Automotive Heaven

Hamann BMW X6

2009-01-05T18:32:00.000-08:00

Hamann offers a full aerodynamic body kit for the BMW X6, as well as increased horsepower (360 hp for the 3 liter 6), lowered springs, and interior upgrades.

With the X6, the BMW programme offers a car which does not only have the characteristics of an SUV, but also of a sports coupé. As a certified specialist for sport accessories, HAMANN-Motorsport is especially focusing on the driving dynamics segment of this Crossover model. For this reason, the technicians are refining the aerodynamics, motor and running gear. The modifications turn the X6 into an automobile which makes nearly every wish come true as far as performance is concerned. But the Laupheim-based refiner can do even more: an extensive interior and rim-programme completes the X6 refinement and makes the automobile stand out against the vast number of other upper class SUVs.

Inspiring torque enhancement

The range of HAMANN performance enhancement is as manifold as the choice of BMW motors. Thus, the technology specialist equips the X6 xDrive35i with a motor performance of 360 hp / 265 kW at 5,230 rpm. At the same time, the maximum torque rises by 140 Nm to 540 Nm within the speed range from 1,300 to 5,000 rpm. Thereby, HAMANN also suspends the 250 km/h limit and allows an impressive speed of 275 km/h. The Diesel version is also provided with extra power. After re-programming the serial motronics, the xDrive30d renders 265 hp / 195 kW and draws a maximum
torque of 600 Nm to the crankshaft. The motor version xDrive35d turns into an enormously powerful sprinter as well. The engineers from Laupheim were able to tease 320 hp / 235 kW and a sensational torque of 660 Nm at 2,000 rpm out of the self-igniting engine. Moreover, the sport mufflers by HAMANN-Motorsport are adjusted to the various performance kits. The product range does not only offer a double-pipe, but also a four-pipe system which renders a sonorous and earthy sound.

Fascinating design is matched with functional aerodynamics

The exclusive HAMANN auto body programme renders an optimal airflow over the car silhouette. The body kit consists of a sportive and energetic front skirt with integrated LED daytime running lights, a three-part rear casing and an attractive roof spoiler. For additional output on the rear axle, the customer can either opt for a small restrained or large and prominent rear spoiler. According to customer specifications, the BMW specialist can also replace the serial bonnet with an ultra-light carbon version.

Volkswagen Red Bull Baja Race Touareg TDI Trophy Truck

2009-01-05T18:29:00.000-08:00

For the first time in the 41-year history of the Baja 1000, a vehicle with clean diesel technology successfully competed in the demanding high performance trophy truck class in the Baja 1000.
After more than 1,000 kilometers (634 miles) through some of the toughest terrain imaginable, Volkswagen’s newly developed Baja Race Touareg TDI prototype successfully crossed the finish line in Ensenda, Mexico driven by veteran drivers Mark Miller and Ryan Arciero.

The Baja Race Touareg TDI experienced a defective seal on the gearbox during the race that led to the necessary replacement of the entire gearbox causing a major time loss for the team. “Ultimately, a simple seal had an enormous effect with a big loss of time. This defect surprised us because it had never occurred before,” said Don Tebbe, Project Manager for the Arciero Miller Racing (AMR) team which, in close collaboration with Volkswagen Motorsport, is responsible for the development and fielding of the Baja Touareg. “Shortly before the finish we also exchanged the rear differential just to be on the safe side. From tests we knew that this part might possibly be at the limit. Work on an improved version is already in progress,” Tebbe added.

The Race Touareg TDI Trophy Truck that ran the 41st Annual Tecate SCORE Baja 1000 desert race in the SCORE Trophy Truck class was powered by a 5.5 liter V-12 clean diesel engine that produces 550 horsepower and 625 lbs.-ft. of torque.

Staying true to the off-road prowess that the Touareg is best known for, the purpose-built Race Touareg TDI Trophy Truck takes the Touareg’s off-road tenaciousness to a whole new level. With a double A-Arm front suspension that allows 25 inches of wheel travel, and a 4-link rear suspension that allows 30 inches of wheel travel, combined with Fox Racing Shocks, Eibach Coils and BFGoodrich Baja KRT 37x13.5x17 off-road tires the Race Touareg TDI Trophy Truck had little difficulty maneuvering the highly difficult and technical 634 mile Baja 1000 course.

