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2008 Mitsubishi Concept-RA Concept
2008-03-31 19:12:00
The Mitsubishi Concept -RA offers a unique interpretation of the sporty coupe. This two-seat pure coupe concept explores the transversely mounted, front engine packaging theme. Generous helpings of technology create a vehicle that combines exotic appeal, outstanding, fun-to-drive dynamics and heightened sensitivity for the environment.DesignDeveloped as a technological showcase for Mitsubishi Motors, the Concept-RA displays athletic sport coupe proportions wrapped in dynamic flowing lines that provide a powerful and compelling showpiece for the car's advanced, high technology features. Broad, muscular wheel arches house 21-inch wheels and lend graphic expression to the high degree of road control and tenacious grip afforded by the next generation S-AWC system. Meanwhile, an exposed engine cover highlights the presence of the car's high output, efficient, clean diesel engine design. The Concept-RA's inverted-slant nose and trapezoidal grille fascia reinforce Mitsubishi Motors' new...
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Lotus Exige S by 'Union Jack'
2008-03-31 18:59:00
The Lotus Exige must be one of the most curvy car designs pounding our roads at present. So when Discovery Channel’s popular series ‘How Do They Do It?’ needed a donor car to show how a professional team wraps vehicles in all manner of advertisements and murals, they chose a difficult specimen in the Exige.A team of four expert technicians took 10 hours to completely wrap the Exige in its new red, white and blue livery and the Lotus is said to be a real crowd pleaser on the track.Mike Kimberley, CEO of Group Lotus commented, “At Lotus we pride ourselves in spearheading the development of technology in the vehicle market and working on this project was a truly unique opportunity. Lotus Design captured a very special element of our heritage with the brief, ‘great British racing’. The Union Jack theme and the flying flag concept perfectly embody the Lotus spirit”.Lotus intends to show the unique Exige at a number of UK dealers over the next few months as part of its ‘Lo...

2009 Mercedes-Benz SL63 AMG Roadster
2008-03-30 21:42:00
MONTVALE, NJ – Mercedes -Benz is unveiling a fourth member of its iconic SL sports car family – the SL63 AMG. Perhaps the sportiest SL roadster ever, the new SL63 AMG is powered by a 6.2-liter, 518-hp, all-AMG V8 engine that’s coupled to a newly developed MCT transmission. Featuring an innovative start-up clutch that replaces a conventional torque converter, the seven-speed MCT (for multi-clutch technology) transmission combines the direct connection of a manual gearbox with the lightning-quick automatic gear shifts of a Formula 1 race car. Topping off the SL chassis is an even more agile AMG sports suspension based on the Mercedes-Benz ABC active suspension. MCT Transmission – The Best of Both Worlds Providing the direct feedback of a manual transmission with the total convenience of an automatic, the new seven-speed MCT with AMG Speedshift is an all-new design available only in the new SL63 AMG. Featuring seven speeds, four shift modes and a double-clutching function, the ...
More About: Mercedes Benz , Roadster

WALD Black Bison Edition Sports Line
2008-03-29 21:21:00
WALD has developed a hot-looking Mercedes-Benz S-Class-based WALD special, developed for W221. Called the Black Bison Edition Sports Line , the car is said to be for serious status seekers, all in black. WALD is known as one of the leading tuners in Japan specialising in German marques.Black forged wheels make the main statement, along with different looking side skirts, front grille, side gills and rear air diffuser. No official word on power or stats yet, these will become available as they get released by WALD. Even if it is stock standard 386 kW/525 hp high-tech engine that accelerates from zero to 100 km/h in 4.6 seconds, and the maximum speed is electronically limited to 250 km/h, we don’t mind. You will agree though that aggression seemed to be the main brief when turning this thing inside out.
