Last Cars News Blog

BMW X1 Concept Photos Leaked Ahead Of Paris Debut

2009-10-03T20:10:00.001-07:00

The guys over at Jalopnik managed to get their gear-greased fingers on some leaked stills of the new BMW X1 Concept set to debut at the 2008 Paris Auto Show next week.

To be breif: here’s another example of a vaguel phallic shaped car that will be driven largely by soccer moms and/or Yani concert-goers. I really can hardly contain my excitement.

Full gallery after the jump

Ford Sales Drop 32%, Market Share Rises 0.7%! [Carpocalypse Now]

2009-10-03T15:00:00.001-07:00

Ford reports in December, 2008, sales totaled 134,114, down 32% from December, 2007. But, there's good news. Ford hasn't lost as much as other automakers, with market share rising 0.7% to 14.6%.

Here's the full press release:

F-SERIES DRIVES FORD TO HIGHER MARKET SHARE FOR THIRD CONSECUTIVE MONTH

* Ford, Lincoln and Mercury market share climbs again in December, marking third consecutive month of higher share
* Market share increases driven by F-Series truck; new F-150 piles up more sales and accolades
* Ford Flex caps 2008 with best sales month so far
* Ford Focus posts best sales year since 2004
* Ford Fusion ushers in next generation with near record sales in 2008
* Lincoln outperforms its luxury competitors, grows market share as 2008 concludes

DEARBORN, Mich., Jan. 5, 2009 – New vehicles, including the all-new F-150 truck, and fuel-efficient powertrains are winning over customers for Ford, Lincoln and Mercury, which realized market share increases for a third consecutive month in December. Ford estimates its market share was 14.6 percent in December, up 0.7 of a point versus a year ago. This marks the first time since 1997 Ford has achieved a market share increase three months in a row.

“This is a strong ending to end a very challenging year,” said Jim Farley, Ford’s group vice president, Marketing and Communications. “In addition to finishing the year with increased market share, we received several accolades from third parties concerning our world-class quality and safety, and we turned some heads on the fuel economy front with our 41 mpg Fusion Hybrid, the most fuel-efficient mid-size sedan in America.”

The F-Series truck played a key role in Ford’s fourth quarter market share gains. The all-new F-150 accounted for 8,600 of total F-Series sales in December, an increase of 84 percent compared with November 2008. For the year, F-Series sales totaled 515,513.

“Our thanks go out to our customers, our dealers and, of course, the Ford employees and supplier partners who design, engineer and manufacture quality, fuel-efficient trucks delivering unmatched capability,” Farley said. “The all-new F-150 affirms what Ford has known for years – that listening to customers provides the best rewards.”

The all-new F-150 recently was named 2009 Motor Trend Truck of the Year™, a finalist for the North American Truck of the Year and the Texas Auto Writers Association’s “Truck of Texas.”

Ford Flex, the company’s newest crossover utility, finished 2008 with its best sales month of the year, netting 2,685 sales. Flex has the highest conquest rate of any Ford vehicle and is a finalist for the North American Car of the Year.

In other car news, Ford Focus posted full-year sales of 195,823, the small car’s highest sales year since 2004 and up 13 percent versus full-year 2007. Focus parlayed SYNC technology and 35 mpg highway fuel economy, which is 5 mpg better than Toyota’s Corolla and 2 mpg better than the smaller Honda Fit, to achieve a market share increase in the competitive small car segment – its first share increase since Focus was introduced during the 2000 model year.

Meanwhile, Ford Fusion posted near-record sales of 147,569 units in 2008. Fusion, Mercury Milan and Lincoln MKZ are redesigned for the 2010 model year and will arrive in dealer showrooms this spring. The first-ever Fusion Hybrid will be America’s most fuel-efficient mid-size car with 41 mpg in the city and 36 mpg on highway – besting the Toyota Camry hybrid by 8 mpg in the city and 2 mpg on highway.

In premium news, Lincoln outpaced the competition as 2008 drew to a close.
Helped by the all-new Lincoln MKS sedan, Lincoln sales totaled 9,053 in December, down 10 percent compared with a year ago. In the fourth quarter, however, Lincoln increased its share in the luxury market as its 16-percent sales decline was less than half of the average decline of all other luxury brands.

U.S. Sales
In December, Ford, Lincoln and Mercury sales totaled 134,114, down 32 percent compared with a year ago. Retail sales to individual customers were down 27 percent, and fleet sales were down 42 percent (including a 57 percent decline in daily rental sales), consistent with Ford’s plans.

For the full year, Ford, Lincoln and Mercury sales totaled 1.9 million, down 20 percent versus a year ago. Retail sales were down 22 percent, and fleet sales were down 17 percent (including a 22 percent decline in daily rental sales), in line with Ford’s plans.

U.S. Market Share
In the Fourth Quarter, Ford, Lincoln and Mercury’s market share is estimated at 15.0 percent, up 0.9 points versus a year ago. This is the first time since 2001 that the company’s Fourth Quarter market share was higher than a year ago.

For the full year of 2008, Ford, Lincoln and Mercury’s market share is estimated at 14.2 percent, down 0.4 points versus a year ago. This marks the company’s smallest decline in market share this decade.

# # #

Note: The sales data included in this release and the accompanying tables are based largely on data reported by dealers representing their sales to retail and fleet customers.

About Ford Motor Company

Ford Motor Company, a global automotive industry leader based in Dearborn, Mich., manufactures or distributes automobiles across six continents. With about 224,000 employees and about 90 plants worldwide, the company's core and affiliated automotive brands include Ford, Lincoln, Mercury, Volvo and Mazda. The company provides financial services through Ford Motor Credit Company. For more information regarding Ford's products, please visit http://www.ford.com

[via Ford]

Natalia Jeanpierre

2009-10-03T09:29:00.001-07:00

Natalie Jeanpierre has it all going on for her. She is of Spanish, French and African-American origin which just may be the greatest combination that we have ever heard of or seen. Just look at her pictures they definitely speak for themselves.

Natalia Jeanpierre

Amuse Z34 370 Aero Kit and More!

2009-10-03T08:34:00.001-07:00

Finally some exciting news out of Japan that doesn’t involve GT-R or Eco tuning! I desperately needed some variety from the past few month’s predicable tuning news and this delivers…

We all know I’m a huge fan (and direct distributor) of Amuse, so of course I’m super pumped up with their latest gear for the 370Z coming out!

First off, this is the coolest brace I’ve seen in a long time. The full titanium R1 Titan Brace Bar not only strengthens the chassis but also includes integrated harness attachment points. This is a killer product, if I owned a 370Z I’d already have one on order!

Next up is their upcoming full aero system for the 370Z. Although details are not yet final, it looks like Amuse has come up with yet another innovative and functional design. I’m loving the fresh look at the rear.

It feels really good to see something new and even better that it is coming from Amuse.

For a full listing of Amuse parts for the 370Z check out 370tune.com

Cars Coming Soon-> A New Ford V8, Jaguar Fights BMW and an Exotic Comes to America!

2009-10-03T07:48:00.001-07:00

Jag's RD7 could be based on this RD6 concept

Waaaaay back in 2001, I heard about a car that quickly became an obsession. I was young, just 23, when this car was announced and I knew I had to have one. I spent hours (at work) pouring over the specs and looking at promo photos. When the car finally hit showrooms as a 2002 model, I went and test drove one about once a month for a year and a half before finally buying a 2004 model.

I’m embarrased by it now, because if I had known as much about cars then that I know now, I would have known the Jaguar X-Type wasn’t at all competitive in its segment. It’s like looking back on my very first concert and trying not to grimace anytime someone asks me who it was (don’t ask).

Today, I half wonder if a new obsession will begin because Jaguar has again announced a new model; this one to replace the X-Type.

Called (for now) the RD7, this five-door hatchback that also thinks it’s a coupe will feature RWD and could have a 2.7-liter diesel V6. If obsession starts, I hope patience is also a trait because we’ll have to wait until at least 2013 for this new Jag.

2010 BMW 5-Series GT

If the design reminds you of something, think of BMW’s 5-Series Gran Turismo and recently announced 335i Gran Turismo that will go on sale in 2011. Apparently 5-door hatchback coupes are all the rage right now! I’m not complaining, in fact, I think I even like them.

I also like V8 engines (even though I asked about banning them a while back) and am excited about Ford’s new “Coyote” 5-liter V8 recently spotted testing in a F-150. Autoblog says,

The Coyote is thought to be a twin cam, four-valve per cylinder motor with an output of 400 hp and 400 lb-ft of torque. The new V8 will replace the long-in-the-tooth modular V8, joining the 6.8-liter V10 it’s derived from.
The 5.0-liter will be used in both the light duty F-series pickups and the Mustang, and it should be interesting to see if Ford markets the EcoBoost V6 in trucks against the V8 when they’re outputs are so similar.

McLaren MP4-12C

If a 400-horse Ford doesn’t get your blood boiling, maybe this will: McLaren’s new MP4-12C will be offered in the U.S.

Perhaps best known for the F1 and the Mercedes-Benz SLR, McLaren’s MP4-12C and its mid-engine 600-horse V8 should quickly make a name for itself. We’ll have to wait awhile to find out though, as the latest McLaren isn’t even slated for production until 2011.

What are your thoughts, fellow Car Gurus: are 5-door hatches here to stay? Anyone else think the McLaren may have the goods inside, but is lacking in the exterior design department?

-tgriffith

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GM Funds Saturn Through 2012...The Brand Could Still Die

2009-09-30T22:24:00.003-07:00

The fate of GM's Saturn brand has been unknown ever since the automaker sought assistance from the federal government. Seeking to become more profitable it made since that GM would figure out a way to do away with its "less profitable" brands like HUMMER and Saturn.

Well now comes word that GM has funded the Saturn brand through 2012. Which is good news for Saturn dealers, since the brand should be around for at least another 3-4 years. But since GM is hard up for money any further Saturn product development has been put on hold until the fate of the brand is certain. According to Saturn's General Manager, the fate of Saturn should be known in the next three to four weeks.

