Cars sport,sport Cars,Insurance car,Game racing

2010 Audi R8 5.2 FSI Quattro: Check This Car Out!

2009-09-17T20:02:00.000-07:00

Now I know that the 2010 Audi R8 5.2 FSI Quattro is not the typical Audi car that you see, but it is definitely a sports car and an exceptional at that! This car is definitely one of the best cars in the world if you are looking for speed and I have to say that the overall look of this particular car is absolutely incredible!

I mean, while this car is decked out all over the place and it is absolutely one of the most fashion-forward cars on the market – well, going to be on the market. While this car might have debuted last yesterday, it is still at the top of the charts in the way of sports cars!

So if you want something that is incredible, stylish and overall beautiful, check out the 2010 Audi R8 5.2 FSI Quattro (or the upcoming Audi R8 Spyder, another great newcomer from Audi)!

Knowledge about the car insurance in Thailand

2009-07-20T12:32:00.000-07:00

DEPARTMENT OF TRADE He split the insurance is issued.

Car insurance compulsory.
Car insurance voluntary sector.
Car insurance compulsory.
The details are as follows:
Compulsory car insurance (Compulsory Motor Insurance) refers to the type of car insurance law, car owners who use or have a car to use. Must provide insurance for the damage. Victims by insurance companies with reinsurance law that allowed the assembly. Types of car insurance business. The government is intent to make the protection of life. Body of people affected is significant.

Type vehicles to Act
Car insurance by Act to include all types of vehicles of all types of cars under the law. Law of the Land Transport. Law of the military vehicle owners are using or have used it. Whether it will go by car is the engine power or other energy, such as automobile, motorcycle, Motor tricycle vehicle passenger locomotive tow truck trailer car steamroller, but e etc.
Therefore, the Department of Transportation vehicle for certain types of land are not registered. If a car is that engine power is with walking or other energy. Arranged for a car to the insurance Act

Cars do not have insurance Act
1 car only for the king his heir apparent and regent
2 Car palaces of the Bureau of Registration And the Secretary-General has formally palaces.
3 Car departmental Department of the Ministry of Government and various military vehicle.
4-car unit of the administrative organization established by the Constitution. Administrative agencies and independent of any organization listed in the Constitution.

Who are responsible for the Act guarantees
1st victims of car, including People from all the affected vehicles. Whether the driver. Passengers pedestrian If it is damaged for life due to physical health caused by car accidents. Will be protected by this Act.
2, heirs of victims above. Case victims died.

Replacement of the affected funds.
Replacement of the affected funds. Established Victims Protection Act of 2535 The car is responsible to pay damages to victims initially. If victims do not receive a refund from the insurance company. Or car owner that does not provide insurance. Or can not be called from anywhere and then escape as car accident or car owner that does not provide insurance do not pay damages, etc. The damage is paid to basic medical treatment cases injured as $ 15,000 less than actual treatment. and cremation costs $ 35,000 the number of death cases, but if victim was injured and later died later. Victims of death will be treated as medical treatment does not exceed actual costs and $ 15,000 $ 35,000 including the number of cremation, not exceeding a total of $ 50,000 initial filing obtain damages from the Fund. Victims or heirs must be filed within 180 days from the date the damage occurred.

You can learn more from http://www.doi.go.th/opmv/index.html.

Car insurance voluntary sector.
Car insurance is not a law enforcement. Depends on the satisfaction of the insured risk and the idea that they will spread out the risk to others is the insurance company assurer The insured can choose the protection assured by the desire The insurance company will issue insurance provided as evidence. The protection of the conditions and exceptions to the Registrar approval

Voluntary automobile insurance sector is divided into 3 main categories:

Insurance type 1 (Comprehensive) The Company will pay ค่าสินไหมทดแทน:

o protect the person liable to life outside the body. As well as passengers in car insurance.

o liability protection to property of third parties.

o damage the protected vehicle.

o fire protection and loss of the vehicle.

Only 2 types of insurance protection for third party liability. And loss of the car and fire by the 1, 2 and 4).

3 types of insurance protection only liable to third parties by the 1 and 2).

Car Insurance For College Students

2009-06-21T10:42:00.000-07:00

Car insurance for college students provides vehicle coverage to individuals who are studying toward a degree. Finding and selecting car insurance for college student programs is relatively easy, especially if the parents are involved in the process. To find inexpensive coverage, it is very important for the individual to maintain a good driving record. Also, many programs will provide benefits for an individual with good grades. With the cost of insurance and education so high, it is very important for any individual attending college to seek an affordable and comprehensive policy.

If the parents are involved in this process, finding a policy will be much easier, and often, less expensive. As long as the individual is not over a certain age and still enrolled in school, most companies will allow the child to remain on the parents policy. Receiving car insurance for college students should start with the parents current company. If they do not have a program that will offer car insurance for college student programs at a good rate, there are several more companies that will fit the needs of the clients.

A good driving record is very helpful when pursuing vehicle coverage. Tickets, accidents, parking citations, and anything negative attached to a driving record will put a blemish on the individuals driving record. When seeking car insurance for college students, any such negative mark on the record will be seen as a risk to the company. When risk becomes a factor, the cost of coverage will likely be increased by a large sum of money.

Many of these programs provide the option for a discount for good grades. Usually, the average grades must be a B average before the discount is given. This discount can save quite a bit of money and will depend on the discretion of the company. Along with this discount, many other discounts may exist, depending on the company, state, or college in which the student is attending. It is very important to review and research all available information when pursuing car insurance for college students.

Finding the right coverage program for someone attending college can be difficult. There is a great need for the individual to use their knowledge and discretion to find the best car insurance for college student program. With so many companies and policies available, the best deals and options can often blend together making it difficult to tell the difference between providers and plans. In this case, the student must pray for guidance from the Lord in order to choose the best path for them. "Then they cry unto the LORD in their trouble, and he bringeth them out of their distresses." (Psalm 107:28)

For more information: http://www.christianet.com/autoinsurance

How To Get Cheap Car Insurance

2009-06-17T11:02:00.000-07:00

With gas prices being the way they have people all over the country have started to get creative with their finances and the costs associated with auto travel.

Prices vary from company to company, so it pays to shop around. Get at least four to five price quotes. You will find that there are several websites out there that can save you the time from doing this the slow and hard way as they will often get you quotes from up to a dozen companies all at once. You can call companies directly or access information on the Internet. Your state insurance department may also provide comparisons of prices charged by major insurers. And no, companies like Progressive that claim they will compare other companies, but they are an insurance company, so they are not to be trusted. They only have one interest, and that is to promote their own business.

Bigger is not always better. There are several low cost automobile insurance companies offering competitive rates in relation to the big names out there. This makes it possible to save a bundle on this expense. Many people seem to ignore this cost and tend to accept the burden of expensive insurance even when monthly payments almost match a car payment. In one case, I lowered my car insurance rates by about 50% when I found a good local company (I had switched from a really big name company).

One of the best ways to get cheap car insurance is simply to use a service that forces insurance agents and brokers to compete against one another. At the end of this article is one example of such a site. As soon as you finish your online quote request, multiple agents will contact you. But it is important to NOT sign up with any one of them immediately-Instead, let them know that you are awaiting calls from other local insurance providers. After 5 or so of these people have contacted you, you should have a good idea of what sort of range you might expect to pay.

Then, if you really want to get the cheapest car insurance possible, simply tell the agents that you are ready to buy within the next 24 hours with whichever company offers you the lowest insurance rates. This really puts the fire under them, and is sure to create the most optimal pricing for you. Of course, be sure to carry through on your promise.

If it makes sense, you may want to consider getting a bundle package. Basically, see what it might cost to insure not only your car, but also your home, property, health and life insurance. This can save a person around 10% - 30% depending on the company you go with; and it does make paying your bills easier as well.

Oh, and one more tip, remember that the more info you provide upfront, the more accurate your quotes will be, and the more likely the insurance companies will be responsive to your inquiry. This is especially true when filling out a quote from multiple companies.

2009 Jaguar XF midsize luxury sports car

2009-06-11T01:47:00.000-07:00

The Jaguar XF is a midsize luxury/sports car made by Jaguar Cars. It was launched in the United Kingdom for the 2008 model year after being seen as a concept car in 2007 at the North American International Auto Show. One of the stunning features of the XF is its oval chrome grille, a call back to Jaguars from the 1960’s. Many components on the XF were borrowed from other lines in the Jaguar family. The sub-structure of the XF was carried over from the S series. The suspension and mountings are the same as those used of the XK. While there is no manual transmission option for the XF its six speed automatic gearbox shifts 10% faster than before.
The XF is fully decked out with a leather interior. Minor systems such as the lighting and the glove compartment operate by a simple touch on a plastic cover.

The Jaguar XF is a midsize luxury/sports car made by Jaguar Cars. It was launched in the United Kingdom for the 2008 model year after being seen as a concept car in 2007 at the North American International Auto Show. One of the stunning features of the XF is its oval chrome grille, a call back to Jaguars from the 1960’s. Many components on the XF were borrowed from other lines in the Jaguar family. The sub-structure of the XF was carried over from the S series. The suspension and mountings are the same as those used of the XK. While there is no manual transmission option for the XF its six speed automatic gearbox shifts 10% faster than before.
The XF is fully decked out with a leather interior. Minor systems such as the lighting and the glove compartment operate by a simple touch on a plastic cover.

2009 Jaguar XF midsize luxury sports car

The XF is one of the most aerodynamic cars offered by Jaguar. It was designed to be that way before any concept car even made it to the wind tunnel. The XF has a drag coefficent of 0.29. The front to rear life balance is precisely zero. This ensures that the XF glides on the road and also increases the XF’s fuel efficiency. The XF’s standard audio system consists of eight speakers backed up by 140 Watt amplifier. For those purchasing a higher end model of the XF there are two other audio packages boasting even more audio equipment for your enjoyment. There are four different models of the XF available in the U.K., including a diesel model. In the U.S. there were over 3,000 per orders for the XF and there are three models available. They range in price from 50,000-63,000. The Jaguar XF is a car that is imposing but sports some great stats.

EUROPA i6 MID 2010 LOTUS CONCEPT CAR

2009-05-26T12:29:00.000-07:00

This is a concept from South African designer Idries Noah the Lotus Europa i6 which looks a bit like the Elise/ Exige.
The Europa i6 concept study is a mid-engined, rear wheel drive sports car inspired in terms of design by the classic Europa and Elite as well as by the latest Lotus models. The independent designer supports that ideally, the Europa i6 would weigh in at about 2,030 lbs (920 kg) with power coming from a 2.0-liter supercharged inline six-cylinder engine.
In theory, he says that the sports car would sprint from zero to 100 km/h (62mph) in 7 seconds and on to a top speed of 165 mph or 265 km/h. Leaving aside the theoretical technical specs, Idries’ take on a compact mid-engined Lotus sports coupe hits the spot. Too bad it exists only in the digital world.
“I really liked the old classic Europa with the high rear section. It had character. The latest version looks very similar to the Elise/ Exige, not quite Europa. I decided to give it my own take. Inspired by classic Lotus cars, Europa and Elite. Also taking some current Lotus trends into consideration. It’s called the 2010 Europa i6.” Idries Noah said.

2010 Peugeot 3008 compact and spacious crossover

2009-04-20T00:28:00.000-07:00

The Peugeot 3008 is a compact and spacious crossover. It represents a new and innovative offer, not only in the Peugeot range but also in today's car market as a whole. Manufactured in Eastern France at the Sochaux manufacturing plant, its concept and specification has draw on all of Peugeot's expertise and values.
The Peugeot 3008 is positioned at the crossroads between several existing vehicles: the SUV, the MPV and hatchback. The car derives its strengths from this blend of motoring concepts while at the same adopting a number of new and original technologies (Dynamic Roll Control, Grip Control, etc) enabling it to combine specifications often deemed incompatible (driving pleasure inside a "tall" vehicle, improved traction while at the same time being eco-friendly, etc).
Through its non-conformist approach and its resolute styling, the Peugeot 3008, designed as a pioneering vehicle, offers an original solution and optimal versatility to customers in search of modernity, practicality and driving pleasure. Protective, versatile and status-enhancing, the Peugeot 3008, a crossover in all respects, opens up new motoring horizons.
The architecture of the Peugeot 3008 successfully combines a single-compartment body shape with a forward-positioned front windscreen with elements borrowed from the world of the SUV, such as its lower tailgate (or hobby), its plunging side windows and its raised driving position.
The vehicle's style achieves a harmonious fusion of these different genres. Its balanced proportions and dynamic and robust lines provide an indication of the car's innovative content. At the front, the Peugeot styling genes have evolved to adapt to the car's generous size, while at the rear the wide sculpted flanks help to visually attach the car to the road.
Depending on the trim level, the vehicle can have off-road styling elements, in particular inserts for the sills and lower panels.
Inside its spacious interior, the driver occupies an ergonomic and particularly luxurious driving position that calls to mind the world of the luxury coupé and has some similarity to the cockpit of an aircraft.

Passengers can enjoy a generous and extremely comfortable passenger compartment (in terms of design, seats, acoustics, etc), where each occupant will feel naturally at ease. For even greater interior brightness and visibility, they can benefit from a large glass roof measuring 1.60 m2.
Its Multiflex interior can be converted at will thanks to its 3-position load area floor and folding rear seats. With the latter folded, together with the front passenger backrest, the Peugeot 3008 offers a perfectly flat floor from the lower tailgate hobby to the fascia panel. Its load volume under the parcel shelf then increases from 512 litres (or 432 dm3 in the VDA standard) to 1,604 (or 1,241 dm3 VDA) behind the front seats.
To add to the tranquillity and safety of all its occupants, the driver can benefit, as standard or as an option, from technology that is rarely if ever seen in this market segment:

Head Up Display,
Distance Alert (helps the driver to respect a safe distance between the vehicle in front according to speed),
automatic electric parking brake, hill assist,
a range of telematic systems with satellite navigation.

THE PEUGEOT 3008, A CROSSOVER THANKS ITS UNIQUE DRIVING SENSATIONS AND INTELLIGENT OFF-ROAD TRACTION
Thanks to Peugeot's expertise and use of new technology, the Peugeot 3008 offers road holding qualities worthy of the best saloon cars, no mean feat for a "spacious and tall" vehicle. Every effort has been made to ensure class leading levels of road holding on all versions of the Peugeot 3008, without in any way sacrificing passenger comfort. Indeed the Peugeot 3008 will become the new benchmark in the world of spacious, compact vehicles in terms of driving pleasure and active safety.
It achieves this through its excellent body rigidity, large wheels and suspension comprising of a McPherson type front suspension and a rear suspension consisting of a rear torsion beam.
Combined with two of the most efficient engines (the 1.6 litre THP and the new 2.0 litre HDi FAP), the Dynamic Roll Control system, fitted to the rear suspension, sets new standards in terms of body roll control while still retaining optimal damping characteristics.
Another innovation is the Grip Control system. Consisting of an advanced traction control system and special Mud & Snow tyres, it optimises the traction of both front wheels of the Peugeot 3008 for real off-road driving. The driver controls the system by means of a knob with five settings: Standard, Snow, Off Road (Mud/Dirt/Wet Grass), Sand and ESP off.

THE PEUGEOT 3008, AN ENVIRONMENTALLY-FRIENDLY CROSSOVER
At an early stage of the project, the search for optimal environmental efficiency was a major priority, especially as the vehicle was a crossover.
Particular attention was paid to the car's aerodynamics (Cx of only 0.296), weight optimisation (lightweight materials, laser welding, etc) and Michelin tyres with a low rolling resistance (derived from the Peugeot 308) are fitted to most versions.
At the heart of the Peugeot 3008's eco-efficiency, its six power trains feature the most advanced technologies in the market segment, both for petrol (with the 1.6 litre VTi and THP engines developed in co-operation with the BMW Group) and diesel versions (1.6 and 2.0 litre HDi fitted with a diesel particulate emission filter). Fuel consumption on the most eco-friendly version is therefore reduced to only 4.9 litres/100 km or 130 g/km of CO2.

In 2009, the Peugeot 3008 range will be as follows:

HDi FAP diesel:
1.6 litre HDi FAP 80 kW (110 bhp), 240 Nm, 6-speed manual gearbox - CO2: 137 g/km
1.6 litre HDi FAP 80 kW (110 bhp), 240 Nm, 6-speed electronically-controlled manual gearbox - CO2: 130 g/km
2.0 litre HDi FAP 110 kW (150 bhp), 340 Nm, 6-speed manual gearbox - Euro 5, CO2: 146 g/km
2.0 litre HDi FAP 120 kW (163 bhp), 340 Nm, 6-speed automatic gearbox - Euro 5, CO2: 176 g/km
Petrol:

1.6 litre VTi 88 kW (120 bhp), 160 Nm, 5-speed manual gearbox - Euro 5, CO2: 165 g/km
1.6 litre THP 110 kW (150 bhp), 240 Nm, 6-speed manual gearbox - CO2: 176 g/km, and the ..
1.6 litre THP 115 kW (156 bhp), 240 Nm, 6-speed manual gearbox - Euro 5, CO2: 170 g/km

Finally, from 2011, the Peugeot 3008 will be the first vehicle in the PSA Peugeot Citroën Group to benefit from HYbrid4 technology, as unveiled on the Prologue HYbrid4 concept car at the 2008 Paris Motor Show. This technology, representing a real breakthrough in terms of fuel consumption and CO2 emissions (in the order of a 35% reduction), it also allows four wheel drive thanks to front wheel drive provided by the HDi FAP diesel engine and rear wheel drive provided by an electric motor. The latter also allows an "all electric" drive mode, i.e. with zero emissions.

THE PEUGEOT 3008, A CROSSOVER YOU CAN FEEL SAFE IN
The Peugeot 3008 is designed to offer maximum safety in every respect:

primary safety is guaranteed by the high levels of road holding,
secondary safety is based on a particularly optimised structure (with three impact absorption structures or channels at the front and the fitment of Bogé impact absorbers) and efficient means of restraint (including six air bags),
tertiary safety is assured by the Peugeot Emergency service which can pinpoint the vehicle's location and dispatch emergency services in the event of an incident. This service, first launched in 2003, is available free of charge with the new WIP Com 3D telematic system available on the Peugeot 3008.

THE PEUGEOT 3008, A STATUS-ENHANCING CROSSOVER WITH AMBITIOUS QUALITY TARGETS
Based on the same processes first introduced with the launch of the 308, both perceived quality and driveability were made a priority during the design, development and manufacture of the Peugeot 3008.
For example, a major 3,000,000 kilometre on-road test programme is under way to gather information that will help to optimise the vehicle's quality at the time of its launch. Similarly, the number of quality control checks has been increased at each stage of production.
This constant drive for higher quality at all levels will also have a positive effect on the durability, reliability and running costs of the Peugeot 3008.
It will also have a direct effect on the "overall cost of ownership", an important factor for many owners and a crucial consideration for fleet buyers.
Running costs and the vehicle's residual value will also depend on the attractiveness of the car, its environmental efficiency and its repair costs, parameters for which the Peugeot 3008 has solid arguments in its favour.

THE PEUGEOT 3008, A CROSSOVER AVAILABLE IN A SIMPLE AND CLEAR RANGE
According to countries, the Peugeot 3008 range will be available in four trim levels. To offer the widest possible choice, it will be available in nine body colours and, according to trim level, two different ambiences: Tramontane (anthracite) or Guérande (bluish light grey). The latter come with cloth, leather or "integral leather" seats and fascia panel.

Nissan : GT-R (Skyline) 2009

2009-04-03T00:55:00.000-07:00

Drivetrain
Transmission 6 Speed DSG Manual
Layout Front Engine, AWD
Final Drive Ratio 3.70:1
Differential 1.5 Way Mechanical Limited Slip
Brakes Brembo 4 Wheel Disc - 15 in. Front and Rear

Engine
Horsepower 480 hp @ 6400 rpm
Torque 430 ft-lbs. @ 3200 rpm
Displacement 3.8 liters
Engine Type Twin Turbo 24V V6

Exterior
Length 183.3 in
Width 74.6 in
Height 54 in
Wheelbase 109.5 in

Performance
Acceleration 0-60 mph s 3.3 sec
Drag Coefficient 0.27

Honda 2010

2009-02-16T07:49:00.000-08:00

Honda has displayed two new concept cars at the L.A. Auto Show in the form of its REMIX small sport concept and the Step Bus MPV. The REMIX explores the shape and design of a two-seat sports car, which can double as a practical daily-driv

er. The low-slung car features a wrap-around canopy that adds a fighter jet-feel to the driving experience, an aluminum-color exterior that is both fluid and hard-edged.

Honda called on its Advanced Design Studio in Southern California to create the REMIX, which was done purely as a styling exercise. The car is built around a front-wheel drive chassis with four-cylinder engine and a six-speed manual gearbox.

The Honda Step Bus Concept is a highly configurable MPV with a futuristic interior, sliding front doors and space efficient design that lets people enter and exit in tight spaces. The Step Bus was designed to create the largest possible interior with the smallest possible exterior and was developed in a design studio in Saitama prefecture, Japan. The five-passenger interior features modular construction that is highlighted by tracks in the door that can hold beverage containers, cell phones and more.
Click ahead for more images and both press releases.

PRESS RELEASE 1:
Honda REMIX Concept Shines Brightly at Los Angeles Auto ShowStyling concept mixes sports car attitude with everyday functionality
The Honda REMIX small sport concept vehicle made its world debut at the Los Angeles Auto Show, American Honda Motor Co., Inc., announced today. The REMIX explores the shape and design of a two-seat sports car focused on agile and fun-to-drive performance that can also provide exceptional practicality as a daily driver.
Sports car in shape and design, the low-slung REMIX features a wrap-around canopy that adds a fighter jet-feel to the driving experience. The aluminum-color exterior accentuate

every line and curve in the geometric, yet fluid styling. Capable of delivering more than just driving performance, the rear storage area supplies generous cargo room.
“Pure Honda to the core, the REMIX concept vehicle focuses on a simple, lightweight and fun-to-drive philosophy,” said John Mendel, senior vice president of American Honda Motor Co., Inc. “The concept balances sports car virtues with real-world practicality.”

The REMIX Small Sport Concept is a product of the Honda R&D Americas, Inc., Advanced Design Studio in Southern California. Purely a design concept, the vehicle is fashioned around a front-wheel drive small car platform with a 4-cylinder engine and a 6-speed manual transmission. A sport suspension, along with aggressive tires and brakes, further supplement its performance side.
“The REMIX blends familiar Honda themes into a new, fresh design,” said Ben Davidson, REMIX lead designer, Honda R&D Americas, Inc. “Smooth and fluid surfaces provide a sports car identity to the geometric shapes that form the functional aspect of this vehicle.”
PRESS RELEASE 2:
Live Large in the Compact Honda Step Bus ConceptStyling concept takes ‘man maximum, machine minimum’ philosophy to the extreme
LOS ANGELES 11/29/2006 –
Designed around high energy lifestyles, the Honda Step Bus Concept represents the ultimate expression of Honda packaging prowess with a mid-engine design and a fully maximized and quickly adaptable interior.
The highly configurable, high-tech interior provides ultimate urban utility from the outside in. Sliding front doors with a space efficient design let people enter and exit in tight spaces. Although micro in exterior size, the cavernous interior can harbor large amounts of band equipment, sports gear and other bulky items.
“Following the traditional Honda theme of ‘man maximum, machine minimum,’ the Step Bus seeks to create the largest possible interior with the smallest possible exterior,” said John Mendel, senior vice president of American Honda Motor Co., Inc. “This innovative concept vehicle shows how large functionality can easily exist within small vehicle packages.”
The Step Bus Concept is a product of the Honda R&D Co., Ltd., Wako design center in Saitama prefecture, Japan. Purely a styling concept, the vehicle uses a mid-engine, rear wheel drive platform with a small displacement power plant. The 5-passenger interior features modular construction with a spacious interior. The modular construction is highlighted by tracks in the door that can hold beverage containers, cell phones and more. Advanced technology includes a next-generation navigation system. The tall body provides room for a ceiling-mounted storage tray. Painted in light green metallic, the body design embraces a bold vertical architecture style that creates a large presence within a small space.

MMI Avocet Car

2009-01-21T06:55:00.000-08:00

The MMI Avocet Sport Car is a new British sports car by MM Industries. The 2008 Autosport International Show at the NEC in Birmingham will be its first public appearance for the MMI Avocet.

The MMI Avocet has a 0 to 60 mph acceleration time of under 5.0 seconds. Re-tuned by Roush to develop 150 hp, the MMI Avocet is built around Ford’s 2-liter Duratec engine. With a special order, the MMI Avocet can be tuned to develop 225 hp and equipped with the same engine.

MMI’s new Avocet … British, good looks and affordable performance

A new British-built sportscar, which combines a stylish, ultra-lightweight two-seater body with exceptional chassis dynamics and awesome performance is unveiled at the 2008 Autosport International Show at the NEC in Birmingham. MM Industries, which now owns the former Strathcarron sportscar business, is presenting its production MMI Avocet two-seater during the show’s two trade days, prior to a public launch later in the year.

The MMI Avocet is displayed by Surface Transforms (Stand E304) - whose latest technology carbon ceramic brake system is fitted to the car. The system, which will be available as an extra cost option, reduces overall weight by 2.5 kilograms per corner, with a resultant improvement in handling and braking performance.

The car will be built in South Essex by the specialist automotive engineering and motorsport team which recently acquired the business of Roush Technologies in the UK. The vehicle will use selected Ford standard and performance parts, which will give the car a mature component inventory which is fully tested and proven in the market.

MMI has placed an order for a limited initial production run of the car, which now features a significantly restyled doorless moulded bodyshell and incorporates some of the latest lightweight composite materials. The standard car features a steeply inclined windscreen, although a very attractive low-line wrap-around aero-screened ‘Spyder’ version is also planned.

The standard powertrain incorporates a Ford 2-litre Duratec engine, recalibrated by Roush to suit the installation – and develop 150bhp. An uprated 225bhp version, developed by Roush’s Mountune performance division, will be available as a special order option. An all-up weight of around 700 kilograms will, in power to weight terms, position the MMI Avocet alongside the quickest – and, with a 0-60 time under 5 seconds, is expected to make the car extremely competitive.

Current plans include building around 50 cars in the first year – with both left and right-hand drive versions available. The car will be sold as a fully equipped, fully homologated road-going sports-car. MMI is keen to differentiate the

MMI Avocet from the cluster of kit and track-day cars which have visited the market over recent years. A high degree of ‘customization’ is to be offered – and extras for the car include a removable roof and exclusive detachable, fashion-styled travel luggage, which will clip into special cradles behind the cockpit.

‘The original ambition to develop and produce a small, lightweight British sports-car at an affordable price, has not changed. The MMI Avocet is an attractive looking car which uses core Ford componentry – all widely available off the shelf. As a result, the car possesses mature product handling, excellent drive-ability – and awesome performance. We believe that the MMI Avocet will satisfy the gap in the market which has remained unoccupied for far too long – for an affordable performance sportscar with proven volume market reliability’, says MMI Founder and Managing Director, Martin Miles.

‘The new production MMI Avocet retains the original Reynard designed chassis, subsequently further developed by Ray Mallock and Chapman – and it has exceptional structural rigidity. The redesigned one-piece body utilizes composite materials to provide remarkable strength combined with low weight. Add to that Roush’s experience of powertrain engineering, packaging and production – and we can be totally confident that this new car will fit the defined niche in the market for which our research has demonstrated that there is a significant demand’, says Miles.

New York Preview: 2009 Porsche Boxster RS 60 Spyder Limited Edition

2008-12-28T01:40:00.000-08:00

It’s no secret that Porsche’s Boxster was inspired by the German sports-car maker’s classic 550 Spyder racing model. And it’s also no secret that Porsche loves to run limited-editions of its popular roadster. The first generation Boxster (that’s 986 for those in the know) saw a special 550 Spyder commemorative edition made in limited numbers, while the current (987) Boxster has a North American-only special edition on the market now, of which only 500 examples were produced - all in Porsche’s GT3 RS Orange paint.

Now, yet another special edition has been produced that once again harks to the Boxster’s heritage. Based on the current Boxster S, the Boxster RS 60 draws its inspiration from the 550 Spyder’s successor, the Type 718 RS 60 Spyder. Produced for the 1960 racing season in which numerous class wins were achieved, the 718 RS 60 Spyder became known as a dragon-slayer after it scored its first overall victory at the 1960 12 Hours of Sebring, dominating over rival cars possessing significantly more power. And that’s kind of the point with the Boxster RS 60 Spyder as well.

Porsche won’t be coming to the Bologna Motor Show in Italy empty handed. Instead, the souls from Stuttgart will be unveiling a limited edition Boxster S that draws inspiration the automaker’s 1960 win at the 12 Hours of Sebring in the Type 718 RS.

The Boxster RS 60 Spyder comes swathed in GT Silver Metallic paint with a Carrera Red interior to match the #42 car it’s attempting to channel, along with a serialized silver plaque on the dash proclaiming its limited numbers and a new front spoiler. But it’s not just a bit of extra glitz heaped atop the already competent Boxster S. The stock rollers are swapped in favor of a set of 19-inch Porsche SportDesign alloys, the suspension benefits from Porsche’s Active Suspension Management system (PASM) and the flat-six is uncorked with a sports exhaust that bumps output to 303 HP.

Appropriately, only 1960 units will be available worldwide, with a base price of 53,000 euro abroad.

PRESS RELEASE

Porsche Boxster RS 60 Spyder Echoes Sporting Heritage

Porsche is presenting a new version of the mid-engined Boxster roadster at the Bologna Motor Show in Italy on December 5 - 16. In its distinctive design, features and philosophy, the Boxster RS 60 Spyder echoes the classic motorsport era of the 1960s, and in particular the success of Porsche sports cars during that period.