SSC Ultimate Aero

2009-01-04T05:28:00.000-08:00

The SSC Aero has gone even further over the top with a 15% power increase pushing output to 1287 hp. 0-60 mph comes up in a mere 2.78 seconds, and top speed is raised to an amazing 257 mph.
After holding the "World’s Fastest Production Car" title for the past year, the Shelby SuperCars' Ultimate Aero is receiving several refinements for the 2009 model year. The SSC engineering team equipped the 2009 Ultimate Aero with a 15% increase in horsepower, a revamped front fascia design, and an array of important interior upgrades. The most substantial change is an SSC-designed, 1-piece billet aluminum engine block. A milestone for the limited-production automobile manufacturer, the new block improves structural integrity and oiling capabilities allowing SSC to boost the power output to 1287 horsepower while improving durability.

Armed with the more powerful new engine, the '09 Ultimate Aero will be able to reach world-record speeds of 270 MPH, raising the benchmark for supercars and pushing the limits of current production car technology. In order to accommodate the '09 Ultimate Aero's unique fuel system requirements, SSC turned to American company Aeromotive to develop a flawless system. The aggressive nose is redesigned with enhanced aerodynamics to accommodate the 2009 Ultimate Aero's higher top speed, and carbon fiber louvers on the side intakes draw in an additional 20% of air into the radiators for improved cooling. The improvement in overall performance will widen the already sizeable gap between the Ultimate Aero and its competitors. The '09 Ultimate Aero also introduces the AeroBrakeTM a rear spoiler system that deploys under braking situations. Finished in carbon fiber, the rear spoilers actuate up an additional 8" when the brake pedal is depressed. The speed of the spoiler actuation is set by the amount of brake pedal pressure. The complete AeroBrakeTM system can be disabled by the push of a button, for town driving or situations where braking and downforce assistance are not necessary.

Rounding out the '09 Ultimate Aero's improvements is a revamped interior. A redesigned dash prominently displays sleek, exposed carbon fiber dash halves and inset air vents. Carbon fiber accents run along the doorsills, surround the new gauge cluster, and continue onto a revised steering column, which includes an analog speedometer and tachometer with a sequential shift light integrated into the tachometer needle. The new center console incorporates a digital temperature control unit and tire pressure monitor along with an Azentek PC base Infotainment unit. The revolutionary Azentek unit offers all the capabilities of a PC and processes SSC's onboard diagnostic software.

Jaguar XF Diesel

2009-01-04T05:25:00.000-08:00

THE NEW JAGUAR XF DIESEL S – In Brief

• The most advanced, powerful and efficient Jaguar diesel ever
• New 275PS high-performance XF Diesel S featuring Jaguar’s new AJ-V6D Gen III S 3.0-litre diesel engine delivers a massive 600Nm of torque
• 0-60mph in just 5.9 seconds, 50-70mph in just 3.2 seconds, a maximum speed of 155mph and yet combined fuel economy of just 42.0mpg – 12 percent better than the acclaimed 2.7-litre V6 diesel engine
• Emits just 179g/km – a 10 percent reduction in CO2. Conforms to EU5 emission regulations using conventional exhaust after-treatment
• 33 percent more powerful and 61 percent more torque from 1500rpm than the 2.7-litre V6 diesel

“With CO2 emissions of 179g/km, 42mpg average fuel economy and 0-60mph acceleration in 5.9 seconds, this is another great example of Jaguar delivering unrivalled performance while at the same time taking the level of refinement in diesel engines to a whole new level.”
Mick Mohan, Jaguar Programmes Director

When it was introduced last year, the XF was recognised as a dramatic expression of a bold new Jaguar design language. It also soon became apparent that here was a car where the driving experience exceeded the expectations created by the striking appearance. Now, the new XF Diesel S takes this driving experience to new levels, shifting the balance even further towards dynamic performance while still retaining the XF’s core values as a refined and luxurious sports saloon.

