Maik Hahn - Aug 04 2024
The Arrival of the Marsien: Ushering in a New Era of Super Cars
In a bold move that is shaking the foundations of the supercar world, Marc Philipp Gemballa GmbH has unveiled the Marsien, a groundbreaking vehicle that is rewriting the rules of what a supercar can be. Limited to just 40 units, the Marsien has already captured the imaginations of enthusiasts in over 16 countries, establishing a new benchmark in the realm of high-performance cars.
The Marsien is not merely a car; it is a symphony of engineering excellence and visionary design, brought to life by countless hours of dedication and passion. This exceptional vehicle, inspired by the legendary Paris-Dakar rally era, is designed to conquer both the most demanding off-road terrains and the sleekest city streets. The Marsien’s journey from concept to reality involved extensive testing across some of the planet’s most extreme environments. From the freezing glaciers of Scandinavia to the blistering sands of the Arabian desert, this car has proven its mettle under conditions that would leave lesser vehicles trembling.
Captured at the French Riviera
Imagine this: you’re behind the wheel, navigating the treacherous icy slopes of Sölden one day, and tearing through the unforgiving dunes of the UAE the next. The Marsien’s namesake was inspired during a particularly grueling test in the Al-Faya desert. The red sand and rugged landscape evoked the surface of Mars, leading to the car's evocative name. This connection to the red planet isn’t just a catchy marketing ploy; it symbolizes the Marsien’s capability to thrive in the most hostile environments on Earth.
Underneath its sleek, futuristic exterior lies one of the Marsien’s most impressive features: its bespoke double wishbone suspension system. Crafted by engineers who have honed their skills on the rally circuits and GT races, this suspension setup includes over 30 individual components milled from solid aluminum. The system features KW Automotive’s cutting-edge solid piston damper technology, which provides intelligent active damper control and an adjustable ride height system. Whether you’re blitzing down a highway or crawling over rocky trails, the Marsien adapts with ease, and for those with a taste for opulence, the suspension components can be anodized in gold.
The MARSIEN Production Line
Wheels are where the rubber meets the road—or the sand, mud, or snow—and the Marsien doesn’t disappoint. Equipped with specially designed forged aluminum wheels, the car comes ready for any challenge. These wheels are paired with Michelin Ultra High Performance (UHP) tires for the tarmac and Grabber AT 3 All Terrain tires for when the road ends and the adventure begins. For those who prefer a more road-focused setup, the optional Lightweight GT wheel set offers enhanced performance and a visual flair. Each wheel set features 24-carat gold G crest caps, adding a touch of elegance to the Marsien’s rugged persona.
The Marsien’s full carbon fiber body is a marvel of modern engineering, reducing the vehicle’s weight by an impressive 50 kilograms compared to its Porsche 992 Turbo S base. Each panel, crafted by German carbon fiber specialists, is designed for maximum performance and durability. Clients can personalize their Marsien with exposed carbon fiber finishes, available in gloss, matte, or tinted variations, ensuring their vehicle is as unique as their fingerprint.
The paintwork on the Marsien is nothing short of extraordinary. Inspired by the polar caps of Mars, the vehicle’s four-layer blue pearlescent finish is a visual feast, shifting color with the light and angle. This bespoke paintwork not only enhances the car’s aesthetic appeal but also underscores its connection to the Martian theme. The rear light, developed in collaboration with GERG Lighthouse, integrates technology used in the European missile defense system, adding a layer of futuristic sophistication to the Marsien’s design.Stepping inside the Marsien, you are greeted by an interior that is the epitome of luxury and customization. The raised center console and aluminum gear stick harken back to the golden age of sports cars, offering a tactile, analog driving experience. Clients can choose from a range of materials, including carbon fiber, mahogany, leather, and Alcantara, to tailor the interior to their taste. Each Marsien is uniquely numbered, adding to its exclusivity and bespoke nature.
Powering the Marsien is a formidable RUF-engineered six-cylinder boxer engine, delivering a staggering 750 horsepower. For those who crave even more power, an optional upgrade boosts this to a jaw-dropping 830 horsepower. BMC’s specialized air filters ensure optimal performance in dusty environments, while Akrapovič’s titanium exhaust system provides a symphony of sound that matches the car’s aggressive performance.
Each Marsien is a bespoke creation, crafted to meet the unique desires of its owner. From custom exterior colors to personalized interior finishes, every detail is tailored to perfection. The level of customization available ensures that every Marsien is a true reflection of its owner’s personality and taste.
The Marsien made a grand debut at the Fuori Concorso event at Lake Como, followed by a stunning photoshoot on the French Riviera. These locations not only highlight the Marsien’s elegance and performance but also connect to Marc Philipp Gemballa’s rich automotive legacy.
Article credit: Maik Hahn - Information provided by Marc Philipp Gemballa. BonnetMagazine is not responsible for the information above.