After countless class wins around the circuits of Europe and America, in 1960 the Porsche Type 718 RS 60 Spyder beat competitors with much larger engines to score its first overall victory in the 12 Hours of Sebring in Florida, USA, one of the most prestigious long-distance sports car races, courtesy of Hans Herrmann and Olivier Gendebien.

The new Boxster RS 60 Spyder reflects the sporting character and design purism of that successful mid-engined two-seater sports racing car. The RS 60 Spyder is based on the acclaimed Boxster S model, but differs significantly in terms of its performance and features.

Externally, the RS 60 Spyder is distinguished by a unique front spoiler and 19-inch diameter Porsche SportDesign alloy wheels, which spacer plates have moved outwards purposefully in the wheel arches. A modified sports exhaust system combined with dual tailpipes increases engine output to 303 bhp as well as adding further definition to the car’s appearance. Completing the sporting orientation to the driving experience is Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM) which adds further dynamism to the Boxster chassis.

Distinctive GT Silver Metallic paintwork is accentuated by the contrasting natural leather interior in Carrera Red. The roof is also finished in red. As an alternative, there is also the choice of Dark Grey natural leather in conjunction with a Black roof. The tail light clusters are also finished in red.

Inside, door trim strips made of stainless steel proudly bear the “RS 60 Spyder” model designation. The leather interior trim is further distinguished by a textured surface on the centre sections of the sports seats and the centre door linings, and this also extends to the steering wheel rim and handbrake lever. Completing the sporting ambience is a bespoke gear lever.

Complementing the exterior appearance, the faces of the instrument dials have a GT Silver Metallic finish and with this model not having the usual hood over the instrument cluster, the large central rev counter and the two circular dials on either side bring something of the flair of a racing car to the cockpit.

Further features include the windscreen surround finished in black, as well as the centre console, the seat backrests and the roll hoops all finished in GT Silver Metallic and thus harmonising with the seat belts also finished in Silver.

Reflecting its model designation, the Boxster RS 60 Spyder is limited to 1,960 examples, each one proudly bearing a silver-coloured plaque on the lid of the glove compartment.

The Porsche Boxster RS 60 Spyder will be priced from £45,400 including VAT, and deliveries in the UK and Ireland begin from March 2008.

2009 Fisker Karma

2008-12-14T11:40:00.000-08:00

Fisker Automotive, Inc., an American car company specializing in environmentally friendly, premium sports car company, unveiled its first production car, the Fisker Karma, at the North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) in Detroit.

The Fisker Karma is a four-door plug-in hybrid premium sports sedan that will be priced starting at $80,000. The first deliveries will commence in the 4th quarter of 2009 with annual production projected to reach 15,000 cars.

The car was named Karma because the car allows consumers to practice good Karma, driving a car that is environmentally friendly without sacrificing the extreme comfort and style of the luxury automobile category.

The Q DRIVE plug-in hybrid technology that was developed by Quantum Technologies exclusively for Fisker Automotive consists of a small gasoline engine that turns the generator, which charges the lithium ion battery pack, powering the electric motor and turning the rear wheels.

The hybrid technology allows the car to be driven emission free for up to 50 miles a day provided the car is charged every evening. If consumers follow this daily routine, they will only need to fuel the car only once a year.

The Karma was designed in such a way the battery pack is located at the center of the vehicle between the two axles, providing optimal vehicle driving dynamics, maximum safety, and proportionate design.

From the press release, the Karma’s luxurious interior features four individual first class seats, a modern and sophisticated interior design and a spacious luggage capacity that can fit two golf bags and luggage in the trunk. Other features include:

Electronic Aides: Navigation system, DVD system incorporated into seat backs and state-of-the art push button controls
Seating Comfort: Four individual “first class” seats
Driving Modes: The driver will be able to select between two modes of driving. The first mode is “Stealth Drive”, which is the quiet economy mode for optimal relaxed and efficient driving. By flipping the second paddle behind the steering wheel, the car will switch to “Sport Drive”, which will access the full power of the vehicle.
At the exterior, the Fisker Karma features structure and body panels that will be made of aluminum to keep the overall vehicle weight as low as possible, a new drive train configuration that will provide optimal weight distribution, low and wide stance, self-contained climate control, an option to purchase a set of solar panels for their roofs or garages where they can generate electricity during the day to charge the car overnight. Other features of the exterior from the press release include:

Exterior Panels: Extensive use of lightweight materials used for optimal weight and driving dynamics
Solar Panel Roof: The Karma will offer self-contained climate control, as consumers will have the option to purchase a full length solar roof that will help charge the car and provide cooling for the interior cabin while the car is parked
Plug-In Configuration: Small bonnet “doors” for easy charging and engine fluids refill
22-inch lightweight alloy wheels
LED tail-lamps
Driver visibility: Front fenders visible with a view of the long hood

Toyota FT-HS coming in 2009

2008-12-05T11:12:00.000-08:00

The June '07 print edition of Automobile is full of juicy information, and one of the more significant bits of news appears in a sidebar on page 30. According to the magazine, Toyota has given the FT-HS hybrid sports car the green light, and the Calty-designed production version will make its debut in 2009. It's being billed by Automobile as the spiritual successor to the late, lamented Supra -- a position that's hard to argue assuming you can look past the probable lack of an inline 6. Like the concept, the two-seat FT-HS will pair the company's Hybrid Synergy Drive with an as-yet-undetermined gasoline engine (the concept utilized a 3.5-liter V6). Power and pricing aren't discussed, but if the numbers thrown around when the concept was introduced -- 400 horses and mid-level dollar amounts -- are feasible, the thing should have plenty of takers.

Pairing a potent hybrid powertrain with essential sports-car fundamentals, theFT-HS is a mid-priced sports car that integrates ecology and emotion in a concept that addresses the question, “What is a suitable sports car for the 21st century?”Boasting a powerful V6 3.5L engine, the FT-HS is coupled with Toyota's Hybrid Synergy Drive® to produce a target power output of approximately 400 horsepower and a projected zero-to-60 acceleration in the four-second range. At a mid-priced market position, the FT-HS would be a true “attainable exotic” with 21st-century performance.A sculpted front and rear remove mass around key functional components, while the roof has a distinctive scooped-out section designed to

reduce aerodynamic drag and provide head room at the key areas.The FT-HS's interior features create a dedicated driver's cockpit that includes a cross-car instrument panel structure and delta-wing driver pod. An integrated instrument panel surrounds the driver, creating an enclosed pod effect. Armrests flow seamlessly into the door and surrounding interior. Seating is optimized for a lightweight appearance and function: The seating accommodates four and then converts to a two-seater when the roof retracts.

2009 Hyundai Genesis Coupe Concept

2008-12-05T11:11:00.001-08:00

Hyundai unveiled its highly anticipated Concept Genesis Coupe during a press conference at the Los Angeles International Auto Show. The concept car heralds the introduction of an all-new, rear-wheel drive 2 + 2 sports coupe scheduled to join the Hyundai lineup in the spring of 2009. Following the introduction earlier this year of the Concept Genesis sedan, Concept Genesis Coupe signals Hyundai’s second step in broadening its appeal to driving enthusiasts.

Sports car today: Lotus Eagle 2009

2008-12-05T11:09:00.000-08:00

After many and many rumors and spy shots, Lotus Eagle finally on show. Lotus Eagle 2009 will make its world debut in July at the London Motor Show. The new 2+2 sports car will go on sale towards the end of the year at a price of $90.000. Lotus announced a convertible version is also in the works and will be launched few months after the coupe.
The 2009 Lotus Eagle will be placed between the Elise and next-generation Esprit, and is designed for those who love the Elise, but also want a little more room and comfort.

The 2009 Eagle will be powered by a tuned version of Toyota’s V6 engine used in the Camry. It will be offered with two different displacements: 2.5 liters and 3.0 liters with power between 200 and 300 hp. The Lotus Eagle 2009 was announced to be a real sports car with 0 to 60 mp sprint to be made in less than 5 seconds. More info will gather on this Lotus Eagle later on…

2009 Jaguar XKR-S

2008-11-28T06:47:00.000-08:00

The Jaguar XKR-S coupe is the fastest production XK to date. Powered by Jaguar's acclaimed 4.2litre V8 supercharged engine, it has been developed for the true Jaguar enthusiast. It is faster and more agile than the XKR, taking the Jaguar sports car experience to a new level, whilst retaining the refined, dynamic excellence and crafted luxury that is unique to Jaguar.

Sharing the XKR's highly advanced lightweight aluminium body architecture, the high performance of the Jaguar XKR-S is made totally accessible by the enormous reserves of the 4.2-litre all aluminium four-cam supercharged V8's 420bhp (SAE) and 560Nm of torque.

With recalibrated engine management, the Jaguar XKR-S reaches an electronically limited top speed of 174mph (280kph) - 19mph (30kph) faster than the XKR. This additional performance is made accessible by improved aerodynamics (reduced drag and lift) and unique suspension set-up.

Sharing the XKR's class-leading six-speed sequential automatic transmission, the Jaguar XKR-S has exceptional refinement and the option of ultra-fast manual shifts controlled by steering wheel-mounted paddle shifts - with shift times measured in milliseconds to make this one of the fastest shifting transmissions in the world.

To match its increased performance, the Jaguar XKR-S adopts the most powerful brakes on any Jaguar production model, plus extensive changes to its suspension and steering to provide further enhanced ride and handling characteristics without compromising comfort.

The high performance braking system for the Jaguar XKR-S was developed by Jaguar's Special Vehicles team in partnership with British competition brake specialist Alcon, which supplies the stopping power for some of the fastest cars in the world, on both road and track. The brakes were perfected over thousands of miles of testing on some of Europe's most demanding roads, and by Jaguar's engineering team at the Nurburgring in Germany. The Jaguar XKR-S Alcon R Performance braking system features 400mm diameter discs on the front and 350mm discs at the rear. Each disc is radially ventilated for maximum cooling and to resist fade even under the hardest use, and will perfectly match the Jaguar XKR-S's increased top speed. The friction surfaces of each disc carry a series of crescent-shaped grooves that help clear water from the discs during wet weather and help to keep the brake pads clean at all times. The Alcon R performance brake package uses lightweight monobloc six-piston callipers at the front and four-piston callipers at the rear - each calliper finished in a distinctive red and carrying the R logo.

The Jaguar XKR-S coupe's dynamic balance focuses on achieving an even more sporting character while retaining the XKR's supple ride comfort. Its blend of control and refinement begins with the extremely stiff all-aluminium body structure, and a re-tuning of the XKR's all-wishbone suspension. The Jaguar XKR-S features new springs, new anti-roll bars and unique dampers. All the major suspension parameters are recalibrated, and the Jaguar XKR-S uses Jaguar's proven Computer Active Technology Suspension (CATS) with unique tuning. It also uses a faster ratio steering rack, for quicker reactions and optimum feel.

The limited edition coupé in Ultimate Black is identified by the unique Jaguar XKR-S badge on the rear of the car. The exterior of the Jaguar XKR-S has been subtly enhanced to make it recognisably different without being overstated. Another significant element in the revised handling package is that the ride height of the Jaguar XKR-S has been reduced by 10mm compared with that of the XKR, and the Jaguar XKR-S sits on unique, lightweight 20-inch Vortex forged alloy wheels with bespoke tyres. That naturally makes the Jaguar XKR-S look lower and even more sporting, but it has a number of other distinguishing details. It features a new front aerodynamic splitter, side sill extensions, revised rear spoiler and rear diffuser panel, with contrasting finishes to details such as the front mesh grille, power vents, sills and rear diffuser panel.

The Jaguar XKR-S has an Active Exhaust System, which is specifically tuned to ensure quiet, refined high-speed cruising while producing a much more hard-edged and sporting V8 sound under hard acceleration - not over loud, but full of performance character.

While the mechanical specification and the exterior revisions are driven largely by performance and dynamic enhancement, the interior changes reflect Jaguar's vision of the Jaguar XKR-S as an uncompromisingly luxurious sports car.

The full soft grain leather trim is finished in Charcoal with Ivory twin-needle contrast stitching, with leather wrapping the seats, instrument panel top, centre console, inner door panels and rear side panels. This is complemented by Piano Black veneer, Charcoal Alston luxury headlining, plus a revised instrument cluster - calibrated to accommodate the higher top speed - with XKR-S branding. The contrast-stitched leather trimmed steering wheel, alloy and leather gear selector with alloy surround, bright aluminium pedals, and XKR-S branded head-restraints, tread-plates and carpet mats further set the tone for this very special interior.

Taking Jaguar's 525W Premium Audio system with Pro Logic II surround sound as a starting point, renowned premium British loudspeaker manufacturer Bowers & Wilkins has tuned a signature speaker system specifically for the cabin of the Jaguar XKR-S. High output, low distortion Kevlar mid-range speakers and specially designed aluminium-dome tweeters deliver superb mid-range and extended high-frequency responses.

On sale in summer 2008 and limited to just 200 cars in European markets only, the Jaguar XKR-S is an even more driver-focused sports grand tourer than the XKR.

Chevrolet Camaro 2009

2008-11-28T06:44:00.001-08:00

BumbleBee also known as Chevy Camaro, in the movie Transformer was a outstanding beautiful sport car. Well, the Chevy Camaro should be on production around 2008-2009.
The specification;

Engines: 3.9-liter V6 or 6.0-liter V8
Horsepower: 250 (V6) and 400 (V8)
Torque: 260 pound-feet (V6) and 400 (V8)
Transmission: 6-speed manual or 6-speed automatic

2008 Chrysler LLC Concept Vehicles Revealed at NAIAS

2008-11-06T09:51:00.001-08:00

Seamless advanced technology meets stunning, emotional design; Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle Technology taken to new level
Detroit, Jan 14, 2008 - Three passionate designs combine with three advanced propulsion systems. The result: high-tech, innovative vehicles with alternative fuel choices … and exciting design and brand character.

Chrysler LLC’s mission to be more environmentally responsible is significantly changing how we envision vehicles in our future portfolio.

Jeep Renegade Concept

As the entire automotive industry has basically the same technology pool from which to draw, our design challenge remains similar to what it has always been: How do we distinguish Chrysler’s future designs from the rest of the pack? Even in this environment, we must create emotional designs, and must offer vehicles that people will really want to own and drive.

Dodge ZEO Concept

So we have challenged ourselves to unleash our design passion – in combination with these future technologies and linked to the Chrysler, Jeep® and Dodge brands for our 2008 concept vehicles.

Each of the technologies must be transparent to our customers and provide an exceptional driving experience. In addition, each technology must be optimally packaged in the vehicle to ensure uncompromised comfort and function.

Chrysler ecoVoyager Concept

The Chrysler, Jeep and Dodge concept vehicles for 2008 take advantage of the unique packaging and design opportunities realized by these advanced powertrain systems.

The all-new Chrysler ecoVoyager concept, Jeep Renegade concept and Dodge ZEO concept take advantage of the best of new technologies and couple them with the room, comfort, speed and style customers will not sacrifice – allowing potential customers to still feel good about their personal impact on the environment even when simply having fun.

In designing each of the three concepts for the 2008 North American International Auto Show, Chrysler designers studied various emerging and growing customer groups to overlay their needs and expectations with Chrysler, Jeep and Dodge brand values to develop the best overall fit. The result is an all-new passionate design concept for each of our three brands.

GTbyCITROËN

2008-11-06T09:49:00.001-08:00

After one of the longest automotive striptease ever, the GT concept by French car maker Citroen has finally been unveiled in its entirety at the Paris Motor Show. Named GTbyCITROËN, the concept car is actually a replica of a vehicle created digitally in a collaboration with Polyphony, the creator of the highly popular Gran Turismo video games series on the Playstation. This means that the car actually took shape in digital form before it was made a reality!

Featuring the kind of wild styling including an oversized rear-end made exaggeratedly long in order to create an effect of "retinal persistence" one would normally associate with a futuristic cartoon or video game, the GTbyCITROËN looks like it's doing 500km/h while sitting still. The carbon rearview mirrors which, on their finely profiled supports, appear to be suspended as if to cleave the air is evident of the car's jaw-dropping styling cues.

"GTbyCITROËN shows how the worlds of virtual and real-life motoring can join together to create a truly innovative partnership. We were delighted that Citroen approached us and gave us the opportunity to combine our creative strengths to build this very special concept car. To see the car take shape in game and then for real has been a truly unique experience as our work normally stays in the digital world. I just hope I can get behind the wheel of GTbyCITROËN and drive it on a real race track!" said Kazanori Yamauchi, President of Polyphony Digital Inc and creator of Gran Turismo.

Read more about this wild design study in the press release below. Oh, and don't expect to see something like this at your nearest Citroen dealer anytime soon!

GTbyCITROËN
CROSS OVER TO THE VIRTUAL WORLD...

With GTbyCITROËN, a show-car presented at the 2008 Paris Motor Show, Citroën becomes the first vehicle manufacturer to cross over to the virtual worlds: An original take on a road car, GTbyCITROËN is a style replica of a vehicle from the digital world. The car is the result of a partnership between Citroën and Polyphony, designer of the driving simulation game Gran Turismo 5 on Playstation 3. Already shipped in more than 50 million units worldwide, Gran Turismo is renowned for its quality, design and realism.
In the game, GTbyCITROËN features an electric drive train powered by a fuel cell with no pollutant emissions. It is a car designed to square up to the strongest competition.

"GTbyCITROËN shows how the worlds of virtual and real-life motoring can join together to create a truly innovative partnership. We were delighted that Citroen approached us and gave us the opportunity to combine our creative strengths to build this very special concept car. To see the car take shape in game and then for real has been a truly unique experience as our work normally stays in the digital world. I just hope I can get behind the wheel of GTbyCITROËN and drive it on a real race track!" - Kazanori Yamauchi, President of Polyphony Digital Inc and creator of Gran Turismo

Performance first and foremost
GTbyCITROËN is geared to the world of motor racing, with its dynamic styling, sculpted lines and sharp graphics. The rear end is oversized, made exaggeratedly long in order to create an effect of retinal persistence. The idea is to make the concept car even faster visually. The white-to-grey gradation on the body side further underlines this impression of continuous movement.

Top-level driving
The cabin of GTbyCITROËN, designed to seat two adults, expresses the grand touring vision behind this show-car. The on-board ambience allies premium, extensively worked materials with a more high-tech effect for the driving position.

The layout of the low driving position was dictated by driving pleasure. The aim is for the driver to be able to concentrate on the road, assisted by a head-up display clearly displaying driving information.

RACING SPIRIT BY CITROËN

Power and flowing lines
The design of GTbyCITROËN reflects a quest for optimal aerodynamic design. The show-car is a vehicle of flowing, taut lines, stretched to the extreme. The cleanly drawn sides, ribbed at the top, and the pearlescent shade of the bodywork enhance the vehicle's sleekly muscled looks.

The determined look of the front end is enhanced by wide air intakes and clear-cut horizontal headlamps. The headlamps feature penetrating blue LEDs in order to light the road effectively and keep rivals at a respectful distance! The chrome chevrons on the smooth bonnet express the Marque's identity.

The carbon rearview mirrors on their finely profiled supports appear to be suspended as if to cleave the air, giving GTbyCITROËN an excellent on-road stance.

The large wraparound windscreen flows seamlessly into the roof and on into the rear mobile airfoil with its exaggeratedly long shape. The fast-flowing lines create the impression of a car in perpetual movement. The whole body expresses performance and continuous movement.

GTbyCITROËN also expresses strength and power through generous volumes, (length: 4.960m, 2.080m and height: 1.090m) underlined by strongly marked wheel arches. The diamond-effect 21-inch aluminium wheels enhance the car's sporty personality.

Exceptional handling
The interior design confirms the vehicle's dynamic and powerful style. The interior of GTbyCITROËN, designed to seat a driver and co-driver, expresses the racing spirit of this concept. The on-board ambience allies rich, premium, extensively worked materials with a more high-tech effect for the driving position, inspired by the world of motorsports.

Looking beyond the spectacular visual effect, the gullwing opening of the two doors gives GTbyCITROËN a level of accessibility rarely seen on this type of vehicle. The driver and co-driver can therefore slip into their seats and get out on the track as quickly as possible.

The dark interior of this show-car is a surprise, compared with the light bodywork. Upholstered in black leather with subtle touches of rare materials such as copper and steel, the cabin of GTbyCITROËN is distinctly sporty.
Two padded racing seats upholstered in dark leather, each fitted with a four-point harness, enfold the driver and passenger for exceptional driving sensations. Placed low down to highlight the impression of speed, the elegant seats are a perfect fit with the rest of the interior.

The top-stitched leather of the door panels and floor adds to the opulence of the interior.

The driving position expresses the spirit of competition. The design was objectively guided by the motivation to win.

The dashboard, with its clean uncluttered design, flows into the receding lines of an imposing copper sculpture. The thrusting modern lines of the sculpture become the central tunnel of the vehicle, illustrating the power of GTbyCITROËN and appearing to catalyse its strength.

Created in a twist of this same copper sculpture, the leather-and-steel steering wheel also reflects the sporting spirit of the cabin.

To promote maximum concentration, the driver of GTbyCITROËN has a head-up display for driving information. Using red LEDs, this system projects key driving information – such as speed and navigation data – onto the windscreen in the driver's direct line of vision.

The head-up display makes a significant contribution to safety with its direct read-out. Drivers assimilate data more quickly and do not have to look away from the road.

Aerodynamics optimised to combine performance and driving sensations
Special emphasis was placed on the aerodynamics and flowing design of GTbyCITROËN, these being key Citroën values. The objective was to enhance the vehicle's dynamics and to create exceptional driving sensations.

Looking beyond its taut, dynamic lines, this racing car features innovative equipment such as enlarged air intakes at the front, a flat underside, and a mobile spoiler and air diffuser at the rear. All these features play an active role in reducing lift and – above all – drag, to pin the car to the ground.

With its flowing lines, original architecture and its use – in the game – of what is potentially the best environmental technology, GTbyCITROËN embodies the sporting spirit as seen by Citroën and underlines the Marque's ambitions to meet new challenges.

2010 Pontiac G8 Sport Truck

2008-11-06T09:46:00.001-08:00

The 2010 Pontiac G8 sport truck blurs the line between cars and trucks and is creating an all-new segment in the North American car market. This dramatically different vehicle blends the sporty handling of a performance coupe with the cargo capabilities of a light truck.

Based on the all-new Pontiac G8 performance sedan, the newest member of the G8 family has a longer wheelbase and a cargo bed suitable for either work or recreation. The G8 sport truck significantly stretches Pontiac's commitment to style and performance and is expected to arrive in U.S. dealers' showrooms in late 2009.

"Pontiac has never shied away from offering segment-defining vehicles, going back to the original GTO," said Jim Bunnell, Buick-Pontiac-GMC general manager. "There's simply nothing else like the G8 sport truck on the road today, and we definitely believe that there are customers who will be excited by its distinctive design, performance and cargo capabilities."

Design
The G8 sport truck maintains the same sporty exterior design as its namesake sedan. Flared fenders wrap around the 18-inch wheels and give it a wide, confident stance. The roofline has a coupe-like profile that reflects the vehicle's performance pedigree.

The doors, roof and exterior panels aft of the B-pillars are unique from the G8 sedan. One-piece outer body panels give the vehicle a sleek appearance. Wrap-around taillamps and fully concealed tailgate hinges add to the sculpted look. A colour-coordinated, soft tonneau cover conceals and protects items in the cargo bed from the weather.

Performance
The sport truck draws its strength from the same powerful 6.0L V8 engine used in the G8 GT. It puts out 361 hp (270 kW) of power and 385 lb-ft (522 Nm) of torque. The combination of a six-speed automatic transmission and Active Fuel Management technology provides both car-like fuel economy and an unexpected 0-to-60 mph time of 5.4 seconds.

While these performance numbers are respectable by sports car standards, the G8 sport truck offers flexibility unlike that of a sports car. A 73.9-inch (1878 mm) cargo bed has 42.7 cubic feet (1208 L) of cargo space and a durable composite bed liner. It also can carry a payload of more than 1,074 pounds (488 kg) and tow a 3,500-pound (1,600 kg) trailer.

Structure
The G8 sport truck is based on the same rear-wheel-drive architecture as the G8 performance sedan. However, the sport truck's body structure was reinforced in key areas to support its cargo and towing duties. More than 60 new components were added to strengthen the structure. Compared to the sedan, the 118.5-inch (3,009 mm) wheelbase is approximately four inches longer and the overall length is six inches longer.

Suspension and wheels
A four-wheel independent suspension with electronic stability control delivers confident handling, whether loaded with weekend home improvement supplies or towing a pair of personal watercraft to the lake.

The steering box is located ahead of the front axle line for a quick, direct feel. The sport truck's front stabiliser bar is one mm larger than the sedan, and the rear suspension has been enhanced to support payloads without adversely affecting handling.

The G8 sport truck rides on 18-inch machine-faced aluminium wheels with a P245/45R18 summer performance tyre. All-season tyres are available. An optional Sports Package includes 19-inch machine-faced aluminium wheels with P245/40R19 summer performance tyres.

Brakes and steering
The sport truck shares the G8 GT's four-wheel disc brake system, featuring 12.64-inch front and 12.76-inch rear rotors. Front rotor thickness is 1.0 inch, while the rear rotors are 0.87-inch thick. Twin-piston, front alloy callipers and vented rotors and single-piston, alloy rear callipers with vented rotors are standard, as is ABS.

2008 Dodge Viper SRT10

2008-11-06T09:41:00.000-08:00

Beware of the highly venomous viper on the roads! Dodge has launched its ever powerful 600HP 2008 Dodge Viper SRT10 Roadster sports car for the brave kids on the road. It is likely to reach the American roads in the summer pausing a survival threat for the other roadster crawlers. Thanks to the engine technology developed by Street and Racing Technology (SRT) Engineering, Chrysler Group, for offering an 8.4-liter aluminum V-10 engine for this sparkling Viper SRT10 in eight different colors.

Aren't you curious to know its capacity of throwing the 'venom' on the roads? SRT engineers beautifully performed their engineering skills by equipping this fast roadster with the best engine possible on the roads by complying with the regulatory measures such as Federal Tier 2, Bin 5, and California's Low Emissions Vehicle (LEV) 2 mandates.

Fast car SRT adopted the racer's formula for the 2008 Dodge Viper SRT10 Roadster - bigger displacement, efficient breathing and higher engine speed. The exceptional performance of the Viper SRT10 sports car, added to its eye-catching appearance, is going to make new records on the roads. Apart from the interior and the exterior, Dodge offers a lot of customizable options to SRT 10 Viper owners who are crazy for cars with a difference.

The exterior of the 2008 Dodge Viper SRT10 will grab the attention of the snake-catchers. The fast car comes in eight different exterior colors including the slippery snake-green, venomous violet and the dangerous red. The color, along with the larger hood scoop, will make this roadster live up to its name. The eight vents provided at the hood provide sufficient airflow from the engine.

The interior of this sports car is no exception to its adventurous journey. The cockpit is fully equipped with all the instruments including the center-mounted tachometer and 220 mph speedometer. Apart from the five different color combinations offered to the interior, other noticeable feature is the bezel finish applied to its instrument panel and the console.

The cylinder heads of Viper SRT 10's engine is equipped with computer numerically controlled (CNC)- shaped combustion chambers, and larger valves with variable valve timing (VVT). VVT helps the valves to operate automatically as per the engine requirements, and thus offers a lot of relaxation time to the engine resulting better efficiency and cleaner surrounding. Another innovation in the engine technology of this sports car is the platinum-tip spark plugs that are used to ignite the fuel mixture in the engine. These plugs are fired by the plug coils placed on the cylinder-head covers.

The advanced safety and security technology adopted in the Viper SRT10 will pump in more enthusiasm in the car lovers to possess this vehicle not only as a racing car, but as a luxury car for everyday use. The safety measures at SRT10 include adjustable pedals, advanced multistage front air bags with occupant classification system, anti-lock brake system, belt-alert, and many more like that.

Nissan 350Z Mac Audio

2008-11-06T09:38:00.000-08:00

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The 350Z is equipped with a Quantum Car Sport body kit, with carbon ailerons, 20" wheels and Oxigin Lexor Felgen rims and of course distinctive painting.

But the aesthetic changes of the car are just a pretext to emphasize the audio equipment found in the cockpit. The four-seater was changed to the two-seat roadster because of audio installation. The central console was changed, but the original 7“ LCD monitor with navigation remains intact.

The doors were heavy modified and the result is unbelievable – 72 LEDs under the glass and 7“ LCD Audiovox LCM 7069. Red light creates a good mood of the exclusive interior. The displays are connected to the central unit Kenwood DDX 6029 transmitting 3D logo of Mac Audio and shots from Terminator and Fight Club movie.

The sound unit is made of a pair of central-bass speakers Max Audio Super 2.16 in MDF rings and muffled with three-layer bitumen plates. Central speakers are cooperating with treble units in the A-pillar.

The rear seats are now the place for installed audio. An elegant core with the white Alacantara hides a pair of MAC Audio Fearless One amplifiers producing 1000W of music power for a pair of massive 12“ subs called MAC Audio Maximus Reference that look and sound great.

2008 Dodge Viper SRT10

2008-11-06T09:36:00.001-08:00

Frankfurt Motor Show: Wiesmann GT MF 5

2008-08-04T02:33:00.000-07:00

Wiesmann have shown off their GT MF 5 creation to a lucky few at the Frankfurt Motor Show.

While the Wiesmann GT MF 5 was never officially shown, it has been seen behind closed doors. The V10 aluminum sports car was show in a sky blue paintjob. Styling has been focused more on the classic sports car look rather then the new futuristic cars many makers have been focused on. Pushed by a front mounted V10 with maximum torque of 520 Nm and 507bhp, the GT MF 5 flies from 0-100 in 3.9 seconds and has been priced at €178,900 and will be released in Autumn 2008.

