Bush's Auto Blog

Video: BMW M3 GTS Hits the Track

2009-11-07T23:41:00.004-05:00

BMW has released two new videos of the new BMW M3 GTS. This time at a BMW test track, where development engineers put the race bred GTS through it's paces. With 450 horsepower under the hood, loads of race inspired goods and lightweight frame, the new BMW M3 GTS truly was "born on the racetrack, to live on the street."

Click here to read my previous post of the BMW M3 GTS reveal.

Source: BMW (YouTube)

Video: Ferrari 458 Italia - Review by evo's Chris Harris

2009-11-06T21:46:00.004-05:00

Yes, in case you hadn't already heard, Chris Harris has left Autocar and made a new home at evo. As I've always been a fan of Harris' road/track tests, I couldn't wait to check out what his impressions of the Ferrari 458 Italia were.

Check out the videos below as Chris puts the 458 Italia through it's thoroughbred paces on both the road and track. I assure you, you will not be disappointed.

Road:

Track:

Source: evo

Porsche Boxster Spyder: New Photos and Video Released

2009-11-06T09:32:00.010-05:00

It was just yesterday that the 2011 Porsche Boxster Spyder was officially revealed. Now, Porsche has released new hi-res images of the car along with a new video titled "Unleashed." Also, note the color options pictured below. The 2011 Porsche Boxster Spyder will be available in seven colors - black, guards red, Carrera white, basalt black, aqua blue, artic silver and cream white.

Click here for full specs and information of the 2011 Porsche Boxster Spyder.

2011 Porsche Boxster Spyder Officially Revealed w/ Video

2009-11-05T23:23:00.013-05:00

Today, Porsche has officially revealed a lighter, faster and more powerful Boxster to their lineup. The new 2011 Porsche Boxster Spyder is currently the lightest car available from the Porsche. Weighing just 2,811 lbs, the Porsche Boxster Spyder "represents the true, purist form of the sports car – agile, powerful, open and efficient."

On the exterior, a new lightweight, Speedster-like top and side windows along with a Carrera GT style single-piece rear lid separate the Boxster Spyder from it's Boxster and Boxster S siblings. In addition to the aesthetical features, the Spyder is 20 mm lower than the Boxster S thanks to an all-new sport suspension. Rounding out the lot are exclusive wheels to the Boxster Spyder.

Under the hood, the 2011 Porsche Boxster Spyder features a 3.4-liter six-cylinder, mid-mounted engine producing 340 horsepower (10 hp more than the Boxster S). Though, 10 extra horses may not sound like much, considering the car weighs 176 lbs less than the Boxster S, acceleration is improved over the S. When equipped with Porsche's dual-clutch PDK transmission, 0-60 mph is reached in just 4.6 seconds and reaches a top speed of 166 mph.

Look for the 2011 Porsche Boxster Spyder to make it's world debut at next month's L.A. Auto Show and reach showrooms by February 2010. Pricing starts at $61,200.

To see and hear the 2011 Porsche Boxster Spyder in action, check out the video below!

Press Release:

2011 Porsche Boxster Spyder: Light, Powerful, Purist Roadster to Be Introduced at Los Angeles Auto Show

Porsche's newest entry will be the lightest in its line-up

ATLANTA, Nov. 5 /PRNewswire/ --

Weighing in at just 2,811 lbs., the new 2011 Porsche Boxster Spyder will be the lightest Porsche available - from a company known for lightweight, proficient sports cars. This new mid-engined roadster represents the true, purist form of the sports car - agile, powerful, open and efficient. This third Boxster model will join the Boxster and Boxster S and will make its world debut at the Los Angeles Auto Show, December 2, 2009.

The newest member of the Boxster family stands out from the other versions of Porsche's mid-engined roadster. Its low-slung, lightweight soft top - when closed - extends far to the rear to protect the driver and passenger from bright sunshine, wind and weather. This top, when combined with extra-low side windows and two striking bulges on the single-piece rear lid, provides the Boxster Spyder with a sleek silhouette reminiscent of the Carrera GT.

The Boxster Spyder features a 3.4-liter six-cylinder engine with Direct Fuel Injection upfront of the rear axle. Maximum output is 320 horsepower (hp), 10 hp more than the Boxster S.

The combination of 10 more hp and 176 pounds less weight than the award-winning Boxster S, plus an all-new sport suspension that lowers the Boxster Spyder 20 mm, a lower center of gravity, a standard limited slip differential, and exclusive wheels provides the kind of driving dynamics that back up the unique look. Aluminum door skins and lightweight interior door panels from the 911 GT3 RS contribute to the weight reduction.