So at this point the brand could still eventually die.

Detroit 2009: Motor City guys and dolls....but mostly dolls

2009-09-30T22:24:00.001-07:00

Filed under: Detroit Auto Show, Etc.

Click above for a gallery of high-res pics of some of the faces from Detroit '09

There are lots of people here in Detroit for the NAIAS, and there are lots of moments that have little to do with the cars themselves. So we figured we'd do a roundup gallery to show you some of the personal moments from this year's Detroit Auto Show. Some of the faces you'll undoubtedly recognize, while others you'll probably hope to get to know better. Check out the gallery and you'll see sports announcers, execs, kids, even a model or two. As always, we appreciate the tireless work of the booth professionals who have to stand in heels all day and pretend to be happy to see another camera shoved in their faces. Many have mentioned that they are fans of Autoblog, but we suspect they say that to everyone. Still, we know some will be viewing this post so please be civil and keep your comments clean.

Gallery: Detroit 2009: Detroit people gallery

Detroit 2009: Motor City guys and dolls....but mostly dolls originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 12 Jan 2009 19:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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2010 Lincoln MKT Starts at $44,995

2009-09-30T20:32:00.001-07:00

Ford has announced the pricing for the 2010 Lincoln MKT, which was officially unveiled a few days ago at the Detroit Auto Show.

The 2010 Lincoln MKT starts at $44,995 for the base V6 with front-wheel-drive. Add $5k to the base MKT for the EcoBoost V6 and all-wheel-drive. If you don't want the EcoBoost engine, but all-wheel-drive and the base 3.7L V6 it will cost you $46,990.

If you want even more from your MKT there is the Elite Package for an extra $5k, which includes: Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC), Collision Warning with Brake Support, Blind Spot Information System (BLIS™), Cross Traffic Alert, Voice-activated Navigation, Power-opening Panoramic Vista Roof.

A fully optioned MKT with the 355 horsepower EcoBoost engine and all-wheel-drive will cost around $55,000.

The 2010 Lincoln MKT will be in dealer showrooms in late summer 2009.

Camaro Performance Accessories, This Time With Video

2009-09-30T18:23:00.003-07:00

While sifting through the leaked photos of the performance modded 2010 Camaro [pictured here], I also came across a few other upgraded Camaro’s. There were so many noteworthy custom jobs that I couldn’t choose just one, and therefore decided to post them all.

To kick things off, here’s a hilarious clip I found, filmed by a group of friends mudding out in the country. Video Bonus: when the Camaro drives by, there’s a hush of awed silence that falls over the onlookers, as if Bigfoot had just walked through the clearing.

View more videos after the jump

This is footage of a Camaro SS on 22’s doing a burnout. In a residential neighborhood.

Here’s a Camaro sitting on Big Johnson 27’s [yes, that would be twenty-seven-inch rims]. Bonus: the owner’s head barely clears the Camaro’s window. Hey, if you’re going to compensate for something small, might as well go really, really, big.

And just to keep it classy, here’s a clip from the Discovery Channel’s Mythbusters wherein Adam and Jamie put the Knight Rider signature stunt to the test using a custom built Camaro.

Nissan GT-R’s Launch Control System: A Real Life Konami Code

2009-09-30T18:23:00.001-07:00

Everybody who grew up playing the original Nintendo Entertainment System knows the Konami Code: up, up, down, down, left, right, left, right, B, A, start. It’s seared into my memory from years of Contra. Well most of us are now grown, and we’ve moved on to bigger, more expensive toys, like the Nissan GT-R. And the GT-R has a cool secret code of it’s own.

I’m beyond excited about the GT-R. It’s an ultimate performance machine on par, and better in some cases, with cars more than 5 times it’s price. I mean, $75,000 (plus almost $10k in dealer markups sometimes) for a history making supercar is a bloody steal. I didn’t think it could get any better, then I found out about the launch control system.

Officially, the Nissan GT-R goes from 0-60 in 3.5 seconds. That’s blistering. But say you wanted to shave off a few tenths of a second, what’s a speed freak to do? There are three switches on the dash, they allow you to change the settings for torque, suspension, and traction control. The torque switch can be set for R (for Race mode) or snow, the suspension for R or comfort, and the traction control for R or off. You can use these switches to imput the Launch Control Code.

How It’s Done

First, put the car’s transmission in manual instead of automatic. Then, switch the first two switches (torque and suspension) to R mode. And flip the third switch, the VDC traction control switch off, but hold it in the off position for 5 seconds. And now you just “do a burnout”. Hold the brake pedal down, and floor the throttle. The engine revs will rise to 4500 rpm and hover there. Release the brake and the GT-R will be off with intensity, hitting 0-60 in under 3.3 seconds.

That’s it. The Nissan GT-R’s launch control system, the real life Konami Code. Now all you need is a real life Nissan GT-R.

Check it out on video:

VIDEO: BMW Provides a Glimpse of the X6 M

2009-09-30T16:21:00.003-07:00

The BMW X6 may be something that very few of us asked for from BMW, but it isn't stopping BMW from releasing two new variants of it. Later this year BMW is going to release a two-mode hybrid and M version of the X6.

2010 Hyundai Equus Sketches Unveiled

2009-09-30T16:21:00.001-07:00

Hyundai has released two official sketches of its 2010 Equus sedan. The Equus is a large luxury sedan that is sold in South Korea, Europe, China and the Middle East.

The 2010 Equus is expected to be powered by either a 420 horsepower 5.0L Tau V8 or a 4.6L Tau V8. Both engines will put the power to the ground via the rear wheels. Hyundai's new eight-speed automatic transmission is also expected to be offered.

The next-generation Equus is expected to also feature a Lane Departure Warning System, Pre-Safety Seatbelt System, and LED-equipped headlights and taillights.

The 2010 Hyundai Equus is expected in South Korean dealerships next month. Don't expect it to hit U.S. shores anytime soon, since it could cannibalize Genesis sales.

Detroit 2009: Dodge Circuit EV, now with cross-hairs

2009-09-30T14:31:00.003-07:00

Filed under: Detroit Auto Show, Coupes, Sports/GTs, Green, Chrysler, LLC., Dodge, Lotus

Click the Dodge Circuit EV for a high-res gallery

In spite of the large Dodge EV branding that was on this car when it first appeared last fall, it was obvious to all that it was simply a Lotus Europa. In spite of Chrysler's seemingly inexorable drive to insolvency in recent months, the engineers and designers in Auburn Hills have continued to try make the best use of the time they have left with a paycheck. The electric sports car now known as the Circuit EV has been the beneficiary of cross-hair nose job that is actually an improvement over the Lotus original. The tail has also been revamped and the plug socket has moved from the passenger side to the driver's side flank.

The specs haven't changed so the Circuit is still a bit slower than a Tesla Roadster with a 0-60 time of under 5 seconds. The range is also estimated at 150-200 miles. It's anyone's guess what the real world range would be though since no one outside Chrysler or Lotus has thoroughly tested the Circuit yet. The other guess is whether Chrysler LLC will be around long enough to actually sell the Circuit to customers. Maybe we should start a pool to see which company will hold longer, Chrysler or Tesla?

Gallery: Dodge Circuit EV

Continue reading Detroit 2009: Dodge Circuit EV, now with cross-hairs

Detroit 2009: Dodge Circuit EV, now with cross-hairs originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 11 Jan 2009 00:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Truck Saves Alaskan From Man-Eating Polar Bear [Novelties]

2009-09-30T14:31:00.001-07:00

These pictures were captured during a deadly game of hide-and-seek between a hungry polar bear and an Alaskan man who stumbled into its path.

The bear — the only species known to actively hunt humans — stalked the man as he left his job as a surveyor in Barrow, the northernmost town in Alaska.

At first, he tried to hide behind the truck until, sensing his presence, the bear dived across the hood and pursued the man in circles around his locked Ford. Unable to unlock the doors quickly enough to evade his pursuer, the man gambled that the GM pickup parked a few feet over was unlocked. As he reached it the bear caught up and mauled the man, leaving over 100 deep claw marks in his back and head. Somehow, the man escaped, crawling through the unlocked door of the GM just in time.

As polar bears face food shortages and destruction of their habitats, they’re increasingly turning to humans — usually their trash — as a source of food. Polar Bears International claims only one human has been killed in the US by the creatures, which can grow up to 10 feet tall, in the last 30 years. [via the Daily Mail]

Photography credit: Roger Nilsson

Thanks for the tip, Jerry!

Audi aluminum-bodied A5 prototype sheds over 240 pounds

2009-09-30T12:41:00.003-07:00

Posted by Autoblog

Filed under: Concept Cars, Coupe, Performance, Audi, Luxury

Audi Aluminum A5 Coupe Prototype – Click above for a high-res image

Audi is continuing the aluminum architecture tradition employed on the A8, R8 and TT with a new prototype of the…

1959 Speed Shop Part 2: Gauges!

2009-09-30T12:41:00.001-07:00

On the back side of the Hot Rod Revolution, its time to get back into the 1959 Almquist catalog and flip to our next chapter after manifolds. What is it about gauges that make us geek out so much? I always peer into a period correct roadster and eyeball the dash for convex lens S-W’s or something similarly cool. When I see an 80’s Sun Pro tach in a really nice traditional style car its always kind of a let down. Old mechanical gauges set down in an engine-turned surface are just plain cool- and the more the merrier. The Tom Cobbs roadster at the HRR drove that home for me… Tachometer first, followed by speedometer or oil pressure, water temp, fuel, and on down the line. Don’t forget to buy a nice “Hollywood” custom instrument panel while your at it! Good stuff…

What’s in your car?

LA 2008: Honda FC Sport Design Study Unveiled....Honda Shows that "Green" Can be Fun

2009-09-30T10:33:00.001-07:00

Honda surprised the crowd today by unveiling the Honda FC Sport Design Study at the LA Auto Show.