Mercedes-Benz S300 S-Class Hybrids new competition for the Lexus Hybrid

2008-08-04T02:21:00.000-07:00

Mercedes-Benz have a huge presence at the Frankfurt Motor Show, but what would you expect as they are on home soil, one car that the German automaker was showing off was the 2010 Mercedes-Benz S300. This is the car that has been collaborated with other German car maker BMW, and is their first less complex mild hybrid. This new sedan is hoped to be in direct competition with the Hybrids from Lexus.

The Mercedes-Benz S300 S-Class Hybrid mates a 3.0L Bluetec diesel V-6 to n electric motor to help achieve at least 43.6 mpg; this is while it is set on the economy cycle not bad for such a large car. This is not the only car that BMW and Mercedes-Benz are in collaboration with as they are working a new small car, maybe called the Mini Merc.

The smart roadster finale edition: a collectable classic

2008-08-04T02:19:00.000-07:00

Exclusively available in the UK from April 2006, the roadster and roadster-coupé ‘finale edition’ will give customers a fun-packed and thrilling driving experience.

Originally launched in the UK in June 2003, the roadster helped recreate an authentic driving feeling, reminiscent of the 50s and 60s. Since it was announced that the car will no longer be built, experts have been predicting that it will become a collectable classic.

The commemorative special edition has an 80 bhp engine and boasts an impressive level of specification, including 17" runline alloy wheels, metallic paint, air conditioning, cockpit clock and rev counter, starter switch integrated in gear shift lever, sound package, interior contrast components in ‘flow silver’ and an exclusive colour combination on the roadster of speed silver body panels with black tridion. With front and rear grille in the same body colour, the car looks strikingly different from standard models.

Dermot Kelly, Managing Director Mercedes Car Group, said: "With more than 6,500 models sold in the UK since launch the roadster has been extremely popular. This could be the last chance for roadster enthusiasts to buy what is expected to be a sought after model."

The pricing of the ‘finale edition’ will be:
- roadster ‘finale edition’ £13,990 otr
- roadster-coupé ‘finale edition’ £14,690 otr

The smart range is available from smart retailers, starting from £6,775 otr. Customers can find out more about smart by logging onto www.smart.com/uk or by calling the freephone number 0808 000 8080.

Source: Automotoportal.com

Classic Car Insurance

2008-08-04T02:05:00.000-07:00

Being the owner of a classic car separates you from the average car driver with practical needs. If your car was manufactured before 1973 or at least fifteen years back then it qualifies as classic car. A collector’s car is like a walking work of art that you have to maintain and preserve for its historical value. Consequently, a classic car insurance company will have different areas of focus than with the usual auto driver.

Before settling for an insurance company you need to pin down the requirements that you need to attach to your classic car. Your insurance profile will be determined depending on: how often you will be driving the car – all year round or just on warm, sunny days; how many miles you intend on driving – some classic car insurance companies will restrict you to drive a certain mileage while others won’t do that, but will oppose to your using the car for public and frequent transportation; what the estimated worth of the car is – it’s not a new car so the insurance company won’t be able to set ahead a standard value; you will also need to jot down any modifications that have been made to the car and specify the parts that have been replaced. Some companies will ask for a number of pictures to be taken of your inside and outside of the vehicle before they asses your classic car insurance policy. This will save you a lot of time and effort. Last but not least the age of the vehicle is very important. Unlike the cars that are intended for daily use, classic car insurance will charge more for older cars and less for newer ones.

The owner of a classic car will be allowed to drive it as much as a couple of thousand miles per year. In case the owner disagrees and asks for a more mileage than the classic car insurance company will charge higher premium or deductibles. It may be just a small detail but the garaging is also very important and restrictive. The car should be kept in a garage at all times when it’s not driven. Not anybody is allowed to use it – the driver must have at least 10 years of experience and a clean driving record. Some of these specialized companies require the owner to have another vehicle for frequent use; others will insure only cars that are 25 years old or older, only these qualifying as collector’s vehicles.

Usually, classic car insurance works the agreed value system, which refers to compensation. There is a value that the insurer agrees to offer in case the car gets stolen or damaged beyond repair. This is considered to be the most effective way to insure a classic car.

But there are problems that stem up from the confusions of the real value of the car and the estimated value that the owner affirms. Very frequently the owner will place a higher value than the price he purchased the vehicle with. Classic car insurance companies can charge a fee for the evaluation of the car and it will always take place considering the actual condition of the car, the people that restored the car, the parts that have been replaced and the models that are most appreciated by the clubs.

Hyundai Tiburon

2008-07-03T02:18:00.000-07:00

The Hyundai Tiburon is why you should never analyse a car from just its specs sheet. The Tiburon boasts a 2.7-litre V6, 6-speed close ratio gearbox, all-independent suspension and 17 x 7 alloys wearing high performance tyres. And to many people’s eyes (though not ours) it looks good, with the latest styling upgrade adding a bit more impact. Add all that lot to the increasingly impressive reputation that Hyundai is now carving out and you’d think the Tiburon a winner.

Except it isn’t. Instead, it’s an inconsistent mish-mash of components and ideals, assembled into the ultimate committee car.

Is it a sports car? Nope, not with front-wheel drive that will noticeably torque-steer and with factory performance figures that include a not-scintillating 0-100 km/h in 8.2 seconds.

So is it a personal coupe – y’know, practical and stylish? Not even close – with a cramped and contorted cabin, harsh ride and with six gear ratios stacked closer than the cards in a deck.

So it must be good for economy then, one of those cars that unexpectedly turns-in really good fuel consumption? Not there either – we recorded 12.4 litres/100 in pretty gentle driving, mostly done on the highway.

The trouble is, as a cohesive car the Tiburon isn’t.

Let’s start with the best first. The all-alloy Delta V6 runs on normal unleaded and develops 123kW at 6000 rpm and 245Nm at 4000 rpm. Those figures aren’t anything groundbreaking but the engine is an absolute sweety, silky smooth and superbly linear in its power delivery. Helped by the (absurdly) low gearing, there’s excellent throttle response and power available everywhere. The note developed by the engine is also wonderful. But there’s a jerk when getting on and off the throttle (the cruise control shows this up very well) and a strong dash-pot effect, where revs are slow to fall when the throttle is released.

The final drive ratio (4.4:1!) gives gearing that is way too low and so the engine’s revving at 2800 rpm at 110 km/h. That makes the six-speed box a chore rather than delight – what’s the point of changing gear after gear to get into 6th by 60 km/h, when clearly the engine could pull gearing 20 per cent taller? And it’s not just irritating to drive: the fuel consumption must also suffer a great deal. We get the feeling someone liked the look of “close ratio 6-speed” on the pamphlet, and didn’t concern themselves unduly with the reality. (Although the four-speed auto is also geared much the same.)

The gear-change itself is a delight, with a very short throw and a metallic clicking sound that assures you the gear has been selected. The clutch is also positive and light.

The steering – controlled by a good leather steering wheel – is relatively heavy for a power-steer system. It’s fine most of the time but can kick-back when cornering hard on bumpy surfaces. Under full throttle in the lower gears, torque steer is clearly present.

Handling is an interestingly mixed bag. Corner at 7/10ths on smooth surfaces and it’s impressive. Go really hard on smooth surfaces and it doesn’t take much to realise the car is set up extremely stiffly in roll, which in turn makes it rather skatey. Get off the loud pedal abruptly and the tail will come out at a rate of knots – just as well there’s the electronic stability control to help catch it.

On bumpy surfaces the bad ride tends to obliterate any interest in the handling. The ride is awful – far harder than a current model Porsche we recently drove over the same roads. It feels very much like the low-speed bump setting of the dampers is too firm – or it’s that in combination with the 45 series tyres. Over bad surfaces you can actually hear your conversation being altered by the bumps – air whistles out of your lungs as you ride over bigger ones…

And it’s the ride and the interior packaging that we think are the biggest disappointments. Inside, the car feels cramped. Head-room in the front is tight – and it’s simply impossibly bad in the back. No adult can ride in the back seat (their head hits the glass of the rear hatch) and no rear head restraints are even provided. (Yep, no rear head restraints!!) Even children are hard-pressed in the back – a baby seat is a horrible squeeze and once the children are large enough to be directly strapped-in, their legs will also have grown long enough for room to again be a struggle. The driver also needs to place their seat exactly right if their left knee isn’t to bang the console, and the high waistline makes room feel even tighter. We’ve been in smaller, lower cars that had far more room.

Interior equipment is ok - good quality switchgear, a decent stacker CD radio and four airbags. But there’s no electric seat adjust, no proper trip computer and the steering is tilt-only. There were also some exposed screw heads in the interior trim, rough edges you don’t expect when paying $37,590. The tested TS limited edition model also includes for that money a glass sliding sunroof and leather seats.

As we said at the beginning, Hyundai is now building some very good cars. This isn’t one of them.

Driving the Porsche 997 Carrera S

2008-07-03T02:14:00.000-07:00

Talk to the mythical average person about a current model Porsche and they’re likely to say things like hard ride, heavy controls, and an engine that’s a bit temperamental in traffic. After all, that’s what lots of people have long associated with performance cars and well, the higher the performance, surely the greater all these must be in evidence?

But those perceptions are a long way from the truth. We recently stepped out of a 2005 model 997 Carrera S (still available new) and what impressed us most was not the performance or the handling, but instead the way it combined these with an incredibly tractable and sweet engine, and a ride so good you could take your grandma down to the shop without a single complaint.

Let’s start with that engine. We think it’s the best naturally aspirated engine we’ve ever driven.

But that’s not the immediate impression.

Step into the car and turn the key and resulting vibration at idle is downright unpleasant. Paul of the QSM Auto Group, owner of the car and very familiar with all Porsches of the last 20 years, suggested that in fact the idle quality was better than previous models. And that is probably the case – but it doesn’t excuse the high frequency vibration that’s a constant at idle. And no, we’re not talking about the engine being just a nice accompanying growl that let’s you know you’re in a sports car; we’re talking 3-cylinder Daihatsu vibration that’s simply ugly.

The clutch is also a bit of a disappointment. It has an ‘over-centre’ feel which, by definition, gives a non-linear weight through the travel. It’s moderately heavy; not heavy as in the muscle cars of yore but heavy in the context of other current cars. But, in contrast both to the clutch weight and also the gearshifts of all other Porsches we’ve driven, the 6-speed gearbox lever is a delight. With a factory short throw (most Porsches with short throw gears have aftermarket modification) and a light weight, the gearshift would be completely at home in a modern Japanese sports car. Reverse is over to the left and forwards; there’s no lock-out.

With the engine warmed and the clutch out in first gear, the brilliance of the engine starts to show. For this is a car that you can idle along, foot completely off the throttle. The Porsche creeps along without the slightest hint of a stutter or a surge. And yes, you can do that in plenty of modern cars but not one other that we know of that has 261kW available from a naturally aspirated 3.8 litres! Still trickling along in first gear, apply just the slightest throttle and the Porsche moves faster; take your foot back off again and the car slows back to its idle progression. As later proves to be the case across the whole rev range, this is one engine where the power can be absolutely accurately dealt out by the driver; there’s never the slightest hint of stutters or non-linearities to upset driving flow.

Up to about 4000 rpm the response is strong but not mind-blowing. But from 4000 to 7000 rpm the Porsche just gets up and flies. But the transition in power delivery isn’t ever startling; the simply superb mapping of the engine management, electronic throttle and camshaft timing make this a car that - believe it or not – a learner driver could safely pedal. The contrast with all-or-nothing turbo cars (including Porsche’s own non-sequential twin turbos) is extreme.

In fact, even as I write this, I find it hard to describe how good the engine is. It’s not the power, although that is tremendous. It’s not the engine note; I guess Porsche aficionados might get off on it but it doesn’t do much for me in this car. It’s not even the throttle response; I’ve been in naturally aspirated cars with even greater instant eagerness.

It’s just the sheer capability of the engine to deliver what the driver wants without requiring thought or effort. Nought to 100 km/h in 4.8 seconds yet with the ability to roll along in sixth gear, two people in the car and climbing an incline, 1200 rpm showing on the tacho and the car completely happy…

As has been shown in plenty of road-based competition events, I think cars like the Evo Lancers and WRX Subarus wouldn’t be at all far behind the Porsche in terms of handling and brakes. And in fact may even be ahead. But their engines are simply light-years behind the Porsche, feeling in comparison like shoddy aftermarket quickie jobs by Joe’s Garage. If anything at all justifies the enormous amount of money that the Porsche commands, it’s that engine.

But a glorious engine is only one part of a car. This is a sports car: what’s the handling like?

Lift the rear cover and there’s the water-cooled flat six, still stuck out behind the rear axle like an anachronistic sore thumb. But the tail-happy characteristics naturally embodied in this placement have long been quelled by suspension and tyre selection, and in the more recent cars, by electronic stability control.

won’t use that old cliché - handles like it’s on rails – because that’s true of no car. In slow speed corners taken fast, the Porsche progressively powers into understeer; get on the power too early and too hard and it progressively moves into oversteer. The stability control intervened only once or twice in the drive (as owner Paul says: why’d you ever switch it off?), with the car telegraphing very well what was required to stop the slides before the electronics came into action. There’s plenty of grip (in high speed corners, too much for a driver of my capability to move the car around, I think), and the car always feels poised and agile.

The two-position sports damper control (which when activated, also changes throttle mapping) does very much what you’d expect. I preferred the handling on the softer setting for much the same reason that I prefer a car with slightly less than maximum anti-roll bars – the attitude of the car better communicates what’s going on and the tyres more progressively lose grip. Ride firmness noticeably increases with the control activated but it’s still quite acceptable. The damper control switch is on the left-hand lower side of the centre dash – it would be better in right-hand drive cars if it was moved across to the other side of the panel as, on a challenging road, we could see the driver wanting to access it a lot.

The brakes look awe-inspiring – huge red calipers biting on huge discs inside the huge wheels.

But we didn’t like them.

We’ve no doubt the system is capable of hauling the car down from 300 km/h plus speeds, and on a hard brake from 160 km/h to 100 km/h they had plenty of stopping power. As of course you’d expect. But the pedal is wooden and has a complete lack of feel. A humble Falcon or Commodore has far better pedal progression (but then again that’s technically easier to achieve if high speeds are never met!) and in city traffic the Porsche pedal was like stepping on, um, the brake pedal of a car with seizing drum cylinders. Perhaps in normal use softer pads would help?

Interior equipment of the test car – the only option fitted was reversing sensors – was pretty good. (Most Porsches come relatively stripped and then you spend perhaps 25 per cent more on options.) The car has a Bose sound system, intuitively excellent navigation, and superb instrumentation that combines digital and analog displays. The ergonomics are now well sorted.

The front boot is large and we’re always surprised by the folding rear seats that continue to be present in 911s. The rear seats clearly aren’t the sort that would suit adults but for small children, or simply as an extra load space, the in-cabin volume is a big plus.

Watch a Porsche 911 drive by and it’s easy to wonder at their ongoing success. Engine in the wrong place, hugely expensive, idiosyncratic styling, a niche car in a very small niche. But experience the car and your opinion changes: practical, comfortable, blisteringly fast, easy to drive, excellent handling, absolutely capable of doing the daily humdrum or exhilarating with a blast through the twisty bits.

Porsche 550

2008-07-03T02:13:00.001-07:00

Henry ford II decided to produce a super car on his failure to buy Ferrari, resulting in Ford GT40 in the year 1965. Ford GT40 challenged Ferrari with 4.7 litre V8 Engines making 350 bhp, the car was raced and tested atLe Mans. The car had an imoressive top speed of 207mph.

Mercedes 300SL

2008-07-03T02:11:00.000-07:00

The Porsche 550 was a sports car automobile produced by Porsche in the year 1955.Inspired by a small Porsche 356 Spyder which was created and raced by Walter Glöckler in 1951, the factory decided to build such a car,being its first designed specifically for use in auto racing.The 550 became known as Spyder or RS, and gave Porsche its first overall win in a major sports car racing event, the 1956 Targa Florio. Its successor from 1957 onwards, the Porsche 718, was even more successful, scoring points in Formula One as late as 1963.

2008 Lotus Sport Exige Cup 260 Car

2008-07-03T02:10:00.001-07:00

Lotus Sport Exige Cup 260 (2008) has been launched by Lotus. With revised on its engine management system, Lotus Sport Exige Cup 260 takes the power output up to 257 hp (260 PS) at 8000 rpm and 236 Nm (174 lb.ft.) of torque at 6000 rpm. Lotus Sport Exige Cup 260 has a top speed of 237 km/h and may accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in around 4.1 seconds and from 0 to 160 km/h (100 mph) in around 9.9 seconds. The price of 2008 Lotus Sport Exige Cup 260 starts at 56,034 Euros - not included tax.

Lotus Sport, the motor sport division of Lotus Cars Ltd, has unveiled the MY2008 Lotus Sport Exige Cup 260. A direct development of the 2007 Exige Cup Car, this year�s car has a revised engine management system to take the maximum power output to 257 hp (260 PS), up by nearly 5 hp (5 PS) over last year. Bespoke performance enhancements created to offer a car with even greater levels of handling and acceleration capable of taming Europe�s most challenging race circuits.

The Exige Cup 260, once again represents Lotus� most radical version of the Exige, with the track environment being its home and for 2008, the Lotus Sport Exige Cup 260 has full European homologation for road use (a must have for some competitive environments where a road legal car has to be entered).

There are further product changes: all Lotus Sport Exige Cup 260 cars now have a number of the 2008 Model year improvements from the road versions of the Elise and Exige, namely:

� Instrument pack with new graphic design and expanded functionality
� New alarm/immobiliser + single integrated function key
� Variable Lotus Traction Control
� Variable Lotus Launch Control

In traditional Lotus style, weight saving is paramount. Weighing in at just 928 kg, the power to weight ratio is an impressive 271 hp / tone (273 PS / tone). Such a fantastic power to weight ratio alone of course does not make a superlative track car, so the Exige Cup 260 has a formidable list of standard equipment that includes Lotus specific LTS compound Yokohama A048R tires, 4-piston AP Racing front brake calipers, adjustable dampers and anti-roll bar, the latest FIA 6-point roll cage and sports driver and passenger seats. The options are even more race-focused with slick tires, an FIA approved Recaro/Lotus Sport driver�s seat*, an FIA approved 70 litre fuel cell*, �Level Two� stainless steel sports exhaust with de-cat pipe*, dog gearbox* and a plate type Lotus Sport limited slip differential (*track use only and special conditions apply).

The Lotus Sport Exige Cup 260 is one of the quickest cars around a circuit. Key to this incredible performance is the aerodynamic package, which produces over 40 kg of downforce at 160 kmh increasing grip and stability at higher speeds. With a top speed of 237 kmh (147 mph) and a zero to 160 kmh (100 mph) in circa 9.9 seconds, 0 to 100 kmh in circa 4.1 seconds (0 to 60 mph in circa 4 seconds), the MY2008 Exige Cup 260 is the perfect partner for the serious racer.

The Exige Cup 260 is available now for sale in mainland Europe at 56,034, exclusive of local taxes and on the road charges.

Mike J Kimberley, Chief Executive Officer Group Lotus plc said:

“In keeping with our racing and high performance sports car heritage, we are very pleased to launch this exceptionally exciting, phenomenal-handling Lotus Sport Exige Cup 260. This is yet another example of how Lotus Cars and high-tech engineering with Lotus Sport, can transform an already brilliant road car into an exceptionally high performance product for the track.�

You Missed Your Chance on Owning a Farrari

2008-07-03T02:07:00.000-07:00

Italian police have found a new height of craftsmanship and cunning when they broke up a ring selling fake Ferrari cars for a fraction of the real price.

Police have accused 15 people of building the blood red sports cars and selling them to car fanatics on a budget, most of whom knew they were buying a counterfeit classic.

Car body workers who police called "very able" cobbled together mostly fake parts and a few original components. They used body parts from other makes of automobiles, such as chassis, roofs, hoods, trunks and doors. The body parts were modified to look like Ferrari classics such as the 328 Gtb, which went out of production in the late 1980s.

Police confiscated 21 cars, 14 of which had already been sold, and seven in production in Sicilian garages. Some of the cars sold for about 20,000 euros ($32,000), about a tenth of the going price for some versions.

Be sure to check out the awesome craftsmanship by clicking on the two thumbs.
Thanks for the tip, Laure!

Future is now:2009 Toyota Supra

2008-06-12T12:35:00.001-07:00

Toyota recognize that their entry needs a compelling differentiating quality. “We want to do something original,” says Hunter.
“We asked ourselves, ‘What can we do that no one else can do?’ The answer was a hybrid.” The FT-HS is a hybrid sports car–the name stands for Future Toyota Hybrid Sports. Its powertrain marries a 3.5-liter V-6 with a new-generation hybrid system to provide a combined output of some 400 hp driving the rear wheels.

It’s rumored that the upcoming Lexus LF-A sports car also could offer a hybrid powertrain (in conjunction with a conventional V-8 or V-10), but the FT-HS doesn’t share the platform of the Lexus. Size-wise, the two-plus-two is almost an exact overlay of the Nissan 350Z, a car that would be an obvious competitor, although, if you take the Supra’s price at the time of its departure ($40,000) as a ballpark starting figure, the Toyota would be considerably more expensive.

The FT-HS would be dramatically cheaper than its performance targets, however, which include the Porsche 911, the Ferrari F430, and the Chevy Corvette. At this early stage, Toyota is sharing only one performance target: 0 to 60 mph in four seconds. This while providing fuel economy in the mid-20s. Toyota concept planner Chiharu Tamura says the company aims to provide both on-road and on-track ability in the FT-HS. The latter comes in part from a more potent regenerative braking system, which would capture more braking energy than Toyota’s current hybrid system and would make that energy available for propulsion more quickly.

Despite the obvious weight penalty of a hybrid’s battery pack, the hybrid performance concept has more credibility than perhaps even Calty realizes: FIA president Max Mosley continues to discuss fitting regenerative braking and energy storage devices to Formula 1 cars by the end of the decade.

As with the powertrain, the goal of the design was to be unique. Again, Toyota took inspiration from its hybrids, namely the iconic Prius’s peaked-roof profile. That triangular theme repeats itself throughout the FT-HS’s dramatically creased exterior and into its cabin as well. The FT-HS further advertises its hybrid powertrain with its peek-a-boo hood, which features a hole through which one sees the engine cover with its Hybrid Synergy Drive logo. Calty’s Erwin Lui likens it to the shaker hood scoops of an earlier era. Another styling element that relates to the hybrid system are the flying buttress C-pillars, which are similar to those of the Ferrari 599GTB. Here, they direct cooling air to the car’s rear-mounted battery pack.

Like every other concept car, the FT-HS incorporates a number of gee-whiz features. The most obvious is the roof. A large, opaque panel slides rearward, like Porsche’s 911 Targa, but it then pivots down to allow visibility to the rear. The two-plus-two becomes a two-place sports car when the roof is open.
Source:Automobile Magazine

The Honda CR-Z Concept

2008-06-12T12:34:00.000-07:00

The Honda CR-Z Concept will make its world premiere at the 40th Tokyo Motor Show later this month. The Honda CR-Z is a lightweight, two-seater sportscar equipped with Honda’s petrol-electric hybrid IMA powertrain.

Following in the tire prints of the Honda Remix Concept (seen at LA Show last year), and the Small Hybrid Sports Concept (debuted at Geneva in March), the CR-Z Concept explores the potential of a compact, lightweight sportscar that’s exciting to drive, but has minimal impact on the environment.

The CR-Z features the latest Honda hybrid IMA powertrain to deliver low emissions and impressive economy.

The front of the car sits low, and is dominated by an imposing, large bumper with gaping air intakes. Meanwhile, the smooth lines across the glass roof and rear of the car minimize drag.

Tube shaped combination lamps at the rear improve rearward visibility, and other design details include stylish, high-visibility wing mirrors, LED headlights, fin-shaped sidelights and large 19-inch wheels to enhance the sporting appearance.

Inside, the aim was to give the concept car a light, spacious and sophisticated feel. The CR-Z’s hi-tech interior features a blue, neon-like finish across the main dash and centre console. Mesh material on a simple framework is used throughout, with sporty seats to help support the driver during cornering.

According to the Japanese design team, CR-Z stands for Compact Renaissance - Zero.

Click on image for larger view

2009 Audi RS8 - more info

2008-06-12T12:32:00.001-07:00

As you already know Audi will launch a V10-powered version of the R8 sports-car. The company has finished the development of the 530 hp V10 engine, but because of the high demand of the regular demand, Audi has pushed back the launch of the car until well into 2009.

The V10 engine will deliver with 110 hp more than the regular version. Compared to the Lamborghini Gallardo, from there the RS8 will borrow the engine, the RS8 will feature more room inside and will have a different price tag.

The RS8 will be just one of the R8 versions that will follow in the near future. First to follow will be a roadster version of the V-8, succeeded by a roadster V-10. For packaging reasons, the R8 roadsters will likely feature a retractable softtop similar to those used on convertible versions of the Gallardo and Ferrari F430.

A V12 diesel version is also under consideration, but Audi engineers are having trouble packaging the particulate trap-required to meet stringent U.S. emissions standards-and the bumper beam needed to meet U.S. crash standards at the rear of the car.

The HAMANN Lamborghini Gallardo Spyder

2008-06-08T10:36:00.000-07:00

Following up on the Ferrari F430 Spider, with its customized Lamborghini Spyder, HAMANN has now introduced a second top-class, open-top Italian racer into its tuning range. Like its cousin from Maranello, this sports car (with the bull in its logo) also stands out after being revamped at HAMANN with its racing flair and sportier look.
Aerodynamics with racing look

From a visual aspect, HAMANN lends the masculine, angular contours of the Gallardo Spyder an additional shot of testosterone. The extensive aerodynamics suite, which has been perfectly matched to the body of the “compact” Lamborghini, includes a downforce generating front spoiler, which is additionally equipped with an adjustable cup front spoiler lip borrowed from the racing scene. The muscular appearance of the Gallardo Spyder is enhanced by the HAMANN side sills – which also make the car look lower on the road, besides lending it a “fuller” appearance. Further features HAMANN borrows from the racing scene are incorporated into the rear end of the Gallardo. In addition to a three-piece rear spoiler, as an alternative, the Laupheim tuning specialist also offers a racing car-like rear wing, which helps to generate greatly enhanced downforce. The latter is given yet a further boost by being fitted with the HAMANN diffuser. All the components are available both in fiberglass and Carbon-Kevlar. The aerodynamics body-styling kit is rounded off by fiberglass covers, designed as a trim for the HAMANN 4-tailpipe rear muffler.

Wing doors – a real eye-catcher

An even more profound modification to the body involves the fitting of the HAMANN in-house developed wing doors. The objective of the car customizer here was to design a stable, but relatively inconspicuous system. The hinges of the HAMANN wing door conversion are only just about visible, without giving the impression of having been retrofitted. This ensures that the Gallardo still cuts a fine figure when the entrance area is inspected. The conversion is performed at HAMANN and takes about a week. The HAMANN wing doors are characterized by the fact that they open upwards at an angle – as already seen in the models Countach, Diablo and Murciélago on which they are based.

Performance injection

Needless to say, HAMANN also lends the Lamborghini Gallardo more power and performance. The car customizer has obtained this by fitting two types of sports rear mufflers – one version can be used in conjunction with the original tailpipes, thanks to the supplied adaptors, while the other version has four tailpipes each with a 76mm diameter – from V2A stainless steel. When fitted in conjunction with HAMANN sports metal catalysts, they increase both the bhp/kW values and the torque. For the Lamborghini Gallardo, HAMANN is also offering the option of recalibrating the standard ECU coupled with optimized mapping. This leads to an increase in power of 30 bhp / 22kW (series 520 bhp / 382 kW) and a 40 Nm increase in torque for this Italian powerhouse. The top speed increases by 6 to 320 km/h.

Modified deceleration values

Drivers of fast cars are often underestimated by other road users. Precarious situations can often be defused safely by fitting better brakes. Accordingly, for the Gallardo Spyder and its hard-top variant, HAMANN offers sports braking systems both for the front and back. The braking system for the front consists of two slotted and inside-vented HAMANN brake discs in the dimensions 380 x 34 mm and two HAMANN eight-piston fixed caliper brakes in red (other colors optionally available). HAMANN equips the braking system for the rear with two slotted and inside-vented brake discs in the dimension 360 x 32 mm, two six-piston fixed caliper brakes in red and special handbrake linings.
Both sports braking systems are supplied complete with HAMANN special brake pads and HAMANN adapters along with all the fastenings.

Wheel rims in 19- and 20-inch

The stylishly, sporty concept of the HAMANN Lamborghini Gallardo is rounded off by the composite, forged ANNIVERSARY II light alloy wheel. This exclusive wheel in its multi-spoke design conveys a sense of pure, unadulterated motor racing. The silver rim with its mirror-finished rim flange looks both stylish and luxurious. The front axle is fitted with wheels in the dimensions 9 x 19 inches, with size 235/35 Z R19 tires. The rear axle is fitted with the ANNIVERSARY II wheel rims in the dimensions 12 x 19 inches and tires in the size 295/30 Z R19. With this solution, HAMANN enables its customers to continue using the series tires of the original wheel on a new rim. HAMANN also offers the ANNIVERSARY II as a 20-inch version, namely at the front, in 8.5 x 20 dimensions with size 235/30ZR20 tires, and at the rear in 11.5 x 20 dimensions with size 325/25ZR20 tires. A new addition to the range is the HAMANN 20 inch light alloy wheel “Edition Race”. This wheel is fitted on the front axle in an 8.5 x 20 dimension with size 235/30ZR20 tires and on the rear axle in an 11.25 x 20 dimension with size 325/25ZR20 tires.

Upon request, HAMANN can also upgrade the vehicle interior. For instance, this car customizer offers an 11-piece kit of decorative carbon-fiber trims. True to the motto of “Nothing’s impossible”, as you might expect, HAMANN designs the interior entirely to suit the customer’s needs.