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BMW AC Schnitzer ACS3 Sport
2008-03-28 21:24:00
When beads of perspiration form on the brow of experienced sports car drivers, it's not necessarily down to a faulty air conditioning system. With the 420 bhp V8 of the BMW M3, the ACS3 Sport catapults even its keenest challengers into the rear view mirror. The sporting coupe is ideal for anyone seeking to gain advantage on twisting tracks. A normal M3 would be a tough competitor here, because in comparison with the "civilized" 3-series Coupe it has a totally different axle construction. With racing suspension developed on the legendary Nürburgring, AC Schnitzer has succeeded in refining the handling potential of the chassis even further. And fitted with the Short Shift from Aachen, the ACS3 Sport becomes the automotive hero of the day: No-one is changing gears faster!Best of all: The vehicle loses nothing of its qualities as a daily driver. Instead, AC Schnitzer inserts even more M-otion into everyday life, for example when the Aachen exhaust system plays its bewitching baritone ...

Reworked Golf R32 by Abt
2008-03-28 21:13:00
German tuner Abt Sportsline have gone to town on Volkswagen's fastest Golf model. The Abt R32 is the ultimate expression in performance for the everyday. Compact Golf dimensions and the R32's renowned sporting setup, the model is an 'ideal basis' for the tuner. "Whoever wants such a Golf wants an extremely fast compact car," says Hans-Juergen Abt. And it's evident the clientele won't go disappointed. Horsepower raises from a leisurely 250 hp in production form to a rather more Abt 370 hp, the 120 hp hike achieved via a modified motor management system and the introduction of an Abt compressor kit with supercharger and air cooling system. The upgrades power a hike in top speed to over 270 kph (or 168 mph), while acceleration to 100 kph or 62 mph decreases from 6.2 seconds in production form to just 5.0 seconds. The same dynamic performance is delivered both on the Autobahn and on winding country roads thanks to Abt's sports suspension kit, 'perfectly harmonising' with all 3...

2008 Ford Shelby Mustang GT500KR
2008-03-27 21:17:00
Shelby GT500KR is such a hit that more examples are to find their way into enthusiasts’ garages in the next year or so. This after the demand began to outstrip supply to dangerous levels, such that Ford and partner on the project Shelby Automobiles decided to produce an additional 746 units for the 2009 model. US buyers will receive 571 units for their top dollar. Production of the car began the day Carroll Shelby celebrated 85 years of his own birth back on January 11, 2008 .GT500KR fits a 5.4-litre supercharged V8 on its bones to make a hefty 540 bhp, working with a short-throw shifter and racing suspension tuning. “This car is really special to me and demonstrates that when Shelby Automobiles gets together with Ford SVT and Ford Racing, we can deliver a Mustang that will compete with the best in the world,” is what Shelby himself was heard to say.The cars arrive at Shelby Automotive in Las Vegas as standard Mustang GT500 cars where they undergo an extensive metamorphosis of ...
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Saleen Dan Gurney Signature Edition Mustang
2008-03-27 21:12:00
Dan Gurney said that he only had one request before agreeing to endorse a special-edition Saleen Mustang designed in his honor: it had to be "faster than Parnelli's." Saleen was happy to comply, and the Dan Gurney Signature Edition was born. Like the Parnelli Jones Signature limited edition, the Dan Gurney Signature Edition Mustang features graphics inspired by classic Trans Am race series cars, an extremely limited production run and of course some serious performance parts. The Dan Gurney Signature Edition Mustang is set apart by a special body kit, duckbill rear spoiler and a "stinger"style hood scoop. Inside, a signature plate is personally signed by Gurney, and the two-tone seats have blue or red Alcantara inserts that are color-matched to the exterior. Saleen will build 100 Dan Gurney Signature Editions in each available color: Torch Red, Performance White and Vista Blue. Like the Parnelli Jones edition, the racing stripes and number stickers will be available so owners can c...

Dodge Challenger 725 hp by Hennessey
2008-03-26 20:06:00
Hennessey is apparently not happy with what Dodge has provided for its new millennium Challenger , among other cars, and has set out to rectify things the Hennessey way. Therefore what you are about to read is a true account of how things stand as far as a vehicle called the SRT700 Turbo is concerned.Starting off with a 426 ci motor that strokes forged aluminum pistons, forged steel connecting rods, a 426 stroker crankshaft, polished intake manifold and a balanced rotating assembly, Hennessey then built upon this mighty house that’s clearly not founded on sandy land.Added is a single 67mm turbo that works alongside a stainless steel turbo Y pipe, a single 44mm wastegate and a front-mounted intercooler. You know at some point, probably soon after turning the ignition, things are getting’ hot up in here!How hot exactly? Try 725 bhp hot. Or 750 lb-ft of torque hot. It’s all downhill from there as the Challenger SRT700 literally charges down the road from naught in a matter of 3.5 ...