Distinguished by discreet ‘S’ badging, the car that defines Jaguar sporting luxury is even better for the 2010 model year, with a stunning new high-performance diesel. Powered by a 275PS engine, the Diesel S gives the XF outstanding levels of performance, accelerating from 0-60mph in just 5.9 seconds, 1.8 seconds quicker than the excellent 2.7-litre model. In-gear acceleration is equally impressive, with a 50-70mph time of just 3.2 seconds. Maximum speed is electronically limited to 155mph.

Featuring parallel sequential turbochargers to help deliver the high levels of power and torque seamlessly and with effortless flexibility, this engine is perfectly matched to Jaguar’s sophisticated six-speed ZF 6HP28 automatic transmission.

“The new parallel sequential turbocharger system on our new V6 diesel delivers V8 levels of performance from very low revs. It’s a power unit that offers superb flexibility and remarkably low fuel consumption and emissions, while building on the refinement that has become a trademark of our Jaguar diesel engines.”
Ron Lee, Group Chief Engineer, Powertrain

There is an equally impressive 240PS version of the new 3.0-litre engine available too, which produces 16 percent more power and a 15 percent increase in torque over the 2.7-litre diesel, allowing the XF to reach 60mph in 6.7 seconds. Its 50-70mph time of just 3.7 seconds is only fractionally slower than the 275PS Diesel S model. Maximum speed is 149mph. And like the 275PS engine, these great performance leaps are achieved with combined average fuel consumption of 42.0mpg – an improvement on the 2.7-litre diesel of over 10 percent – and a CO2 emissions rating of only 179g/km.

There are also significant trim and specification changes – including many new features – and the introduction of a new Portfolio derivative as part of the core range. For Jaguar and the new 2010 model year XF, the high-performance diesel has truly arrived. Pricing for the 2010 model year diesels – which will carry a premium over the current 2.7 – will be announced shortly.

The acclaimed XF 2.7 Diesel has won several accolades, including in the UK What Car magazine’s ‘Diesel Car of the Year’ and ‘Car of the Year’, What Diesel magazine’s ‘Diesel Car of the Year’ and the Association of Scottish Motoring Writers’ Best Diesel of 2008. Additionally, the XJ 2.7-litre Diesel was also named Britain’s greenest luxury car in the Environmental Transport Association’s 2008 Car Buyers Guide for the second year running.

Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren Stirling Moss

2008-12-22T20:23:00.000-08:00

This awesome car is built by Mercedes Benz and Mclaren. Mercedes-Benz and McLaren are adding the crowning glory to the model family of their highly successful SLR super sports car with a new, uncompromisingly spectacular car. There is neither a roof nor a windscreen to separate the driver and passenger from the outside world; they enjoy unadulterated high-speed excitement with all the attributes of a speedster. The new SLR Stirling Moss is also characterised by the most sophisticated technology and a breathtaking design which reinterprets the SLR legend. With 478 kW/650 hp the SLR Stirling Moss accelerates its V8 supercharged engine from standstill to 100 km/h in less than 3.5 seconds, and has a top speed of 350 km/h - no other series-production car is at the same time so open and so fast. This extreme concept makes the new high-performance sports car a legitimate bearer of the name of the British motor racing legend and Mille Miglia record-holder Stirling Moss, who drove the legendary Mercedes-Benz SLR racing cars from victory to victory in 1955. The exclusive SLR Stirling Moss rounds off the current SLR family and is limited to 75 units. It is priced at 750,000 euros. The SLR Roadster will cease to be manufactured at the end of May 2009 as planned, and production of the SLR Stirling Moss will commence in June 2009.

Audi A5 Convertibles

2008-12-05T00:15:00.000-08:00

Dynamic and wonderful to look at, the new A5 Cabriolet is a real Audi, and an especially exciting one at that. The four-seater with the fabric top combines a sporty character with the fascination of open-top driving, refined comfort, and great everyday utility. Seven powerful engines, an agile suspension and a wide range of high-end options make the new Audi model the most attractive mid-range convertible. The top-of-the-line model of Audi’s new family of convertibles is the S5 Cabriolet. The engine of the S5 Cabriolet is the newly developed, supercharged three-liter V6 with gasoline direct injection. Prices start at EUR 37,300 for the 1.8 TFSI with 118 kW (160 hp) and six-speed manual transmission. Delivery of the first A5 Cabriolet models will begin in the second quarter of 2009.