Source: HAMANN GmbH

Top 13 Hottest Sports Cars of 2008

2008-06-08T10:03:00.000-07:00

Speed and style are still the operative words for sports cars, but they’re getting plusher and more luxurious, thanks in part to an aging consumer base.

Sales of sports cars in 2007 show that the rich are getting richer, and as the average age of sports-car buyers steadily creeps up, more models with added luxury and amenities are rolling into showrooms.

Click through for the list of ForbesAutos Top 13 Hottest Sports Cars of 2008. We’re not going to lie, we’re a bit disappointed to not see the BMW M3 Coupe and Sedan, Mercedes C 63 AMG and the Lexus IS-F on the list.

Top 13 Hottest Sports Cars of 2008:

13. Aston Martin DBS
12. Audi R8
11. Audi TT
10. Bentley Continental GT Speed
9. Chevrolet Corvette
8. Dodge Viper SRT10
7. Ferrari 430 Scuderia
6. Lamborghini Reventon
5. Lotus Elise/Exige
4. Maserati GranTurismo
3. Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren Roadster
2. Nissan GT-R
1. Porsche 911 GT2

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Hottest Sports Cars of 2008

Speed and style are still the operative words for sports cars, but they’re getting plusher and more luxurious, thanks in part to an aging consumer base.

by Jim Gorzelany
ForbesAutos.com

Sales of sports cars in 2007 show that the rich are getting richer, and as the average age of sports-car buyers steadily creeps up, more models with added luxury and amenities are rolling into showrooms.

The healthiest segment of the small but highly profitable sports-car market is at the extreme upper end. Sales of “ultra-luxury” makes like Aston Martin, Ferrari, and Lamborghini, whose vehicles tend to have longer product cycles, are down by the smallest margin so far this year, 6.9 percent, according Bandon, Ore.-based, CNW Marketing Research.

David Wurster, president of research firm Vincentric in Bloomfield Hills, Mich., sees the high end of the sports-car market holding strong in the coming year. “So-called ’supercars’ costing $200,000 and up are in a different sort of marketplace,” he says. “It’s a good example of the widening gap between the rich and poor in this country — we’re apparently going to see more wealthy people at the top who can afford to own the very best.”

Overall, sports car sales are in a slump, but that’s not stopping manufacturers from releasing hot new models for 2008.

Sales of “premium” sports cars (which include the Audi TT, BMW Z4, and Chevrolet Corvette) are down 10.2 percent during the first 10 months of 2007 compared to the same period a year earlier, according to CNW data. “Upper premium” models (Dodge Viper SRT10, Mercedes-Benz SL, Porsche 911, etc.) are off by 13.5 percent.

In these categories, where models tend to get refreshed every four or five years, significant models for 2008 include redesigned versions of the Audi TT and the Dodge Viper SRT10 Coupe and Roadster; the latter gets a major boost in power, with its massive V10 engine now pumping out 600 horsepower.

Arguably the most anticipated new sports car in recent years debuts next spring as an early 2009 model: The Nissan GT-R will be powered by a twin-turbo V6 engine and be able to reach 60 miles per hour in less than four seconds.

This sleek all-wheel-drive coupe has long been a performance icon in Japan (where it has been called the “Skyline GT-R”) but is just now coming to America. “It will be a true ‘halo’ vehicle for Nissan,” says Francois Gravigny, an analyst with the market research company R.L. Polk and Company in Southfield, Mich. “The Japanese had gotten away from selling high-performance vehicles in the U.S., like the Acura NSX and the Toyota Supra, and Nissan is timing the return to that segment of the market perfectly.”

Among new models for 2008 in the exotic segment are the Maserati GranTurismo, an elegant and civilized near-exotic coupe, and the stunning Audi R8, which is that company’s first foray into the realm of uber-sports cars. The R8’s traffic-stopping looks — we mean that literally; people jumped out of their cars in the middle of traffic to take pictures of it on our test drive — and boasts a 420-hp V8 engine. Its price extends into six figures and Audi has made it clear that the Porsche 911 Carrera 4S is one of its chief rivals. “The R8 is the perfect model that illustrates the Audi’s new performance-based philosophy,” Gravigny says. “It’s the first time any German manufacturer is really going up against the Porsche 911.”

Also new for 2008 is the first modern electric-powered sports car, the low-slung Tesla Roadster. The San Carlos, Cali.-based startup says the car production will be limited to 800 units for its first model year and, pending no further hold-ups (it was originally due to be released this fall but was delayed, reportedly because of transmission problems), the car will enter production next spring.

The Tesla Roadster borrows the ultra-light aluminum chassis of the Lotus Elise and the company says it will run for 245 miles on a charge and reach 60 mph in less than four seconds.

Tesla expects both well-heeled environmentalists and sports-car aficionados to be drawn to the $98,000 Roadster. “A strong motivation for many of our customers is the fact that the Roadster will be the only production car available that produces zero emissions,” says Darryl Siry, Tesla’s vice president of sales, marketing and service. “But the design and performance of the car are each a powerful draw on their own.”

Analysts hope an infusion of new models in the years ahead, combined with a market shift as aging Baby Boomers’ transportation needs change and their disposable income increases, will breathe new life into the broader end of the sports-car segment. “The sports car market will improve a bit in terms of volume as America ages and can afford them,” says Vincentric’s Wurster. “There’s a lot of guys waiting out there for their kids to graduate college so they can indulge themselves.”

According to the Power Information Network, the sports car segment is still dominated by the youngest group of buyers with an average age of 42. But that average has been steadily inching up in recent decades. The average Porsche buyer’s age rose from 42.7 years old in the 1970s to 51.2 in the 1990s, according to CNW data. The average Corvette buyer was 38.1 in the Nixon/Carter era, yet rose to 49.6 in the Bush/Clinton period.

Upward age creep could be one reason sports cars have been gaining computer-controlled suspensions, advanced chassis-control features, dual-clutch semi-automatic shifters, and luxury-car convenience features. “As people get older, and the population of this country is clearly getting older, they want more amenities and comfort,” Wurster says. “But you can still go and buy yourself a Lotus Elise and get a car with no amenities if you want to be a true-blue sports car guy.”

Technorati Tags: Cars, Car, Auto, Automobile, Vehicles, Technology, Auto News, News, Automotive, Lamborghini, Maserati, Ferrari, Aston Martin, Audi, Porsche, Nissan, Mercedes, Lotus

2008 Dodge Viper

2008-06-08T10:00:00.001-07:00

Dodge Viper. A grand big center stage car from Chrysler Group i.e 2008 Dodge Viper, 600-horsepower, 8.4-liter V10 engine with 560 lbs of torque will make other models like 500-horsepower Corvette ZO6 and 500-horsepower BMW M6 search for corners. Dodge Viper sport car enthusiastic will no longer wait for the new 2008 Dodge Viper

Chrysler primarily focused on the Dodge brand Dodge Viper in the final press conference at 2007 North American International Auto Show at Detroit and as expected their highlight was on official curtain raiser for the 2008 Dodge Viper.

2008 Dodge Viper would zoom from 0-60mph in just under 4 seconds and 0-100-0mph in 12 seconds. Now, that is impressive. The problem for the Dodge Viper is that it is outrageously powerful and not just powerful. Once you zoom on the road with the new Dodge Viper expect the world to follow behind you, i.e the power of 600 hp. Now Dodge Viper is going to be interesting war of horsepower and more auto rockets Dodge Viper could be seen in near future Dodge Viper.

The increased horsepower of Dodge Viper comes from extra 0.1 liter of displacement, new cylinder heads of Dodge Viper and variable valve timing for Dodge Viper. The other prominent cosmetic change in new Dodge Viper include new and improved hood that has a larger scoop for air intake and louvers thus improving engine cooling fro Dodge Viper. 5 body colors of Dodge Viper will be added in 2008 Dodge Viper which will take the total color count to 8 now for latest Dodge Viper. The interior styles of Dodge Viper are going to be wide with 5 interior color of Dodge Viper combinations and a choice of bezel and center console finishes.

In conclusion, the Dodge will Dodge 'ing' you with the Dodge Viper. Preliminary action of Dodge Viper will rise the competition of sport car. Lambo, Ferrari, Japanese icon GTR Skyline EVO 10, you name it...

Chevrolet Camaro convertible

2008-06-08T09:58:00.000-07:00

Starting MSRP: NA

Vehicle type: sports car

EPA fuel economy: NA

Available engines:
400-hp, 6.0-liter V-8
302-hp, 3.6-liter V-6

Available transmissions:
six-speed manual
six-speed automatic

Drop-top continues comeback of legendary marque
From Chevrolet

The Camaro convertible concept is based on the 2006 Camaro coupe concept, with only minor changes required to accommodate the convertible body style.

"The Camaro convertible concept instantly evokes an emotional response," said Ed Welburn, vice president of global design for General Motors. "It's a vehicle that you want to make room for in your garage."

The convertible embodies the strong heritage of the original 1967 to 2002 Camaro muscle car while appealing to a new generation of customers who seek a distinctive statement in a new car.

Chevrolet has announced production plans for the Camaro coupe, which will go on sale in 2009. A production convertible model will be added later that year.

Like the Camaro coupe concept, the Camaro convertible blends a dramatic, forward-looking design that is mindful of the brand's storied heritage.

The convertible is motivated by a V-8 engine that sends power to the rear wheels via a manual transmission.

"There is an undeniably fun spirit with the Camaro convertible concept," said Ed Peper, Chevrolet general manager. "The promise of fun made by the convertible top is reinforced with the Camaro's 'let's go' stance. It's a car that begs to be driven."

Additional design details include a tonneau cover over the folded top, "halo" headlamps, LED taillamps and a rear spoiler.

"Camaro has always represented the American ethic that style and performance don't belong exclusively to the wealthy," said Brian Smith, exterior designer. "Camaro has always been everybody's sports car, and these new concepts demonstrate its spirit is relevant for a new generation."

2008 Maserati Quattroporte Sport GT S Review

2008-06-08T09:56:00.000-07:00

The new Quattroporte Sport GT S is unveiled at the Frankfurt Motor Show for its worldwide preview. The Quattroporte Sport GT S is the ultimate expression of Maserati’s flagship car sportiness. Exclusively for those looking for a sporting edge in a luxury sedan, the Quattroporte Sport GT S, equipped with an automatic 6-speed gearbox, stands out for its exceptional dynamic behaviour and uncompromised handling.

This result was obtained with the introduction of single-rate dampers and a new “racing” set up. The Quattroporte Sport GT S sits 10 mm lower at the front and 25 mm at the rear, and also features new, stiffer springs and dampers. The lower ride height and greater rigidity in the suspension system have led to a noticeable reduction in the roll and pitch angles, in the weight transfer and also to a slight increase in lateral acceleration. In everyday driving, this translates into limited body movements, with significant improvements in terms of agility, as well as travel speed through and traction coming out of curves. The result is a car that feels very much like a coupé to drive.

The Quattroporte Sport GT S also boasts another major new development: a unique braking system developed in collaboration with Brembo. This innovative technology uses composite dual-cast discs, the first time such a set up has been employed on a road car.

Unlike traditional cast iron discs, dual-cast discs are made of two materials, cast iron and aluminium, to ensure optimised braking, improving performance in the most extreme conditions and providing greater resistance to fade even at the highest temperatures. The dual-cast disc consists of a cast iron braking surface and an aluminium hat, making it possible to combine the advantages of heat-resistance provided by cast iron with the lightweight properties of aluminium. In particular, the use of aluminium, which is generally 20% lighter than cast iron, made it possible to increase the diameter of the front discs up to 360 mm, while maintaining the same weight. In addition to improving the performance of the braking system, other advantages created by the dual-casting of these materials include greater driving comfort, less wear on the discs and pads, and better component performance.

The Quattroporte Sport GT S’s new braking system also features new mono-block, six-piston front brake callipers and new tyres have been developed especially for this car (front 245/35-R20 and rear 295/30-R20). The larger rear ground footprint allows optimum use of the V8’s 400 hp, whilst the new tyre mix helps the brakes and set-up to guarantee a superior level of handling and driving emotion.

The fuel economy is also remarkable: it uses 9% less fuel compared to the Quattroporte DuoSelect (non-urban driving).

The Quattroporte Sport GT S’s exterior is distinguished by a more aggressive look. The black-chrome mesh front grille, a characteristic element of sporty Maseratis, is joined by a series of significant aesthetic elements: the side window trims and the two double exhaust pipes are also in black, whilst door handles are in the same colour as the body of the car.

The Quattroporte Sport GT S is fitted with dark-chrome 20", seven spoke alloy wheels.

Even the interior reflects the muscular character of the car, thanks to a meticulous selection of materials which celebrate the sportier nature of the latest evolution of the Maserati flagship vehicle. The interior finish features carbon-fibre with aluminium treads.

The front seats offer an advanced level of lateral support and are distinguished by the new design of the seat and backrest. Thanks to a more cosseting shape, they ensure an excellent level of comfort as well as support for the upper body and legs in sporty driving.

The interior of the Quattroporte GT S combines the traditional Poltrona Frau leather and Alcantara, which covers the central sections of the seats, the door panels and the rim of the steering wheel. Available in five colours (Beige, Pearl Beige, Grigio-Gray, Nero-Black, and Blu Trofeo), Alcantara, beside giving customers a further personalisation option, also offers better grip.

2007 L.A. Auto Show: 2008 Dodge Viper SRT10 ACR

2008-06-08T09:51:00.000-07:00

What it Is
New Cars: 2008 Dodge Viper SRT10 ACR Preview – It’s hard to imagine that a 600hp, rear wheel drive, V10 American muscle machine might not be enough for some people, but Dodge aims to please with an American Club Racer (ACR) edition of the 2008 Viper SRT10. The improvements to the ACR will come in the form of handling improving tweaks, not more power. With additional weight saving reductions, additional air-flow management, enhanced braking, lightweight wheels and Michelin Pilot Sport Cup tires, the Street and Racing Technology (SRT) division at Dodge are looking to widen the gap between the venom-spitting sports car and the Chevrolet Corvette Z06.

"http://static.kickapps.com/kickapps/images/3 898/p hotos/PHOTO_683380_3898_262169_ap_420X315.jpg " alt="2007 L.A. Auto Show: 2008 Dodge Viper SRT10 ACR" title="2007 L.A. Auto Show: 2008 Dodge Viper SRT10 ACR" width="380" align="top"

Why it Matters
If you’re looking for a high-powered, rear wheel drive, American sports car under $100,000, your choices are the Chevrolet Corvette Z06, Ford Shelby GT500, or the Dodge Viper SRT10. With 90 more hp than last year, the Viper beats the other two competitors by nearly 100 hp, but rumors are the Corvette will be enjoying nearly 200 extra ponies in the upcoming ZR-1 which means it will outpower the Viper by the same 100 hp margin. Improving power and handling now will give the Viper an edge to keep enthusiast’s interest while Chevy readies the ZR-1 to hit the streets.

What’s Under the Hood
Under the hood, the 2008 Dodge Viper SRT10 ACR is identical to the non-ACR version. Both are powered by a new 8.4-liter aluminum V10 that produces 600 horsepower and 560 lb-ft. of torque. Power is then run through a Tremec 6-speed manual transmission and a GKN Viscolok speed-sensing limited-slip differential. Braking is improved over the Viper SRT10 by utilizing StopTech lightweight, two-piece, slotted rotors reducing unsprung weight and rotating mass. Michelin Pilot Sport Cup tires which are DOT-approved, street legal race rubber, are mounted on aluminum Sidewinder wheels to get the power to the ground.

What it Looks Like
The Viper is already a sports car that appears to be in a perpetual strike stance whether moving or standing still. The cross-hair grille looks ready to sink it’s fangs into anything that dares get in its way. The 2008 Viper’s menacing looks are enhanced with a redesigned hood featuring functional hood scoop and louvers. The ACR version also features a “fanged” windsplitter, front drive blades and an adjustable rear wing that makes it about the meanest looking thing on the road and should strike terror in the rearview mirrors of more than a few soon to be passed victims.

What’s Inside
Dodge doesn’t list what if any extras the Viper SRT10 ACR interior comes with, instead, they list what can be deleted. A “Hard Core” package is available where an additional weight savings of 40-lbs can be gained by deleting the audio system, underhood silencer pad, trunk carpet and tire inflator. A lightweight cover replaces the radio and can be fitted with the included lat timer and the door speakers are replaced with carbon fiber panels. Now owners just need to decide if it’s easier to diet and lose 40-lbs or just learn to hum along to the 560 hp V10.

What Dodge Says
Dodge bills the Viper SRT10 ACR as the “ultimate purpose-built, street legal track car.” The track has always been the only place an enthusiast could really let out the reigns on the Viper so enhancing its track characteristics is the next logical step. The Mopar builder also says that “Aerodynamic improvements, racing suspension and weight savings equal unmatched performance for under $100,000.” Super car performance and still coming in under a 100 large is a combination that’s hard to beat.

What We Think
With 600 hp and no computer controlled handling inputs, the Viper is a pure driving enthusiast’s car, and can instantaneously become more than a handful in even the most capable driver’s hands. Anything that improves handling in this wild beast can only be a welcome improvement and we’ll never turn down better braking. Yet, when we think of the Viper our thoughts immediately turn to the horsepower numbers and when we hear Dodge Viper SRT10 ACR, we have to admit that we are a little disappointed there aren’t a few more drops of horsepower inducing venom running through the V10.

More 2008 Dodge Viper SRT10 ACR Photos

Vernon Heywood
MyRide Associate Editor

2008/2009 sports cars to watch out for...

2008-06-03T00:09:00.000-07:00

Sorry for not posting earlier. Here's my top 6 future cars I am impatiently waiting for (listed in order of importance).

1. BMW M3
This speedster, now outfitted with a long-awaited V8, will retail for about $53,000. Sticker shock?
Drive the M3 virtually here.

2. Lexus IS-F
With 400+ horsepower emanating from its V8, the IS-F is the fastest Lexus ever! (It's also my favorite Lexus, second to the LS 600hL) With an aggressive body kit and sleek pearlescent blue-purple paint, this ferocious IS could be coming to my father as a courtesy rental car next time he brings his RX 300 for service...

3. Nissan GT-R
The new iteration of the famous Skyline, this car has been captured by many spy car photographers alongside a 2006 Porsche 911 Turbo, considered to be a benchmark car. This automobile already has been booked to appear in Need For Speed: ProStreet and Gran Turismo 5 Prologue.

4. Subaru Impreza WRX STI
This hotly expected version of the 2008 Impreza will only be available in the ugly hatchback style, though is is still aggressive to the power of 10. Bristling with spoilers and hood scoops, still only little is known about the new uber-Impreza.

5. Audi TT Coupe
The best-looking TT so far, this mini-rocket is quite luxurious, like any other Audi. Beneath the more-aggressive exterior lies a 250-hp V6.

EDIT:
After a comment about this post, I have decided to add another car to this uber-quintet of sports cars: the Hyundai Genesis Coupe.

6. Hyundai Genesis Coupe
The concept version of the next-gen Tiburon, this 300 hp speedster will provide thrills worthy of an Evo/STI with a price good enough to make generous parents buy their college-bound kid a Genesis Coupe, rather than the traditional used clunker.

Image from:
http://www.sempson.com/i/SportsCarRender.jpg

2008 Aston Martin DBS co-stars in newest Bond flick

2008-06-03T00:01:00.000-07:00

The latest James Bond movie, Casino Royale, is set to open this week with Daniel Craig portraying the suave British spy for the first time. Of course what would a Bond movie be without a bevy of Bond girls? For Casino Royale, sexy French actress Eva Green is Vesper Lynd and sultry Italian Caterina Murino is Solange. But one other “co-star” is just as sexy and head-turning – the 2008 Aston Martin DBS. With stunts such as doing seven consecutive cannon rolls, the Aston Martin DBS is set to wow audiences in the film.

The Aston Martin DBS is only the latest car to be the Bond-mobile.Ever since the very first 007 movie (Dr. No, 1962, starring Sean Connery), the cars are as memorable as the Bond girls - from the Sunbeam Alpine in Dr. No to the stunning Aston Martin V12 Vanquish in Die Another Day that features invisibility cloaking device and an artillery of guns and missile launchers popping out from nowhere. ForbesAutos.com recently released a list of the top ten Bond-mobiles. It’s a veritable wish list of some of the best sports cars ever.

Nissan GT-R sports car

2008-05-21T23:45:00.001-07:00

The Japanese automotive company Nissan Motor recently declared that it is going to introduce a new sports car that will surely thrill car lovers. Sports car enthusiasts in Japan can take a peek of the GT-R sports car most probably next month at the Tokyo Motor Show. To hose who are very determined to own one, well, you still have to wait until December when this all-new sports car will be released by Nissan.

The Nissan GT-R sports car guarantees an excellent performance. This four-wheel drive sports car has a twin turbo system that ensures superior drivability. Moreover, this quality vehicle comes at a very reasonable price.

i-MIEV SPORT: Mitsubishi Launches New Electric Sports Car

2008-05-21T23:43:00.000-07:00

One of the most innovative electric sports cars by Mitsubishi, the i-MIEV Sport, was just shown off at the Tokyo Motor Show. This cute and sporty beetle-esque electric car comes with optional photovoltaics for solar power, and will be powered by a pack of Li-ions that will allow drivers to go about 100 miles before needing to recharge. While concept electric vehicles are released every year that never make it into production, this snappy little vehicle gives us hope for the future, because it will go into production in 2009.
The i-MIEV (Mitsubishi innovative Electric Vehicle) is Mitsubishi’s flagship environmentally friendly vehicle. Amongst the technologies to which it is privy to, the electric plug-in lithium battery powered vehicle offers energy saving LEDs, heat absorbing glass to reduce heat gain within the vehicle and the interior components of the vehicle use plant-based resin technology developed by Mitsubishi, which they claim is environmentally friendly.
And then, there’s the way in which the vehicle gets power. Sure, it is an in-wheel motored, plug-in vehicle, a technology which is gaining traction from most auto makers. But the i-MIEV also comes equipped with an auxiliary photovoltaic generator on the roof, a power generating fan inside the front grill and is also able to recharge its lithium battery when the car brakes, recuperating wasted energy.
Whether or not this vehicle is what ends up on the road in 2009 remains to be seen. But it appears that Misubishi, at least in principle is commited to thinking slightly outside the box.

How To Get A Sports Car Cheap

2008-05-21T23:40:00.000-07:00

When buying a sport car, the buyer must consider his needs and preferences, but more importantly, he must put everything in the scope of his budget. Sports cars are generally priced more then $15,000. There are some options available for buying cheaper but valuable sports cars.

A buyer may want to check out local auctions. Some good sports cars can be bought cheaper auctions. The Auction experience can be quite overwhelming. Just like any other kind of auction, it is a stressful and very fast paced. One must attend a couple or more auctions before actually trying to purchase a car from this kind of activity or bring alone a friend that has experience in dealing with car auctions.

Auto Exchange Centers can offer you the best cars at very reasonable prices. Buyers might want to do a little Internet research since car exchange centers do advertise their merchandise on the Internet. Remember that the market for cheap sports cars is a buyers’ market.

Buyers may also look for private sellers. Some people need quick cash in cases of emergency so they are forced to sell their precious cars at very low prices. Be aware and watch out for such quality deals, make sure you take the car to a mechanic to have it checked out.

The problem with dealing with private sellers is that once the purchase is made, you are stuck with that car. He cannot run back to the seller to complain.

There are good sports cars out there that are being taken for granted. Because of trends in sports car demand, some of the good ones are being left out. This is a good thing for buyers who are looking for value for their money. Some Jaguar, Austin-Healey and Morgan car models are out there, up for grabs at reasonable prices.

Sports cars are luxury cars, but that does not necessarily mean that they should be expensive. Maybe the best things in life are not free, but you can get good deals to get them. But at the end of the day, quality should be the main aspect that a buyer must look at in purchasing a sports car.

2008 Subaru Impreza WRX STI

2008-04-30T06:03:00.001-07:00

Hardcore New Impreza WRX STI Reveals All
Subaru has at last revealed details of its hardcore new Impreza WRX STI which is substantially different to the non-turbo five-door models now being delivered to first customers.

And with a heavily-revised new 296 bhp turbocharged 2.5 liter ‘boxer’ engine, totally new platform and suspension plus even more advanced symmetrical all-wheel drive system, the World Rally Championship look-alike is sure to satisfy Subaru traditionalists.

At the rear, four exhaust pipes twinned in pairs at either side of the body not only give a distinctive look but reduce exhaust air-flow resistance by 38 per cent, increasing power and reducing noise.

Comfort With Agility

The new Impreza WRX STI boasts a much plusher interior than before, offering leather/Alcantara-covered sports seats as standard with Recaro seats as an option. Curtain airbags are standard and the audio system has been upgraded.

The braking system has been developed in conjunction with Italian specialist, Brembo, and features four-pot calipers at the front and twin-pot at the rear – both ventilated discs.

A multi-mode Vehicle Dynamics Control System allows the driver to select the best setting for the prevalent road conditions. For example, it can be turned off altogether or set to ‘Traction’ which delays artificial interference.

More Power, More Driver Involvement

The award-winning 2.5 liter horizontally-opposed ‘boxer’ engine benefits from a thorough revision which includes a larger and more efficient intercooler which increases power.

The new STI also boasts stronger low to mid-speed torque thanks to variable-valve timing for the intake and exhaust system and a fast-warm catalytic converter for reduced emissions.

Power is now 296 bhp at 6,000 rpm with torque of 300 lb-ft at 4,000 rpm.

The much-praised six-speed manual transmission has been revised, with a shorter-throw gear-change and lighter movements, especially from neutral to 1st and 1st to 2nd gear thanks to a revised synchromesh.

A firm favorite with existing STI owners, the Driver’s Control Centre Differential has been improved, giving even more choice of handling characteristics.

The DCCD is operated via a switch in the centre console, allowing the driver to manually select the torque distribution front to rear, reverting to automatic mode every time the ignition is switched off.

For example, he or she can choose between having a sharper cornering turn-in or more stable straight-line running.

In Manual Mode, the driver can adjust the front to rear torque distribution through varying degrees to suit different road conditions such as loose gravel or soft snow.

Now, for the new Impreza WRX STI, the DCCD switch also allows the selection of three different types of ‘Auto’ Mode.

1: Auto Mode is selected when the engine is started and covers most road conditions.
2: Auto+ Mode places the emphasis on traction for slippery roads, sharing out the torque more evenly between all four wheels and enhancing straight-line stability.
3: Auto- Mode increases agility by enhancing steering response through less torque-split interference.
Base Price: 2008 Subaru Impreza WRX STI - Approx. 70,000 € (last update: 10/29/2007)

2006 Saleen S7 Twin Turbo

2008-04-30T06:02:00.001-07:00

Saleen Adds Two Turbochargers to the S7
Saleen knows all about power. As in S281 Mustangs, N2O Focuses and the S7, America’s first (and still the only) mid-engine exotic supercar. When it went on sale in 2002, the S7 was the only street-legal car in the U.S. with more than 500 horsepower and 500 lb-ft of torque. The media and S7 owners have raved about the car since it first smoked the rear tires in anger. And it has been recognized by numerous automotive magazines as the fastest production car in the world. But during the past three years the automobile marketplace has witnessed an explosion of performance with models from manufacturers including Ferrari, Lamborghini, Mercedes-Benz, Porsche and Chevrolet touting power numbers above the once magic 500 level.

Saleen is not an organization content to rest on yesterday’s 0-60 mph times or quarter-mile speeds. So in 2005, it was “goodbye S7” and “all hail the S7 Twin Turbo!” This is the first major change to the S7 since its introduction, and it is a big change as in 750 horsepower and 700 lb-ft of torque, numbers the competition will be chasing for a long while we predict.

Unchanged From 2005

While there are a number of different roads Saleen’s engine designers could have traveled down to achieve those high-altitude horsepower and torque figures, for this second edition of the S7 they decided to think beyond atmospheric. And because this is Saleen, they added a double twist to a tried and true racing technique for boosting power and torque: twin turbos.

Aerodynamics has also come under scrutiny in 2005. Unless you place the new S7 Twin Turbo next to one of the original 2002 models, you probably won’t notice that the 2005 version has a different diffuser/rear spoiler package and reshaped front fenders to enhance the S7s already sleek, swoopy and aerodynamic contours. To complement the Twin Turbo’s enhanced straight-line performance envelope the S7 chassis has also undergone a fair amount of tweaking. Virtually every suspension pickup point has been changed, and the suspension geometry has been modified for less squat and dive during acceleration and braking.

Engine & Drivetrain

Designed by Saleen engineers, the S7's engine and drivetrain incorporate the latest in modern racing technology. The new all-aluminum V8 engine casting was engineered and tooled by Saleen to displace seven liters. Redline is 6500 rpm. Space age materials and engineering are used throughout, including stainless steel valves, titanium retainers, beryllium exhaust valve seats, an aluminum throttle body, Saleen designed aluminum CNC-machined cylinder heads and stainless steel exhaust system. An exclusive Saleen-designed Front Engine Accessory Drive (FEAD) system results in an extremely compact engine, allowing for better packaging and overall weight distribution. The V8 incorporates a unique Saleen-designed side-mounted water pump, a belt-driven camshaft drive and a Saleen-engineered dry sump oil delivery system. The engine's mid-chassis placement optimizes weight distribution and center of gravity, making room for an unusually tall engine that allows for a very efficient induction system. Air enters a roof intake, passes through a 90-mm mass air meter and feeds into a carbon fiber plenum. From the plenum the air is routed to the twin ball bearing turbos, is pressurized to 5.5 psi max and then passes through an oval-bore throttle body into an aluminum intake manifold with eight individual runners.

