Sure, some may think of Germany and comment on their seriousness, but there was a point in the 1980s when a very different side of Germany was brewing, one that would rock the automotive scene for decades, inspiring generations of tuning companies to push the envelope that little bit further. This exact topic is the focus of WAFT's latest book, wonderfully titled ‘Spoilers, Foxtails and Mullets’.
Sure, every country had its fair share of car customising firms during the 1980s, many of which specialised in specific brands or models, but Germany outshone its rivals while building upon the tradition of German engineering excellence, ensuring their tuned cars weren’t just jaw-dropping to look at, but were meticulously crafted into true works of functional rolling art.
Prepare to smile at the outrageousness, laugh at the lack of consideration, and raise your eyebrows at the astonishing creativity from this unique period and subculture which, after decades of disdain, is finally getting the praise and recognition it deserves. We’ve waxed lyrical about it for years now, but all it takes is a flick through the sales results of the biggest auction houses to see pre-merger AMGs and vibrant Ruf models fetching almost six-figure values, something the humble founders could only dream of back in the 1980s.
Written by renowned automotive author Christopher Butt, the book takes a deep dive into a myriad of tuned rides. From Ferrari to Porsche, Mercedes-Benz to Aston Martin, no brand was safe from the tuners and willing clients during this era. Not only was it a chance to make a visual statement, but the cars boasted lavish power, endless width, flashy go-faster colours, giga glitzers, gold and diamonds; you name it, these cars had it. Expect to find insights into brands like Abt, Alpina, AMG, Arden, Brabus, Gemballa, Hartge, Irmscher, Kamei, Koenig Specials, Mattig, Nothelle, Oettinger, Rieger, Ruf, Schacht, Schulz, SGS, Strosek, Treser, Zender and many, many more!
The book is now available in both a regular, 336 page version that’s limited to 1,000 copies, as well as a limited edition bound to just 250 numbered copies only. It’s finished with a luxury slipcase and is supplied with ein tolles tuning kit: a foxtail, a WAFT Tuning keychain, a boysroom dream poster and a WAFT Tuning baseball cap. Get your copy today in the CD Shop!