Like all open-top Audi models, the new A5 Cabriolet too has a classic fabric top – which endows it with a striking silhouette of dynamic elegance. The lightweight softtop opens in 15 seconds – and closes in 17 seconds. The fully automatic open/close drive comes as standard. An acoustic top is optionally available, which reduces wind noise almost to the hardtop level.

Lamborghini Blancpain Super Trofeo

2008-11-30T17:19:00.000-08:00

Next year, Lamborghini will launching the world's fastest one-race series with this new lightweight racecar based on the LP 560-4. Power from the 5.2 liter V10 has been raised to 570 hp, while the body weighs a low 2866 lbs.Next year will see Automobili Lamborghini launch an all-new race series – the world’s fastest one-make series. In May 2009, the Lamborghini Blancpain Super Trofeo takes to the track with its first race. By the end of October, it will have completed 18 races on famous European circuits, supporting popular series like the Deutsche Tourenwagen-Meisterschaft (DTM), the FIA GT Series and the FIA World Touring Car Championship (WTCC). To participate, the factory is offering its customers an exclusive sports machine – the Gallardo Super Trofeo with 419 kW (570 hp), a reworked chassis and significantly reduced weight.(from Lamborghini Press Release).

Carlsson Noble RS Mercedes-Benz S Class

2008-11-28T18:09:00.001-08:00

Carlsson, the Merzig-based automobile manufacturer specialised in refining Mercedes Benz models, impresses with a new high-quality RS-design kit for the S-class in either real carbon, a material which is mainly used in the Formula 1 or in polyurethane (PU). The exclusive overall package gives the S-class long version (internal production name V221) an even more sportive and unforgettable appearance. Using the RS-design and therefore the most precious materials, guarantees an unsurpassable exclusivity and uniqueness of the Carlsson S-class. A body and wheel package for the luxury S-Class.

Aston Martin One-77

2008-11-27T18:18:00.000-08:00

Some early photos of the forthcoming $1 million+ supercar from Aston Martin.
One-77 fuses advanced technology with stunning Aston Martin design to create possibly the world’s most desirable automotive art form. Based on a sophisticated carbon fibre chassis with a handcrafted aluminium body, this 7.3 litre V12 super car will deliver exhilarating performance for a strictly limited number of discerning customers.

Porsche Panamera

2008-11-25T19:42:00.000-08:00

Porsche has finally released official photos of their upcoming 4 door grand tourer.
Roughly nine months before the actual market launch, Dr. Ing. h.c. F. Porsche AG, Stuttgart, has released the first official photos of the Panamera in its final look. In its design, profile and silhouette, Porsche’s unique four-seater stands out clearly as a new member of the Porsche family. Conceived and designed as a four-door grand touring sports car, the Panamera combines numerous talents in typical Porsche style: sporting driving dynamics, a generous and variable interior, and the supreme driving comfort of a Gran Turismo. Joining the 911, Boxster and Cayman sports cars as well as the sporty SUV Cayenne, the Panamera is Porsche’s fourth model series.

The designers of the Panamera have succeeded in positioning this unique car as a brand-new and truly different model while nevertheless retaining the looks of a typical Porsche. Through its proportions alone, the Panamera stands out clearly in its market segment: measuring 1931 millimetres or 76.0 inches in width, the Panamera is wider, and measuring 1418 millimetres or 55.8 inches in height, lower than comparable four-door models. The unmistakable, sleek GT silhouette is created by the car’s overall length of 4970 millimetres or 195.7 inches and short, sporting overhangs front and rear. In its styling and details, the Panamera follows the design philosophy refined over decades on the 911 and successfully implemented also on the Boxster, Cayman and Cayenne.