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2008 Venom 700NM
2008-03-25 18:50:00
Upscale luxury goods retailer Neiman Marcus Direct has teamed up with John Hennessey’s Hennessey Performance Engineering to bring us a stampede of 700 horses through their spring Neiman Marcus Men's Catalog. And boy do them horses look healthy and sound in that jet black!"The Venom 700NM offers world-class power,” says John Hennessey, “performance and looks in typical Hennessey style. We are very excited about our new partnership with Neiman Marcus."Persuaded by the thunderous Dodge Viper SRT-10 engine, the VENOM 700NM musters up a whole 700 bhp/ 522kW and 645lb-ft of massive torque. Figures suggest a 0 – 60 mph time of 3.3 seconds, 0 – 100 mph in 7 seconds and a top end of 214 mph.A number of special kits are added to the Venom 700NM, including VenomAero Exterior Aerodynamic Upgrades and lightweight alloy wheel upgrade (19x10 inch front; 20x13 inch rear).Sounds good to you? We thought so. Be a good boy then and put aside USD179,500, which by the look of the US dollar lat...
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Mercedes G-Class by ART
2008-03-25 18:47:00
Surely the GL-Class offers more practicality, but the Mercedes G-Class has been refined through and through over its now 29 year long life span. Last year Mercedes gave their cult car a minor facelift while staying true to the all-road classic. A.R.T. Tuning has a few more features up their sleeves for the G-Class, like a 104 hp boost to 580 bhp on their top-of-the-range G 55 K model and sports exhaust system with four 80mm tailpipes (older models will have to do with a dual exhaust). But besides extra power, ART has also developed a new body kit, consisting of a new front spoiler with fog lights and dual-integrated xenon headlights, underride protection guard, fender flares with illuminated running boards and optional extras like protective grilles, cable winch, new rear lamps, front and rear bumpers, brush guard, roof spoiler and a different hood. The Mercedes G-Class by ART sits on 22 inch monoART1, 10-spoke wheels, or 20 inch monoART2 wheels. Of course the interior is not forgot...

Avro’s 720 Mirage Ford GT
2008-03-21 19:28:00
The Ford GT may be in the process of passing into supercar history, but that hasn't stopped Avro Motor Cars from taking one last spin at making the beast faster. The Brooklands-based tuner recently announced a 10-car run of modified GTs called 720 Mirage. Avro partnered with Roush Technologies to push the GT's power output to 720 horses. The company previously teamed up with Roush to produce the 600RE edition of the GT.The additional urge comes courtesy of a larger Whipple supercharger and Accufab throttle body, inlet sleeve and X pipe exhaust, among other minor modifications. Specific output is 720bhp at 6950 rpm and 815Nm (627 pound-feet) torque at 4800 rpm. Unleash that power and the 720 Mirage will run to an un-governed top speed somewhere north of 220mph.Suspension upgrades include a 5mm wider track and a 25mm drop, as well as KW Variant 3 adjustable coil-overs. Six-piston AP Racing brake calipers are used in the front, and drilled and slotted rotors sourced from Stille...

BMW 1 Series Coupe by Hartge
2008-03-21 19:21:00
Hartge has released its new body kit programme for the BMW 1 Series coupe and convertible. As no pricing has yet been announced, all there is to go on for now are specs on what to expect. Bodywise Hartge has provided a set of carbon casings for the exterior mirrors, adjustable sports suspension for E82 and E88 and sports suspension for 120D, 123D and 135i. The latter will run 25mm lower.Interior promises even more with goodies like a series of 3-spoke sports steering wheel to choose from, aluminium handbrake, aluminium pedals and Hartge speedos reading up to 300km/h. Not sure if it will do this type of speed but it may certainly try.Hartge gives customers a choice between Continental or Pirelli tyres, although run flats are available on request. These range from 8.5 x 18" offset 40 with 225 / 40 ZR 18 front to 9.0 x 19" offset 46 with 255 / 30 ZR 19 rearNo info on engine changes, if any yet. But we know they can make a BMW run over 300km/h per with no sweat at all.