To feed juice to this setup, the injection system includes dual electric fuel pumps and high-capacity, return-less, 52 lb/hr fuel injectors. Neatly engineered and integrated into the S7’s stainless steel, dual, high-flow exhaust system are two, twin-ball-bearing, water-cooled Saleen-Garrett turbos, featuring 44-mm wastegates. The four exhaust pipes from each bank of cylinders merge into a race-car-like high-efficiency collector. In addition, the exhaust incorporates dual catalysts per cylinder bank, EGR and those aforementioned twin wastegates. And because Saleen believes in power and clean air, the emission control system features dual, heated oxygen sensors per cylinder bank and a high-volume evaporative emission system along with those four catalysts. Oh, and for good measure and clean air, the system is OBD-II compliant.

And if you need any more proof of how Saleen engineers sweat the details, the stroke of the already short-stroke shifter has been furthered shortened for improved shifting feel. Say that five times fast, once for each gear change.

Chassis, Suspension & Brakes

The S7 chassis and suspension incorporate decades of Saleen’s experience in racing, racecar construction and high-performance road car manufacturing. The Saleen S7 architecture begins with a space frame chassis to which honeycomb composite reinforcing is grafted. The body is structural, aerospace-quality, autoclave carbon fiber. Suspension is via fully independent unequal-length double wishbones with coilover springs, lightweight aluminum dampers (shock absorbers) and stabilizer (anti-roll) bars front and rear. The uprights at each corner are CNC machined billet aluminum, flow-through designs that use air to help cool the bearings.

Chassis tuning also includes revised shock valving front and rear. Saleen-engineered Brembo-supplied lightweight aluminum six-piston mono-block calipers are fitted front and rear.

Geometry changes, along with new tires, result in about a 30 percent increase in mechanical grip... which is substantial. In a seeming contradiction to current performance tire practice, the 2006 S7 Twin Turbo is fitted with “taller” tires, 275/35 R19s up front and 335/30 R20s at the rear, replacing the 275/30 R19s and 345/25 R20s fitted to the normally aspirated S7. While the Michelin Pilot Sport PS2 tires have higher aspect ratios, they also lay tire patches that are nearly an inch wider up front and almost 1.5 inches wider at the rear.

Exterior & Interior

The S7’s beautiful shape was “designed” by the wind. Optimal aerodynamics and top speed performance objectives were achieved with extensive wind tunnel work. Targets included a low coefficient of drag, optimum drag-to-lift ratio, and extreme down force. The S7 has “full tray” body sculpting underneath.

For the 2006 S7 Twin Turbo, the redesigned front and rear diffusers, along with the new rear spoiler, result in a 40 percent reduction in aero drag and a 60 percent increase in down force. Those of you who know anything about aero forces recognize the significance of that last statement. Typically, you would have to trade down force to reduce aero drag.

The mid-engine Saleen S7 has front and rear trunks and comes with Mulholland Brothers custom-made, 3-piece, fitted luggage. In true supercar style, the doors open up and away from the body.

Seats and other interior surfaces are covered in elegant leather and suede. Air conditioning, power windows, power door locks with remote keyless opening for the doors and both trunks, an electric-headed front windshield, variable intermittent windshield wipers, a leather-wrapped steering wheel and an AM/FM/CD/DVD/TV system are all standard. The Saleen S7 also has one unique interior feature: a video “rearview mirror” — there is a small video camera inconspicuously mounted in the rear of the car.
Base Price: 2006 Saleen S7 Twin Turbo - $585,000 (last update: 5/8/2007)

2006 Porsche Carrera GT

2008-04-30T06:01:00.001-07:00

High-Performance Carrera GT with Technology of the Future
With its V10 engine providing more than 600 horsepower and with an array of cutting edge technologies including a ceramic composite clutch and brakes beneath its carbon-reinforced body, the Porsche Carrera GT uses the undiluted qualities of a genuine racecar to provide an unprecedented driving experience on the road.

Beautiful Design and Engineering, and 605 Horsepower

The Porsche Carrera GT, which was introduced as a 2004 model, is a low, sleek, lightweight roadster that is as beautiful to the engineer as it is to the eye. Foul weather protection is also available in the form of two removable panels that can be stored in the front trunk.

Among the car’s unique features are its 5.7-liter, 605-horsepower V10 engine, its monocoque chassis with Porsche-patented engine and transmission mounts made of carbon-reinforced plastic and the first use of a ceramic composite clutch in a production car. The Carrera GT’s aerodynamic and race-bred suspension package provides safe and stable travel at speeds of up to 205 mph (330 km/h). The Carrera GT features the extensive use of lightweight materials, such as magnesium for the car’s substantial wheels and the frames of its special sport seats.

The result of such artistic and athletic equipment is a car that accelerates from a standing start to 62 mph (100 km/h) in only 3.9 seconds, reaches 100 mph (160 km/h) in less than seven seconds, 125 mph (200 km/h) in less than 10 seconds, and can achieve a top test-track speed of 205 mph (330 km/h).

Purebred Racing Engine

Porsche’s development center in Weissach, Germany, built a 5.5-liter, normally aspirated V10 engine for racing, and that engine’s bores have been enlarged to displace 5.7 liters in the Carrera GT. Maximum output is rated at 605 horsepower at 8,000 rpm, with peak torque of 435 lb-ft. The engine has a very low center of gravity, a 68-degree V angle and four valves-per-cylinder heads. The engine block serves as a load-bearing part of the chassis structure, yet is so strong that there is no distortion to the cylinder bores. Using dry-sump lubrication reduces the number of engine components and seals and also helps optimize weight and reliability.

The engine has a closed-deck configuration, a principle carried over from motorsports. This closeddesk architecture enables the cylinders to be cooled by internal water chambers that directly surround the cylinders. Three front-mounted radiators and cross flow cooling ensure optimum heat transfer even under high engine loads.

The engine weighs only 472 pounds (214 kg). The block, crankshaft and camshafts are all made of light alloys. The crankshaft is designed to operate at speeds of up to 8,400 rpm and is both forged and designed for minimum mass inertia and thus offers maximum torsional stiffness.

Race-winning Suspension Design

The chassis and suspension of the Porsche Carrera GT are based on the architecture of the Porsche GT1, the car that won the 24 Hours of Le Mans race in 1998. For example, as on the GT1, the rear track control arms of the Carrera GT are made of aerodynamically designed steel tubes. However, Porsche engineers did not forget the need for driving comfort on the street when they adapted such racing-bred systems for the road-going supercar.

Like a racecar, the Carrera GT uses pushrod suspension with double-track control arms at all four corners to give the Carrera GT its refined response and behavior, feeding forces smoothly and efficiently into the car’s chassis. Where many cars use MacPherson spring struts, the Carrera GT’s spring and damper elements are operated by stainless steel pushrods and pivot levers, which separate the guidance function from the spring action.

Functional Ambience is Interior Theme

Even with its racing-quality performance, the Porsche Carrera GT has a cockpit characterized by functional ambience and the extensive use of high-tech materials. Carbon, magnesium and leather dominate interior materials, with composite components either in their natural state or painted to match the magnesium pieces.

The car’s center console is made of composite materials covered in galvanized magnesium and features the chassis number imprinted on the surface. The shift lever is positioned about halfway up the console directly next to the steering wheel.

The seats are finished in smooth leather and have manual adjustment (fore, aft and height) because power motors would add unnecessary weight. The seats are made of a composite carbon shell. Each seat weighs only 23.6 pounds (10.7 kg.), compared to 44.1 pounds (20 kg.) for the seats in a typical Porsche 911.

Air conditioning is optimized for weight and the car comes with a standard air filter system. A glass screen is mounted between the supplemental safety bars to help reduce wind buffeting. Even though the Carrera GT is a serious performance car, it can be equipped with many comfort features, including a navigation system and Bose audio. A battery trickle-charger is included as standard equipment.
Base Price: 2006 Porsche Carrera GT - Approx. $484,000 / 450,000 € (last update: 2/20/2007)

2007 Porsche 911 Turbo

2008-04-30T05:59:00.002-07:00

The Everyday Supercar: Porsche 911 Turbo
The 2007 911 Turbo may be unmatched in its breadth of performance. Few machines can so easily warp our perception of what is possible from a state-of-the-art performance car, and yet so ably serve as a practical and comfortable conveyance for every-day driving. The new Porsche 911 Turbo features a revolutionary 480-horsepower, twin-turbocharged, 3.6-liter boxer engine with the world’s first gasoline-engine application of variable turbine geometry (VTG), a redesigned all-wheel-drive system, and evolutionary styling.

The new 911 Turbo’s engine produces 480 hp at 6,000 rpm, 60 bhp more than its predecessor, raising specific output of the 3.6-liter boxer-Six to an all-time high of 133 bhp per liter. More notable is the engine’s torque curve, which has been bolstered and broadened by the variable turbine geometry system. Peak torque rises to 457 lb-ft (previously 415 lb-ft), but that peak now spans an extended rpm range from 1,950 to 5,000 rpm, compared to 2,700--4,600 rpm in the previous 911 Turbo. Additionally, a function in the optional Sport Chrono Package allows a 10-second, mid-rpm-range ‘overboost’, temporarily increasing turbo boost under full throttle by 2.9 psi, and swelling peak torque to 502 lb-ft.

A 911 Turbo equipped with the optional 5-speed Tiptronic S automatic transmission requires only 3.4 seconds to sprint from 0 to 60 mph. Equipped with the standard six-speed manual transmission, the new 911 Turbo reaches the same 60 mph mark in 3.7 seconds. With either gearbox, the top track speed of the new 911 Turbo is 193 mph.

Much of the 911 Turbo’s improved performance can be attributed to the variable turbine geometry system, the first such system available on a turbocharged gasoline engine. The heart of the technology is adjustable guide blades, which can vary in angle to most effectively guide engine exhaust flow onto the turbocharger’s impeller wheel. The result is a system that provides the advantages of both a small and large turbocharger, improving flexibility and acceleration, particularly at low engine speeds.

To transfer this power to the road, the new 911 Turbo features a redesigned all-wheel-drive system, with an electronically controlled multi-disc clutch replacing the previous model’s viscous clutch. Porsche Traction Management (PTM) allows variable power distribution fore and aft, and depending on conditions, the system’s electronics constantly determine optimal torque distribution to ensure ideal traction. In use, PTM provides exceptional agility on winding roads, outstanding traction in inclement conditions, and impressive active safety even at higher speeds. Though powerful, the 911 Turbo’s PTM setup is one of the lightest all-wheel-drive systems on the market.

The new 911 Turbo’s accelerative performance is duly tempered by its brake system, which is comprised of six-piston monobloc calipers up front, and four-piston monobloc calipers at the rear. Brake disc diameter at all four corners has been increased 20 mm, to 350 mm (13.78 in.). Optional is Porsche’s Ceramic Composite Brake system (PCCB). In addition to the exotic pad and rotor material, the PCCB option provides an increased front disc diameter (380 mm /14.96 in.), absolute corrosion resistance, improved fade stability, and a 37-pound unsprung-weight savings versus the standard brake system.

Styling changes made to the new 911 Turbo are evolutionary. The modified front end features tautly drawn cooling air inlets, widely spaced and deep-set fog lights, and new LED indicators situated in the lateral air inlets. From the rear, the Turbo takes on a more powerful stance thanks to a tail 22 mm (0.9-in.) wider than that of the previous model. The redesigned wing spoiler has been aligned to the wider profile, and slopes downward slightly at each end to nestle the rear fender’s contours. The lateral air inlets behind the doors have also been redrawn, and together with the new air ducts, afford a more efficient supply of cooling air to the intercoolers.
Base Price: 2007 Porsche 911 Turbo - $122,900 / 133,603 € (last update: 4/2/2007)

2008 Porsche 911 GT2

2008-04-30T05:59:00.001-07:00

High-Performance Sports Car with Low Fuel Consumption
With a stunning 530 turbocharged horsepower and the most revolutionary design in the industry, Porsche revealed its most powerful production 911 ever on September 11, 2007 at the Frankfurt Motor Show. Based on the current 911 Turbo, the 911 GT2 will easily ascend to lead the impressive Porsche family of vehicles.

New features such as large air intakes at the front and the rear wing, coupled with the rear-wheel drive and manual six-speed gearbox, express the elite performance abilities that are exclusive to this outstanding model. This high-performance athlete accelerates to 60 mph in just 3.6 seconds and reaches a top track speed of 204 mph.

530-Horsepower Twin-Turbo Engine

The power unit of the new 911 GT2 is based on the six-cylinder boxer engine of the 911 Turbo, with air supply driven by two exhaust gas turbochargers featuring variable turbine geometry (VTG). The 3.6-litre boxer engine achieves a maximum output of 530 (SAE) horsepower, an increase of 50 horsepower from the previous 911 GT2. The power increase is provided by two turbochargers with a larger compressor wheel and a flow-optimized turbine housing raising turbocharger pressure to an even higher level.

Decreased Fuel Consumption

The new 911 GT2's expansion intake manifold, which uses oscillating air in the intake during the cooler expansion phase, keeps the temperature of the fuel/air mixture even lower than in the 911 Turbo. This results in a significant increase in all-round efficiency, with fuel consumption down by up to 15 percent under full load despite the increase in engine output. This is a genuine innovation for turbocharged power units.

Functional Design Features

A number of elements set the new 911 GT2 apart including the new achievements in emission management and control. This is the first Porsche homologated for the road to feature a muffler and tailpipes made of titanium as standard equipment. This expensive material reduces weight by approximately 50 percent vs. a comparable component made of stainless steel.

The new 911 GT2 comes as standard with PCCB brakes featuring brake discs made of a composite carbon fiber/ceramic compound ensuring highly consistent and maximum stopping power. Also standard is the electronically controlled Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM) system.

The GT2 comes on 19-inch light-alloy wheels filled with 235/35 ZR19 front sport tires and 325/30 ZR19 rear sport tires. It is scheduled to make its North American debut in early 2008 at a US price of $191,700.
Base Price: 2008 Porsche 911 GT2 - $191,700 / 189,496 € (last update: 10/15/2007)

2007 Nissan NISMO 350Z

2008-04-30T05:58:00.001-07:00

Taking Performance One Step Further With the NISMO 350Z
For the first time ever in the Nissan Z’s 37-year history, a high-performance NISMO 350Z is part of the extensive Z lineup. The new 2007 Nissan NISMO 350Z, which makes its North American debut at the 2007 New York International Auto Show, features an extensively developed list of unique equipment – including a special body package and improved handling equipment. This new model, the fifth in the 2007 350Z Coupe lineup, is available with a 6-speed manual transmission only. It goes on sale at Nissan dealers nationwide in July 2007.

NISMO, the premier supplier of high-performance aftermarket parts and accessories for Nissan vehicles in the United States since 2003, previously participated in the development of the NISMO Frontier off-road pickup truck, introduced in 2005. The NISMO 350Z is the second Nissan model to be branded with the legendary marque. Like the Frontier model, which is specially equipped for off-road excursions, the 2007 NISMO 350Z is optimized for enthusiast drivers.

"With the combination of the new VQ35HR engine found on all 2007 350Zs and NISMO performance and design enhancements, the NISMO 350Z represents the pinnacle of Nissan performance machines," said Bill Bosley, vice president and general manager, Nissan Division, Nissan North America, Inc.

The most striking visual feature of this special vehicle is the NISMO aerodynamics package, which strongly resembles the Super GT championship winning Zs. Featuring an aggressive front fascia with chin spoiler, side skirts, an extended rear fascia with underbody diffuser and a rear wing, the NISMO 350Z produces additional aerodynamic downforce to provide enhanced cornering and handling performance.

Special consideration is given during assembly of the NISMO 350Z – structural rigidity is enhanced by additional body welds to the already rigid 350Z body and additional supports have been added front and rear. The NISMO 350Z also utilizes special body dampers mounted in the front radiator core support and in the rear cargo area, which assist in controlling body vibrations.

Additional performance features include a special NISMO-tuned independent multi-link suspension, Brembo brakes with four-piston front and two-piston rear calipers (with 12.8-inch front and 12.7-inch rear rotors) and special NISMO-branded gunmetal gray RAYS super lightweight forged-alloy wheels (18x9-inch front and 19x10-inch rear with 245/40 WR18 front, 265/35 WR19 rear Bridgestone Potenza RE050A tires). A special NISMO-branded tuned exhaust adds an even more authoritative tone to the Z’s 306-horsepower V6 engine.

"The combination of aerodynamic enhancements and performance tuning adds up to a Z with enhanced cornering, steering precision and handling," said Bosley. "Every exterior and mechanical improvement made to the NISMO 350Z isn’t just for show, it’s also for performance."

Four exterior colors are available, including Redline Red, Magnetic Black, Silver Alloy and Pikes Peak White.

Inside, NISMO 350Z drivers receive special treatment with unique black cloth seats with red inserts, red stitching throughout the interior and special NISMO white-faced tachometer. All NISMO 350Zs receive a serialized NISMO-etched aluminum plaque mounted on the center console, designating its limited edition status.

The NISMO 350Z includes a full complement of 350Z standard features, including the new VQ35HR 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 306 horsepower at 6,800 rpm and 268 lb-ft of torque at 4,800 rpm – with more than 90% of torque available between 2,000 and 7,000 rpm. Engine features include variable exhaust cam timing (eCVTCS), a 7,500 rpm rev limit and a symmetric twin ram air intake system.

The standard 6-speed manual transmission features close-ratio gearing from 1st through 5th gears for high-performance driving and an overdrive 6th speed for highway fuel economy. For performance handling, standard on the NISMO 350Z is a Traction Control System (TCS) and Viscous Limited-Slip Differential (VLSD).

Also standard is electronically-controlled vehicle speed-sensitive dual-orifice rack-and-pinion power steering system, front and rear strut tower bracing, 4-wheel disc Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with Electronic Brake force Distribution (EBD) and Brake Assist (BA), HomeLink Universal Transceiver, cruise control, aluminum pedals, illuminated steering wheel audio controls and auto dimming rearview mirror, power windows, 3-bay gauge cluster, High Intensity Discharge (HID) bi-xenon (high and low beam) headlights, LED taillights, Advanced Air Bag System, side and curtain side-impact supplemental air bags and Active Head Restraints.

"The NISMO 350Z is geared towards enthusiasts who want the ultimate 350Z straight from the factory performance experts,” said Bosley. “They also want a Z that makes a statement and is a testament to their love of driving."
Base Price: 2007 Nissan NISMO 350Z - $38,070 (last update: 6/14/2007)

2008 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution X

2008-04-30T05:57:00.001-07:00

All-new 2008 Lancer Evolution: Super-All Wheel Control, 6-Speed Automated Manual Transmission
Mitsubishi Motors is introducing the 2008 Lancer Evolution, the newest and most sophisticated version of the legendary high-performance model series that began 16 years ago. While remaining true to the core values that have made the Lancer Evolution synonymous with thrilling performance, the next-generation model offers all-around capability and user technology that distinguish the world's best performance models.

The strikingly styled 2008 Lancer Evolution showcases new performance and handling technology, including an all-new 291-bhp 2.0-liter turbocharged/intercooled engine and the Super-All Wheel Control (S-AWC) dynamic handling system. S-AWC offers an extraordinary level of control at each wheel, going well beyond the capabilities of other all-wheel drive systems.

Two Lancer Evolution models will be offered in the U.S. market for 2008: the GSR with a new 5-speed manual transmission and the Lancer Evolution MR with a new 6-speed Twin-Clutch Sportronic Shift Transmission (TC-SST), a new-generation automated manual transmission. The MR model is also equipped exclusively with Bilstein shock absorbers and Eibach springs, two-piece brake rotors for better heat dissipation, BBS forged-alloy wheels, HID headlamps and additional interior features. Significantly, the newest Lancer Evolution will have less differentiation from market to market than the previous generations.

Design Evolution

The 2008 Lancer Evolution design makes a maximum performance statement, blending concept car themes and sound aerodynamic principles while conveying the brand's rally heritage. A shark-nosed front end inspired by jet fighter air intakes, a distinct wedge-like profile and crisp, taut lines highlight the basic new-generation Lancer design. Building on those themes, the 2008 Lancer Evolution looks the part of the street-wise sports machine with its a unique front end, aggressively sloping hood with integral air scoop and engine heat outlets, boxed fenders, and 18-inch alloy wheels with Brembo brakes.

Inside, the Lancer Evolution presents a "class up" approach and shows a new international flair. Available user technology, including high-end Rockford Fosgate® audio and navigation systems, reflects the tastes of a broadening customer base.

All-new 2.0-liter Turbo Engine

The 2008 Lancer Evolution's 4B11 engine is an intercooled-turbocharged 2.0-liter DOHC inline 4-cylinder. Beyond that description, it differs greatly from the legendary 4G63 it replaces. The 4B11 is built with a reinforced cast-aluminum cylinder block versus the cast-iron block used in the 4G63, and aluminum is also used for the cylinder head and cover and the timing chain case.

The new 4B11 T/C produces more power than its predecessor: 291 bhp at 6,500 rpm (vs. 286 bhp at 6,500 rpm) and 300 lb-ft of peak torque at 4,400 rpm (vs. 289 lb-ft at 3,500 rpm). The 4B11 T/C provides a broader torque curve, as well. A revised turbocharger yields up to 20-percent quicker response at lower engine speeds versus the 2006 engine's turbocharger.

New TC-SST Automated Manual Transmission

Exclusive to the Evolution MR model for 2008, the 6-speed Twin-Clutch Sportronic Shift Transmission (TC-SST) is an automated manual transmission capable of executing lightning-quick upshifts with no drop-off in engine power. The TC-SST features both a console-mounted shifter and magnesium steering wheel paddle shifters and offers manual and fully automatic modes.

Essentially, the TC-SST is a manual transmission that can select two gears at a time: one gear is engaged by one of the two wet multi-plate clutches, and the other is pre-selected, awaiting to be engaged by the second clutch. The gear change is made - either manually or automatically depending on mode selected - when the electro-hydraulically operated clutches are "swapped," which occurs simultaneously, with no perceptible lag time.

Super-All Wheel Control (S-AWC)

In the 2008 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution, Super All-Wheel Control (S-AWC) is not simply the name of a new all-wheel drive system. Rather, S-AWC regulates drive torque at each wheel by controlling a network of dynamic handling technologies, including: Active Center Differential (ACD) 4-wheel drive, Active Yaw Control (AYC) rear differential, Active Stability Control (ASC), and Sports ABS brakes. Integration of ASC is new for all markets and also provides a significant advance in both dynamic capability and safety.
Base Price: 2008 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution X - $32,990 (last update: 1/14/2008)

2007 Mercedes-Benz SLR 722 Edition

2008-04-30T05:56:00.001-07:00

New Mercedes-Benz SLR 722 Edition: Born on the Racetrack
The new Mercedes-Benz SLR 722 Edition has all the attributes of a thoroughbred racing car. Refined in numerous respects, this super sports car has more output, a tailor-made suspension configuration and a decidedly sporty interior. Sale of the SLR 722 Edition in the U.S. has not been confirmed.

Continuing the Tradition

The new model variant SLR 722 Edition is a homage by Mercedes-Benz to the unforgettable victory won by the British racing legend Stirling Moss and his co-driver Denis Jenkinson in a Mercedes-Benz 300 SLR with the starting number 722 (indicating a start time of 7.22 a.m.) at the Mille Miglia in 1955. With an output of 650 bhp and a corresponding performance, the new super sports car, which goes on sale on July 11, 2006, will not only make the hearts of car enthusiasts beat faster.

The supercharged 5.5-liter V8 engine in the 722 Edition, which is hand-built in the AMG engine shop in Affalterbach, generates 650 bhp. The particular strengths of this high-performance engine are immediate response to movements of the accelerator, highly emphatic torque build-up and an unmistakable V8 sound. The performance figures are outstanding even for a high-end sports car: the 722 Edition accelerates from standstill to 62 mph in only 3.6 seconds, and 124 mph is reached in just 10.2 seconds. The top speed (209 mph) is above the 207 mph previously achieved by the SLR.

Handling characteristics worthy of the racetrack are also provided by the sophisticated suspension, with 19-inch light-alloy wheels, a stiffer damper configuration and 0.4 inches lower body. Larger brake discs with a diameter of 390 mm ensure excellent braking performance.

Discreet visual modifications mark the Mercedes-Benz SLR 722 Edition out as special, in line with the wishes of the enthusiastic gentleman drivers and wealthy sports car collectors who make up the core target group. The modified front spoiler with an air splitter, as well as the rear diffuser, improve both the aerodynamics and contact pressure at high speeds, and reflect the transfer of cutting-edge technology from motor racing. At the same time, the use of clear-lacquered carbon as an extremely strong yet lightweight material symbolizes the practicality of these technical features. Bucket-type sports seats upholstered in leather/Alcantara provide outstanding lateral support, while the grippier racing steering wheel with a hunting-leather lining, gearshift paddles and black carbon highlights lend a thoroughbred racing touch to the interior.

Exclusive "SLR. Club" for SLR owners

Before the sales release date, customers and selected guests will have the advance opportunity to appraise the new SLR 722 Edition. This is to mark the foundation of the worldwide "SLR. Club" at the Circuit Paul Ricard in Le Castellet, southern France. As an ultra-exclusive community of which SLR customers automatically become members, the "SLR Club" provides an attractive platform for outstanding events related to the SLR, as well as numerous other benefits. Another exciting feature is the club’s SLR Safety & Speed Academy, which offers special driver training courses and seminars. David Coulthard, Jochen Mass, Klaus Ludwig, Chris Goodwin and Christina Surer are among the highly skilled and well-known instructors.
Base Price: 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLR 722 Edition - 646,840 € (last update: 3/27/2007)

2007 Lamborghini Murcielago LP640

2008-04-30T05:55:00.001-07:00

The New Lamborghini Murcielago LP640
The new Lamborghini Murcielago LP640 features considerable innovations in terms of body design and mechanics. And also with a new name: Murcielago LP640, which refers to its engine position - longitudinale posteriore - and to its power 640 bhp. Designers and engineers have not only focused on reworking the engine, suspensions, gearbox, exhaust system, brakes and electronics, but also the interior and exterior design; improvements that make the Murcielago LP 640 the most extreme and fastest sports car in its class, placing it at the very top.

The first vehicles will be available in spring 2006. Since the original Murcielago’s debut at the 2001 International Car Show (IAA) in Frankfurt, around 2,000 vehicles have left the car plant in Sant’ Agata Bolognese.

Unmistakable Lamborghini Design

In their reinterpretation of the Lamborghini Murcielago LP640, the designers at the Lamborghini Style Centre have remained true to the traditional Lamborghini principles of purism, sport and function. The Murcielago LP640 now appears even more aggressive, with the new front and rear bumpers contributing significantly to its appearance. The exhaust system terminal has been incorporated in the diffuser on the rear bumper. Other innovations include the rear lights, which enhance the distinguishing features of the Murcielago LP640, making it unmistakable even at night. The design of the sides is also worth mentioning: while the area behind the air intake on the right side is practically closed, the left side features a vast aperture for cooling the oil radiator. Together with the aerodynamically defined front and rear, this proves yet again that the shape of a Lamborghini is dictated by function.

More Powerful Engine

The engine of the new Murcielago LP640 has undergone outstanding and radical modification. The increased bore and longer stroke have boosted the displacement of the classic 60° V-engine from 6.2 liters to 6.5 liters. Thus the already extraordinary 580 bhp engine power has now been elevated to an impressive peak of 640 bhp at 8,000 rpm. The 12-cylinder engine reaches a maximum torque of 487 lb-ft at 6,000 rpm.

The new Murcielago LP640 features a modified sixratio gearbox as well as a tougher rear differential and new axle shafts. On request, the e-gear automatic gearbox is also available equipped with the new dedicated “Thrust” (acceleration program) mode.

Frame and Chassis: Perfect Harmony

The body of the Murcielago LP640 with its characteristic scissor doors is created from the prized union of sheet steel and honeycombed carbon fiber, glued and riveted together.

Driving, handling and stability at high speed are enhanced by new springs and stabilizers, as well as by a redesigned electronically controlled damper. The "antidive" and "anti-squat" features on the axles, which efficiently prevent so-called "brake diving" and "squatting", have not been changed. The two springs on every rear wheel, the single spring on every front wheel and the damper are placed coaxially.

Optional CeramicCarbon Brakes

The dual hydraulic circuit brake system equipped with a vacuum brake booster ensures considerable deceleration values. The self-ventilating front and rear brake disks measure 380 mm x 34 mm and 355 mm x 32 mm respectively. The control circuit of the four-channel anti-blocking system (ABS) with electronic brake control (DRP) and traction control (TCS) features a new characteristic curve. The system consists in an electro-hydraulic control unit and four speed sensors.

When particularly high braking performance is required, it is possible to equip the vehicle with 380 mm x 36 mm ceramic carbon brakes featuring six-piston brake calipers.

Even More Exclusive Interior

The seats in the cockpit have undergone the most radical changes; more spacious and equipped with redesigned head restraints, the seats now ensure better comfort. The leather upholstery features lozenge-shaped stitching called "Q-citura". The same design is recaptured on the upholstery on the door panels, the panel between the seats and the engine compartment, and on the roof panel.

A new instrument panel has been developed with lights featuring a new graphic design, flanked by a new Kenwood car radio with a 6.5” widescreen monitor and DVD, MP3 and WMA player. An optional navigation system is also available (standard in Japan).
Base Price: 2007 Lamborghini Murcielago LP640 - £190,000 (last update: 3/27/2007)

2006 Koenigsegg CCX

2008-04-30T05:54:00.001-07:00

Koenigsegg CCX: Competition Coupe X Commemorates the 10th Anniversary of the First CC
The Koenigsegg CCX is the latest iteration of the Koenigsegg CC family. The CCX is in many ways a new car since it has been re-engineered to comply with the US regulation and market demands. Still, it has been a key issue for the Koenigsegg Team to keep the distinctive and record braking CC shape. Koenigsegg believes it is important to avoid trends and instead hone the aerodynamic shape of the CC range for the future, only enhancing its unique look and appearance with tighter lines and a more aggressive stance. Koenigsegg also believes in continuity. A new Koenigsegg shall show a clear lineage from its predecessor and shall not follow any other design trends, but enhance its already proven concept and shape to perfection.