Honda FC Sport Design Study

2008-11-24T20:24:00.000-08:00

The FC Sport emphasizes the design flexibility and potential of Honda's V Flow fuel cell technology - already deployed in the Honda FCX Clarity sedan - and reconfigures it into a lightweight sports car design with an ultra-low center of gravity, powerful electric motor performance and zero-emissions. The design study concept is inspired by supercar levels of performance through low weight and a high-performance, electrically driven fuel cell powertrain. "The Honda FC Sport explores how to satisfy automotive performance enthusiasts in a world beyond petroleum," said Dan Bonawitz, vice president of American Honda Motor Co., Inc. "People who love sports cars will still have a reason to love in a hydrogen-powered future." The high-output Honda fuel cell powertrain and a sleek, aerodynamic body contribute to the vehicle's performance potential. A modular approach to fuel cell component packaging and the electric drivetrain contribute to the FC Sport's low center of gravity with the majority of vehicle mass distributed between the axles, creating the balanced weight distribution sought after in sports cars. The ideal placement of the Honda V-Flow fuel cell stack and related components demonstrates the benefits of a platform-specific, hydrogen-powered fuel cell powertrain. The FC Sport is configured to accommodate a custom-formed high-power fuel cell stack, located between the rear seats, and a battery pack placed low in the middle of the vehicle. The electric motor resides just forward of the rear axle. Two fuel storage tanks, visible from above, are located above the rear axle. The optimal placement of fuel cell components for performance also allows for a relatively large passenger cabin by conventional supercar standards with enough space for three seating positions. The interior layout focuses primarily on the driver with a racecar-like center driving position. The enclosed canopy opens upward from the rear to allow for entry and exit. Two rear passenger seats flank the driver's left and right side. The sleek, low-profile body is designed to convey a high-technology appearance with sculpting that combines angular shapes in the front of the vehicle that taper into geometric, hex forms in the rear. The rear hex forms house cooling radiators for the fuel cell. Formula 1-style barge boards behind the front wheels enhance high speed aerodynamics and convey the vehicle's racing pedigree. The hydrogen storage tanks, visible from the rear deck, showcase the FC Sports fuel cell technology in much the same way that a "naked bike" motorcycle showcases its engineering technology.
The glacier white body color conveys the FC Sport's clean environmental aspirations while the dark wheels and deeply tinted glass provide a symbolic contrast befitting of the vehicle's unique combination of clean power and high performance. Green construction techniques further contribute to a reduced carbon footprint. An organic, bio-structure theme is carried through to the body construction where exterior panels are intended to use plant-derived bio-plastics.

LAMBORGHINI REVENTON NUMBER 20

2008-11-23T18:22:00.000-08:00

Lamborghini delivered the last of its 20, one million euro plus taxes, Reventón cars this week, to a British customer of the official Midlands dealer, Lamborghini Birmingham.
“Our client was understandably delighted,” said Lamborghini Birmingham sales manager Dominic Mulvey, who accompanied his client to Lamborghini’s Sant’Agata-based factory near Bologna. “Lamborghini’s President and CEO, Stephan Winkelmann, personally presented the Reventón to its new owner who then drove off in his new car.”
The UK-bound V12 Reventón, number 20 of 20 with a minimum 650 hp and a top speed in excess of 211 mph , is the last of the Reventón cars, all of which were sold prior to its public reveal in September 2007. It is the only Reventón being delivered to the UK. The buyer, who wishes to remain nameless, is committed to driving his car rather than simply garaging it however, so the last Reventón may well be seen throughout the country at Lamborghini, motorsport and social events.

Prior-Design Mercedes-Benz SL R230

2008-11-23T18:17:00.000-08:00

To realize our clients' dream of an absolute luxury performance car we have spent a lot of time, effort and charges to build a new kit called "Warrior."The body kit consisting of front bumper, rear bumper, side skirts, front fenders, hood and grill will be produced and sent in absolute high quality and fitment. Further, we haven't lost the focus regarding functionality of factory or optional equipment.The front bumper is available for all models with or without xenon headlights. Fog lights and the attached active curve lights can be mounted as well. Also, factory protection stripes with or without original park distance control can be installed. For more conservative clients, it is also a possibility to fit the kit without hood and grille.To offer a complete kit consisting aerodynamics and performance we decided to develop a new ECU software which results in a 20 - 70 hp boost, depending on motorization. Acceleration and driving quality has noticeably improved.