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Lamborghini Murcielago LP640 By Imsa
2008-03-18 19:04:00
German tuning shop imsa released a set of technological enhancements and design improvements for the Lamborghini Murcielago LP640 late last year. They recently sent us a new stack of photos to pass along to our faithful readership. As if the stock version of the 640hp supercar wasn't advanced enough, Imsa has created a set of features designed to perfect engine tuning and reduce drag.A follow-up to their GTV Supercar, the imsa LP640 uses the same central locking sports wheels, individually tuned chassis, and engine mods as the GTV. Purchasers of the freshened-up Murcielago will get an Autoklav-moulded carbon fibre design package that can keep the material's original look or be custom painted.New exterior pieces include wider wheel arches, a new front spoiler, and imsa CFK air ducts meant to reduce drag at incredibly high speeds. Side-skirts direct underside airflow into a new diffuser, which works with a custom rear spoiler to further improve aerodynamics. ...

Roush P-51A Mustang
2008-03-18 18:56:00
The extremely limited run of 151 Roush P-51A Mustang s sold out within 24 hours of its introduction, but you've got one last chance to pick up the most powerful ponycar that Roush has ever produced. Roush Performance plans to auction car number 151, the last of the 2008 production run, at the Barrett-Jackson Collector Car Event in West Palm Beach, Florida on Saturday, March 29. The auction will take place live on the SPEED Channel, and proceeds will go to the Salute to Education Scholarship charity.In case you missed it the first time, the P-51A is a monster modified Mustang that takes its inspiration in part from the World War II P-51 fighter plane. Major modifications to the completely rebuilt 4.6 liter V8 include a forged eight-bolt crank, forged aluminum pistons that lower compression from 9:8 to 8:6, a custom upper and lower intake manifold, custom Roush fuel rail with high-flow fuel injectors, a dual electronic throttle body, and the latest ROUSHcharger supercharger with in...

Artega GT Intro 2008 Model at Geneva Motor Show
2008-03-17 18:43:00
Artega‘s GT Intro 2008 has come out in Geneva with a few special enhancements over its normal GT model these fittings are quite a number on the list, so we’ll touch on just a few. These include two distinct colours of Vanilla Yellow and Deep Sea Blue, the latter seen in these fine pictures.Artega has chosen to go classical with the Intro 2008 models, especially inside where things may appear basic, but are beneath the surface quite sophisticated.Forged lightweight wheels roll in Michelin tyres measuring 8“ x 19“ by the front side with 235/35 ZR 19 tyres and 10.5“ x 19“ at the back with 305/30 ZR 19 tyres.Driver assistance is standard with ABS, however, the traction control system will only kick in in the spring of 2009. Artega GT works with a 3.6-litre V6 that does 220kW on the dyno using a 6-speed direct transmission gearbox to achieve its 0 – 100km/h time of under 5 seconds. It will only run out of breath at 270km/h. All 99 examples of this car are priced at €79,79...
More About: Motor , Show , Model

Porsche 911-based by Sportec
2008-03-17 16:27:00
Sportec revealed its latest high-performance, no-expense-spared modified 911 in Geneva. The SP600 Convertible may look more or less like a run-of-the-mill Porsche 911, but revised turbochargers, a sport exhaust and a revised intake boost the engine's output to 600 hp and 765 Nm torque. A sport clutch, 20-inch Sportec SPR forged wheels and a "discreet but effective" body kit are also part of the package. The aesthetic modifications include a new front spoiler and side skirts. Carbon fiber is used in the rear apron and larger rear spoiler.Sportec claims serious performance from the SP600. 0-100km/h takes 3.3 seconds, with 200 km/h arriving in 10.6. Keep your foot in it, and the SP600 is good for 338 km/h. Sportec also offers SP530 and SP680 variants.