CCX stands for Competition Coupe X. The CCX marks the 10th anniversary of the completion and test drive of the first CC maiden prototype, which rolled out from the R&D department in 1996.

Body and Interior

The Koenigsegg CCX features a completely new set of body and interior parts. The body incorporates a new front bumper design, engineered to function well in the stringent 2.5 mph bumper test, including enhanced brake cooling, fog lamps and US side position lights. The front lamps have been slightly redesigned to suit the new bumper line.

There is a new scoop on the front bonnet as a larger fresh air-intake for the occupants and new air vents have been added behind the front wheels in order to further evacuate air from the cockpit. The frontal shape revisions now allow for effective track use options to be added.

The car is 3.4 inches longer in order to comply with the US rear impact regulations and in order to free up space around the rear muffler. The rear clamshell now features a glass window over the new CCX engine, clearly showing off the bespoke and unique Koenigsegg Block casting.

The Interior

There are further 2 inches of space in headroom, making the CCX the most spacious super car on the market.

In corporation with Sparco, and Koenigsegg test driver Loric Bicocchi, Koenigsegg has developed a new seat design for the CCX. The structures of the seat are still carbon fiber, but now fully padded front surface and a tilting backrest.

Wheels and Brakes

The optional 382 mm front discs are coupled to 8-piston calipers and in the rear the 362 mm size is retained with 6-piston calipers. The optional industry-first carbon fiber wheels save another 6.6 lbs per wheel compared to the already lightweight magnesium wheels that come as standard.

Ram Air Engine Booster

Between the raised speedster bumps there is a new type of vortex generator implemented as a Ram Air engine booster by Christian Koenigsegg on the CCX. Due to the fact that there is a fresh air intake right below the rear window, the vortex generator redirects the air directly into the air intake and thereby creating a positive pressure in the air box.

Unique Koenigsegg Engine

The engine in the CCX retains the incredible performance and power of the CCR engine, while running on US 91 octane fuel and complying with California emission regulations. In order to reach this challenging goal, extensive rework had to be done to emission related items, such as new cylinder heads with larger valve area and more optimally flowing cylinder head ports. Dual smaller injections per cylinder were integrated, as well as new camshafts, a new carbon fiber individual runner intake plenum, a new engine management system, updated fuel and EVAP system.

The Koenigsegg engineers also incorporated the most powerful internal piston coolers in the industry - bringing down the piston temperature by as much as 80% more than competing systems, which was a must in order to run high cylinder pressure with 91 octane fuel.

Koenigsegg stands out among low volume super car manufacturers, because they engineer the engine completely in-house in combination with the fact that it is also built, assembled, and dyno tested in the Koenigsegg production plant.

Made for a Select Elite of Enthusiasts

Koenigsegg manufactures exclusive sports cars for a select elite of enthusiasts. Spaceage materials and uncompromising quality both in finish and function make these cars among the very best in the automotive history.
Base Price: $540,000 + VAT & ex works
Fully Equipped: $600,910 + VAT & ex works (last update: 2/22/2007)

2008 Ford Shelby GT500KR

2008-04-28T18:29:00.001-07:00

Ford Shelby GT500KR "King of the Road" Returns in 2008
Celebrating the fortieth anniversary of the original Shelby Cobra GT500KR, Ford and Shelby collaborate on a new ‘King of the Road’ Mustang with the 2008 Shelby GT500KR. Ford Shelby GT500KR features an estimated 540-hp 5.4-liter supercharged V-8 with a Ford Racing Power Upgrade Pack, 3.73:1 rear axle ratio, short-throw shifter, and unique suspension tuning. Exterior design draws inspiration from the classic Shelby KR Mustangs and features unique carbon composite hood, wheels, and special 40th Anniversary badging and unique striping.

Crowning the New “King of the Road”

Gary Davis, vice president of production and product development for Shelby Automobiles, played a key role in defining the look of the custom designed carbon composite hood for the GT500KR. His knowledge of the original GT500KR helped sculpt a modern interpretation of the original’s bulging hood scoop, a visual indication of the extra horsepower packed beneath it. The hood is secured by a pair of stainless steel, twist-down hood pins. The composite front valance houses a pair of chrome-trimmed, functional brake ducts to cool the large 14-inch, vented Brembo front brakes.

Side stripes are true to the original KR right down to the font used for the ‘GT500KR’ lettering, while the classic LeMans-style striping that races down the center of the car has been deleted between the leading forward edge of the hood scoops and the front of the hood, accenting the scoops and giving the KR its distinctive face. “That was Shelby’s idea,” said Gaffka. “It’s a special touch that adds some down-the-road differentiation. There will be no doubt that it’s a ‘King of the Road’ Mustang that’s filling up your rearview mirrors.”

The show car wears exclusive, Shelby-designed 20-inch, forged, polished aluminum wheels with special custom center caps, mounted on Pirelli rubber. Production models will arrive with an 18-inch version of the design.

Each KR model is identified by special 40th Anniversary KR badges on the fenders and grille, distinctive body colored mirror caps and Shelby lettering stretching across the front of the hood and along the rear portion of the deck lid. A special Shelby VIN tag is affixed to each vehicle, mounted in the engine compartment.

The all-leather interior features Carroll Shelby signature embroidered headrests and an official Shelby CSM 40th Anniversary GT500KR dash plate mounted at the top of the center stack.

The KR’s 5.4-liter V-8 Gets the Royal Treatment

Just like its namesake, the 2008 ‘King of the Road’ packs a walloping dose of Ford performance power under its massive composite hood scoops. The Ford SVT-engineered 5.4-liter supercharged V-8 is treated to a Ford Racing Power Upgrade Pack that boosts horsepower to an estimated 540 and torque to 510 lb-ft, thanks to revised ignition and throttle calibration and a cold air intake system that replaces the stock unit.

Calibration modifications include advancing the ignition timing as well as re-mapping of the electronic throttle settings to provide quicker throttle response for better off-line and mid-range acceleration. Increased throttle response will be met with a sharper roar from the Ford Racing-inspired exhaust system.

Power is delivered to the rear wheels through a Tremec TR6060 six-speed manual transmission and 3.73:1 rear axle ratio, upgraded from the standard GT500’s 3.31:1. Gear selection is courtesy of an all-new Ford Racing short-throw shifter making its debut on the KR. Topped with a white ball, the new shifter is 25 percent shorter than the unit on the GT500 providing for crisper, sharper shifts.

Ford SVT, Ford Racing and Team Shelby worked together to develop the KR’s suspension tuning. Based on initial work by Ford Racing and the team at Shelby, often at Shelby’s own facility on the grounds of Las Vegas Motor Speedway, Ford SVT chassis engineers will apply fine tuning techniques to prepare it for the streets.

The Shelby GT500KR will be produced in an exclusive run of 1000 units and will begin arriving in Ford dealers in the spring of 2008.
Base Price: 2008 Ford Shelby GT500KR - n.a. (last update: 5/8/2007)

2006 Ford GT Tungsten

2008-04-28T18:27:00.000-07:00

GT Tungsten Limited Edition
To commemorate the 40th Anniversary of the Ford's first win at Le Mans, the 2006 Ford GT will be offered in a limited-edition Tungsten Silver, which replaces Quick Silver on the Ford GT's color palette. A Quick Silver racing stripe can be added to the Tungsten Silver package.

Tungsten Silver was developed for the 2004 North American International Auto Show Ford "Performance Trilogy" show cars - the Ford GT, the Shelby Cobra roadster concept and the new 2005 Mustang GT. Customer demand was so overwhelming that the color was added to the production palette.

"There's good contrast between the colors," says Camilo Pardo, chief designer of the Ford GT. "But it's a discreet contrast. In Tungsten Silver, the Ford GT is really dressy, like a fine suit. It looks mature.

"This dark silver color also brings out all the design features and the subtleties of the car," he adds. "In fact, people who've seen it thought we'd added a feature line around the side of the car. It's always been there, but you may not notice it in the car's other colors. The Tungsten Silver really brings it out."

Pardo notes that in the design studio, clay models are covered with "Dynoc" material that is a similar hue to Tungsten silver. The color is specifically designed to enhance the vehicle design details for evaluation.

"We use silver to evaluate our designs throughout the whole process," he says. "It brings out the subtleties, the returns and the negatives, the differences between horizontal and vertical surfaces."
Base Price: 2006 Ford GT Tungsten - $149,995 (last update: 2/21/2007)

2002 Ferrari Enzo

2008-04-28T18:26:00.001-07:00

The Fastest Ever Road Going Ferrari: Enzo
Buyers will be invited to the Ferrari factory to have the cockpit of their car tailored to their specific needs. There will be a choice of four width fittings for both the cushion and backrest of the leather trimmed multi-adjustable Sparco seats. The position of the accelerator and brake pedals can be adjusted fore and aft – and sideways to accommodate drivers who prefer to use left-foot braking.
Base Price: 2002 Ferrari Enzo - Approx. $1,000,000 (last update: 2/21/2007

2008 Ferrari 430 Scuderia

2008-04-28T18:25:00.001-07:00

The Ferrari 430 Scuderia will be Unveiled by Michael Schumacher
The new Ferrari 430 Scuderia will join the road-going V8 line-up alongside the F430 coupe and the F430 Spider. The 430 Scuderia is a truly high-performance 2-seater berlinetta which demonstrates how Ferrari's Formula 1 know-how is carried across to its production cars.

The new model is a special series based on the F430 and is aimed specifically at Ferrari's most passionate and sports-driving oriented clients. Development focused on light weight, minimum trimmings and innovative technology. All this to exalt the car's extremely high-performance and ability to thrill the driver.

The new car can count on an extremely low weight-to-power ratio of just 2.45 kg per bhp thanks to a low dry weight of just 2755 lb - 220 lb less than the F430 - and to the naturally-aspirated 4308cc V8's 510 bhp at 8500 rpm.

Superb performance both on and off the track is assured by a series of cutting-edge solutions. There is the latest software - F1 Superfast - which reduces gearchange times to just 60 milliseconds, and new traction control which, for the first time, combines the E-Diff electronic differential and the F1-Trac traction and stability control in a single integrated system.

Vehicle dynamics, control and performance thus represent the zenith of Ferrari's achievements in terms of developing road-certified sports cars.

The 430 Scuderia will be officially unveiled by Michael Schumacher at the IAA Motor Show in Frankfurt in September 2007.
Base Price: 2008 Ferrari 430 Scuderia - n.a. (last update: 7/19/2006

2008 Dodge Viper SRT10

2008-04-28T18:24:00.001-07:00

Viper SRT10 Coupe “Tops Off” Viper Line
The new 2008 Dodge Viper SRT10 boasts more of what performance aficionados crave: kick-in-the-pants, throw-back-in-the-seat power, combined with benchmark braking, world-class ride and handling, a race-inspired interior and bold exterior styling.

While every SRT vehicle offers balanced, overall performance, the heart and soul of the new 2008 Dodge Viper SRT10 is its standout powertrain. For 2008, SRT ups the ante with a new, 8.4-liter aluminum V-10 engine that produces an astounding 600 horsepower and 560 lb-ft of torque.

Standout Powertrain

Working with specialists from McLaren Performance Technologies and Ricardo, Inc., SRT engineers began by following the racer’s basic formula for more power: bigger displacement, more efficient breathing and higher engine speed.

The new Dodge Viper SRT10’s deep-skirted V-10 aluminum engine block was revised for a 1-millimeter larger bore, raising the displacement to 8.4 liters from 8.3 liters. The two-piece intake manifold combines a cast aluminum lower with smooth runners for better air flow, bolted to a die-cast aluminum upper plenum. A revised air-cleaner box with a low-restriction filter sends air through a dual electronic throttle control into the intake module.

Spent gases exit through tubular air-gap headers, which not only improve exhaust flow, but also ensure quick catalyst light-off for improved emission control. The headers’ stamped stainless-steel outer shell acts as a thermal heat shield for the individual stainless-steel runners that contribute to better flow separation and exhaust tuning.

World-class Ride and Handling

The ride and handling of the 2008 Dodge Viper SRT10 is defined by a race-bred, fully independent, four-wheel suspension featuring lightweight, high-performance aluminum control arms and knuckles, damped by lightweight coil-over shock absorbers.

Where the power goes right to the road, SRT engineers retained the tried-and-true Dana M44-4 rear axle and outfitted it with a new GKN Visco-Lok speed-sensing limited-slip differential for improved traction.

The Dodge Viper SRT10 rides on polished, forged aluminum, 18 x 10-inch front and 19 x 13-inch rear wheels now available in three styles: the five-spoke, the H-spoke and the all-new Razor wheel with five U-shaped spokes. The wheels are clad in Michelin® Pilot® Sport PS2 tires. The four-groove tread-design tires provide maximum grip, reduced road noise and superior handling in both wet and dry conditions.

Bold Exterior Styling

The 2008 Dodge Viper SRT10 remains available in two body styles – Roadster and Coupe. Both feature a dramatic new hood with a larger, more efficient hood scoop for air induction and larger, functional hood louvers to facilitate a greater cooling effect for the more powerful 8.4-liter, 600-horsepower V-10 engine underneath.

The Dodge Viper SRT10 Coupe’s hard top with its “double bubble” styling makes it even more torsionally stiff than the Roadster. The 2008 Dodge Viper SRT10 Coupe offers increased downforce and high-speed stability with its sloping roofline and deck-lid spoiler. Plus, the Dodge Viper SRT10 Coupe has an additional 6.25 cubic feet of trunk space than the Viper SRT10 Roadster, for a total of 14.65 cubic feet. The roof and headliner structure offer more room to accommodate a safety cage, while maintaining as much headroom as possible.

Race-inspired Interior Design

The 2008 Dodge Viper SRT10 cockpit retains its characteristic red push-button starter and performance-oriented, highly functional instrument panel with center-mounted tachometer and 220-mph speedometer.

The new 2008 Dodge Viper SRT10 will arrive in Dodge showrooms in North America this summer with a new level of customization options, including five new exterior colors, four new interior color combinations and a new wheel design.
Base Price: 2008 Dodge Viper SRT10 - $83,895 (last update: 8/3/2007)

2007 Chevrolet Corvette Z06

2008-04-28T18:22:00.000-07:00

Covette Z06: The Fastest, Most Powerful Production Corvette Ever Built
LS7 Engine

The all-new LS7 of the 2007 Z06 reintroduces the 427-cubic-inch engine to the Corvette lineup. Unlike the previous 427 engine, which was a big-block design, the new 7.0-liter LS7 is a small-block V-8 – the largest-displacement small-block ever produced by GM and a tribute to its 50 years as a performance icon.

With 500 horsepower and 475 lb-ft of torque, it also is the most powerful passenger car engine ever produced by Chevrolet and GM. The LS7 is easily identified under the hood by red engine covers with black lettering.

The LS7 shares the same basic Gen IV V-8 architecture as the Corvette’s 6.0-liter LS2, but the LS7 uses a different cylinder block casting with pressed-in steel cylinder liners to accommodate the engine’s wide, 104.8-mm-wide cylinder bores; the LS2 has 101.6-mm bores. And when compared to the LS2, the LS7 also has a different front cover, oil pan, exhaust manifolds and cylinder heads.

Internally, the LS7’s reciprocating components make use of racing-derived lightweight technology, including titanium connecting rods and intake valves, to help boost horsepower and rpm capability. The rpm fuel shut-off limit is 7000 rpm.

One of the clearest examples of the LS7’s race-bred technology is its use of titanium connecting rods. They weigh just 480 grams apiece, almost 30 percent less than the rods in the LS2 V-8. Besides being lightweight, which enhances high-rpm performance and rpm range, titanium makes the rods extremely durable.

Drivetrain

The Corvette Z06’s powertrain and drivetrain systems are matched to the LS7’s performance capability. The light, four-into-one headers discharge in to new, close-coupled catalytic converters and through to new “bi-modal” mufflers. The mufflers each feature a vacuum-actuated outlet valve, which controls exhaust noise during low-load operation but opens for maximum power.

At the rear of the LS7 engine, a single-mass flywheel and lightweight, high-capacity clutch channel torque to the rear transaxle. The six-speed manual transmission has been strengthened to handle the LS7’s increased torque load. The transmission includes a pump which sends transmission fluid to the front radiator for cooling. Upon its return, the fluid removes additional heat from the differential lube before returning to the transmission.

Distinct Design

The aerodynamics of the Z06’s exterior were shaped by the experiences of the Corvette racing program, where high-speed stability and cornering capability are paramount. And while the racecars use large rear wings, the Z06’s elevated spoiler provides sufficient downforce to balance the road-worthy front splitter without adversely affecting aerodynamic drag. The Z06’s Cd is 0.31.

Uncompromising Amenities

For all its race-inspired functionality, the Z06 is designed to be a daily drivable high-performance vehicle. To that end, comfort and convenience are held to a very high standard. HID lighting, fog lamps, leather seating, dual-zone air conditioning, cabin air filtration and Head-Up Display (HUD) with track mode and g-meter are standard.

The Z06 also has a revised gauge cluster that displays the Z06 logo on the 7000-redline tachometer and has a new readout on the oil pressure gauge to reflect the higher standard pressure of the dry-sump oiling system. And, like other 2007 Corvettes, the Z06 has a new, smaller-diameter three-spoke steering wheel that provides a more agile, performance-oriented feel. The seats feature two-tone leathering surfaces, with Z06-logo embroidery and contrasting stitching.

Z06 options include a Bose audio system with an in-dash six-CD changer, polished wheels, a telescoping steering wheel, heated seats, side air bags, a navigation system with GPS, Homelink and XM Satellite Radio.
Base Price: 2008 Chevrolet Corvette Z06 - $70,175 (last update: 8/10/2007)

2006 Bugatti Veyron 16.4

2008-04-28T18:19:00.000-07:00

Bugatti Veyron 16.4: Superior in Every Sense
After four years of development, the Bugatti Veyron 16.4, as it will now be called, is ready for series production. The most exclusive sports car of all time is following in the footsteps of the legendary Bugatti, those universally-coveted limousines and unbeatable racing cars of the 1920s and 1930s which today are among the most sought-after creations from the early days of automobile construction.

This brings to an end the era of design models and concept cars which since the late 1990s have signposted possible paths to the Bugattis of the future. Design and technological concept have finally become reality in the Veyron model’s final form and will be available from the beginning of 2004 as a strictly limited edition of just 300 cars. Technologically futuristic and packed with creative engineering, the first Bugatti of the 21st century has arrived.

Merging the Past and the Future

The Bugatti Veyron 16.4’s home is in Molsheim-Dorlisheim, the French town where, almost 100 years ago, Ettore Bugatti began to realize his lifelong dream of being a car manufacturer. The new workshop is not just where the engine and vehicle are assembled and tested, it is also the place where customers collect their Bugattis and drive them out onto the streets for the first time.

The aim is to turn Molsheim into an all-round Bugatti center once again. While up to 70 new vehicles a year are built by hand in the new facility, neighboring specially-equipped workshops are the scene of expert restoration work on historic Bugatti vehicles. Both past and future have found a new home here.

High Performance

The car’s safety systems have been designed to cope with its extraordinary performance, acceleration and speed. The single-piece carbon-fiber monocoque alone scores maximum points in crash tests, while airbags give the driver and passenger additional protection. The high-speed tires designed specially for the Bugatti Veyron 16.4 (for vmax. > 350 km/h), sizes 265-680 ZR500A (front) and 365-710 R540A (rear), incorporate a further innovative safety feature in the form of the PAX System fitted to the wheels and tires, ensuring safe handling even after sudden pressure loss. Another Bugatti Veyron 16.4 component with a safety element is the rear spoiler. As well as providing the necessary downforce during high-speed travel, it acts as a kind of ‘parachute brake’ during emergency braking. Once precisely-defined deceleration forces are registered the spoiler tilts and the additional air resistance this generates reduces the braking distance to that of a lorry.

The Art of the Machine

The W16 alloy engine developed by Bugatti for the Veyron 16.4 will have a special and absolutely unique place in the history of sports car construction. Its design employs the space-saving VR principle with two particularly slender eight-cylinder blocks arranged at a 90° angle to each other.

1001 horsepower equip the Bugatti Veyron 16.4 with a level of acceleration unheard of in the sports car segment, propelling it from 0 to 62 mph in just 2.5 seconds and past the 200 mph mark in a mere 24 seconds. Thanks to its 923 lb-ft, the Bugatti Veyron 16.4’s enormous propulsive power is not exhausted until it reaches 252.3 mph (406 km/h): the maximum speed for which chassis and drive train have been designed. Any further performance escalation is limited by current design and construction.

Also unique is the power transmission via an innovative directshift gearbox. Without any interruption in the power flow, the sequential seven-speed gearbox transmits the engine’s power to the wheels via permanent four-wheel drive. Put simply, this means uninterrupted acceleration from a standing start to maximum speed: a feeling previously known only to jet pilots.

Exclusive, Classical, Functional

Both exclusive and highly functional, the interior of the Bugatti Veyron 16.4 will transport you to a world of your own. Superb leather, also two-tone if desired, quality metallic trim and beautifully designed and ergonomically laid-out controls characterize the Veyron cockpit.

The Bugatti Veyron 16.4 instruments, with a large central rev counter surrounded by four smaller additional instruments also conjures up memories of the marque’s legendary motor sport past. The deliberate avoidance of superfluous instruments and modern extras are an unmistakable statement of the car’s uncompromising sportiness.

Unchanged on the series version of the Bugatti Veyron 16.4 is the classical two-tone paintwork. The designers have selected five separate color combinations for the car: Each of the combinations features the bonnet, roof and rear in the darker of the two colors, with the sides and front wheel arches in the lighter color.
Base Price: 2006 Bugatti Veyron 16.4 - Approx. $1,700,000 (last update: 1/19/2007)

2007 BMW M6

2008-04-28T18:15:00.000-07:00

New BMW M6: The Rebirth of an Icon
Power and performance, however, are not everything. Rather, what really counts is a car's acceleration and driving dynamics on the road. And this depends, first, on the weight of a car and, second, on the thrust and power which actually goes to the drive wheels - which, in turn, is a result of engine torque and the overall transmission ratio. BMW's high-speed engine concept allows an optimum gearbox and final drive transmission ratio in all cases, thus guaranteeing impressive thrust and momentum on the road at all times.

The Interior

Inside, the new M6 comes with fully adjustable M sports seats that include lumbar support and an adjustable backrest width as standard. They are covered in extended Merino leather, with the owner able to choose between Black, Silverstone or Sepang.

The new car also features BMW M’s version of the new Head-up Display system. Unlike the standard Head-up Display available on 5 and 6 Series models that offers navigation instructions and cruise control information, the system on the M6 projects driver-focussed information such as engine speed, gear selected and road speed directly into the driver’s view, obviating the need for the driver to take his or her eyes off the road ahead.
Base Price: 2007 BMW M6 - $98,600 / 106,500 € (last update: 2/20/2007

2009 BMW M3 Coupe

2008-04-28T07:36:00.000-07:00

Turning Powerful Passion into Supreme Performance: The New BMW M3
Entering each new season in motorsport, BMW feels new and fresh ambition, query formally proven recipes for success, and focus on new records and outstanding achievements. And precisely this also applies to the debut of the new BMW M3. Having completed its test cycle with flying colors, the new high-performance sports car from BMW M GmbH is ready and waiting to take over pole position. Indeed, with its superior power, performance and dynamism, the new BMW M3 ensures truly unique sheer driving pleasure of the highest caliber.

The new, 414 bhp V8 power unit offers enormous muscle and performance at all times. And the aesthetic design of the new car typical once again of BMW M spells out supremacy of the highest standard.

The new BMW M3 sets the foundation for continuing an exceptional career in motorsport. So every enthusiast sharing the passion for supreme performance may be sure that this model is able to master even the greatest challenge on and off the race track. And last but certainly not least, the new BMW M3 offers the supreme standard of reliability and everyday driving qualities so typical of all high-performance cars from BMW M GmbH.

The First-ever Eight-cylinder to Power a BMW M3

After 15 glorious years in the world of motoring, the straight-six power unit lauded time and again as the Engine-of-the-Year in the two former model generations of the BMW M3 is now giving way to a truly worthy successor. The new BMW M3 comes for the first time with an eight-cylinder power unit. And the specifications of this all-new high-performance engine clearly
prove the competence and skill of the engine development specialists at BMW M GmbH gained in a long history of racing success: Displacing 3,999 cc, the new V8 develops maximum output of 414 bhp, together with peak torque of 295 lb-ft at 3, 900 rpm. Perhaps an even more outstanding fact is that some 85 per cent of the engine’s peak torque remains available throughout the enormous speed range of 6, 500 rpm.

The eight-cylinder nevertheless owes its most striking and distinctive forte to the high-speed engine concept so typical of BMW M: Revving all the way to 8,400 rpm, the new power unit offers supreme muscle and performance at all times. Power is transmitted to the rear wheels by a six-speed manual gearbox interacting with brand-new final drive. This combination alone provides an acceleration and power potential reminiscent in its spontaneity and endurance to the dynamic potential of a thoroughbred racing car.

Athletic body design as a visible expression of superior power

The exterior of the new BMW M3 was designed and developed from the start to give the car a truly unique and sporting look. So applying the principle of "form follows function”, the designers at BMW M GmbH, in giving the body of the car its particular look and appearance, have succeeded in finding a perfect match of supreme technology, on the one hand, and authentic sporting design, on the other.

Reflecting this clear-cut principle, the engine compartment lid made of aluminum features an impressive powerdome right in the middle. Together with the recesses right next to the powerdome providing space for additional air intake openings, this special design feature clearly hints to the supreme potential of the eight-cylinder power unit within the engine compartment. The contours of the powerdome and air intakes follow the forward-pointing arrow shape of the engine compartment lid, blending harmoniously into the overall design of the front end even longer than on the “regular” BMW 3 Series Coupe.

The Interior: Tailor-made for Optimum Driving Pleasure

In designing the interior, the specialists at BMW M GmbH have succeeded in offering the occupants maximum driving pleasure in an ambience tailored to their specific needs and wishes. This applies particularly to the driver, with all controls and instruments relating directly to the active driving experience in the car adapted to the supreme performance of the BMW M3 and re-designed from the ground up wherever appropriate.

Double circular instruments with white illumination and red needles, the M leather steering wheel and the newly designed centre console all characterize the cockpit of the new BMW M3. The door cutout trim embellished by the characteristic M logo, the support for the driver’s left foot made of brushed metal, the special design and color of the inner door panels, as well as the trim strip made of high-quality, sophisticated materials exclusive to BMW M such as leather in carbon design or aluminum, all serve to underline the supreme and truly unique position of the new BMW M3.

MDrive Button for the Ambitious Driving Enthusiast

Enjoying the qualities of the new BMW M3, the driver is able to configure several driving parameters individually according to his particular requirements, thus adjusting the car’s behavior and performance to his personal preferences. One option, for example, is to completely deactivate the Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) via the car’s set-up. Electronic Damper Control (EDC), in turn, which optimizes both vertical vibration behavior as well as the car’s dive and roll in bends and when applying the brakes and accelerating by adjusting damper forces, comes with three different settings – Normal, Comfort, and Sports – the driver is able to pre-select at the touch of a button.

Three control maps are also available for precise, on-demand management of the engine. These management functions operate not only on the position of the throttle butterflies in the intake manifold, but also on further factors and parameters significantly changing the behavior and response of the engine.

The optionally available MDrive configuration enables the driver to pre-select the response of the Servotronic power steering. In the process, MDrive is able to follow two control maps varying steering forces between the Normal and Sports setting as a function of road speed.
Base Price: 2009 BMW M3 Coupe - $57,275 (last update: 1/15/2008)

2007 Audi R8

2008-04-28T07:35:00.001-07:00

Audi Reveals the R8: Le Mans Racer for the Street

The Audi R8, into which Audi has incorporated the name and the genes of the five-time Le Mans winner, is a spectacular sports car. Three years after the unveiling of the Audi Le Mans quattro concept car, the production version will be making its debut at the Paris Motor Show in the guise of the new Audi R8 mid-engined sports model. It is a fascinating driving machine and the sporty pinnacle of the Audi brand. The mid-mounted 420 bhp V8 FSI engine, quattro permanent four-wheel drive and Audi Space Frame aluminum body form the basis for truly outstanding driving dynamics. The Audi R8 will be available to order from 28 September 2006; first deliveries will be made in the first half of 2007.

As the first Audi mid-engined sports car, the Audi R8 combines Audi's experience gained from numerous motorsport triumphs with groundbreaking design and the acknowledged technological expertise of the brand. This expertise has led to the slogan 'Vorsprung durch Technik' becoming a byword for leading-edge technology both on the race track and on the road.

Audi R8's Exterior

Even at first glance, the caliber of the Audi R8 is plain to see. The car sits broad and squat on the road, the strongly accentuated rear end appearing to flex its muscles like a sprinter ready for the off.

The characteristic proportions of the vehicle are dictated by the location of the engine behind the cockpit. This layout is a typical feature of race cars. One of the most striking examples of this design – and as such one of the legitimate antecedents of the Audi R8 – was, and still is, the Auto Union Type C Grand Prix car. The central position of the engine is above all a boon to driving dynamics, as it allows for a weight distribution, as on the R8, of 44 percent to the front and 56 percent to the rear.

The car's body is highly compact in appearance. The front end and the gently curved roof arc are drawn in a sweeping line; a line which immediately marks the two-seater out as an Audi.

The side view also reveals familiar contours. The dynamic line above the wheel arches and the shoulder line interlink the front end, side and rear, imbue the doors and the transition to the side air vent with a strong presence, and even more emphatically highlight the typical Audi rounded wheel housings accommodating the big wheels.