The Honda FC Sport Design Study is hydrogen-powered three seat sports car. It uses the V-Flow fuel cell stack and electric drivetrain from the recently introduced FCX Clarity. The fuel-cell stack is located between the rear seats and the electric motor is mounted just forward of the rear axle. Inside the driver sits in the middle of the car, while the two rear passengers sit directly behind the driver on the left and right side of the vehicle. The doors also open upward from the rear.

"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."

LA 2008: 2010 Mazda3 Hits the Stage

2009-09-30T10:32:00.001-07:00

Mazda officially unveiled the 2010 Mazda3 at the LA Auto Show today.

The all-new Mazda3 is powered by a choice of two engines, a 148 horsepower 2.0L engine or a 167 horsepower 2.5L. The 2.0L engine can be mated to either a five-speed manual or automatic transmission, while the 2.5L can be mated to either a six-speed manual or five-speed auto. The 2.0L with either transmission gets 33 mpg on the highway.

On the outside the styling is all-new, although it is easily recognizable as a Mazda3. The front-end features Mazda's new global face with a front-end that Mazda describes as "exotic".

The new Mazda3 is available with many features that are not available on other vehicles in its class, such as self leveling Bi-Xenon headlights, adaptive front lighting system, and rain sensing wipers.

Now we have to wait to see the five-door hatchback.

It Came From The Seventies: Italian coachbuilt Chevrolet Camaro

2009-09-30T08:41:00.001-07:00

Filed under: Time Warp, Etc., Chevrolet

Click above for image gallery of the Frua Camaro

Designer Pietro Frua had a very distinctive hand, and many of his designs sport undeniable beauty. Depending on your perspective, this coachbuilt mid-'70s Chevrolet Camaro is probably not one of those cars. The vehicle is still kicking around; appraiser and enthusiast Dennis Mitosinka is listed as the current owner by Pietro-Frua.de. It bears a passing resemblance to all kinds of 1970s vehicles, from the Ford Capri to the Nissan 280ZX. The fundamental lines are classically proportioned and cleanly drawn, mostly because the second-gen Camaro itself had good proportions and clean lines. If nothing else, owning this Frua would be a great way to hold court (and keep 'em guessing!) at Concorso Italiano while offering the reliability, ease of upkeep and low maintenance costs of good old unloved domestic iron. When you're done looking at our gallery below, check out some additional images here.

Gallery: Frua Camaro

[Source: Hemmings, Photo: Car & Driver]

It Came From The Seventies: Italian coachbuilt Chevrolet Camaro originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 09 Jan 2009 10:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Final 2010 Ford Mustang Teaser Reveals Taillights

2009-09-30T08:40:00.001-07:00

Teaser photos are ok when an automaker releases one or two right before the actual vehicle is unveiled, but when Ford decided to release ten separate teaser photos of the 2010 Mustang over a series of weeks, it got a little annoying.

Either way here is the last teaser photo which shows the design of the taillights. The 2010 Mustang will officially be unveiled in a week at the LA Auto Show.

Stay tuned...

First Drive: 2010 Lexus RX350 and RX450h

2009-09-30T07:18:00.001-07:00

Filed under: Hybrids/Alternative, Crossovers/CUVs, Lexus, First Drive

Click above for a high-res image gallery of the 2010 Lexus RX350 and RX450h

Few vehicles have done more to establish a genre and define a brand as much as the Lexus RX. Introduced over a decade ago to suburbanite real estate agents and their Napa-weekending friends, the original RX300 helped boost Lexus sales by 60% when it hit dealers in late 1998. Over the ensuing years, Lexus' posh people mover slowly evolved to include a hybrid drivetrain, a refreshed exterior and tasteful appointments that helped solidify its success. For 2010, the RX plays the same tune but adds a few more instruments, a new backbeat and reworked crescendo.

Gallery: First Drive: 2010 Lexus RX350 and RS450h

Continue reading First Drive: 2010 Lexus RX350 and RX450h

First Drive: 2010 Lexus RX350 and RX450h originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 08 Jan 2009 11:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Yet another special-edition Bugatti Veyron spotted in Dubai

2009-09-30T07:17:00.001-07:00

Filed under: Spy Photos, Supercars, Bugatti, Special/Limited Editions

Click above to view high-res images of this special-edition Veyron in Dubai

All Bugatti Veyrons are special, but some are most special than others. After seeing the seemingly endless parade of special editions of this most exclusive of supercar, George Orwell would have revised his work. Now, following the Sang Noir, Pur Sang, Fbg by Hermes, Grand Sport, a rumored Grand Sport Sang Noir, the Pegaso, a mirror-finish example and even the aftermarket Mansory Vincero, come these snapshots of yet another special edition Veyron.

This one-off, apparently spotted in Dubai's Mall of the Emirates (the same location where the Pegaso edition was seen), appears to have been made by Bugatti at its Molsheim headquarters for what is doubtlessly a very wealthy customer in Dubai. The car is painted in French Racing Blue, the most iconic of Bugatti colors, accented by brushed chrome trim all over and the wheels look similar to those employed on the aforementioned Hermes edition. Company founder Ettore Bugatti's signature is repeated on the door panel as well as in the interior and on the door sill plates. No telling if this special EB edition Veyron has had any mechanical changes, but we wonder how much more special a Bugatti can be expected to get. Considering the concentration of Veyrons in the Emirates, apparently an "ordinary" Veyron just ain't special enough.

Gallery: Ettore Bugatti Veyron in Dubai

[Source: Luxury4Play.com via Autogespot]

Yet another special-edition Bugatti Veyron spotted in Dubai originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 08 Jan 2009 11:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Nissan GT-R Stomps Viper ACR On Drag Strip [Rise Of The Machines]

2009-09-30T05:52:00.003-07:00

In an indisputable victory for technology over brute force, this video shows the Nissan GT-R laying down a seriously impressive 11.12 second 1/4 mile time, easily outpacing a Dodge Viper ACR.

This is inverse to the two vehicles' Nurburgring laps, where the ACR managed a ZR1-defeating 7:22 lap record; the GT-R’s time is only 7:29.

So how does a 480 HP car weighing 3,814 Lbs accelerate faster than a car with 600 HP that weighs only 3,408 Lbs? We’re guessing the warranty-voiding launch control has something to do with it. [via Autoblog.nl]

The 1970 Subarus: Driven By Very Groovy Chicks, Very Brave Hoons [Classic Ad Watch]

2009-09-30T05:52:00.001-07:00

If you're young where it counts, the Subaru Sport is a grabber! We've got the whole line of Malcolm Bricklin's little imports, including the 360, microtrucks, and the innovative front-drive, boxer-engined Star.

Thanks to LTDScott for the tip!

Welcome to the Big Leagues Kid: Logano Flips Seven Times in Dover

2009-09-30T04:10:00.003-07:00

Joey Logano already has a Sprint Cup win under his belt, but his real baptism by fire came last weekend on the “Monster Mile” in Dover, Delware, when he was involved in a nasty wreck that sent his car flipping a full seven revolutions.

Ironically, Tony Stewart, the guy who used to drive the car that Logano took over, was one of the primary players in the action that led up to the big wreck. Essentially, Stewart rear ended Logano at full speed when Logano was forced to brake hard to avoid smashing into another car. Stewart was very apologetic about the wreck to reporters.

With all of the aerodynamic work done on these cars over the last ten years, cases of flying Stock Cars have been fairly limited. Still, not every situation can be accounted for and no one, not even a highly paid team of engineers, can beat physics.

One thing that is amazingly clear though is that the Car of Tomorrow, while reviled by many NASCAR followers, is one safe automobile. The fact that Logano could escape under his own power with only a potentially soiled fire suit is an amazing thing. This would have been a surely fatal wreck not so long ago.

You’ve got to give the kid some credit. He’s hanging in there with the big boys, now he’s had his “big one. He gives a good account of what was going through his head to FoxSports.

Here’s video of the action:

Michael Phelps to hock Mazda6 in China

2009-09-30T04:10:00.001-07:00

Filed under: Sedans/Saloons, Marketing/Advertising, Mazda

Click above for a high-res gallery of the European-spec Mazda6

When American super swimmer Michael Phelps won eight gold metals and broke seven world records at the 2008 Olympics, he became an instant celebrity. Since the Olympics were held in the land of the Great Wall, Phelps is perhaps an even bigger sensation in China. In fact, Phelps is so big in the Middle Kingdom that he has just scored what is believed to be the largest endorsement deal of any western celebrity, a $1 million deal to pitch the all-new Mazda6. Mazda is spending big bucks on a pitchmanin an effort to capitalize on its recent success in China. The outgoing 6, named Rui Yi in China, experienced a 43 percent sales increase in 2008, outpacing Mazda's already impressive brand-wide increase of 27 percent.

China is currently the world's third largest market, behind only Japan and the United States. The world's most populous nation is expected by many analysts to surpass Japan in this category as soon as this year, and the US could be in the rear view mirror by 2020. Mazda spending big to land an American hero shows goes some way to showing just how important the growing market is for the Japanese automaker.

[Source: Ad Age]

Michael Phelps to hock Mazda6 in China originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 06 Jan 2009 17:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | | |

Peugeot RCZ Hybrid4

2009-09-30T02:43:00.003-07:00

Interestingly, the Peugeot RCZ Hybrid4 presented at the Frankfurt Motor Show gives us more details regarding its powertrain. The concept is powered by a 2.0-liter HDi FAP diesel engine that moves the front wheels while its 37bhp electric motor moves the rears with a 200V nickel metal hydride battery. The Peugeot RCZ Hybrid4 achieves a remarkable 76.35 mpg with a CO₂ emission of 95 g/km.

Peugeot RCZ Hybrid4

Suzuki SX4 WRC

2009-09-30T02:43:00.001-07:00

Suzuki SX4 WRC Rally car

Suzuki’s mild-mannerd SX4 has an alter ego; a race-engineered evil brother which the company hopes will do more than just win races. While not a production model, yet, Suzuki is out to prove that they can build a race winner with something that has more than two wheels.