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2008 BMW M5 by G-Power
2008-03-11 19:40:00
One of the world's fastest and most powerful street-legal BMW is made by G-Power . The 211-mph G-Power Hurricane is based on the latest BMW M5. At the heart of the high-performance sedan is a five-liter V10 engine with G-Power EVO II supercharging system that delivers 730 bhp.To achieve the desired increase in power output of 230 bhp for the fast-revving engine that normally produces 500 bhp, G-Power, in cooperation with ASA Automotive, has developed a high-tech supercharging system. The system uses one belt-driven ASA T1-12 compressor for each cylinder bank. Contrary to conventional mechanical chargers that waste a large portion of the additional power on being driven themselves, the ASA compressor has an efficiency rate of up to 80 percent. The ASA charger is also small, which allows G-Power to install two of them in the tight confines of the M5 engine bay. With a maximum airstream volume of up to 1,200 kg per hour per cylinder bank the compressors are designed for an even higher ...
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Aston Martin V12 Vantage RS Concept
2008-03-09 17:47:00
At the official opening of Aston Martin ’s first ever dedicated design center in Gaydon, Warwickshire, on Tuesday 11 December, Dr Ulrich Bez, Chief Executive Officer, thrilled an audience of more than seven hundred VIP guests with a surprise unveiling of a stunning new 600 bhp performance concept car; the V12 Vantage RS.The V12 Vantage RS concept is based on Aston Martin’s critically acclaimed V8 Vantage coupe, but the company’s design and engineering team have fully exploited the design flexibility of their unique VH architecture and the motor sport development of their 6.0 liter V12 engine to create a dramatic and production feasible concept car focused on extreme performance and dynamics.In a speech to the assembled guests, Ulrich Bez said: “Over the last five years, we have established a reputation for presenting fully functional, feasible concept cars, and the V12 Vantage RS is no exception. We will listen with interest to feedback on this concept and, as ever, if there ...
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Mercedes-Benz Mclaren SLR by MANSORY
2008-03-07 13:35:00
This is what MANSORY thinks a Merecedes-Benz McLaren SLR should like. The modification includes replacing existing components for modified developments by MANSORY. Two examples include new high performance compressors and tailor-made intercoolers. There is also a sports air filter and modified engine management system. The result is that the Renovatio is two tenths faster from zero to 100 km/h than the normal production version. The top speed increases to 340 kph. The Renovatio generates 880 Nm torque and to save weight, the MANSORY body components are made out of carbon. This is inline with the production car, which has a body already made out of this extremely light materials. The awesome wheels seen on the Renovatio are one-piece turbine-wheels with five double-spokes, 9 x 20 at the front and 11.5 x 20 at the rear. MANSORY claim that the reduction in weight, thanks to the especially light forged wheels, improves the Renovatio’s braking distance, acceleration and handling. The c...
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2009 Chevrolet Corvette ZR1
2008-03-06 15:55:00
Chevrolet has announced the 2009 Corvette ZR1 – an American supercar that brings the technology and engineering refinement of carbon-fiber, ceramics and electronics together in a distinctive design.“Chevrolet’s goal with the new ZR1 is to show what an American supercar can deliver, at a price that trumps exotics that cost two, three or four times as much – and does so with exceptional driveability,” said Ed Peper, Chevrolet general manager.“Preliminary testing shows the ZR1 builds on the highly respected Corvette Z06 in every performance category, from acceleration and braking, to cornering grip and top speed,” said Peper. “It all boils down to the power-to-weight ratio and the ZR1’s is exceptional – better than the Porsche 911 GT2, the Ferrari 599 and even the Lamborghini LP640. In fact, the ZR1 is expected to be the first production Corvette to achieve a top speed of at least 200 mph.”Supercharged LS9 EngineThe new LS9 6.2L small-block engine is the power pla...
