Autoblog

So many people view the Dalai Lama as a symbol of peace, humanity and compassion, and if those qualities aren't worthy of recognition, we don't know which ones are. Who knew he was an off-roader or closet car enthusiast, though? We recently discovered that the Dalai Lama Foundation has listed the 1966 Land Rover once used as transportation for the holy figure on eBay. The sale of the completely restored vehicle will go 100% towards the organization and its cause. The auction winner not only gets the immaculate vehicle, but also a three-day Buddhism study session with the Dalai Lama himself and a meeting with Sharon Stone. We hope the winner asks Ms. Stone what she was thinking making Basic Instinct 2... oh yeah, and enjoys his or her enlightening time spent with the Dalai Lama. We hear he's the Dalai-est of Lamas of ever.

[Source: eBay]

After doubling production over 2005 totals, Spyker is reporting that it should show a profit for 2006. Although coming in just shy of its target of 100 vehicles, the 94 cars sold last year should be enough to get them in the black. The number of orders written has grown from 191 at the end of 2005 to 327 at the end of last year.

Spyker is also hoping that the high visibility of its Formula 1 entry will help attract even more new customers. The Dutch automaker sells several versions of its jewelry-like 2-seat sports car at prices starting around $325,000. With Audi engines putting out 400+ hp and very lightweight structures, the cars are incredibly quick. The cars are pretty striking in person. In fact, a Spyker was the vehicle of choice for Sharon Stone's character in Basic Instinct 2. Spyker also still intends to build a production version of its Super Sport Utility Vehicle, the SSUV, that debuted at last year's Geneva Motor Show.

[Source: Automotive News, sub req]