Suzuki Rally Racing

The SX4 WRC is the culmination of several years of development at Suzuki leading up to a full season of World Rally Championship Racing this year. Suzuki’s success in WRC is hoped will indicate to the world that they are a legitimate competitor to Subaru and Mitsubishi on the track and with a typically younger generation of buyers at the dealership.

Suzuki SX4 WRC

Developed alongside the production SX4, the rally version has been perfected and readied for competition over the course of several years. Although both cars pack power, it’s the rally version with its 2.0-liter turbocharged and intercooled four-cylinder that unleashes an incredible 320 horsepower and 470 pound-feet of torque. As would be expected for Rally Racing, the SX4 utilies an all-wheel-drive system that includes mechanical differentials in the front and rear as well as an electronic center differential. This power is transferred to the pavement via a close-ratio five-speed manual gearbox. Acceleration to 60 mph, even on unpaved surfaces to takes less than 5 seconds.

Production Model Suzuki SX4

While the production SX4 is a non-offensive compact car, most would agree that it is about as intimidating as a beagle. The rally version has additional body and suspension components that not only give it an aggressive presence on the track but back it up with solid performance. Although a Suzuki SX4 WRC is not at available at your local dealership, one has to wonder how long it may be before Suzuki decides to take a run at the competition. It isn’t so far-fetched to think that if the SX4 can give the WRX and Evo something to worry about on the race course, Suzuki can produce something competitive on the street. Hopefully if they do decide to put a rally-inspired SX4 on dealer lots, they will make sure it has enough of the racing attitude that put it on the track in the first place.

Honda Gets Smart With Scooter Ad [Ad Watch]

2009-09-29T05:19:00.001-07:00

A Miami ad student's created a print advertisement for Honda's 50cc Metropolitan scooter and we’ve got to say, it’s pretty smart. The print ad, created by Branden Kramer of the Miami Ad School, compares a Smart ForTwo with the much smaller 50cc Metropolitan Scooter, calling it the ‘smarter’ choice. While we can all agree that the little Metro sips fuel more delicately than the larger ForTwo, we question if the comparison made between four wheels and two will resonate with potential customers. Honda, are you smarter than a 5th grader? [via AdsOfTheWorld]

Spy Shots: Acura's Answer to the BMW X6 Spotted in Germany

2009-09-29T05:18:00.001-07:00

Many of asked "why?" when BMW unveiled the X6, which is basically an X5 with more coupe like styling and one less seat, but now Acura seems to think there is a market for another "coupe" crossover.

Sales of the BMW X6 haven't really taken off, which is probably partly due to the economy and high gas prices, but judging by these spy photos it looks like Acura is planning a similar vehicle. This is the second time that we've seen spy photos of Acura's upcoming crossover, but this is the first time we're seeing it in the light. Acura has tried hard to hide the shape of the rear half of the un-named crossover, but its obvious that it as the same similar shape as the X6.

It is expected that the new crossover will hit the market by 2011 or maybe even sooner, judging by the prototype shown here. It's being rumored that the crossover could be dubbed the"MSX" and that it will offer Acura's new V8 that will first be offered in the next RL.

Essential racing history

2009-09-29T03:59:00.001-07:00

If it comes from Buzz Rose, my pal who’s been enshrined in the National Sprint Car Hall of Fame, you know it’s going to be good. Here’s the latest from Buzz, now a keeper of open-wheel history from the early days. Indy Cars on Short Tracks is co-authored by Buzz and central Pennsylvania racing archivist Joe Heisler. It’s the tale, through 1960, of big cars on tracks less than a mile in length, and more.

Here’s what we mean. The book also provides concise backgrounders on Williams Grove Speedway in Pennsylvania, which is still rocking today, and also the Ascot Parks of Southern California. Plural, because there were four of them, operating at various times and locations around Los Angeles between 1903 and 1990, an incredible run. The next photo, published in the book from the Jeff Sharpe Collection, shows two legends at the second location, Legion Ascot, at Valley Boulevard and Soto Street. Rex Mays is driving the towed-up Gilmore Special – note the strap – with Chickie Hirashima as his riding mechanic. The second, from the same collection, shows the beginning of a 1936 wreck that killed both Al Gordon and his mechanic, Spider Matlock. In era-typical prose, the Los Angeles Times’ headline wailed that Gordon “Joins Buddy in Racing’s Valhalla,” a reference to Ernie Triplett, whose higher power had waved the black flag over him two years previously. A few months later, Legion Ascot’s stands bore down. Great book, available by calling 602-978-1599 or by visiting www.roseracingpublications.com. It’s $54.99 plus shipping through Dec. 10

2010 Infiniti EX to Get More Rear Legroom

2009-09-29T03:58:00.001-07:00

The 2009 Infiniti EX35 has been a sales disappointment for Nissan.

Potential buyers have complained about the fact that the rear seat has very little legroom and that the cargo area is somewhat limited. To address these concerns in an effort to boost sales, Nissan has announced that the 2010 Infiniti EX will get more rear legroom.

According to Nissan North America’s vice president, Larry Dominique, the EX grabbed a lot of attention when it was unveiled, but has failed to move off dealer lots. Through September, Nissan sold 10,289 units of the EX, an annual rate of approximately 15,000 units.

David Freiburger Wants His Dart Back

2009-09-28T03:56:00.001-07:00

Some of your may remember the Cheap Thrills Dart, a low-buck project car that ran in Hot Rod Magazine in the mid-90s. The goal was to get the old A-body to run 12s for $2,000, and they ended up with 12.69 at 107 mph for $1886.92. Not bad.

After the tranny blew in the middle of the first Hot Rod Power Tour, David shipped the car home and then ended up selling it a short while later for $800, thinking he’d never care about it again. He saw the car around Hollywood for a year or so before it disappeared. Well, now David wants his old Dart back. It was a factory red 273/auto car with a black bench seat interior. If anyone knows the Dart’s wherabouts, post a comment below.

GM and Ford Have a Horrible Day on Wall St.

2009-09-28T03:55:00.001-07:00

Today the Dow dropped below 9,000 points, its lowest point in five years.

Just as the rest of the market, GM and Ford have been hit hard by the decline. GM's dropped 31 percent and ended the day at $4.76, while Ford dropped 22 percent to $2.08. Yes that means that a single share of Ford stock is currently cheaper than a gallon of gas. Also GM's shares haven't been this low since the 1950's.

When will it all end?

Formula 2 Series' Natacha Gachnang's The New Hotness [Racing News]

2009-09-28T02:24:00.001-07:00

Danica Patrick has definitely toyed with our attention over the years, but like a little puppy, we’re always looking for something new to play with. Enter Natacha Gachnang, Formula 2’s new star.

The opening race of the new Formula 2 series in 2009 will give race fans a chance to see Natacha Gachnang, the talented (both on and off the track), Swiss-born rising star of the racing world. The 21-year-old driver has had an exciting career so far in the Spanish Formula 3 Championship, where she finished third overall. She also finished second in the Copa de España. Prior to her career in Formula 3 she was racing in the F3 Euro Series; the Austrian Formula 3 Series, where she finished fourth overall; and the U.S.-based Star Mazda series.

Formula 2 is a new international single-seater FIA sanctioned series, derived from an FIA initiative to provide young, talented drivers with the opportunity to compete in top-level racing on a competitive budget. The opening race of the inaugural championship begins in May 2009.

[via Natacha-Gachnang.ch, Formula 2]

Chevy Orlando Concept Unveiled in Paris...It's Not Coming to the US

2009-09-28T02:23:00.001-07:00

GM has officially unveiled the Chevy Orlando Concept at the Paris Motor Show.

The Orlando Concept hints at a new production MPV for the Chevy brand. The 7-passenger Orlando Concept is based on a modified Delta II platform, the same platform that the Cruze is built on.

Honda Civic Car Profile

2009-09-28T00:56:00.003-07:00

The Honda Civic is a great family vehicle. It comes in many different options, has some great features, and has an outstanding gas mileage!

Honda Civic’s available: DX 5-Spd MT, DX 5-Spd AT, LX 5-Spd MT, LX 5-Spd AT, EX 5-Spd MT, EX 5-Spd AT, EX-L 5-Spd MT, EX 5-Spd MT w/ Navigation System, EX-L 5-Spd AT, EX 5-Spd AT w/ Navigation System, EX-L 5-Spd MT w/ Navigation System, EX-L 5-Spd AT w/ Navigation System

Seating capacity : 5 people

MSRP: $15,455 – $23,805

Key features :

- Applies to certain models only:

Advanced Compatibility Engineering
Leather seating
USB Audio interface
Audio system
Bluetooth
Navigation system
Safety airbags
Tire pressure monitor
Traction control
MP3 compatible
AM/FM/CD player

Gas mileage : 26/34

Awards won :

From 1972 to 1974, the Civic was awarded “Car of the Year Japan.”
The four-door Civic VXi sedan won the South African Car of the Year award for 2007.
The Civic has been on Car and Driver magazine’s yearly Ten Best list six times, in 1985, 1988-91, and 1996.

News articles:

Videos:

Kelley Blue Book
Honda Civic Commercial

The Honda Civic Hybrid Most hybrids use an electric engine as a supporting source...
Honda Pilot Car Profile The Honda Pilot is a beautiful SUV. It is the...
Honda Accord Car Profile The 2009 Accord Sedan is a beautiful, and wonderful selling...

Subaru’s Turbocharged Diesel Boxer Engine

2009-09-28T00:56:00.001-07:00

Diesel Subaru Outback

A bit of a latecomer to the party, Subaru’s first diesel and the first ever boxer turbodiesel in a car may soon make it’s way across the pond. Right now, potential U.S. buyers must wait with envy as the Europeans enjoy Subaru’s boxer turbodiesel. But don’t worry it should be coming.