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Porsche Carrera GT by Edo Competition
2008-03-05 12:49:00
Shown for the first time at the Frankfurt International Motor Show two years ago, the Carrera GT was the undisputed highlight of the event. Now, Carrera GT owners have the opportunity to tune this expensive and rare Porsche to be even more sporting and exclusive than it already is.This unbelievable excess of power and individuality is made by edo competition Motorsport.670, 715 and Even 770 bhp, edo competition achieves this level of power thanks to the use of a modified intake system, re-calibrated engine controls, high flow air filters and new header catalytic converters. To round off this power package, edo competition delivers a full stainless steel performance exhaust system featuring electronic programmable butterfly-valve control.Acoustics are anything but neglected; the sport exhaust system, which is available in two different sound levels, produces a wonderful deep and sonorous tone, clearly announcing the approach of an edo competition Carrera GT.The cat-back exhaust syste...
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Ferrari 599 GTB Fiorano by Mansory at Geneva 2008
2008-03-05 09:08:00
Geneva is piling on the glitz at this years 2008 motorshow. Not to be outdone by the automotive giants of this world, smaller bespoke coachbuilders and tuners are also vying for the spotlight.Conducting what most would think as the impossible, Mansory have long been famed for taking the most prestigious brands in the industry and making them even more prestigious. Marques such as Aston Martin, Bentley and Rolls Royce have often received the Mansory treatment. However, this time the Bavarian customiser has turned its attention to the prancing horse from Maranello. Using the Ferrari 599 GTB Fiorano as a base is always going to give you a big advantage from the start.In summary, Mansory have included some lightweight carbon fibre body panels, modified the interior with an exotic birds hide and more importantly tweaked the engine to make what they call the “Mansory Stallone”.The carbon fibre modifications are mainly reserved for the downforce enhancing body kit which comprises of a ...
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"Woody" Cars At Geneva 2008
2008-03-05 09:04:00
Castagna Milano will show three models at the Geneva Auto Show this march, including the Rolls-Royce coupe you seen recently. The other vehicles feature a wood exterior, and are known as woodys.Based on the Fiat 500, the Woody Wagon features wood inserts on the sides and rear which create a retro feel. The rear door has been replaced with a new unit that increases load capacity to 440 dm.Mini Clubman models can be outfitted with the Passion Kit Woody. Like custom made furniture, owners will be able to select the type of wood they will have applied to their car. If wood doesn’t float your boat, the company also offers more modern material choices such as carbon fiber.Press Release”Dream factory” Genéve 2008 In the 2008 our claim will be as in the past “Dream factory”. This definition has been dedicated to Castagna in 1932 by a journalist during a visit in the factory of via Montevideo. In a single day event our Atelier will present its latest creations and projects to its in...
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New Toyota Sprint Series (UK)
2008-02-08 19:30:00
The Japanese have been providing affordable performance cars to the masses for decades now and Toyota have had their fair share of product offerings. So it only seems fair that Toyota (GB) PLC has signed up to be the major sponsor of the new Toyota Sprint Series 2008. A celebration of Toyota products new and old, the series aims to bring enthusiasts from all over the UK together to compete against the clock for top honours.Toyota has some serious pedigree in motorsport, particularly in World Rally Championship racing. The rally Celica’s and Corolla’s of the 80’s and 90’s were race vehicles based of street production models such as the Celica GT4’s, so expect to see some of these machines competing. In fact, Toyota still participates in competitive rallying with the TRD branded Corolla’s in some countries such as Australia. So from the classic high revving 1600cc Mk1 MR2 to the twin turbo 6 cylinder shove of a Supra, there should be plenty of action throughout the year fo...

WCF Test Drive: Cargraphic Porsche 911 Turbo
2008-02-08 19:28:00
While most Porsche 911 Turbo s we tend to test are brutal, beer-swilling, chest slapping beasts that have so much power they should really be tested for steroids, they’re not all like that. In fact while the headline grabbing display cars define a tuner’s reputation, most owners can’t turn their creations into these knuckle-dragging bodybuilders, because they don’t really own them.Most Turbos, especially in Germany thanks to its particular tax system, are leased, a nice little perk for a successful business. So they can’t go round butchering their car and have to settle for a variety of trimmings that include lip spoilers, wheels, exhausts and bolt-on goodies that can be removed without a trace. Cargraphic recognises the value of smaller, highvolume business, and has swallowed up a market ignored by many others.And that has led to a network of domestic and global distributors that can handle these simple upgrades in-house and as such they have become one of the bigger suppl...