Aston Martin Vanquish

2008-11-22T00:46:00.001-08:00

The Aston Martin V12 Vanquish is a supercar manufactured by Aston Martin since 2001. It rose to fame after being featured as the official James Bond car in Die Another Day, the twentieth James Bond film. In the film, the Vanquish has the usual Bond film embellishments, including active camouflage which rendered the vehicle virtually invisible. The Vanquish is powered by a 5.9 L (5935 cc) 48-valve 60° V12 engine, which produces 343 kW (460 hp) and 542 N·m (400 ft·lbf) of torque. It is controlled by a fly-by-wire throttle and a 6 speed 'paddle shift' or semi-automatic transmission. A special V12 Vanquish S debuted at the 2004 Paris Auto Show with the power upped to 388 kW (520 hp) and 577 N·m (426 ft·lbf).

C3R Retro Corvette Stingray Design

2008-11-20T19:32:00.001-08:00

The C3R will make it's debut at the 2009 Woodward Cruise in Detroit, Michigan (my home town) next year and we will follow up that with the SEMA show in Las Vegas. If there is enough interest we will begin producing kits. We don't have a price right now because we are still trying to determine how many new parts we will need, but we are trying to use as many carry over parts as possible to keep the price down.
The kit would still be based on the base c6 but with a Katech budget 427 in place of the stock motor. (Katech is a Michigan based company that builds the C5R and C6R race motors) When I finished with the rear end updates I am going to start on the new hood.

Lamborghini Gallardo LP 560 4 Spyder

2008-11-20T19:19:00.000-08:00

Lamborghini has just premiered their new open-top version of the 552 hp Gallardo LP 560 4

Automobili Lamborghini, creator of the world's most exclusive super sport cars, today held the worldwide debut of the Lamborghini Gallardo LP 560-4 Spyder at the Los Angeles Auto Show. As the successor to the best-selling Lamborghini of all time, the new LP 560-4 Spyder combines the Coup's design, performance and handling characteristics with the open-air pleasure only a soft top super sports car can deliver.

As the brand's largest global market, the United States specifically Southern California - was strategically chosen as the perfect location to unveil the new open top super sports car. In 2007, Southern California contributed to approximately 30 percent of all Lamborghini sales in the United States, maintaining its position as the country's most successful region.

The new LP 560-4 Spyder adds another dimension to the Gallardo's lineage with extreme design language and class-leading performance, says Stephan Winkelmann, President and CEO of Automobili Lamborghini. The open version of the successful Gallardo LP 560-4 is the result of Lamborghini's two model strategy including the Gallardo and Murcilago.

The much anticipated Gallardo LP 560-4 Spyder offers a new 5.2 liter engine with 40 additional horsepower than its predecessor; allowing it to sprint from 0-62 mph in only four seconds with a top speed of 201 mph. The car's agility has also been greatly refined with a new, lighter transmission, which allows increased shift times by 40 percent (Corsa Mode), combined with an all-new chassis, suspension and Lamborghini's permanent all-wheel drive system. Despite increased performance, fuel consumption and CO2 emissions have been reduced by 18 percent.

2009 Porsche Boxster S

2008-11-19T19:49:00.000-08:00

In 1948, the 356 was the first sports car to bear the Porsche name, and in July that year the lightweight mid-engined roadster achieved its first motorsport victory. In 1953, the Porsche 550 Spyder was launched. This agile, lightweight race car was powered by a high performance �boxer� engine which took it to countless international victories.

Through 60 years of automotive evolution so much has changed. Yet every Porsche Boxster is built on these first principles. Sports performance, lightweight construction, agility and pure driving pleasure. The technology Porsche use may have developed, but the company�s ability to produce a two-seat, mid-engined sports car unlike any other on the road remains.

This week, Porsche is presenting the second generation of the mid-engined Boxster roadster at the Los Angeles Motor Show (November 21 � 30). The highlight of the new generation is the new flat-six �boxer� engines, developed with new technical features from the ground up, providing not only more power, but also significantly greater fuel efficiency.
A further improvement of both fuel economy and performance is guaranteed by the Porsche Doppelkupplungsgetriebe (PDK), the new double-clutch gearbox now available as an option on both the Boxster and Boxster S.

Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren Roadster 722 S

2008-11-19T01:14:00.000-08:00

The new Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren Roadster 722 S opens up astonishing dimensions when it comes to open-top driving. Delivering 478 kW/650 hp, acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h in 3.7 seconds and a maximum speed of 335 km/h, this two-seater cabriolet surpasses the existing benchmark among open-top super sports cars the SLR McLaren Roadster. Both vehicles feature a fully retractable folding soft top capable of withstanding the high speed and are made of carbon fibre. This endows both models with a very high degree of safety and extreme torsional stiffness. In addition to increased power, the new SLR McLaren Roadster 722 S features even more dynamic suspension tuning and improved aerodynamics. While enjoying exceptional performance, the new roadsters occupants in no way lose out in terms of comfort or the vehicles suitability for everyday use. With its sporty, premium-quality interior appointments and distinctive motorsport pedigree, the new SLR McLaren Roadster 722 S is limited to 150 vehicles and will inspire the most discerning automotive enthusiasts.

Spectacular dimensions in open-top driving are opened up by the new Mercedes-Benz SLRMcLaren Roadster 722 S. With an output of 478 kW/650 hp, acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h in 3.7 seconds and a top speed of 335 km/h, this open two-seater betters the standard set for open-air super-sports cars by the SLR McLaren Roadster. Both have a fully recessible soft top suitable for high speed driving, and are made from carbon fibre. This produces a very high level of safety and extremely high torsional strength. In addition to a higher engine output, the new SLR McLaren Roadster 722 S has an even more dynamic suspension setup and further aerodynamic improvements.

Lexus IS 250C

2008-11-17T22:52:00.000-08:00

Continuing the performance and styling trends set by the IS luxury sport sedans, the IS 250C and IS 350C hardtop convertibles will come to the U.S. in the late spring of 2009.
Lexus today revealed the IS retractable hard-top convertible at the 2008 Paris Motor Show. Continuing the performance and styling trends set by the IS luxury sport sedans, the IS 250C and IS 350C will come to the U.S. in the late spring of 2009.

Featuring a three-panel roof that opens in just 21 seconds, the new IS 250C and IS 350C provide the spirited sophistication of a convertible and the sporty styling of a coupe. While the hood, headlamps, door handles and mirrors are common to the exterior of the IS sedans, all other body panels have been designed to blend seamlessly with the new three-panel aluminum folding roof.

Powered by the same powertrain as the IS sedans, the IS 250C features a 2.5-liter, 204-hp V6 mated to a six-speed manual or six-speed automatic transmission; the IS 350C contains a 3.5-liter, 306-hp with a six-speed automatic. Revisions to the body structure and suspension provide torsional stiffness and ride comfort with the top down, and low Lexus-like Noise, Vibration and Harshness (NVH) on par with the IS sedan when in coupe configuration.

The three-panel roof structure is completely constructed of lightweight aluminum that helps achieve smooth, quiet retraction. Unlike many retractable-roof mechanisms that increase in speed due to the weight of the structure, a unique roof-brake mechanism slows the closing roof-panels as they approach the windscreen area, ensuring easy retraction just before closure. In addition, the top completely retracts with no elements remaining in view. The three-panel folding aluminum roof also helps provide compact packaging and convenient luggage space.

Volcano Mercedes-Benz SLR

2008-11-17T22:24:00.000-08:00

This extreme SLR-derived supercar features extensive external use of carbon fiber throughout its comprehensive aerodynamic package, as well as increased power (700 hp and 612 lb-ft of torque) leading to a 0-62 mph time of 3.6 seconds and a top speed of 216 mph.
The serial Mercedes-Benz SLR is already one of the most impressive cars on our roads but compared to the HAMANN VOLCANO it still looks rather harmless. Once again, HAMANN-Motorsport proves its cutting edge when it comes to refining superb sports cars. From a lift-reducing body design to a powerful performance enhancement to a lavishly styled interior, HAMANN focuses on all components of this luxury car and makes the automobile dreams of its exclusive clientele come true.

The total makeover of the Laupheim-based refiner is made of extremely light full carbon and consists of front- and rear wing extensions and also new side skirt attachments and sheathings. The front view of the Volcano is optically perfected with a newly designed bonnet which enhances the overall impression by its integrated hood scoop. But also for the rear, the refining technicians implemented new ideas giving the SLR appearance its finishing touch. Under the boot lid cover, HAMANN placed a strong diffuser which improves the car's output in combination with the large rear wing. At the front axle, a newly developed front spoiler renders the necessary contact pressure. If desired, an especially developed overall paint for the VOLCANO in either aluminium/chrome or white/matt completes the striking appearance of this bolide.