1st Passenger Car Boxer Diesel Engine

Of primary importance to people looking to buy a diesel engine in a passenger car is gas mileage. With mileage close to 50 mpg, the boxer diesel would have to be regarded as a success in that area. The 2.0-liter DOHC horizontally opposed flat-four common-rail diesel produces 148 hp and 258 pound-feet of torque at only 1800 rpm! The gasoline version of Subaru’s 2.0-liter four-cylinder boxer also manages 148 hp, but just 144 lb-ft of torque. So it’s a win-win on that front. The boxer-configuration was both an asset to performance and a bit of a challenge in the engine’s development. Kenichi Yamamoto, who was in charge of it’s progress, says that Subaru moved the variable-nozzle turbocharger to the bottom of the engine to improve emissions and helps keep the center of gravity low. To minimize weight, the block as well as the cylinder heads are made from aluminum. The intercooler is still on top of the engine near the intake manifold, with longish hoses connecting the turbo to the intercooler-yes, the hood scoop is functional. Emissions are handled by an EGR system, particulate filter, and an oxidation catalytic converter, making the engine compliant with European regulations. Some changes were made to accommodate the new powerplant, including the use of liquid-filled engine mounts, modified spring rates, larger CV joints, electric power steering, and larger front disc brakes.A new five-speed manual transmission, geared specifically for diesel engines was mated to the engine.

Diesel is a snug fit in the engine bay

Following the engine’s use in 2008 Subaru Legacy and Outback models, the Impreza will get the diesel towards the end of the year. The biggest hurdle in the engine being used in the States are California’s strict emission’s laws. Subaru estimates that the addition of the the particulate filter needed to make the engine fully compliant would add around $1,500 to the price of the car. Subaru is committed to only bringing its diesel to the States if they can be available in all 50 states. At the risk of getting anyone’s hopes up, Subaru’s confidence in the new engine has led to speculation that it can produce versions with as much as 161 hp without any risk to its durability. Could a WRX or STi be in the future plans?

400 Old Cars And Trucks Down On The Alameda Street [Down On The Street]

2009-09-27T00:45:00.001-07:00

The streets of Alameda, California never seem to run out of surviving vintage machinery, and we've got the proof right here in the 400th street-parked classic Alameda vehicle. Here they all are.

The streets of Alameda, California, never seem to run out of surviving vintage machinery, and we've got the proof right here. That's right, the 400th street-parked classic Alameda vehicle was featured in this series last week, and that means it's time to see 'em all!

Actually, the collection of links below contains 402 cars and trucks, so you get a couple of extra DOTS machines for your enjoyment; just click on any of the thumbnails and you'll go straight to a big photo gallery of that car or truck, plus digression-laden commentary by yours truly. New to the series? Check out the DOTS FAQ.

1932 Ford	1937 Cadillac	1939 Chevrolet	1941 Chevrolet	1942 Pontiac	1943 IHC
1945 Ford	1946 Chevrolet	1947 Plymouth	1948 IHC	1950 Dodge	1950 Ford
1950 Ford	1950 Plymouth	1950 Pontiac	1951 Dodge	1952 Dodge	1953 GMC
1952 Dodge	1953 Packard	1953 Citroën	1954 Chevrolet	1954 Ford	1955 Mercury
1955 Plymouth	1956 Chevrolet	1956 Imperial	1956 Lincoln	1956 Volkswagen	1956 Morris
1956 Willys	1956 Ford	1957 Volkswagen	1957 Cadillac	1957 Chevrolet	1957 Chrysler
1957 Pontiac	1958 Mercedes-Benz	1959 Porsche	1959 Morris	1959 Volkswagen	1959 Volkswagen
1960 Cadillac	1960 Cadillac	1960 Cadillac	1960 Peugeot	1960 Triumph	1960 Mercury
1960 Ford	1960 Studebaker	1960 Chevrolet	1960 Volkswagen	1961 Plymouth	1961 Morris
1961 Rambler	1961 Ford	1961 Plymouth	1962 Chrysler	1962 Chevrolet	1962 Dodge
1962 Ford	1962 Chrysler	1962 Volkswagen	1963 Chevrolet	1963 Ford	1963 Ford
1963 Chevrolet	1963 Chevrolet	1963 Chevrolet	1963 GMC	1963 Porsche	1964 Volkswagen
1964 Studebaker	1964 Volkswagen	1964 Checker	1964 Chrysler	1964 Ford	1964 Imperial
1964 Mercury	1964 Dodge	1964 Ford	1964 Oldsmobile	1964 Dodge	1965 Austin Cooper S
1965 Volkswagen	1965 Chevrolet	1965 Mercury	1965 Volkswagen	1965 Plymouth	1965 Chevrolet
1965 Volkswagen	1965 Ford	1965 Plymouth	1965 Ford	1965 IHC	1965 Chevrolet
1965 Chevrolet	1965 Mercury	1965 Dodge	1965 Ford	1965 Chevrolet	1965 Chevrolet
1965 Ford	1965 Rambler	1965 Ford	1965 Ford	1966 Lincoln	1966 Ford
1966 Ford	1966 Dodge	1965 Mercedes-Benz	1966 Pontiac	1966 Dodge	1966 Datsun
1966 GMC	1966 Jaguar	1966 Lancia	1966 Volkswagen	1966 Mercedes-Benz	1966 Chevrolet
1966 Mercedes-Benz	1966 Ford	1966 Buick	1966 Volkswagen	1966 Volvo	1967 Ford
1967 Mercury	1967 Plymouth	1967 Porsche	1967 Imperial	1967 Galaxie	1967 Volkswagen
1967 Porsche	1967 Oldsmobile	1968 Plymouth	1968 Mercury	1968 Mercedes-Benz	1968 Mercedes-Benz
1968 Ford	1968 GMC	1968 Pontiac	1968 Ford	1968 Porsche	1968 Ford
1968 Buick	1969 Dodge	1969 AMC	1969 Chevrolet	1969 Volkswagen	1969 Volkswagen
1969 Mercury	1969 Chevrolet	1969 Ford	1969 Cadillac	1969 Ford	1969 Buick
1969 Volkswagen	1969 Chevrolet	1969 Cadillac	1969 Cadillac	1969 Chevrolet	1969 Lincoln
1969 Oldsmobile	1969 Dodge	1969 Dodge	1969 Datsun	1969 Ford	1969 Ford
1969 Buick	1969 MG	1969 Ford	1969 Chevrolet	1969 Cadillac	1969 Volvo
1969 Volvo	1970 Ford	1970 Chevrolet	1970 Ford	1970 Chrysler	1970 Cadillac
1970 Dodge	1970 Chevrolet	1970 Chevrolet	1970 Lincoln	1970 Dodge	1970 Volkswagen
1970 Ford	1970 Ford	1970 Chevrolet	1970 Chevrolet	1970 Porsche	1970 Dodge
1970 Puma	1970 Buick	1970 Volvo	1970 Volkswagen	1971 Datsun	1971 Volvo
1971 Datsun	1971 Chevrolet	1971 Chevrolet	1971 Chrysler	1971 Imperial	1971 Chrysler
1971 Datsun	1971 Ford	1971 GMC	1971 Volkswagen	1971 Toyota	1971 Buick
1971 Chevrolet	1971 MG	1971 Plymouth	1971 Plymouth	1972 Mercedes-Benz	1972 BMW
1972 Volkswagen	1972 BMW	1972 IHC	1972 IHC	1972 Volkswagen	1972 Porsche
1972 Chevrolet	1972 Plymouth	1972 Lincoln	1972 Mercury	1972 Steyr	1973 BMW
1973 Volkswagen	1973 Mercury	1973 Opel	1973 Buick	1973 Chevrolet	1973 Volvo
1973 Capri	1973 Chevrolet	1973 Chevrolet	1973 Mercury	1973 Datsun	1973 Ford
1973 Pontiac	1973 Mercedes-Benz	1973 MG	1973 Ford	1973 Buick	1973 Plymouth
1973 Chevrolet	1973 Volkswagen	1973 Volkswagen	1973 Volkswagen	1973 BMW	1974 Buick
1974 Chevrolet	1974 Volkswagen	1974 Chevrolet	1974 BMW	1974 Chevrolet	1974 Datsun
1974 Ford	1974 Ford	1974 Porsche	1974 Porsche	1974 Plymouth	1974 Volkswagen
1974 Ford	1975 BMW	1975 Datsun	1975 Ford	1975 Toyota	1975 Citroën
1975 Mercury	1975 Chevrolet	1975 Pontiac	1975 Chevrolet	1975 BMW	1975 Dodge
1976 Ford	1976 AMC	1976 Buick	1975 Unimog	1976 Honda	1976 Cadillac
1976 IHC	1976 Buick	1977 Ford	1977 Chevrolet	1977 Plymouth	1977 Honda
1977 Chevrolet	1977 Chevrolet	1977 Toyota	1977 Toyota	1977 Lincoln	1977 Ford
1977 Fiat	1977 Ford	1977 IHC	1977 Chevrolet	1977 Oldsmobile	1977 Oldsmobile
1977 Volvo	1978 Datsun	1978 Chrysler	1978 Honda	1978 Pontiac	1978 Dodge
1978 Dodge	1978 Dodge	1978 Cadillac	1978 Jaguar	1978 Saab	1978 Pontiac
1978 Chevrolet	1979 Mercedes-Benz	1979 Porsche	1979 Porsche	1979 Chevrolet	1979 Datsun
1979 Honda	1979 Ford	1979 Ford	1979 Cadillac	1979 Shay	1980 Porsche
1980 Plymouth	1980 Datsun	1980 Plymouth	1980 IHC	1980 Volvo	1981 Datsun
1981 Volkswagen	1981 Mazda	1981 Fiat	1982 Mercedes-Benz	1982 Datsun	1982 Mercedes-Benz
1982 BMW	1982 Mazda	1982 Toyota	1982 Fiat	1983 Honda	1983 BMW
1983 Toyota	1983 BMW	1983 BMW	1983 Jeep	1983 Volkswagen	1983 Nissan
1983 Toyota	1984 Porsche	1984 Toyota	1984 Cadillac	1984 Toyota	1984 Jeep
1984 BMW	1984 Toyota	1984 Jaguar	1984 Toyota	1984 Plymouth	1985 Alfa Romeo
1985 Toyota	1985 Cadillac	1985 Mazda	1985 Pontiac	1985 Volkswagen	1985 Saab
1985 Toyota	1985 Toyota	1985 Peugeot	1985 Porsche	1986 Dodge	1986 BMW
1986 Toyota	1986 Toyota	1986 Ford	1986 Jaguar	1986 Toyota	1986 Dodge
1986 Honda	1986 Pontiac	1986 Ford	1987 Porsche	1987 BMW	1987 Mercedes-Benz
1987 Volkswagen	1987 BMW	1987 Honda	1987 Toyota	1987 Merkur	1987 Mitsubishi
1987 Subaru	1988 Porsche	1988 CMC	1988 Renault	1988 Mitsubishi	1989 Ferrari
1989 Alfa Romeo	1989 Chevrolet	1989 Volkswagen	1991 Peugeot	1991 Alfa Romeo	2000 Fieroborghini

1104 HP Zenvo ST1 Translates Danish Into Badass [Zenvo St1]

2009-09-26T20:56:00.003-07:00

The Zenvo ST1: 7.0-liter V8, supercharged, turbocharged, 1104 HP, 1054 lb-ft of torque at 4,500 RPM, six-speed transmission, hydraulic limited-slip differential. 0-to-60 in under three seconds, top speed of 233 MPH. Sweet. Belligerent. Awesome.