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BMW M3 Race Edition Debuts in Chicago
2008-02-07 21:49:00
BMW introduced the new race-ready BMW M3 at the Chicago Auto Show yesterday. The highly specialized eight cylinder car will tour the American Le Mans Series in 2009, following a deal the BMW racing division made with Rahal Letterman Racing.As if the M3 wasn’t powerful enough, the racing edition sees an increase of 65 horsepower to a total of 485 hp. The aluminum DOHC engine also gets 368 ft-lb of torque. That increase will certainly be needed if BMW is to advance beyond their previous flashes of brilliance. BMW M3s took the checkered flag 53 times out of 118 races from 1995 to the end of 2006. Full vehicle specs are on the last page, following the press release.Rahal Letterman Racing is predominately owned by racing legend Bobby Rahal and American comedian David Letterman. Speaking on the partnership with BMW, Rahal said, "BMW has an illustrious racing heritage. Rahal Letterman Racing is eagerly anticipating, not only becoming part of that heritage, but helping to enhance it....
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Mitsubishi Eclipse Coupe, Spyder Revealed in Chicago
2008-02-07 21:44:00
Seems like all of us here at WorldCarFans are super-psyched about the debut of the facelifted Mitsubishi Eclipse Spyder and coupe. Both versions of the sports car were introduced to the world today at the Chicago Auto Show. Each Eclipse comes with either a 2.4 liter four-banger, getting 162 horsepower, or a 3.8 liter V6 engine, capable of producing 265 horsepower and 262 ft-lb of torque. 0-60 mph in six seconds is not bad at all for a car in this class. Dual exhaust pipes are found at the back of this car, along with new wheels, new front and rear fascias, and a spoiler for the GT models. Also standard on the car are big ventilated discs, anti-lock brakes, stability control, and HID headlights. You have your choice between the standard six-speed manual transmission, or a five-speed Sportronic. The cars are also available in shiny new colors, like Solar Yellow, Maizen Blue pearl, and Quick Silver metallic. Should consumer response on this car be as positive as we feel, Mitsub...
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Porsche Cayenne GTS Unveiled to North America
2008-02-07 21:43:00
Originally shown in Frankfurt, the Porsche Cayenne GTS got its North America n debut this morning in Chicago. In an event held during a reporters' breakfast at the Chicago Auto Show, the new Cayenne GTS was trumpeted, as well as plans to add a hybrid version to the SUV lineup.After years of dirtying-the-air accusations by environmentalists, Porsche has gone all-in on the green bandwagon. The company has been touting its Earth-friendly street cred by reminiscing about zero emission and hybrid models Ferdinand Porsche displayed in Paris 107 years ago.Porsche is also planning a Panamera Hybrid.The Porsche Cayenne GTS will be top of the line for Cayenne owners in terms of on-road capability. Powered by a 4.8 liter direct-injection V8 producing 405 horsepower, the SUV goes 0-60 mph in 6.1 seconds. The GTS will also be outfitted with a six-speed manual transmission; a first for any Porsche V8 sold in the U.S. 21-inch alloy wheels come standard, as well as air suspension, and the Pors...
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Chevrolet HHR E85 Runs Ethanol
2008-02-07 21:40:00
General Motors has significantly increased its brownie points as far as environmental lobbyists are concerned, by announcing a Chevrolet HHR SUV that runs on E85 FlexFuel too.GM’s strategy on FlexFuel models has been to run a combination of 15 percent petrol/ gasoline and 85 percent ethanol. This marriage of fuels results in a saving of up to 23 percent in CO2 emissions as far as HHR is concerned. A number of countries, including Brasil, are already heavy on the use of ethanol as an alternative for gasoline/ petrol. SUVs have been the hardest hit in the battle against harmful gasses, so the HHR will be welcome.The HHR will use two Ecotec engines, a 2.2-litre and a 2.4-litre, both of which can be run on E85. We are probably not at the state where E85 is a high-performance fuel yet, indeed the HHR is not likely to earn any speeding world records, but as the drag society already knows, the capabilities of ethanol as a performance-source cannot be questioned. So the future looks like ...
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