When equipped with Porsche-Doppelkupplung (PDK) transmission and the Sports Chrono Package, the new Spyder, using Launch Control, accelerates from a standstill to 60 mph in 4.6 seconds. Top track speed is 166 mph - with the roof open.

Fundamentally, the entire Boxster family is the successor to the legendary 550 Spyder and RS 60 of the Fifties and Sixties, all sharing the same mid-engine roadster concept. Low weight and supreme agility combine to provide outstanding driving pleasure.

In 2004 and 2008 Porsche produced limited editions of the Boxster bearing the additional name Spyder, honoring the 550 and RS 60. In contrast, the new Boxster Spyder is a regular, but specially developed and upgraded production model as compared with the Boxster and Boxster S.

The 2011 Boxster Spyder goes on sale February 2010. U.S. pricing is $61,200.

Source: Porsche

BMW M3 GTS Revealed - Lighter, Stronger, Oranger

2009-11-04T23:12:00.002-05:00

BMW M-Power has introduced the world to the latest incarnation of the iconic BMW M3. Dubbed the BMW M3 GTS, this race car for the road is everything you ever thought a M3 could be (and maybe more). Cutting to the chase, this is the most hard-core M3 ever to hit the street.

Obviously, the car's bright orange paint-job is the first thing you will notice. But beyond the paint, the BMW M3 GTS features a Schwarzeneggeresque musculature, housing 19-inch wheels covered in 225/35 rubber up front and 285/30 in the rear. Six piston front and four piston rear fixed brake calipers, new yellow M springs, adjustable threaded suspension and adjustable front splitter and rear wing all let you know this is not your every day M3.

Inside, you'll instantly understand that the M3 GTS was not built to be a road car. The interior is stripped with the addition of racing seats with six-point harnesses, mounting points for a roll cage and a fire extinguisher and emergency cut-off switch where you'd expect to find a CD/NAV system.

Finally, the go-fast factor. Yes, the M3 GTS is more powerfull, but before I get to the engine I want to note the car's weight. Thanks to features such as a carbon fiber roof, insulation optimization, various lightweight interior parts and the use of Macrolon for the car's rear windows, the M3 GTS is considerably lighter than it's M3 counterpart. Weighing in at just 3,285 lbs, the GTS is roughly 420 lbs lighter than the standard M3.

So now, couple all the handling goodies, race prepped interior and light weight to a larger, more powerfull engine. The BMW M3 GTS features a 4.4-liter V8 producing 450 horsepower mated to a 7-speed dual clutch transmission. Power to weight works out to be a very impressive 7.3 lbs/hp! As BMW points out, "After all, the aim is to clearly beat the lap time of the legendary M3 CSL on the Nürburgring Nordschleife. And test runs certainly give grounds for optimism."

Look for deliveries of the BMW M3 GTS to start May, 2010 in Germany carrying a price of 115.000 Euro.

UPDATE: Two new videos released of the BMW M3 GTS on the track!

Source: BMW M-Power

"Welcome to the Family" - Porsche and IFC Create a Truly Spectacular Documentary

2009-11-04T20:29:00.004-05:00

Porsche and IFC (Independent Film Channel) have teamed up to create one of the best documentaries of the brand that I've ever seen. Titled, "Welcome to the Family," the film follows seven stories of Porsche owners and each special love affair with the marque. Check out the preview with Jerry Seinfeld below.

From Jerry Seinfeld to a twenty year old weekend racer, each owner's story is unique, yet all carry the same common bond. If you love Porsche, or just share the same passion of automobiles, this documentary is must watch.

Click here to watch the full 30 minute documentary from Porsche and IFC.

Do you have your own special Porsche story? Share it at Porsche's family tree website.

VW Jetta TDI Cup "Street" Edition - Coming January 2010

2009-11-04T14:17:00.005-05:00

After receiving numerous inquiries as to whether Volkswagen would create a VW Jetta TDI Cup replica, the folks at Wolfsburg have answered. Following the concept's debut at the 2008 SEMA show, VW has created the Jetta TDI Cup "Street" Edition. Here's what to expect.

At first glance, you'll know this is no ordinary TDI Jetta. Equipped with a TDI Cup Edition Kit, the TDI Cup "Street" features the front bumper, side skirts and rear valance that are found on the TDI Cup race cars. However, the upgrades are not soley cosmetic. In addition to the exterior upgrades, the VW Jetta TDI "Street" Edition also features larger brakes with red calipers, sway bars and European sport tuned suspension from the performance oriented GLI. Rounding out the package is a set of 18 inch Charleston wheels with performance all-season tires.

Under the hood, you'll find the 2.0-liter clean diesel engine producing 140 horsepower and 236 lbs.-ft. of torque. The 2.0-liter TDI can be matched to either the 6-speed manul or DSG transmissions.