Danish boutique automaker Zenvo has done the impossible and combined a heroic powertrain with spectacular styling for the Zenvo ST1. Of the myriad niche automakers out there, this has to be right up there in the pantheon of awesomeness. We expect the makers of the ST1 to accept payment in the form of first borns, arms, legs, and private islands in the Caribbean. [ZenvoAutomotive via WorldCarFans]

Production Photos of 2010 Chevy Camaro Released…Like A Month Ago

2009-09-26T20:56:00.001-07:00

Photographs of the final production model of the 2010 Chevy Camaro were released almost a month ago, and we admit we totally fell down on the job by not posting them sooner. Better late then never though, right?

Gallery After Jump

Bentley Driver Murdered In Mysterious Los Angeles Highway Shooting [Car Crime]

2009-09-26T19:20:00.003-07:00

Jose Luis Macias was driving through Los Angeles last Friday in his Bentley Continental GT when someone fired multiple bullets into the car, killing him and shutting down Highway 101. The motive remains a mystery.

So far, police have been able to learn little about the driver of the $100K+ Bentley or understand why someone would want to kill him. Photos of the car show nearly a dozen holes caused by a shooting at close range. The Bentley crashed into the median after the barrage of bullets. He was pulled from the vehicle and taken to a local hospital where he died four days later.

Police had to shut down the busy freeway causing more than eight hours of traffic. thanks to everyone who sent in tips

[Source: LA Times, Photo Mel Melcon / Los Angeles Times]

Video: BMW’s Kinetic Sculpture display has balls of steel

2009-09-26T19:20:00.001-07:00

BMW’s new museum just opened for business last month. Covering over 5,000 square meters, visitors can enjoy over 120 exhibits and one of those 120 exhibits is the BMW Kinetic Sculpture...

Autogas Chevrolet Matiz Concept = LPG for the masses

2009-09-26T17:56:00.001-07:00

Filed under: Aftermarket, Concept Cars, Tuners, Economy, Hybrids/Alternative, Euro, Green, Hatchbacks, Chevrolet

Click above for a high-res gallery of the fahgmitgas Matiz LPG Concept

Thanks to a company called fahrmitgas ("go with gas", get it?), our European readers will soon be able to cut their fuel costs to the low, low price of €3 (about $4.20 USD) for every 100 km of driving. Of course, they'll need need to be driving a converted Chevrolet (nee, Daewoo) Matiz converted to LPG, but on the other hand... that's just €3 to go 100 kilometers.

The fahrmitgas Matiz LPG Concept has been put through a suite of bench-tested enhancements in order to be so frugal. Since fahrmitgas is a supplier to Chevrolet, it has intimate knowledge of the Matiz's systems. After installation of the LPG unit and some engine tuning for mid-range power, the company added stop/start, lowered the car a whopping 30 mm, and fitted it with ultra low rolling resistance Hankook Optima 4S tires. A shift light on the center console helps the driver get the most of from his or her LPG.

A liter of gas in Germany is about €1 (@ $1.40 USD), meaning 3 liters/100 km for the LPG Matiz, instead of 5.2 liters/100 km for the petrol Matiz. fahmitgas is looking at a production run, but no timetable or prices have been announced. In the meantime, check out the press release after the jump and the high-res gallery of photos below.

Gallery: Fahrmitgas Matiz LPG Concept

[Source: Fahrmitgas]

Continue reading Autogas Chevrolet Matiz Concept = LPG for the masses

Autogas Chevrolet Matiz Concept = LPG for the masses originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 02 Jan 2009 09:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Heavy Water: Geiger supercharges the HUMMER H3

2009-09-26T17:55:00.001-07:00

Filed under: Aftermarket, Tuners, SUVs, Euro, HUMMER

Click above to view the supercharged Geiger H3 in our hi-res gallery

Mention the name Geiger to a physicist and you're likely to hear about the man who discovered the atomic nucleus and the meter that bears his name. To automotive tuning fanatics, the name refers to the aftermarket firm that turns lethargic HUMMERs into tarmac-chomping beasts. But we're not so sure the two are that far removed.

Geiger's latest project is another riff on the relatively (and only by comparison) "small" H3, tinkering with the truck's reactor core to pump up its radioactivity. The stock H3 comes with a 3.7-liter inline-five producing a paltry 239 horsepower and 241 little torques, though it is available with a 5.3-liter V8 which still only manage 300hp and 320 lb-ft of twist. Along comes Geiger to fit a supercharger to said eight-cylinder, boosting output to 423 ~~megatons~~ horsepower and 502 lb-ft of torque. So equipped, the 5000-pound Geiger'd Hummer can reach 60 miles-per-hour in an admirable 7 seconds. 380mm discs gripped by six-pot calipers bring it all back to a halt, surrounded by 22-inch wheels bearing 305/40 Continental rubber. The interior, decked out in carbon fiber, is a matter of taste, but we love how Geiger revives classic racing livery: After their custom H2 popped up in a baby-blue and orange Gulf scheme, this H3 brings back the iconic striped white Martini livery popularized by Lancias on the rally circuit and Porsches on the track. Check it out for yourself in the gallery below.

Gallery: Geiger HUMMER H3 V8 Kompressor

[Source: Motor Authority]

Heavy Water: Geiger supercharges the HUMMER H3 originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 02 Jan 2009 08:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | | |

Bettie Page Mega-Gallery Tribute [Bettie Page]

2009-09-26T09:43:00.001-07:00

The death of automotive cheesecake icon Bettie Page last week had many of us desiring a better tribute than a mere one paragraph. Our possibly NSFW mega-gallery seeks to rectify that below.

We gave you a little of her history last week, now you can see for yourselves:

The Notorious Bettie Page

Bettie Page Inspired Art

Bettie's Magazine Covers

[via The Bettie Page, Cover Girl]

Mercedes-Benz ConceptFASCINATION Provides Hints of the Next-Gen E-Class

2009-09-26T09:42:00.001-07:00

Next month Mercedes is going to unveil the Mercedes-Benz ConceptFASCINATION at the Paris Motor Show.

Why You Don't Take Photos Of Yourself Humping A Nissan GT-R [Novelties]

2009-09-26T08:09:00.003-07:00

You've seen still images of people humping a Nissan GT-R before. But have you seen an animated image of Godzilla humping? Click below for the semi-NSFW dragon-on-Godzilla image below.

[NAGTROC Forums]

U.S. Highway Fatalities Hit Record Lows, Rising Gas Prices Credited

2009-09-26T08:09:00.001-07:00

Serving to further validate preliminary studies published by both Harvard University and the University of Alabama at Birmingham [Covered by RideLust back in July, "Silver Lining To Escalating Gas Prices?"], the United States Secretary of Transportation announced last week that the number of highway fatalities hit record lows for 2007 - while oil prices hit record highs. According to U.S. Transportation Secretary Mary E. Peters, the number of traffic fatalities for 2007 totaled 41,059, the lowest overall number since 1994. Simultaneously, the rate of traffic fatalities has also achieved a record low, averaging for 2007 1.37 fatalities per 100 vehicle miles traveled, the lowest number on record to date.

Peters attributes the positive trend to “safer vehicles and aggressive law enforcement.” While we’ll hand her both “safer vehicles” and ”aggressive law enforcement” [here's to you, Virginia Beach District Traffic Court], we also think ridiculous oil prices and an economy so tight you can’t even find a quarter on the sidewalk deserve a tip o’ the hat as well.

Full Release From USDoT:

Thursday, August 14, 2008
DOT 113-08
Contact: Brian Turmail
Tel.: (202) 366-4570

U.S. Secretary of Transportation Mary Peters Announces Historic Drop in Highway Fatalities and Rate
Motorcycle fatalities still rising, Secretary Peters says, while announcing increased safety, drunk driving outreach and enforcement efforts

WASHINGTON - The number of people who died on the nation’s roads dropped again last year, reaching historically low levels, U.S. Transportation Secretary Mary E. Peters announced today.

Secretary Peters said that in 2007, the overall number of traffic fatalities fell to 41,059, the lowest number since 1994. In addition, the fatality rate per 100 million vehicle miles traveled was 1.37, the lowest fatality rate on record, she noted.

The Secretary added that 2.49 million people were injured in highway crashes last year, the lowest seen since the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration began collecting injury data in 1988.

“Thanks to safer vehicles, aggressive law enforcement and our efforts, countless families were spared the devastating news that a loved one was not coming home last year,” Secretary Peters said. “You can be sure that we’re not stopping here, the quest is not over until that bottom line number is zero.”

