Every two years, thousands of visitors from Arab and Asian countries converge on Dubai, whose International Convention and Exhibition Centre plays host to the largest and most exclusive automobile exhibition in the Middle East. This year, Gemballa will present both the Mistrale and Tornado at the event on November 10th-14th.
If the highest levels of individuality and exclusivity are some of the requirements for greatness, then these offerings from Gemballa surely qualify:
The Gemballa Tornado, based on the Porsche Cayenne (958)
The Gemballa Mistrale based on the Porsche Panamera(970)
The Gemballa Tornado and the Gemballa Mistrale undergoa near-complete reconstruction of their outer bodyshells, with the majority of the steel panels replaced by light and strong carbon-fibre equivalents made to Gemballa’ s unique designs.
“We have significantly reduced weight, but without compromising strength, safety or comfort,” explained Andreas Schwarz, CEO of Gemballa GmbH. “Rather than cutting into the steel panels and bonding on new parts, as is common in the aftermarket industry, we completely replace entire panels with bespoke carbon-fibre ones that use the original mounting points,” he said. “These new panels, which include the bonnet, front wings, doors, front and rear bumper/valance, save a total of 70kg.”
The big wheel arches are filled with Gemballa’s 22-inch multi-spoke alloy wheels. Forged rather than cast, these wheels are stronger than the original 20-inch OE equivalents, but are around the same weight.
The new high performance brake system was developed in collaboration with Brembo, exclusively for the Mistrale and Tornado. Massive 411mm cross-drilled, vented discs with six-piston monoblock calipers in front are partnered by 380mm cross-drilled, vented discs with four-piston fixed calipers at the rear.
The first stage of power upgrade for the twin-turbo V8 engine provides 580hp for the Cayenne/Tornado, and 610hp for the Panamera/Mistrale. The latter conversion is accompanied by a healthy 850Nm of torque.
Really power hungry customers can opt for Stage 2, which gives both cars 721 hp, and around 1,000Nm of torque. This significant output is achieved through the use of larger turbochargers, a modified intake system, high efficiency intercoolers, sports exhaust, free-flow catalytic converters and bespoke ECU remapping.
“Optimised efficiency and bespoke high quality components allow us to achieve this impressive output on a relatively low 1.1 bar of boost,” said Schwarz. “The relatively low stress imposed on the engine ensures long term durability and reliability in everyday use.”
Gemballa interiors are world renowned, and the cabins of these cars showcase the company’s skill and craftsmanship, with perfectly colour-co-ordinated upholstery fashioned from the finest leathers and Alcantara.
Only 30 each of the Gemballa Tornado and Gemballa Mistrale models will be made for selected customers.
Source: Gemballa