Look for the Volkswagen Jetta TDI Cup "Street" Edition to hit showrooms January 2010 with a price tag starting around $25,000. Also, like the Jetta TDI, Jetta SportWagen TDI, Golf TDI and Touareg TDI, the "Street" Edition qualifies for an Advanced Lean Burn Technology Motor Vehicle Federal Income Tax Credit. The tax credit on the "Street" Edition is $1,300.

Press Release:

Jetta TDI Cup 'Street' Edition Racing Into Dealer Showrooms Soon

HERNDON, Va., Nov. 4 /PRNewswire/ -- Volkswagen of America, Inc. today announced the Jetta TDI Cup "Street" Edition will be available in dealer showrooms January 2010. The concept debuted in Las Vegas during the 2008 SEMA (Specialty Equipment Market Association) show. Following the SEMA show the concept was displayed at TDI Cup races throughout the country, where it was well received by enthusiasts and consumers alike.

"Since our inaugural TDI Cup series in 2008 we have received numerous inquiries as to whether or not we would offer a TDI Cup replica vehicle," said Mark Barnes, Chief Operating Officer, Volkswagen of America, Inc. "We're thrilled to announce that a special edition Jetta TDI Cup Street Edition will be available in dealer showrooms early next year. What makes this special edition so unique is that it features the optional, race inspired, TDI Cup body kit package combined with our clean diesel engine. The Jetta TDI Cup Street Edition is one exceptional special model that is as fun-to-drive as it is to look at," added Barnes.

The similarities between the TDI Cup race car and the "Street" Edition equipped with the optional TDI Cup Edition Kit are apparent at first glance -- the TDI Cup "Street" Edition Kit features the front bumper, side skirts and rear valance that are found on the TDI Cup race cars. The enhancements to the TDI Cup "Street" Edition go well beyond cosmetics. All "Street" Edition Jetta TDI's feature larger brakes with red calipers, sway bars and European sport tuned suspension from the performance oriented GLI.

The TDI Cup "Street" Edition is powered by the award winning 2.0-liter clean diesel engine that produces 140 horsepower and an impressive 236 lbs.-ft. of torque. The engine makes use of an advanced electronically controlled turbocharger and common rail direct injection technology, and can be mated to either a six-speed manual transmission or the highly acclaimed DSG® transmission.

Other standard upgrades on the Jetta TDI Cup "Street" Edition include sport seats with Interlagos cloth, and a leather-wrapped, multi-function steering wheel that features paddle shifters when equipped with the DSG transmission. Completing this dynamic special edition is a set of 18 inch Charleston wheels with performance all-season tires. This special edition starts around $25,000--staying true to the brands mantra of offering affordable German engineering that is a whole lot of fun to drive.

The Jetta TDI Cup "Street" Edition, like the Jetta TDI, Jetta SportWagen TDI, Golf TDI and Touareg TDI qualifies for an Advanced Lean Burn Technology Motor Vehicle Federal Income Tax Credit. The tax credit on the "Street" Edition is $1,300.

Like all 2010 models, the Jetta TDI Cup "Street" Edition also comes standard with Volkswagen's Carefree Maintenance Program, with this program there are no charges for the scheduled maintenance described in the vehicle's maintenance booklet for the length of the New Vehicle Limited Warranty -- three years or 36,000 miles, whichever occurs first.

Source: Volkswagen

2010 Saleen S281 Mustang - First Official Photos

2009-10-30T19:04:00.005-04:00

Until now, the only glimpse of the 2010 Saleen S281 Mustang was via a teaser photo originally posted on Saleen's Flickr page. Thanks to Brad Barnett at TheMustangSource.com, the first official photos of the new S281 hit the web just short of the car's official reveal at SEMA next week. Til then, enjoy the photos, we'll have to wait for the full details which will be posted next week.

Also, make sure to check out the full details of the 2010 Saleen 435S released in July.

Source: TheMustangSource.com via Autoblog

Video: 101 Year Old Becomes World's Oldest 2010 Camaro Owner

2009-10-30T16:32:00.005-04:00

At age 101, Virgil Coffman becomes the unofficial, world's oldest 2010 Chevrolet Camaro owner. Coffman, who has owned over 40 cars in lifetime is now the proud owner of a 400 horsepower, yellow and black, Transformers Edition, Chevrolet Camaro SS.

As you'll see in the video above, the salesman was a little hesitant to sell Virgil the car. However, after seeing how "bright-eyed and bushy-tailed" Coffman was, "he was ready for his new Camaro." When asked about his purchase, Coffman doesn't find age to be a factor. "What's the difference what you drive? I don't care if you're 100 or 50 or whatever you are. If you want something, get it, drive it!"