She noted, for example, that motorcycle safety continues to be a problem. Motorcycle fatalities now account for 13 percent of all fatalities and, in 2007 alone, the number of motorcycle riders or passengers killed on the nation’s roads increased 6.6 percent over the previous year, the Secretary said.

To address these challenges, Secretary Peters announced the launch of new advertisements that focus on motorcycle safety and drunk driving. They can be viewed at http://www.stopimpaireddriving.org/planners/crackdown2008/planner/index.cfm

Tomorrow, the Department will kick off its annual impaired driving enforcement crackdown called, “Drunk Driving. Over the limit. Under Arrest.” The effort runs through Labor Day.

During today’s announcement, made outside of the Washington, D.C. Metropolitan Police Department’s Second District headquarters, Secretary Peters viewed a motorcycle safety demonstration.

Secretary Peters added that the Department will continue its efforts to combat impaired driving, increase safety belt use and improve motorcycle safety.

“As these new statistics show, we are making progress, but far too many of our friends, neighbors and family members are still getting killed or seriously injured,” Secretary Peters said.

The Department collects crash statistics annually from 50 states, the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico to produce annual reports on fatalities and injuries. To view the 2007 report in its entirety, please visit
http://www-nrd.nhtsa.dot.gov/Pubs/811017.PDF

Aston Martin Rapide: Hot Rear Action [Spy Photos]

2009-09-26T06:30:00.003-07:00

Mere weeks after showing you the supposed first rendering of the Aston Martin Rapide from the front we've got this supposed rear end shot of the new Aston to add to our collection.

As expected and as indicated by multiple spy shots, the Rapide stays remarkably similar to the original concept, full-length glass roof and all.

As we told you before, we're told to expect a two-intake, stacked front grille, a new crease that runs from the front wheels back through both doors, a redesigned trunk and rear clip with a chrome accent between the taillights. The interior should, more or less, resemble a four seat DB9, since that’s exactly what this car is.

Power will come from a 6.0-liter V12 making around 500 HP and 420 Lb-Ft of torque. While that sounds like more than enough, a faster version of the Rapide, tentatively called the Rapide R (get it?) is allegedly in the cards. Production will be carried out by Magna Steyr in Austria, meaning the Rapide stands half a chance of having quality that’ll live up to its near $300,000 price tag.

[via 4wheelsnews]

The Torque Report and SocialVibe Want to Put and End to Cancer!

2009-09-26T06:30:00.001-07:00

It's not too late to Stand Up To Cancer!

Lego Pneumatic Car Engines Now For Sale! [Holiday Gift Guide]

2009-09-26T02:34:00.003-07:00

Remember the crazy 1440-RPM V8 engine built from Lego Mindstorms parts we showed you back in May? Now you can buy your own from LPE Power's recently opened online store.

Nicjasno, the original creator of the Lego Mindstorm V8 is now giving you the opportunity to purchase an inline-3 or inline-4 version of their amazing little engine from their site's sale center at LPE Power. They promise that V6 and V8 models will soon follow after they build up enough business. We’re hoping that business picks up quickly because we want the V8 model. Now.

The lego-loving folks build the pneumatic engines using the Scotch Yoke of operation in order to keep size to a minimum, and to maximize usable torque, giving better overall power output. The 2000 rpm inline-4 model features a cross-plane crank, a gear-driven valvetrain and a side-mounted dual cam with one valve-per-cylinder. The inline-3 model features a similar setup but delivers 600 rpm more.

Have a look at them in action:

Inline-4

Inline-3

For good measure: The V8

Here are the specs from both:

Inline-4

Bore: 2 studs
Stroke: 2 studs
Crank-throw: 1 stud
Main bearings: 5
Valves: 1 valve per cylinder (double cam)
Lubrication: Silicone-based lubricant
Max speed: 2000 rpms (4 bars)
Recommended operating pressure: < 6 bars / 90 psi Max tested pressure: 8 bars / 120 psi Min operating pressure: 0.3 bar / 5 psi Block length: 15 studs Block width: 9 studs Block height: 11 studs Weight: 300 gramms Number of elements: 385 Inline-3

Bore: 2 studs
Stroke: 2 studs
Crank-throw: 1 stud
Main bearings: 4
Valves: 1 valve per cylinder (double cam)
Lubrication: Silicone-based lubricant
Max speed: 2600 rpms (4 bars)
Recommended operating pressure: < 6 bars / 90 psi Max tested pressure: 8 bars / 120 psi Min operating pressure: 0.3 bar / 5 psi Block length: 13 studs Block width: 9 studs Block height: 11 studs Weight: 260 gramms Number of elements: 338

We can't wait to get our hands on one of these and try it out for ourselves.

[via: LPE Power via Nicjasno]

Hot August Nights Auction: Microcars to street rods

2009-09-26T02:34:00.001-07:00

This 1964 Triumph TR4 sold for a bid of $20,750 at Hot August Nights. (Photo courtesy of Goldenberg Enterprises)

Hot August Nights (HAN) just held its 22nd celebration of automobiles and rock-and-roll music – a complete week of cruises up-and-down Virginia Street, a swap meet at the old cattle stall on the out-skirts of town, a car show across from the Atlantis Casino and a collector car auction, across the street from the casino.

Sometimes, little cars bring big money. This 1958 BMW Isetta sold for a bid of $36,000 at the auction conducted by Silver Auctions, at Hot August Nights. (Photo courtesy of Goldenberg Enterprises)

Since the audience for this major money maker for the self-advertised “biggest little city in the world,” Reno, is aging Baby Boomers, the musical acts last week included one of those groups perhaps best left in the Sixties, Herman’s Hermits, and what’s left of the Beach Boys (Mike Love, Bruce Johnston and some studio musicians; it seems.)

But for those of us caught sweating both the heat of summer and the price of gas, around the country, the real news was what occurred within the Reno-Sparks Convention Center. It was there that Silver Auctions, headed by Mitch Silver based in Spokane, Washington, staged a four-day collector car auction of about 900 cars, trucks and even a few motorcycles; it has become the benchmark auction for street rod and muscle car values.

Certainly, there are those who might debate that, given the fame garnered Barrett-Jackson on SPEED. However, those in the know understand that Barrett-Jackson is really an anomaly fuelled by foreign money for the most part. Silver’s auctions pulls the real car guys (and gals), living across the U.S. of A, who grew up with street rods, maybe made their money in construction and want to add to their rolling stock, or get back into the vintage car or street rod hobby.

Moreover, this isn’t an auction such as those being held during the Monterey Historic Weekend, on the Monterey peninsula in California. There isn’t a small fleet of business jets coming in, bearing people trading in Euros. The folks at Hot August Nights probably either drove here in a piece of vintage American iron, or piloted an RV to the RV park on the outskirts of Reno; or failing all that, flew in on Southwest Airlines (the auctioneers’ airline of choice).

Within the market for street rods, there’s a range of prices here. The 1932 Chevrolet five-window coupe which sold for $51,000 (plus an 8 percent buyer’s fee) on Friday night represents the higher end; but then, this wasn’t just a randomly thrown together car.

Ron Attebury of Attebury Street Rods in Morgan Hill, CA. Custom paint and upholstery built the Chevrolet. Real steel counts a lot in the street rod world and this car had a lot of that. The main body was original metal, albeit with a top lowered two inches. The frame was original steel; however, the fenders were fiberglass with stainless steel fasteners. The hood was aluminum, fitted with removable side panels. Back in the rear, the taillights were both recessed and molded into the body. The fenders were “bobbed and tubbed,” street rod-speak for shortened and rolled into the underbody.

The engine was the ubiquitous (in street rod circles) 350 cubic-inch Chevrolet V8, a recent variant of ZZ4 code, set up to run with an aftermarket fuel injection system; backing it up was an “350” General Motors automatic transmission.

The front end consisted of a Mustang II front end – probably the only part of that car that survives for the most part – and an independent rear suspension, consisting of a Corvette third member with inboard disc brakes. Coil-over shock absorbers were fitted at all four corners. And while with muscle cars, documentation helps, in the street rod world awards garnered shows the work involved is worth bidding on. In this case, the car had garnered a second place win at the 2000 Grand National Roadster Show in the Full Fender category.

While this was a little less than you might have seen similar cars in years past at HAN, it was much more than a kit car T-bucket street rod, sporting an in-line four cylinder engine of indeterminate manufacture yielded. The T-bucket rolled onto the docket on Saturday evening and sold for just $8,100, plus buyer’s fee.

But this auction also gets a fair amount of distinctly non-American iron. David Goldenberg, a collector car dealer from West Linn, Oregon brought a 1958 BMW Isetta and a 1963 Triumph TR4 to this auction. Two years ago, he sold a very similar car, a 1957 BMW Isetta, at Hot August Nights, for a commanding price of $38,500 (plus a buyer’s fee, which was 6 percent, at that time).

This year, Goldenberg sold the Isetta he brought to a man from Florida, who’d actually been bidding on the car Isetta, brought to Reno, two years ago.

Goldenberg, who like the sellers most involved in the bidding process, stays close to his cars and lets the auctioneer know how he feels about the bids being offered; as well as whether or not he wants to drop his reserve (a set price which the auctioneer must meet to ensure a sale), on cars where he has established a reserve.

“He would have (likely) paid more, but we didn’t know how far he’d to push him.”

The Triumph TR4 roadster was a two-owner car, painted red with a black interior; and most importantly, it had just 86,000 (actual) miles of use, since new. Documentation established that the car was bought new in Van Nuys, California; and somehow, it made its way up to its second owner in Oregon, a few years later.

The Triumph brought $20,750 (plus 8 percent buyer’s fee) and Goldenberg said he felt it could have brought more. Consider this: the average value for a 1964 Triumph TR4 roadster, according to the current edition of the NADA (National Auto Dealers Association) Classic, Collectible and Special Interest Appraisal Guide is $14,150; and the high value is $25,700. So he might have a point.

But the bids that took cars home seemed a bit lower than in years past at this auction – good news for those wanting to get in a vintage muscle car or street rod, not such for those selling.

