Experience has taught us what to expect when it comes to pre-production cars. Precisely because of their role as development mules, they're imperfect, usually a little rough around the edges, and typically battled scarred from the moment they're created. Someone should probably tell RML...
This is its first Short Wheelbase, Car Zero, just completed and now set for "an intensive durability programme" as part of testing for a 30-unit production run. Seems a shame that something this flawless must now lead a life as development hack, but at least getting the V12 Short Wheelbase up to snuff ought to be a pretty rewarding job for the RML team. Plus, of course, making it this good already allows those 30 lucky buyers to get a glimpse at what they're buying.
You'd take it just like this, right? Timelessly stylish but with modern touches (the size of the wheels, most notably) and some wonderful details (look at those exhaust pipes), the wait looks almost certain to be worth it. As a reminder, the RML is using a few key bits from a 550 Maranello, including the 485hp V12 and six-speed manual gearbox, with a shape and interior adapted to make it comfy for, apparently, anyone up to six foot six. With Bluetooth, too.
RML promises more to follow from the test programme as it progresses. All being well, production of the £1.35m (plus taxes) Short Wheelbase will be underway later in the spring, with each car taking six months to build. Naturally, any combination of colours and trims will be accommodated, but with blue and cream coming out this well, don't be surprised if more than a couple of buyers choose to replicate it.
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