The cabin of the Audi R8 is pushed far forward – a typical feature of a mid-engined sports car, and as such a visual cue linking it to the race car of the same name. Behind the cabin, positioned in front of the rear axle, is the V8 FSI engine, a sculptured piece of engineering visible both through the large, shield-shaped rear window and from inside the car.

The full aluminum body is constructed in the Audi Space Frame (ASF) design. Its perfect synthesis of minimal weight and maximum rigidity provides the ideal foundation for optimum driving dynamics, as well as delivering an outstanding power-to-weight ratio of just 8.18 pounds per bhp.

The Interior

The sporty interior is dominated by a totally driver-oriented cockpit architecture, integrating the driver between the dashboard and the high centre console. The instrument panel above the console is angled slightly towards the driver. The flat-bottomed steering wheel is a typical feature of the sportiest Audi models, and also enables comfortable sports car entry and exit.

Form follows function: this design principle is implemented throughout the R8. Alongside the driver-oriented architecture, also reflected in the styling of the side window sills, the choice of materials also makes for a highly functional look and feel. Looking around when in the driving seat makes one thing clear: just like in the R8 race car, the styling and placement of all the elements in the cockpit of this driving machine is focused on the essentials. The center point of everything is the driver.

The Drivetrain

Turbine-like power up to the highest rev ranges, a high maximum torque, all combined with a fascinating sound, are the characteristics of a perfect sports car engine. An engine that is fascinating both in terms of its enormous power potential and its suitability for everyday use.

In the high-revving 420 bhp eight-cylinder engine, the evolution of FSI petrol direct injection technology has reached a new high. This technology has also enjoyed many triumphs in the Audi R8 race car.

The figures illustrate the outstanding potential of the eight-cylinder unit. At 7,800 rpm the 4.2-liter engine delivers 420 bhp of power output. Peak torque is 317 lb-ft from 4,500 to 6,000 rpm. And no less than 90 per cent of this maximum torque is maintained consistently throughout a wide engine speed range from 3,500 all the way to 7,600 rpm. As a result of these qualities, the eight-cylinder power unit provides maximum thrust in virtually any driving situation.

The performance figures are equally impressive: the R8 accelerates from a standstill to 60 mph in 4.4 seconds and reaches a top speed of 187 mph.

Two transmissions are available: a manual 6-speed gearbox or optionally the Audi R tronic sequential-shift gearbox. Here, too, the influence of the motorsport world is clearly evident, with a joystick gear-shift on the centre console and, most especially, the paddles mounted on the steering wheel, which are a long-established ergonomic feature in motorsport. The best illustration of this is once again the Le Mans winning Audi R8, which also enables the driver to change gear on the steering wheel.

The Audi R8 is being built on a small-lot production line in a specially constructed new block at the Audi plant in Neckarsulm, Germany.

$109,000 (last update: 3/29/2007)

A sport BMW in German Hamann version:

2008-04-28T07:21:00.000-07:00

German foremen chose rather unbtrusive colour – „a la grey mouse“. A front bumper is entailed to a sport mask with a typical openings of BMW cars. This space is filled with chrome-plated grid which aesthetically vitalizes car´s front section.

Lower central part consists of a big induction space which is filled with soft metal. There are two oval openings at both sides of car. There were jointed fog lights by Hamann foremen to the one opening and the second one serves as opening for an air ram induction to the front disk brakes. There are scowl bases lights to add a more beauty and a sport design to a car.

There is a spoiler on the lower part of a bumper by which there is a beginning of flanging of a car´s underneath through the side sills to the back bumper. Aerodynamic sills help with the regulation of an air flow towards the opening in its back part. This opening exhausts air to the back disk brakes and this increases the safety of a driver and travelling companion by better braking of a car itself.

The position of a flash lights and a „port“ for the conduction of a warm air from the engine is pretty good solved. It is placed on the side of a car.

The car´s side as well as his bonnet is ornamented with white tickets with the red curling and with a model of a target flag in charcoal grey. The back part of BMW is apparently reworked the best, but it is up to you. The rear bumper held the similar shapes as the front part.

On the lower part there is elegant diffuser (above which there is a space for the car´s licence number) regulating the air flow behind this sport car. On the both sides there are four round endings of a tuned „duplex“ exhaust emission system.

The back trunk,as well as it is in the series, matches to the BMW bodywork´s contours. There is a pressure wing on the top of the car which covers bigger rear axle load mostly at the higher speed. We can find parking sensors on the rear bumper whose usage is surely known by all, even less able, drivers.

We do not forget to inform you about the modified car´s dimensions: Hamann chose BMW Z 4 Roadster with 3,0 litre engine but he modified it with his own conversion (Hamann HM 3) and raised the cubage to 3,3 litres. His output after conversion climb up 86,5 hp to liter what is approximately 286 hp (at 6200 rpm). The torque rate climbed up 355 Nm at 4000 rpm. BMW is able to reach 100 kph in 5 seconds. And what about the maximal speed? Its rate is 269 kph. It is good, isn´t it?

2008 Audi R8 Arrives

2008-04-28T06:56:00.001-07:00

Audi Australia has today launched its most anticipated car yet, the R8 sports coupe. The $259,000+ car marks Audi’s first attempt at joining the high-performance sports coupe club.
The R8 is powered by a high-revving 4.2-litre V8 FSI engine with 309kW and 430Nm, it will go from 0-100km/h in 4.6 seconds. On paper, the R8 should be able to steal some sales from the similarly priced Aston Martin V8 Vantage.

Audi Australia’s Managing Director, Joerg Hofmann, says the R8’s introduction will help boost the company’s profile in Australia.

“The Audi R8 will become an icon for Audi and albeit niche, this is a car that clearly embodies our Vorsprung durch Technik (progress through technology). It will be instrumental in further boosting our brand image and awareness in this market,” Mr Hofmann said.

If you think 260k is a lot for an Audi, it’s best to remember the car is engineered with huge racing credentials. Besides, almost 15% of the R8 is shared with the Lamborghini Gallardo, including the transmission and chassis.

Using a mid-engined concept and quattro drivetrain, the R8 promises to be one extremely competent car.

Audi’s Space Frame ASF aluminium technology means the R8 weighs only 1560KG and the car utilises Audi’s new magnetic ride adaptive damping system for better handling and comfort.

The R8 package includes high performance ceramic brakes, a Bang & Olufsen sound system, rear view camera, Audi’s Multi Media Interface MMI and in another world first for Audi, the 2008 model R8 will be the first car in the world with all-LED headlights.

There will be two variants of the R8, the 6-speed manual variant ($259,990) and the six-speed sequential R-tronic version ($274,900).

Audi believes at least 100 Australians will take home an R8 per year. The German company is currently producing 20 R8s per day. The first 25 Australian buyers will take delivery within the next 2 months.

CarAdvice will endeavour to bring you a road test of the R8 in the near future.

2008 Gumpert Apollo Sport

2008-04-28T06:54:00.001-07:00

We remember a time when people bought sports cars solely for their performance qualities, not for the luxury, attention, or status they brought. German boutique carmaker Gumpert, however, takes us back to those days with its 2008 Apollo Sport, a car with a single-minded purpose: to go very, very fast.

Scoring zero to little on the name-brand value scale (and with a name like Gumpert, it’s bound to stay that way), the Gumpert Apollo Sport offers pure speed in return. The Apollo Sport is the successor to the Gumpert Apollo, which debuted two years ago in much the same form, albeit without the Sport’s racing-style rear wing that appears to have been sourced from Boeing. Certainly exotic in proportions, but starkly unemotional in the details, the Apollo Sport looks less like the stuff of the Greek gods than something a teenager would have doodled during sixth-period civics class.

That having been said, few teenagers are capable of developing their dream cars into actual, drivable automobiles, let alone supercars with mind-blowing performance. Powered by a mid-mounted 800-hp, 4.2-liter V-8 that started life in the Audi parts bin before Gumpert added twin turbochargers, among numerous other mods, the 2650-pound Apollo Sport is said to hit 62 mph in a Murciélago-humbling three seconds flat. Gumpert claims that aerodynamic enhancements have raised the Apollo Sport’s top speed to 223 mph.

The Apollo Sport also boasts a more comfortable interior, finished in Alcantara and offering air conditioning, navigation, and a CD player. But make no mistake, this is a sports-car environ of the purest variety, making 599GTBs, SLRs, and 911 Turbos feel like Maybachs by comparison.

Like the Apollo, the Apollo Sport is built on a tubular-steel space frame wrapped around a carbon-fiber monocoque, thus yielding safety and weight savings in equal measure. However, don’t expect NHTSA to be running any Apollo Sports into walls on our shores to find out, since the Apollo Sport won’t be offered in the U.S., no matter how many gazillionaires here could afford its near-$400,000 price.

Lexus LF-A Concept Car 2008

2008-04-28T06:50:00.000-07:00

Lexus today unveiled the IS-F luxury sedan at the 2007 North American International Auto Show in Detroit. The all-new 2008 IS-F will target the BMW M3 and Audi RS4, delivering more than 400 horsepower and 350 ft.-lbs. of torque from a 5.0-liter V8 engine. It will eventually be offered as a two-door coupe, as well.In concept form, the LF-A measured 5 inches shorter in length than a Porsche 911, yet had a wheelbase that was 9 inches longer. It’s low, too, with a roof that comes in an inch and a half lower than the Mercedes-Benz SLR. The exaggerated proportions not only emphasize its performance intent, they serve as yet another iteration of a new styling direction that Lexus calls L-Finesse.At the unveiling of the concept, Chief Operating Officer of Toyota Motor Sales Jim Press noted the LF-A’s close connection to Toyota’s Formula One program. “Theoretically developed to run in tandem with our efforts in Formula One, the LF-A would probably feature a power and drivetrain system strongly influenced by what’s being used in competition at the time.”In plain English, that means we should expect a V10 engine, a spec that puts the LF-A in the same league as other notable exotics like the Lamborghini Gallardo and Porsche Carrera GT. Unlike Toyota’s Formula One powerplant, however, the LF-A’s V10 is expected to displace roughly 5 liters and generate around 500 horsepower. Toyota officials also boasted that a top speed of 200 mph was well within the LF-A’s reach.

Although already in prototype stage, the final production version of the LF-A isn’t expected for some time. Most estimates have Lexus unveiling the high-dollar halo car at the 2007 Tokyo Motor Show, but don’t be surprised to see Lexus pull the wraps off even earlier to gain maximum exposure from its long rumored project. With a price expected to top $100,000, the LF-A is one of the most ambitious cars yet from the Japanese automaker, but if its past projects are any indication the LF-A will be a car that other luxury sports car builders won’t be able to ignore.

Compare Residual Values before Purchasing your Used BMW

2008-04-28T06:20:00.001-07:00

In 2002, when BMW released the Mini Cooper, it has grown up to 2.76 inches in length. Moreover, BMW and PSA Peugeot had joint ventures to give the Cooper and the Cooper S more clout by more than five horse power.

From a four cylinder 1.6 liter borrowed from BMW Valvetronic system, the Mini Cooper is also capable of allowing full variable valve timing and lift but eliminates the throttle butterfly. The torque peaks at 118 lb-ft at 4250 rpm outputting a 120 hp at 6000 rpm.

Cooper S got a 1.6 liter four that uses twin-scroll turbocharger. It also injects the gasoline directly to produce 175 horses at 5500 rpm plus a chunky 177 lb-ft of torque from 1600 - 5000 rpm.

With the availability of a six-speed automatic, both engines also could be used a six-speed manual transmission. The new technology also allows a sport switch automatic thru steering wheel-mounted paddles. Moreover, it boosts its throttle response giving an electric power steering for a lighter feel, and a more controlled and vigorous driving experience.

Mini replaces the car's electric-hydraulic unit while getting a full electric steering for 2007. The recent test drive of the Cooper S prototype tells how the steering felt more natural compared to other similar systems. Plus, more feedback was received about the tires that responded quickly to input.

A point-and-shoot driving at its best. The throttle is balanced, feeding in the gas evenly for a smooth ride. The driving is so much fun compared to any other automobile. The harshness found in the previous cars is wiped out on both new car models for more comfortable and relaxed driving.

Mini car parts are still available on the market. You do not have to worry when your car parts are worn out as you can have them replaced by new ones. Manufacturers have sited that they will also develop new auto parts for more amazing upgrades of Cooper and Cooper S.

For those who are interested in purchasing these new breeds, wait until later this year. But you can visit the official website for news updates and details. The price is not yet announced but a minimal increase from 2006 model is expected.

World's Top 10 Fuel Efficient Cars

2008-04-28T06:19:00.001-07:00

The world is worried about depleting fuel reserves. Research is on the fast track to find alternative fuel. People need transportation which means increased consumption of fuel. With economy booming in many nations more and more people are buying cars.

In 2007 the US car buyer is making fuel efficacy a prime concern when buying a car. Cars are ranked as fuel efficient based on the Environmental Protection Agencies (EPA) miles per gallon ratings. The basis is 55 % of city mpg rating and 45% of highway mpg rating. Cars are now available in gas, electric, and hybrid versions apart from petrol or diesel run cars.

Here is a look at fuel efficient cars as listed by http://www.edmunds.com/reviews/list/top10/119083/article.html :

1. Toyota Prius: ratio of 60/51 mpg. The hybrid version is the most fuel efficient vehicle in the US market.
2. Honda civic Hybrid 49/51 mpg. This is a perrineal favorite.
3. Toyota Camry Hybrid 40/38mpg.
4. Toyota Yaris 34/40 mpg. Gives pleasant handling.
5. Honda Fit 33/38 mpg .
6. Toyota Corolla 32/41mpg. Is one of the most fuel efficient.
7. Mini Cooper 32/40 mpg.
8. Hyundai Acccent /Kia Rio 32/35mpg . This is a great buy in economy range of cars.
9. Honda Civic 30/40 mpg.
10. Nissan Versa 30/36 mpg. It’s the best in its category.

Another top ten list that is dependable is at http://cars.about.com/od/helpforcarbuyers/tp/top10_fuel.htm where he has considered fuel efficiency along with comfort and driving pleasure. According to Aaron Gold, the cars to consider overall are:

1. Toyota Prius 60/51 mpg.
2. Honda Civic Hybrid 46/51mpg.
3. Volkswagen Golf 38/46 mpg.
4. Mini Cooper 28/37 mpg.
5. Hyundai Elantra 27/34 mpg.
6. Ford Focus Station Wagon 26/34 mpg.
7. Honda Accord 26/34 mpg.
8. Nissan Altima 24/31 mpg.
9. Chevrolet Malibu MAXX 22/30 mpg.
10. Buick Le Sabre 20/29mpg.

When buying a car you need to consider several aspects:

• Cost.
• Maintenance.
• Environmental friendliness.
• Durability.
• Personal preferences.
• Availability of parts and cost of parts.
• Insurance costs.
• Road tax.

While expert advice is important you must think about where you stay, where the nearest dealer is located, and whether the car can adapt to the weather conditions in your region. Never buy a car blindly always find out how suitable the car is for you and your family. Think resale too!

Use the expert advice available on online auto retail websites to find out all the information you need about cars. Always comparison shop for a car and car loan, get the best deal possible and enjoy many miles of pleasant tension free driving.

The 2007 Mini Cooper S Superbug

2008-04-28T06:16:00.001-07:00

The Mini Cooper S is a small, very friendly looking car with a traditional design but a modern engine and features. The very first Mini was launched on the market in 1961 by the British Motor Corporation (BMC), belonging to the supermini class of automobiles.
The genuine Mini is considered an emblem of the 1960s, being of great inspiration to the car makers in that time that noticed the clever space saving front-wheel-drive layout. The Mini Cooper was very popular among celebrities in the 60s and the 70s but it hasn't lost its fame today.

The history of the Minis is long and BMC has launched a great number of successful models of Minis throughout the last decades. There are the MK I Mini the MK II Mini, variants to these, plus the Mini Cooper and the Cooper S. Mini Cooper and the Cooper S were considered two economical models, the price being affordable to almost anyone. These very sporty and speedy cars, so many people preferred them.

Mini Cooper S has made history in the rally races as well, obtaining some victories at the Monte Carlo Rallis in the 1960s. The famous Nikki Lauda, Enzo Ferrari and Steve McQueen all owned Mini Coopers. However, the Mini was voted as the second most influential car of the twentieth century, being beaten only by the Ford model T.

Unfortunately, the Cooper S was produced up till 2000, but a new Mini was introduced by BMW, the owner of the brand. This fresh mini car was called the MINI written in capital letters. The new MINI is worthy of its name, keeping many of the old characteristic features of the mini Cooper but getting some state of the art features also. The Cooper S is considered a sporty version of Mini. It two doors only and a 6 speed manual transmission.

The Mini Cooper S features a multifunction steering wheel plus an up to date navigation system, glass panel sunroof, automatic air conditioning and many more. These are only the standard options to which you can add some other extras. Even if the S is a small car, it has force and is very speedy. It has strong suspensions, precise go-kart handling and great transmission.

You can be sure that the Mini will offer you great safety with the ABS, the Connecting Brake Control, Electronic Brake force distribution as well as the Brake assist feature, which are all included in the standard package on\f the Mini Cooper S. you can also get the automatic stability control and traction features plus the dynamic stability control. For the Cooper S manufacturers safety comes first. All in all, the Mini S is a car with great personality and looks, speedy, inexpensive and safe. Enjoy the ride and the car as well.

Car Forum Participation And The Benefit It Brings

2008-04-28T06:02:00.002-07:00

With increasing number of car technologies, car models and car issues, participating in a car forum will prove to be very rewarding for any car enthusiasts who want to be clarified about things that relate to car industry.

Car forums may take the form of car forums for brand new models of cars from various auto makers or car discussion boards about the latest edition of cars from a single company. There may also be car forums that discuss common problems about car engines and anything about autos. There can also be forums for sports cars, sport car fans and how-to forums for new car owners.

A car forum is really beneficial to avid car fans and car lovers because it gives them more knowledge on how they can take care of their cars and how they can even troubleshoot problems that really bother them.

A car forum is also significant to people who want to purchase their own cars because forum members can be well-informed in making any judgment as to which car to buy and as to which model to procure. Participating in a forum will likewise help them in deciding on matters related to car industry like insurance, laws and anything that deals on cars and the industry in general.

A car discussion board is also effective for companies to access more important details from their customers. It is an effective means to showcase their latest models, designs and features that they offer to people.

It is one way to help the consumers get hold of data they will need when the time comes when they will purchase their car. Discussion boards are truly significant to the industry and the public at large.

Car forums allow people to post questions. Other users may post ideas relating to answers to posted questions. It is an effective platform for exchanging ideas in this respect.

Car forum participation is really a worthwhile experience because of lots of benefits we can get out of it. It keeps us updated and in touch with the latest technologies, too.

Discussion boards are really an efficient way to be educated. The knowledge we gain can be great either for our benefit or for other people's advantage. This is because when we are knowledgeable we give wiser advice to other people.

Because of the Internet, people around the world can really collaborate and discuss things that are possible sources of clarification. Especially in the car industry where the latest technology is always a hoot topic, the Internet becomes a vital tool in achieving so many goals for car lovers around the globe.

This helps in the creation of knowledge-based consumer groups and manufacturers. Car discussion boards can even improve the way the car industries deliver their commodities. As a result, the people get the kind of service they deserve from automakers.

With all these benefits and advantages, participating in a car forum is truly productive. It will never be a waste of time. You will surely find it enjoying and rewarding to meet people and let them find out your opinions.

Make a Used Car Look Like New

2008-04-28T06:02:00.001-07:00

No matter if you want to sell your car, or you just want to make an old car look like new, two words are what you are looking for: car detailing.

Car detailing is in the same time a strategy and an activity to make a used car look brand new. There is a lot of work to be done and this works grows as the state in which the initial car is gets worse, but the final satisfaction and the admiration of your friends is surely worth it. Especially if you want to sell an old car you should take care of some details that have deteriorated in time.

Nothing is made to last forever and when using a car day by day, of course some elements will wear out. It is the purpose of car detailing to make these worn elements look as if they have been just bought. If the car looks its age and it is in a bad shape, it definitely would not be attractive to potential buyers no matter what model it is if the overall physical and exterior appearance is not very appealing.

Before you start any car detailing activity on your car, you will need to evaluate it first. When it comes to giving an old car a new look, its paint is the first exterior element to deal with. The car’s paint is its protective shield against all sorts of external factors and in time all sorts of scratches can appear. Because the exterior of the used car is the first recognizable and seen part of the vehicle, the first purpose of car detailing is to make the paint look as new. This can be done with a good spray painting.

The second car detailing procedure should be the wheel and tire evaluation. Wheels of old cars usually suffer from black stains caused by the accumulation of tar from brake dust, from parts that have been damaged while the car was running or other negative elements. The car’s tires require tire sheen and special preparation to make them look brand new.

After dealing with the car’s exterior, it is time to deal with the car’s interior. This is usually where things can get complicated, as there is a relative small amount of space to work in and the damage in these areas can be quite significant. It all depends on how the old car has been treated and maintained. Any car’s interior is a general indication of how the car has been used and taken care of the user and if you want to earn good money from selling the car, car detailing should always set it as a primary goal, to make the interior look very good.

There are several tips you can take into consideration and dealing with car detailing the car’s interior. If you want your work to be successful, make sure the car is in a share, preferably a cool garage because the majority car detailing products, such as the paint and the wax treatment do not work well when applied to hot surfaces.

Before you start conditioning the car’s interior and exterior, make sure that all the surfaces are very well cleaned, as paint and other treatments work best on very clean, smooth areas. After you have cleaned the exterior, you should use detailing towel, brush or spray to wipe away excess wax on the cars exterior.

In the end, remember that only with patience and a lot of work you can make any car look like new.

Car Finance Places You on the Top Gear While Buying a Car

2008-04-28T06:01:00.002-07:00

Car financing has taken a new spin with regard to providing investment for buying a car. So, how do you finance a car? If this question leaves you baffled, then you have to go a long way in the process of buying a car. The term ‘financing’ in relation to buying a car connotes either rendering loan to buy the car or lease the car to you. You are probably concentrating on the former meaning. Many people are in favour of talking car finance from dealership for it seems like a convenient option. It seems easy; you select a car, fill out a credit application, and drive away with your car - all in a day’s work. Car finance through dealership will give you car finance on weekends and even at nights when other banks and credit unions are closed.

Seems convenient, isn’t it? But there is a catch. The dealer will be certainly charging you more for your car finance. Usually car buyers are overcharged by 3% on their car finance. A great number of complaints about car financing are related to dealers. 0% APR is not only attractive but lures the buyers to acquire up car finance not meditating if it is feasible for them. There are very few people who can actually get a 0% APR. Thus car finance deals usually fall midway thereby making car finance experience an extremely distressing one. You are buying a new car and probably for the first time, you certainly want it to compliment your enthusiasm. There are few elementary things that need to be kept in mind before taking that crucial primeval step in car buying.

First and foremost in car buying and financing is checking your credit score before you apply for a car loan. Many people are unaware of the fact that they even have a credit score. You can expediently check your credit score online. So, if you have bad credit history then probably you will be paying more interest rate for your car finance. If your credit score drops below 550, then probably apply for new car finance is not such a good idea. First repair you credit score. Repairing credit score requires little effort, helps you repay your debt and retain your credit report. Online car finance companies can get you car finance loan even if your credit score is lower than required. Your car finance loan can get approved in minutes. Online car finance companies have revolutionized car finance procedure. With lowest online car finance rates, no application fees, or down payments car finance companies provide a formidable competition to car dealers. Car finance companies have set a standard for providing car finance that is worth opting for.

The Manual Drive 541s Jensen British Classic Car

2008-04-28T06:01:00.001-07:00

Values
A phenomenal amount of interest in classic cars a few years ago, caused much to be published and prices to escalate beyond belief.

This was at a time when an Aston Martin Zagato, racing car (that never won a race), sold for over a million and a half pounds. An 'E' type Jaguar commanded as much as £90,000 for what was a mass produced car (and so many were made in the 12 years of production). It is not so surprising that many enthusiasts were unable to afford an interesting classic.

Since those heady days the situation has changed dramatically, the recession, resulted in more sensible prices for most classic cars.

However, even when prices were rather ridiculous, there was a remarkable, distinctive, car of the early '60s that was overlooked, available at a very reasonable cost, and still is undervalued.

Hand built, with very few maintenance problems, and best of all no body rust to worry about! It is one, of very few classic cars, that can actually be used as a daily form of transport - I had been driving one for well over 25 years and now my son still uses it.

I am referring to Jensen cars of the early '60s, designed by Eric Neale, and made at the time when Richard and Alan Jensen owned the company. Particularly, the Jensen CV8 (this is the model before the Interceptor) with the huge 6 litre V8 engine and the 541S.

The CV8 was the fastest four-seater car of all in 1965, and I drove my special one off version, commissioned by Hardy Amies, every day until I emigrated from the UK a few years ago.
The other favourite is the classic British thoroughbred the 541. Especially, the last model made prior to the CV8, with the 4 litre straight six Austin Princes engine, particularly the manual drive version of the Jensen 541S.

Classic Car Show Awards
For so many years these Jensen cars have not been expensive by comparison with any other classics of the period. Very strange really when one considers that, at most of the important classic car shows in the past, Jensen won all the best awards.

Up against all the well known prestigious makes, the Jensen Owners Club, together with Dave Horton's famous CV8, have won; 'Car of the show', or 'Best of the master class' and 'Best club stand' and so on. There can hardly be a worthwhile classic car award that has not been won by a Jensen!

Pioneers
These awards are not really so surprising as the Jensen brothers based at West Bromwich made extremely fine hand built cars. They were also pioneers; the first to provide disc brakes all round; first with four wheel drive (on a CV8); one of the first to use the wind tunnel for body design.

They were also well known and respected for their advanced ideas on safety. The 541S was the first car with seat belts, as standard, they also provided very soft padded areas above and below the dashboard. Door handles, and window winders, were all in recessed panels out of harms way.

They won the silver medal for coach work at Earls Court, and with the 541R, in 1957 according to tests by 'The Autocar' they had produced the fastest four seater car of the day.
Over the years their glass fibre and polyester resin coach work has stood up to the test of time remarkably well.

Maintenance
Service and maintenance of these cars proves a lot easier, than with many other classics, and this statement applies to some of the more modern cars. There is a very enthusiastic owners club that provides valuable technical information. Most spare parts are also not too difficult to find through the Jensen Owners Club. The chassis is built like a tank and the glass fibre body cuts out all those rust problems.

High Power
The well proven straight six 4 litre engine is in a class of it's own, set with triple SU large carburettors and linked to the Jaguar Moss 4 speed synchromesh gearbox, with overdrive, add to this, servo assisted Dunlop disc brakes all round. - Provides one hell of a lot of motor car!

The CV8 is an even more powerful car still, but not a British thoroughbred as it has a Chrysler V8 engine. There are certainly not many cars from the early '60s that can still be used as a daily car some 35 years later.

Super Luxury
I have not yet mentioned the luxurious interiors, but both of these models provide lavish leather arm chair comfort for four, but also with plenty of head room and leg space even in the back. A lockable glove compartment, a useful container under the central arm rest, a deep pocket either side of the rear seats for rolled up newspapers, as well as large pleated pockets, in the back of the front seats. The 541S front passenger seat folds completely up to allow far easier access into the rear than most other two door cars - even modern ones.
Both the 541S and the CV8, unlike many more modern fast cars, sensibly provide a very large boot space for luggage. I do feel that a lot of the modern fast car designs, fail to provide the head room and leg space for taller drivers, and completely fail to provide useful luggage space. As a family man these are some of the reasons why I favour the CV8.

An overwhelming amount of standard equipment, at a time when so many items were charged as optional extras, such as:- a Motorola radio (lights up with the name Jensen); the heater; a fog and a spot light; a fire extinguisher; a first aid kit; a cigar lighter; a clock; rear window heater and all the instruments one could wish for. Plus a very generous tool kit in a fitted tray, under the 541S dashboard, consisting of (apart from screwdrivers and spanners) pliers, an adjustable spanner, even a tyre pressure gauge, spare bulbs, tyre valve and cap.

Out of all the Jensen cars of this period, the 541S has been the least sought after, and the most difficult to sell. There is a reason for this, although it is an impressive car and beautiful, it has a reputation for lacking acceleration as a sports car. It has a good top speed and is capable of travelling at over 100 mph all day long.

The Fabulous Manual 541S
But all the original road test reports were based on the automatic version (this automatic gearbox although developed by Rolls Royce lost an awful lot of performance) - it is such a pity that the manual version was never tested!

Between 1960 and 1962 Jensen built 127, in total of 541S cars, out of these only 22 were manual drive. The manual is a gem of a car! The most luxurious car of all the 541 range, and what is not generally known, these manual drive cars with the Lacock-de-Normanville overdrive are very fast cars indeed. They would have earned a much better reputation from a road test than the one they have from the automatic version.

Extra Design Features
The 541S has certain unusual design features, adjustable front seat arm rests fitted to each door, the Bevelift jack, kept in the boot, was designed for use through the floor of the car in front of each front seat. So it was possible to lift front and rear wheels together whilst protected from the rain.

When the boot lid is open the driver can still see, without any restriction, out of the rear window. Very sensibly the spare wheel valve is accessible, through a fitting in the rear of the boot floor, thus allowing the air pressure to be checked easily without having to remove the wheel.

Sexy
The look of these cars when viewed from the side could be said to be reminiscent of early Jaguar cars, head on possibly Aston Martin, and from the rear one thinks of Porsche. However Jensen developed with the 541S quite an original and distinctive aero dynamic design without any sacrifice to space or comfort.

I still consider it to be one of the most attractive four seater cars of that era that still attracts admiration today.

Readers will by now realise that I rather like these cars, that is certainly true, and we owned 5 out of the 22 made. It will not be easy to buy a good manual 541S as only 15 more at most exist.