Friday afternoon – the same time and day, Goldenberg offered his cars – saw a 1969 Plymouth GTX two door hardtop, in condition two (combination of good original pieces and some restorative work) sell for $32,000. That was followed, two cars later, by a 1956 Chevrolet series 210 sedan, with just 17,000 original miles, and sporting modifications such as a later vintage 350 cubic inch, code ZZ4, V8, selling for a $30,000 bid. Around the same time, a 1961 Chevrolet Impala two-door “bubble-top” (thin rear pillar hardtop) fitted with a legendary 409 cubic-inch V8 engine and retrofitted with dual, four-barrel carburetors, backed by a four-speed manual transmission, bid to $31,500; but didn’t sell at that.

As if to prove that this auction had something for everyone, lot #508 about an hour before the auction shut down on Friday, was a 1942 Jeep CJ5, in average condition, which sold for a bid of $6,000.

Saturday saw some of the old Hot August Nights heavy bidding on Tri-Five Chevrolets with a 1957 Chevrolet Nomad station wagon being bid to $42,000; but with no sale made.

The market may be going towards a new generation of collector cars, if you consider the fact that a 1972 Buick Riviera “boat-tail” two door, offered just 30 cars later than that Nomad sold for a bid of $15,500.

But, since it always takes more than one auction to establish a trend, while this might be the time to invest in a vintage Isetta you might want to wait on purchasing a boat-tail Riviera. – Terry Parkhurst

Complete results will be posted at www.silverauctions.com, later in the week of August 17-23.

Lotec updating Sirius supercar?

2009-09-26T00:47:00.001-07:00

Filed under: Concept Cars, Supercars

Click above for a gallery of the 2009 Lotec Sirius

The Lotec Sirius has been around since the early 2000s after former Group C2 champion Kurt Lotterschmid vowed to create a supercar capable of taking on the best from Italy and beyond. The original car was motivated by a twin-turbocharged 6.0-liter V12 supplied by Mercedes-Benz and put out between 850 and 1,200 hp depending on the spec. After a few hard years and several production delays, Lotec plans to release an updated Sirius in 2009 and has previewed the new supercar in a series of renderings.

Power output is likely to be down from the previous model due to the V12's lack of availability, but the tubular steel frame and carbon fiber body will remain, allowing the Sirius 2.0 to tip the scales at just over 3,000 pounds, despite being equipped with power steering and air conditioning. Performance should be on par with the outgoing model, with a claimed 0-62 mph sprint of 3.8 seconds, the run to 120 done in under eight seconds and a supposed top speed of 242 mph. Considering the difficulties Lotec has faced in the past, we doubt we'll see the new Sirius on a stand at any international show, but we can hope for an appearance in Geneva.

Gallery: 2009 Lotec Sirius

[Source: Autoweek.nl via MotorAuthority]

Lotec updating Sirius supercar? originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 29 Dec 2008 19:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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The 2009 Nissan Skyline GT-R: The Ultimate Performance Machine

2009-09-26T00:43:00.001-07:00

The 2009 Nissan GT-R

Have you ever had a dream so realistic and perfect that you actually thought it was real for a few seconds after you woke up, and then felt intense disappointment when you realized it was just a dream?

Last night I dreamt that I owned a Nissan Skyline GT-R. I was researching the car for a few hours before I went to bed, so I probably had it coming, but it’s still painful when you lose a flying Skyline GT-R that was built by aliens.

If you ever find yourself inside my subconscious driving a Dream Skyline GT-R, here are a few tips:

-The green button makes it fly
-The engine is powered by dilithium crystals
-The transmission is a 128 gear manual, and is very difficult to master

The Speedometer Cluster on a Nissan GT-R

As for the real Skyline GT-R, car enthusiasts have been dreaming about it for years, and now we finally have our very own American version, the Nissan GT-R. Unfortunately, Nissan dropped the name “Skyline”, but luckily, we get the most badass car yet. This really is a world class performance machine.

The 2009 Nissan GT-R goes from zero to 60 in 3.3 seconds, quicker than the Dodge Viper, Corvette Z06 and Porsche 911 Turbo. If you keep your foot down heavy on the pedal, it’ll hit the quarter-mile in 11.6 seconds at more than 120 mph. And it has a top speed of 193 mph, all due to it’s 473 hp, twin-turbo 3.8 liter V6. Bear in mind, it’s a California emissions car, too.

Each one of those beautiful GT-R motors is hand built by specially trained engineers in Nissan’s Yokohama facility. And to promote greater quality control, Nissan assigns only one engineer to work on each engine from start to finish.

The Nissan GT-R’s 3.8 liter Twin-Turbo V6

The power from those amazing engines is transferred to the wheels by a rear mounted, 6-speed semi-automatic transmission, which shifts via a twin-clutch system with separate clutches for odd and even gears. The whole point of having that type of system is so you can shift without interrupting power. The torque gets applied to one clutch as it’s being disconnected from the other. This means shifts in the Nissan GT-R take only 0.2 seconds; that’s Formula One fast people. And you can operate the trans via paddles on the steering wheel. Technology is a beautiful thing.

In case you ever need to ease off warp speed, the GT-R has 15.2-inch ventilated cross-drilled Brembo brakes for easy stoppage.

All that for $70,000 dollars. The Nissan GT-R is probably the best performance per price offering out there. Nowhere else can you find the GT-R’s level of performance anywhere near it’s price. Granted, 70k is a lot of money, but you have to look at what you’re getting. A performance car of this magnitude, almost guaranteed to be a historical icon and go up in value; it’s a steal. The only problem is, Nissan will only be making about 2500 units a year in the US, which will most likely lead to some pretty hefty premiums on this car.

Still, how do they keep the price so low? Stolen alien technology. It’s the only logical conclusion. If anyone has a better explanation, I’d love to hear it.

Overall, the Nissan GT-R isn’t just a race car tweaked to be street legal, this is an all-around automobile, apparently comfortable as a daily driver even at normal speeds. Strangely, it weighs in at 3814 lbs, which seems way too heavy for this level of performance.

It’s OK though, because Nissan eventually plans on introducing a lighter and even more powerful GT-R called the GT-R V-Spec. Supposedly, it’ll be 200 lb lighter and put out upwards of 530 hp. Look forward to seeing a 2010 come out in late 2009.

Check out the pictures:

Rumor: Travis Pastrana Breaks Hip, Ankle [Racing News]

2009-09-25T17:12:00.001-07:00

According to AutoFiends, rally driver Travis Pastrana reportedly broke his hip and ankle, sidelining him for this weekend's Race of Champions.

Apparently Travis Pastrana has injured himself sustaining a rumored broken hip and ankle—we don’t have full details on how, although Travis is no stranger to crippling injuries. At 14 years old, he separated his spine from his pelvis and put himself into a coma for two weeks, thereby joining the small handful of people who lived through such damage. Since then, he's had more surgeries than Cheney yet always bounced back.

For this who don't know what the Race of Champions is, or may have it confused with the long dead aquaneon International Race of Champions, here's a primer:

To boil it down to it's gritty essence, the ROC pulls drivers of circuit racing and offroad racing series from around the world, sticks them in twitchy little rockets like the KTM X-Bow or the Abarth 500 and sets them loose to compete against each other head-to-head in the newly minted Wembley Stadium in London. Sounds like a hell of an event to miss when you've already got yourself a seat, right?

Get well soon, Travis.

[Autofiends]

Chery-Chrysler Joint Venture Dissolved, Dodge Hornet Gets Stung? [Carpocalypse Now]

2009-09-25T17:08:00.001-07:00

According to Auto Sohu and China Car Times the joint venture between Chrysler and Chery has been dissolved before it was even consummated. What happens to the Dodge Hornet concept?

Production on the Hornet was affirmed back in July of this year, but since then the entire world has kind of gone up in a financial funeral pyre. None of this is official yet, but we'll be placing calls to find out what's going on. If this turns out to be true, it's rough news for Chrysler's product portfolio, considering it was slated as the efficient city-car when apparently that's the only thing we're allowed to want anymore. [ChinaCarTimes]

Wooden wheels for the guy who doesn't have everything

2009-09-25T11:40:00.001-07:00

Filed under: Gadgets, Time Warp, Etc., Toys

Sure, you could take the easy way out and just go buy a boxed replica, smelted in some far off land and stamped out as nondescriptly as a tube of toothpaste, but that's not so much gift-giving as it is proxy-buying. Vehicle models made of wood are something different entirely. Juxtaposing the mechanical nature of automobiles by rendering scale models in fine woods might seem odd at first blush. What, no paint on the quarter panels? No plated plastic bumpers? But then, laying eyes on the expert craftsmanship that's gone into the models over at Wooden Classic Wheels will remove any doubt that the medium works perfectly for the subject matter. Of course, the replicas will also remove vast amounts of padding from your bank balance, but true art isn't about the money... it just costs that way. Thanks for the tip, William!

Gallery: Wooden Vehicle Models

[Source: WoodenClassicWheels.com]

Wooden wheels for the guy who doesn't have everything originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 29 Dec 2008 10:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Dubai Prince Gifts Island To Michael Schumacher [Michael Schumacher]

2009-09-25T11:39:00.001-07:00

Are you having a tough time this Christmas season picking out the perfect gift for that special someone that has everything? Well, instead of heading down to the local Neiman Marcus store, or even buying a mere skyscraper, Dubai’s crown prince bought the retired Michael Schumacher his own island.

Dubai’s crown prince, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum (phew!), bought the former F1 star his own piece of "The World."

Situated off the coast of the United Arab Emirates, "The World" is a grouping of man-made islands developed to look like a map of the Earth. Valued at roughly $7 million, Schumacher’s island will be located in the southern hemisphere, part of the "Antarctica" island cluster, when completed in a few years, presumably before the Michael Schumacher World Champion Tower in Abu Dhabi is completed.

We’re wondering how long it’ll take to see a track of some sort on it. We’ll be scouring Google Earth until we know. [uk.sports.yahoo.com]

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