The 21-inch rims named EDITION RACE with tyres measuring 255/30ZR21 at the front and 345/25ZR21 at the back render an optimal road grip. The design of the extraordinary light forged wheel thereby combines vitality and elegance and also perfectly fills out the wheel houses.

Audi R8 V12 TDI Concept

2008-11-17T22:09:00.001-08:00

Great concept car with a V12 TDI engine, which produces 500 horse power and 738 pound-feet of torque. It can sprints to 60 mph in 4.1 seconds and it is describes as ergonomic and elegant because the interior’s design is as sporty and exclusive as the exterior. The precision chassis of the Audi R8 V12 TDI concept remains ultimately in control of the sporty performance, but is also capable of assuring relaxed driving pleasure over long distances. This car looks sweet!

The Sensible Person's Sporty Sedan

2008-11-16T19:21:00.000-08:00

In preparing to write this full test of the new 2009 Acura TL, this writer was reminded by the powers-that-be that automotive styling is a subjective matter.

Indeed, continued the boss men, it would be helpful to no one to simply tee off on what is a truly lovely car in every way except the one judged by human eyes.

Besides, it was determined, no honor or lasting joy could be had by poking fun at a car that's an easier target for ridicule than a fat kid on a scooter. The last communication from the Home Office read, in part, "...your conscience (such as it is) will be your guide."

Right.

2008 Los Angeles Auto Show: Saab 9-3 Convertible Special Edition

2008-11-16T19:18:00.000-08:00

The first Saab convertible was introduced at the 1983 Frankfurt Auto Show, and since then the automaker has sold more than a quarter of a million of the soft tops around the world.

The 9-3 Convertible special edition will be fitted with Saab's 2.0-liter, 210-horsepower four-cylinder turbo engine mated to a six-speed manual or five-speed automatic transmission. Influences from Saab's Turbo X model include a similar front bumper design and carbon fiber interior trim, and from Saab's Aero include dual exhaust, Saab says. The special-edition convertible also gets 17-inch five-spoke alloy wheels.

There is a trio of metallic paint color choices: Bright Champagne — unique to this special edition — Jet Black or Carbon Grey.

Saab will get the 9-3 Convertible special edition to dealers in January, priced at $46,725 including destination.

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It Had To Happen: Brabus-Tuned Tesla Roadster

2008-11-16T19:06:00.000-08:00

What ever your job is whether you are a lawyer, dentist, forex trader, politicians, marine, CEO, real estate broker, shop owner, diamonds trader, gold miner, jewelry designer, racer, or what ever you must be want a brand new expensive cars.

BOTTROP, Germany — German tuner Brabus may be known for maximizing horsepower on traditional gas- and diesel-powered cars, but notice the lightning-bolt-festooned logo of its new Zero Emission division. The first project out of the division is a customization project off the electric Tesla Roadster that will be on display at the 2008 Essen Tuner Show in Germany. You can fulfill your dreams and desire like gold, jewelry, diamonds, estates, leisure, automotive, new car, tied your luck at casiono etc.

Brabus says the first priority was "a more exciting sound" for the currently quiet electric sports car. Several simulated engine sounds can be selected by the driver using Brabus' "space sound generator," which rises and falls in volume depending on how much power the electric motor is putting out at a given time. Choices: racing engine, "typical" V8 internal-combustion engine, or Beam or Warp sounds, which Brabus calls "futuristic soundscapes" but doesn't describe further. Chances are, the average video game user will find those two soundtracks familiar.

Naturally, the Tesla Roadster also gets cosmetic modifications. In front, the tuner has added a carbon-fiber lip and daytime running lamps in the grille. These and the rear lamps have matte white surrounds. On the side, "futuristic space lights" are turned on by pulling the door handle or using the keyless fob; there are also carbon fiber air inlets. In back, there's more carbon fiber in the form of a rear wing and rear diffuser.

Inside, the Brabus logo is found on scuff plates and upholstery, and the floor is upholstered with leather.

Brabus Monoblock S light alloy wheels, 18 inches in front and 19 inches in back, paired with Pirelli P Zero Nero high-performance tires, and a matte white paint color complete th