add-ons such as power windows, remote power side mirrors, and even an infotainment system. However, the true heart of the car is the engine.
Powered by the same mid-mounted twin-turbocharged Ford Duratec 3.0-liter V6 as the M400, it has 450hp and about 400lb-ft of torque. It can go from 0 to 60 mph in just 3.1 seconds and can hit 100 mph in a blazing 7.7 seconds. Top speed is 189 mph. Power is sent to the rear wheels via a six-speed manual transmission (read: no PDK, paddle shifters, etc). And now we've just found one of these rare Rossion Q1s up for sale on eBay. This particular 2009 model has just 3,500 miles on the odometer and has a blue exterior and black leather/Alcantara seats.
In addition, it has a lightweight forged one-piece Monoblock 18-inch aluminum wheels, back up camera, premium Kenwood audio system, a full integrated roll cage, and even three-point seat belts. The seller is claiming the car has never been in an accident and the paintwork is flawless. At the time of this writing, there's a current bid of $18,100. However, a new Q1 usually runs in the $130k range, so it's fair to say the seller is looking for an amount much higher than what's currently being offered. Pictures courtesy of debarros2000