They are identified by the chassis number prefix of 102 (there were two prototypes made with the chassis number JM EXP 100 and JM EXP 102). The hunt would be worthwhile, if one could be found, as such a car would cost less than an ordinary 'E' type Jaguar in reasonable condition.

My bet is that this situation will change.

The Advantages of Buying Cars Online With Cars4thais

2008-04-28T06:00:00.003-07:00

Online car buying in Thailand has many advantages over the traditional way of buying cars. However, the number of disadvantages is just as many. The Web or the Internet is the most useful tool for planning and researching car prices and deals.

From the comfort of you own homes, you can compare models and makes of different cars and make your mind up on what type of car you want to buy even before you go to the car dealership.

This is a huge advantage when buying a car, because car dealers will most often try to sell you the car they want you to buy instead of the car you really want. This can be particularly important if you are buying a used car in Thailand, you should have your mind firmly set and not be hasty in making decisions.

If the second hand car dealer does not have the car you wanted and you come upon a car you do no really want but is more like a good deal, you should just go home and think about it and then return the following day. Looking for car for sale can be a very big investment so you do not want to rush into decisions that you might regret.

Most people do not like the hassle of regular searching for cars for sale, and for them purchasing a car online is a blessing. However, online car shopping makes several very important steps in car buying very difficult or even impossible.

Searching for cars for sale online can prove very hard to inspect the car you are interested in visually, and there would be no way for a test drive. Because of that, it is vital that you buy only from reputable dealers like Cars4Thais.

Check the Internet for forums and groups about cars for sale and ask around, and read what others are saying about the company. You can get very useful information from other people in Thailand who have already experienced buying their cars online. Try to contact and talk with them, compare the car models, the dealer and the experience they had.

It can be very difficult to inspect the car you are interested in visually, and there is just no way for a test drive. Because of that, it is essential that you buy only from reputable car dealers.

Buying cars through Cars4Thais can offer several advantages including a wide choice in makes and models of new and second hand cars available. The company also offers a variety of choices in car color as well as the best deals and prices. And because it is online, it is accessible not only to the citizens in Phuket where the company is located but is also accessible to other areas and even other countries. From he compact car Honda Jazz to the spacious Toyota Fortuner, Cars4Thais can provide you with all your car purchase or rental needs. The company also sells and leases other vehicles such as bikes and motorcycles and also offers parts and accessories of different automotive vehicles. Cars4Thais is indeed a one-stop-shop for all your cars and automobile needs!

Automotix: the Best Bargain Cars Marketplace

2008-04-28T06:00:00.001-07:00

Luckily for some people, buying a car wouldn’t be much of a financial strain. Their monthly income will suffice for an additional expense or a car loan is easy for them to obtain. But for the majority of us, we wish there more cheaper cars available for us to buy. Most car buyers would think that getting a new car is sometimes considered least profitable. This is because of the fast decreasing value of the car as it is used longer. An average car will show a decrease in its original value of up to 40 percent in its first two years and up to 65 percent after five years. It shouldn’t be a big surprise why a vast majority of individuals opt to purchase cheap used cars instead.

A good consumer will probably know where to get the best deals out of purchasing cheap cars. Of course, one could always go to the neighborhood car dealer shop and window-shop for any prospects. The local newspaper is likewise a good place to search for best bargain cars that are worth checking. But for your ultimate choice of an ideal place to scour for cheap used cars is the Internet. You should be able to find a bargain cars marketplace in the hundreds and sometimes even thousands of websites that allow a person to search for the right bargain car for him.

And when it comes to finding the best bargain cars marketplace, nothing comes close to the services and products of Automotix. The bargain cars marketplace at Automotix is the perfect place to find the used, cheap, and still-in-good-condition automobiles.

Automotix’s bargain cars marketplace is indeed your one-stop shop for all your cheap used car needs. Compared to buying a brand-new car with a jaw-dropping tag price, used cars for sale at Automotix are definitely worth your every penny. This should make you feel a lot better knowing that buying a brand-new car will mean having its value depreciated after two years of long and constant use. Also at Automotix’ bargain cars marketplace, you need not worry about paying lump sums of money to pay up front for your automobiles. Because our classifieds include the complete information of the car’s owner, one can get in touch with them and negotiate on prices on work around favorable terms for both parties.

The Automotix bargain cars marketplace is not only ideal for those who are planning to buy cheap used cars but also for those people who wish to have their cars sold. At their bargain cars marketplace all models, makes, colors, from all states around the United States, etc., are accepted for listing in their classifieds for reselling and trading in.

Automotix bargain cars marketplace, therefore, works both ways. If you’re a buyer, simply log in to the site and tell us what you want or if you’re a seller, let us know what you have for sale. Either way, both buyer and seller should be able to find a client in no time.

How Much Can I Spend on My Next New Car?

2008-04-28T05:55:00.001-07:00

How Much Can You Really Afford to Spend on a New Car?
by Buddy Evans, Vice President of Big Bucks Auto™
Are you in the market for a new car? If so, it’s important to figure out what you can afford to spend -- before going shopping. By doing some simple math and evaluating your current situation, you’ll be prepared to shop for a car you want – and can afford!
How Much Can You Spend on Monthly Car Payments
The first thing to figure out is how much you can afford to spend on monthly car payments. Most experts argue that you should not spend more than 20% of your monthly gross income on a car payment. In special situations this figure may vary, but as a rule for the average adult, sticking to 20% or less of monthly gross will likely be a wise move.
Short Term vs. Long Term Car Loan
Once you determine a safe figure for monthly car payments, you should consider the loan term. Remember that a longer car loan will mean much more interest paid over time, while a shorter car loan term will mean less interest but higher monthly payments.
Coming Up with a Down Payment
And what about your current car, assuming you have or had one?
Selling Your Current Car
If you already sold your car you may have some available cash to contribute as a down payment. Any down payment you make is great as it will cut down on monthly car payments. If you still need to get rid of your current car, be sure to consider selling your car before simply trading it in to the dealer. You can usually expect much more money from selling your car than trading it in. If time is an issue, look for a reputable used car buyers like Big Bucks Auto™ in New York Tri-State Area.
If you already sold your car and have some leftover cash from the sale, consider keeping it for a down payment on your next new car. Any down payment you make will cut down monthly payments significantly.
Leased Car
If you’re currently leasing a car, you’ll need to either wait until your lease term expires – or get out of your lease early. To learn more about getting out of a lease, read “Getting out Of Your Used Car Lease”.
And if you have savings or other available cash, this may be used as a down payment as well if you choose to do so.
Car Insurance Costs
Insurance costs are another major consideration when figuring out how much you can spend on your new car. A sports car or a high theft car will likely have a far higher insurance premium than a run-of-the-mill sedan. To put this into perspective, remember that two new cars with sticker prices of $20,000.00 each may have insurance premiums which vary by as much as 50% - or more! In other words, it’s very important to figure out – roughly – how much insurance is going to cost for all of the new cars your interested in.
Car Maintenance Costs
Then there are maintenance costs to consider. Some new cars will be far more expensive to repair than others. Foreign cars, for example, may be quite expensive to repair. However, many of these cars now come with warranties and free scheduled maintenance. New offers like this may actually make cars which used to be expensive to fix, far less expensive than other ‘cheap to fix’ cars! Therefore, the maintenance issue should be evaluated on a car-by-car and offer-by-offer basis, as manufacturers and their offers vary significantly.
After considering these simple factors, you’ll be prepared to go out and shop for a car that truly fits the bill, financially speaking.

Hybrid Cars Advantages and Disadvantages

2008-04-28T05:53:00.001-07:00

Hybrid cars are considered as the car of the future. It is able to effectively conserve fuel and at the same time, it only produces low levels of toxic fumes. Because of these benefits, hybrid cars are now growing in popularity every single day. Many people are now considering getting rid of their conventional cars and purchase a hybrid car to help in cutting fuel consumption cost.

Hybrid cars have two engines for it to effectively conserve fuel consumption. It has the traditional gasoline engine and it also has an electric motor and batteries. The two engines work together in order to cut fuel consumption. With this technology, you will be able to cut fuel usage by more than half. Just imagine, with a hybrid car, you will be able to go more than 60 miles to the gallon. With this kind of savings, hybrid cars are definitely the car of the future.

Hybrid car owners virtually do not feel the increasing cost in fuel prices. This is the main advantage of the hybrid car. There are other advantages that a hybrid car can give you. Recently, the President of the United States has signed an agreement that hybrid car buyers will be able to enjoy tax incentives. This means that by owning a hybrid car, you will be able to save money on taxes.

There are other benefits that the government imposes on hybrid car owners, such as free parking, and free entry to car pool lanes. Some even offer discounted fees on toll gates.

The braking in hybrid cars is also configured to capture the energy released and uses it to charge the batteries inside the hybrid car. This means that unlike electric cars, hybrid cars do not actually need to be charged from your home electric outlet.

However, with all the advantages that a hybrid car can give you, there are also disadvantages. The main disadvantage of hybrid cars is that the retail price is quite expensive. Only people who have enough money can purchase hybrid cars. However, the twist in all this is that hybrid cars are actually cheaper when compared to conventional cars in the long run. If you compute the total fuel consumption of both cars, you will actually see that you can save a lot more money on hybrid cars.

The only thing is that hybrid cars are expensive right from the car lot.

Hybrid cars are relatively heavy because of the heavy batteries installed inside the car. This is why hybrid car manufacturers integrates smaller internal combustion engines and are constructed with light materials and should be aerodynamic in order to maximize efficiency. This means that hybrid cars can never really go fast.

Another issue about hybrid cars is that it is very risky in accidents. What makes a hybrid car work effectively is also what makes it risky if it ever gets involved in an accident. This is because hybrid cars stores high amount of voltage in its batteries. This means that there is a high chance of getting electrocuted when you get involved in an accident. This also means that it is relatively difficult for rescuers to get the drivers and passengers out of the hybrid cars because of the dangers of high voltage in the car.

These are the advantages and the disadvantages of hybrid cars. Car manufacturers today are now looking for ways to get rid of the disadvantages of hybrid cars. In the near future, you will see that hybrid cars will be lighter and also contains less risk due to high voltage dangers.

Two Main Types of Toyota Car Covers

2008-04-28T05:51:00.002-07:00

Car covers such as the Toyota car covers vary in designs from one car type to another. Car covers follow the body shape and contour of specific cars. Hence, most car covers are custom-fitted to specific models. However, car of similar body types may share car covers. There are basically two types of car covers, namely, the water-proof car cover and the cloth car cover. The water-proof car cover is typically woven from polymer fibers such as nylon. This type of car cover is sometimes layered with synthetic leather. Water-proof car covers are used for outdoor parking. On the other hand, the cloth ca cover is used indoor. It is commonly woven out of synthetic silk or rayon. The main purpose of a car cover is to prevent dust and other dirt from damaging the paint finish of an automobile. Car covers also protect the car from minor scratches and from the elements. Water-proof car covers are effective mean of shielding the car against the damaging ultra-violet ray of the sun, rain, and bird droppings.

Water-proof car covers are particularly useful when you are parking outdoors. Pro-long exposure to the elements can result to expensive damages on your car. Although rain is generally harmless, rain showers can sometimes become acidic, especially in urban settings. Pollutants in air such as nitrous oxides can combine with the water vapors in the clouds, rendering them to become acidic. Consequently, when these water vapors precipitate as rain, they can corrode the metal surface of a car. On the other hand, prolong exposure to the sun will lead to the cracking of paint finish and damage to the upholstery. Bird droppings and other animal droppings are also common problems of parking outdoors. Even in urban settings there are few parking spaces with roofs. Most parking spaces are open areas that are exposed to the elements. If you plan to leave you car for a long period of time in an open parking space, it would be prudent to cover your car with waterproof car cover. Water-proof car covers such as the Toyota car cover will not only protect your car against the rain but also will protect your car against other damaging factors.

A car cover such as a Toyota car cover may also be used to flaunt the sexy contours of your car. Cloth car covers, for instance, are commonly used for indoor parking. These cloth car covers are thin and soft, which have delicate textures. This type of car covers is typically used during car shows. The anticipation and curiosity of people attending car shows are heightened by the fact that the cars are hidden under the car covers. Car covers accentuate the sexy curves and delicate contours of cars. Hence, they titillate the senses of the viewers. Most car shows feature ceremonial unveiling events that are central and anticipated aspects. Car covers such as the Toyota car covers have vital roles to play during car shows. Aside from car shows, cloth car covers are very useful for indoor parking. They prevent the accumulation of dust and other dirt on the surface of a car. A cloth car cover also has an advantage over a water-proof car cover. A cloth ca cover allows heat to radiate and it dos not trap moisture underneath.

Buying A Car, Some Tips And Information

2008-04-28T05:51:00.001-07:00

"Car buying is, or should be, a calculated decision,"says John Mondin, an auto travel counselor with AAA. The complex and sometimes frightening process of car buying is demystified in a comprehensive guide that covers: How to choose the right car, new/used car-buying strategies, getting a used car bargain,avoiding the pitfalls of leasing, how to shop for insurance.

In addition, Strategies for Smart Car Buyers includes several appendices and a variety of new material to complete the buyer's research process, including: The acclaimed investigative series, "Confessions of a Car Salesman," relating insider secrets in an entertaining account of two car dealerships, monthly payment charts and monthly leasing payments, expanded financing section detailing crucial contract dos and don'ts, plus additional commentary throughout text from undercover car salesman Chandler Phillips.

Online new car buying is a quick and easy way to look for a car in the privacy of one's own home without the pressure of rash buying. Online car buying is a reality now because of the many excellent sites where you can find the car you've been looking for. See all the buying and selling articles you can find on avoiding scams and post-sale problems. As most of us know, used-car buying is a business wrought with scams. One of the best innovations in used car buying is the CARFAX website.

Tips

Educate yourself before buying a car, no negotiating prices without going for a test drive! Do you buy nice clothes without trying them on. Arm yourself with knowledge,with these tips, you can confidently walk into a car dealership, ready to be confronted by eager salesmen. More dealers are better: The more dealers you have in your area, the more competition for your business, the higher your odds of getting a good deal. Some helpful guidelines and car buying tips can be found at the Federal Information Center, as well as a wealth of other money related issues.

Information

The good news is that with the advent of the Internet, a world of information -- never available to our parents and grandparents -- is just a click away. Walking onto a dealer's lot with no information is like walking into the lion's den. And relying on a dealer for information is just slightly better. It levels the playing field by giving accurate information to the consumer.

You can also read up on the latest car reviews by browsing the Web as there is literally a wealth of pertinent information available online. Never discuss in a dealership what you can afford on a monthly basis; dealers can use that information to structure a car loan to meet or slightly beat your monthly-payment requirements, without addressing the more important issues: the total price of the car and the terms of the loan. To negotiate on price, you must be armed with information about the true value of the car you want with all the options you demand.

A variety of Web sites now offer detailed consumer information comparing the dealer's invoice cost, what the dealer paid the manufacturer, against the MSRP printed on the window sticker. Important information about automobiles and fuel economy should always be considered. Some helpful guidelines and car buying tips can be found at the Federal Information Center, as well as a wealth of other money related issues. Check it out, you'll be surprised at the valuable information you'll find there. They combine extensive industry knowledge, dealership experience, and the power of the Internet to empower the consumer with the information they need to negotiate the best deal. They offer valuable research and information about used cars. You can find out about rebates online whereas before, unless you ask the car salesman, he wouldn't volunteer the information to you.

Loan

You will get greater flexibility and savings by getting pre-approved for a car loan before shopping for a new or used car. And,if you decide to finance the car, find out what your monthly payment should be by shopping for a car loan before going to the dealership. You may discover that getting a loan will cost less than financing directly. If you do find a loan that you like, it's recommended that you get approved for it before buying the car. The question you really must ask yourself at this point isn't how much car you can afford but how much car loan you can afford. That determines how much car loan you'll be able to cover comfortably every month for the next three to four years. The next step is to talk to your bank or credit union to find out what rates they're currently charging on new-car loans for 36 and 48 months. There are many ways to find the best loan for you regardless of your credit standing. The prospective car buyer can also look into current interest rates on car loans ahead of time and determine which way they should proceed with regard to financing the vehicle. So be sure to follow these steps; do your research on the car, research available loan rates and programs online, check your impact on your insurance, and then reach a dealer about the car you want.

Final Thoughts

The world of car buying is changing rapidly. Online new car buying is a quick and easy way to look for a car in the privacy of one's own home without the pressure of sales people pushing you into rash buying. The key to successful car buying is to meet your wants and needs within your budget.

A Car Buying Story, Part Two: How?

2008-04-28T05:47:00.004-07:00

So how do I buy a car once I know what I like? There are several options, plus a few payment options as well. It can make quite difference both money-wise and regarding your own satisfaction. This is what I have considered:

Buying a new car

This is the easiest option of course. It has many advantages, and a single disadvantage: you pay the price for all those conveniences. In the end this is what I did, for the following reasons:

I don't have to think how the previous owner maintained the car.

New car should be problem free for a few years longer than a used car.

Warranty is usually 3-5 years, or 60K-100K km, so you get to use it longer. Of course with the new car, there are less chances that you'll actually use it, but you never know.

If you're financing, you get a better interest rate. It ranges from 0% to 4% (currently for this year's models), while if you're buying a used car and want to finance using bank loan, the best you can get is currently about 8%.

If you're buying replacement insurance -- it's usually too expensive for the car older than 5 years. With the new car you can get it for a fair price for the first 3-5 years.

Once you decide what you want, it's easy to buy it: you walk into the dealership and within couple of hours you have the car. And in my situation that was beneficial since I did not have the car. Otherwise, this convenience can actually work against you.

You can get exactly the model you want, including color and other little things.

Buying a new car in a rural area

This is something I've heard of but haven't explored in full. The idea is to go out of the city to dealerships with smaller sales numbers, and try to negotiate better price with them. Now, I'm not the best negotiator, so I wasn't really counting on this option, but I tried anyway. I went 150km away and spent a day talking to dealers and did almost nothing -- I've got $250 reduction. I might have done better if I had more time and wanted to come back and spend it. But I gave up.

It can certainly benefit, but you have to be prepared to visit every dealer in your area. It's definitely not a quick win.

Buying a used car

This is certainly my favourite option, but it takes time and effort. And you can find an excellent car that is not really worse than a new one, for a low price. But you have to wait and search and negotiate. If you have a car to drive and you have the time to spend on looking for a new one, always do this. The depreciation of the new car is the biggest in the first years, so you save a bunch by buying 2-3 years old car. And sometimes those cars have very low mileage. Only beware of leased cars -- sometimes they are not maintained too well since they are being leased and the owner knows it'll be changed in a few years.

Buying a car in US

Now this is an excellent way to buy a good car and save money. Cars are generally cheaper in US than in Canada, and the difference is bigger with more expensive cars. Nowadays, with the dollars being almost equal, you save on that price difference. Then you don't pay US State tax, since you are from Canada, and you pay Canadian taxes just as if you were buying the car here. Of course, you'll pay duty fee, which is currently 6.1%. But I did the calculation, and with all the fees and taxes, for each car I looked at, you're still better off at least $1,000. I looked at Civic (saves about $1,000), Accord (saves $4,000), CR-V (saves $6,000).

Then there is another interesting perk: US and Canadian models are not always the same. There are some model trims that exist in US, but not in Canada (I suppose the opposite is true as well). For example, I looked at Subaru models and I found out that the basic Outback model in US was much cheaper than the one in Canada. And the difference was only that the US model did not have some purely convenience features -- those I did not care about. But it was $9,000 cheaper (31,000 vs. 22,000 MSRP)

Now, there are obstacles, of course. Nothing comes easy. Car makers don't like you going to US to buy the car for less money. They have priced the cars differently for US and Canadian markets and don't like you taking advantage of it. Honda and Toyota have actually told the dealers in US not to sell the cars to people from Canada. I called about 10 dealers and have been told exactly this. One guy told me that they've been doing that before but then been told that they may lose the sale authorization if they do that. So, I figured I should just try to find a dealership that hasn't been warned yet. And I did -- couple of them said they'll sell it to me without a problem. With Subaru, it seems that there is no such issue -- all of them said they sell cars to Canadians.

Then there is warranty. If you buy a new car in US, the warranty is not honoured in Canada. That means that for regular services or repairs you have to pay, or if you live close to the border, go to US every time some maintenance work is needed. This also depends on the maker: Honda and Toyota don't honour it while VW does without problem. With Subaru, I heard both yes and no, so if I had decided to go for it, I would certainly first ask dealers about it.

As an interesting side note: I've found out that some time ago, the situation regarding car imports was opposite: it was very beneficial to buy a car in Canada and import it to US. Car makers have raised the same obstacles: told the dealers not to sell cars and did not honoured warranties across the border. However, seems that Americans are more agile in these situations, so they fairly quickly formed a few consumer organizations, made a class action and forced the dealers to drop the ridiculous rules.

The process itself is not trivial -- there are a good number of steps you need to take, but it is straight forward. There are no surprises once you get all the preparation done or planned. There are good resources on the net that outline the whole process:

Importing a vehicle into Canada: http://www.mr2.com/TEXT/Import.html

Forum discussion on car import: http://www.discovervancouver.com/forum/topic.asp?TOPIC_ID=6825

Border costs: http://www.myborderpro.com/2006

Website dedicated to importing cars to Canada: http://www.importcartocanada.info

Info on taxes related to importing a car: http://www.importcartocanada.info/faq/do-i-have-to-pay-tax-on-a-car-i-import-to-canada-from-the-usa

You can also hire an agency to do everything for you, but I don't really see a need for that.

Now, if you are looking for a used car (in US), you can save even more money, but you have to do more work. You have to find a way to inspect the car before buying it and you'll perhaps have to travel further for that vehicle of choice. You have to be cautious and watch for problems that do not exist in Canada such as possibility that the car was flooded in one of the floods in the south (e.g. New Orleans). But if you go trough all of that you can find an excellent deal and happily bring it back to Canada.

Paying for your car

Internet was a great help for this. First, all makers have good websites that let you calculate the prices, specific for your province, and they match exactly what the dealers tell you. Besides those, there are a lot of other useful resources on the web. Here are a few:

Canadian Black Book tells you the prices that the dealers pay you when you bring in a trade-in vehicle. Both of these links point to the same service

Toyota Black Book Link: http://www.toyota.ca/NWS/english/confighelp/appraise_tradein_vehicle.html

GMC Black Book Link: http://www.gmcanada.com/NASApp/app/services/gmc/cbb?lang=en

There is also the Canadian Red Book, equivalent to US Blue Book, but I couldn't find that online. But there are other websites that tell you used car prices, such as:

VMR Canada: http://www.vmrcanada.com/canada_makes.htm

What I also did is picked up the prices from Auto Trader:

Auto Trader Used Car Ads: http://www.canadatrader.com

I picked prices for the past 5 years. It's a good way to figure out average depreciation as well.

There are also fee-based sites that will give you very comprehensive reports on new and used car values, but I did not use them.

A good way to get the realistic value for the car (even for a new one) is to go to several banks and ask them how much would they loan to you for that specific car. You give them the make, model, year and the rest (in some banks its enough o provide the VIN), and they tell you what is the maximum they'll give you on a car loan. There are good chances this is less than what dealer asks you to pay. You can then use this figure to negotiate with the dealer.

To figure out the best loans options, you can use online calculators such as this one:

Loan Calculator: http://www.canadiandriver.com/tools/loan.htm

All this is really fun to do, but again, it takes time -- so don't spare it. There are only two ways: you either put in your own effort or you pay money sooner or later.

Finding the Right Used Cars Dealer

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Good-quality, affordable used cars are available in the market today and local automotive dealers sell many of them. There are the following types of used car dealers.
New-Car Dealers Used-Car Lots - Most of the new-car dealers also sell used cars of recent late model vehicles in good condition in their lots, which are relatively expensive. Older and less expensive vehicles are auctioned, usually for purchase by independent used-car dealers.
Independent Used-Car Dealers - Independent used car lots offer affordable cheap cars. Proper caution should however be taken to determine if the price is reasonable and that there are no hidden problems in the vehicle. Warranty or return policy may not exist for most used cars.
National Used-Car Dealers – CARMAX Superstore (authorized agencies in US and Canada) is notably one of the largest and reputable used-car dealers and a good source of no-hassle deals, however not necessarily the cheapest deals.
Websites such as eBay has an entire section dedicated to selling used cars of all types and price ranges. However, their buyer protection program has to be made use of to avoid obvious risks and possible extra costs that might be involved in buying a used car, which is far away.
A great used car deal can be closed with some amount of time and energy and a little bit of research for bagging a reliable and economical vehicle in the process. Following are tips designed as a guideline for buying a used car from a dealer.

Type of Car. Many dealers advertise pre-owned cars of various types in local newspaper classifieds, consumer circulars, and weekly shoppers and through popular automotive publications. So the consumer can go through them and select the suitable care of reputed make, required size and their dealer.

Obtain the value. Once a prospective used car dealer is found, it is time to work out whether the quoted price is realistic. The car’s retail value can be explored by inputting data like make, year, and model and mileage information at the website: NADAguides.com, Used Car Information Center. This information is the basis upon which all other assessments of value are built upon. A value report outlining several different values along with their descriptions will be provided after inputting the above data.

Research of the Car Marketability. The first step in determining the worth of the car is pinpointing the retail value of that car. The next step is determining the marketability of that vehicle. i.e., what others are currently paying for similar cars with similar features in that marketplace? It is essential to know how significantly a vehicle’s marketability affects its value.

Budget Determination. Affordability to spend is to be determined before entering into the used car buying process. If planning to finance the car, calculations on affordability on a monthly basis (in the form of a monthly car payment) is to be fixed after taking into considerate all other personal expenditures like monthly rent, mortgage, utilities, etc. After having determined the monthly car payment allowance, the amount of cash for down payment has to be figured out. And this will depend on the current financial status of the individual. Finally, an affordable used car purchase price is to be determined based on these calculations.

Guarantee check. It is essential to know in advance about the type of warranty the used car is covered. In some cases a manufacturer’s certification program may be available or in some other cases it may be covered under a dealer-backed warranty. If no warranties are offered, an independent, extended warranty to cover the vehicle can be purchased for a little extra money. Warranty programs are significant because of the coverage of the cost of specific major repairs that may occur to the vehicle mechanically. Moreover, certified cars with manufacturer warranties undergo a rigorous inspection process.

Avoid buying a lemon. The single biggest fear of most used car shoppers is buying a lemon probably. Certain steps can be followed when personally inspecting a pre owned car, which includes putting the vehicle through a comprehensive interior, exterior and mechanical appraisal tests.

Deal Negotiation. One of the largest purchases a consumer can make is buying a Car. At NADAguides.com, the importance of negotiation as a tool to help car buyers is stressed to get the best deal on a used car. Before entering into a negotiation process, it is to be made sure whether the individual is ready to buy – since more time is wasted in bargaining for a vehicle without having an intention of purchasing. A clear understanding regarding the vehicle’s current value based on its make, year of manufacture, model, condition, mileage and market desirability will be obtained if some homework is done ahead of time.

Top 10 Money Mistakes In Buying A Car

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Purchasing a car is a big investment. It is also an exciting experience especially for first time car buyers. With all the excitement, many car buyers often make wrong decisions because they lack the information and sometimes due to impulsiveness. Here are the top ten money mistakes people commit when buying a car:

1. Buying you're ideal car.
Cars come in different models and each one has his own "ideal" type of car that he wants to have. But focusing on a single type of car just because it looks amazing isn't a very a good idea. Instead of just thinking about the look and style of the car, consider your need and lifestyle. Most importantly consider your budget when choosing a car.

2. Not going for a road drive test.
When buying a car, this is one of the most important steps that you should never miss. A car may look impressive both in and out but you'll never know the exact condition of car unless you personally take it for a test drive.

3. Negotiating based on the tag price of the car.
Before negotiating for a lower price, find out what the car's real price is. You may think you're getting a huge discount from the price you asked for when in truth, you can still ask for a much lower price than that.

4. Not considering the entire price of the deal.
Dealers usually entice car buyers by giving the monthly-payment amount of the car. This way, it will not seem like a very huge amount for the buyer. When talking with a car dealer, ask how much is the full cost of the car first. Then ask for the other costs such as if you do a trade-in, financing, or leasing. This will give you a better idea on the true cost of the car.

5. Buying the car just because of the incentives included in the package.
Car sellers often include additional bonuses to attract car buyers in purchasing the car. Incentives may include rebates, 0% financing, etc. You may be convinced to make the purchase just because you're thinking about the savings you can get from the whole package. But the more important question is, is the car really worth the buy? Remember, your main goal is to buy a car that will suit your needs and lifestyle.

6. Not shopping around for the right car financing loan.
Finding the right financing company is just as important as finding the right car. If you have plans of buying a car, it's a good idea to start researching about car financing companies in advance before even looking for a car.

7. Not preparing your credit.
An excellent credit report is crucial in getting deals on your car loans. Thus, if you intend to buy a car, it's recommended to start working on your credit report at least six months ahead to make sure that when you apply for a car loan, you'll approved and get the best rates too.

8. Purchasing additional items from the car dealer.
You're car dealer may talk you into buying extra services to enhance the look of your car such as paint protection, VIN etching, rustproofing, etc. But this can make your purchase unreasonably higher than it should be. If you want to avail of these things, it's better to get them separately.

9. Not doing your own research.
If you're going to trade your old car for a new one, make sure that you do your own research about the value of your car in the market. Don't let dealers simply talk you into believing that this is your car's worth without checking on this yourself.

10. Not having the car checked by a professional.
Before you purchase a vehicle, hire a mechanic to diagnose the vehicle for you especially if you're buying a used car. If it's a second hand car, ask the mechanic to write a detailed report about the car's condition and the repairs that are needed. Show this report when you negotiate for the price of the car.

Buying Your New Car

2008-04-28T05:46:00.003-07:00

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