Source: YouTube

The BMW M5 Convertible the World Never Knew

2009-10-30T13:07:00.005-04:00

I'm sure even the most educated Bimmer aficionados thought this car was a myth. Like a Bavarian Unicorn, the BMW M5 Convertible does in fact exist. Built 20 years ago, this E34 BMW M5 Cabriolet was a one-off build by BMW that never saw the light of day, until now.

In fact, the E34 M5 Convertible almost made it to production. The car was planned to debut at that year's Geneva Motor Show, however sales concerns and worries of encroaching on the 3-Series' success led BMW to cancel the project just one week before the unveil.

Finally, BMW has confirmed the car's existence to a select few auto journalists at an event commemorating 25 years of the M5.

Click here for BMWblog's exclusive hi-res photo gallery of the drop-top M5.

Source: Autoblog via Autocar and BMWblog

Return of the Porsche 928?

2009-10-30T11:54:00.004-04:00

AutoExpress reports last week that Porsche "... is developing a luxurious, front-engined grand tourer – a spiritual successor to the 928..." I have to admit, when I first read the headlines, my heart rate raised a bit, considering I've always been a fan of Porsche's front-engined grand tourer. Whether or not this speculation comes to fruition, is another story.

As Autoblog points out, "The Brits at AutoExpress (essentially The Sun of car-related sites) have rendered Porsche's supposed 928 successor, and as expected, their report is rife with speculation, innuendo and conjecture." A "nice" way of saying, they're probably full of crap. That said, I still hope AutoExpress is right.

AutoExpress makes the argument that Porsche is lacking a front-engined GT car, which is true. The addition of a 2+2 GT would allow Porsche to compete with the likes of the Ferrari 599 GTB, Bentley Continental GT and Aston Martin DB9. Also, they note that the "new 928" would be based upon the Panamera. Essentially, deleting the Panamera's rear doors, shortening the wheelbase, and reshaping the J-Lo style rear end into more "muscular haunches and neater proportions."

Head over to AutoExpress to read the full story along with photos of their rendering.

Source: AutoExpress via Autoblog

Volkswagen Releases First Official Sketch of VW's New Mid-Size Sedan

2009-10-28T16:22:00.006-04:00

Details are scarce (that's an understatement, they are non-existent), but this is the first look at what VW has up their sleeves for the next "mid-size sedan." At first, I wasn't quite sure where the car would fall in VW's lineup. Would it replace the Passat? After a little digging, I found out the scoop.

According to TheCarConnection.com, "...[VW’s U.S. chief Stefan Jacoby] told TheCarConnection that the NMS would replace the Passat in the U.S. in an exclusive interview in Germany." So as long as the TheCarConnection has their facts right, and VW's U.S. chief wasn't giving false info, look for this car where the Passat used to be in possibly 2011.

Source: Volkswagen and TheCarConnection

Cadillac CTS-V Challenge Update: Jaguar shows feline cowardice, backs out of competition. Lutz comments

2009-10-28T13:06:00.007-04:00

The Cadillac CTS-V Challenge was, in theory, an awesome idea put together by GM's Bob Lutz with the help of the enthusiastic auto-journo's at Jalopnik. As Lutz (driving the CTS-V) was willing to challenge any high-performance sports sedan the world could throw at it. Jalopnik's Wes Siler was the first to step up, planning to drive a new Jaguar XFR against Lutz in the Caddy. As it turns out, Jaguar shows that the company's moniker is not only synonymous with a large, aggressive jungle cat but instead, is really just a big pussy.

Jaguar's PR man, Stuart Schorr told Jalopnik that they would be backing out of the competition do to the fact that the car, in stock form, would be too dangerous to complete five hot laps around Monticello. The reason for the concern is do to the car's brakes. As Schorr points out, "I said I was concerned that five hot laps without added brake cooling system could compromise the stopping power and thus create a safety concern for your driver."

Here's what Bob Lutz had to say about the Jaguar retreat:

"I think it means that the European high-performance sedans are excellent, even superb cars, but quite possibly not ready for racing laps right out of the show-room. The CTS-V is not only quicker, but will, in totally untweaked, stock form, run hot laps at any race track until it runs out of fuel. Transmission oil and diff oil temps are stable, engine oil temp doesn't go up, brakes get a bit more pedal travel, but don't fade. The street tires get a tad greasy, but handling and control remain excellent. "May the best car win"!"

So now what? Well, it seems that unless another automaker is willing to throw their hat in the ring, Wes will be driving another CTS-V against Lutz (meh). As far as I'm concerned, what's the fun in that? The good news is, Lutz will take on private owners in their cars. As it stands the CTS-V will race a BMW M5, M3 and an Audi RS4.

Source: Jalopnik, cadillac.gmblogs.com and TheGMSource.com

Video: OnStar Calls Hennessey Cadillac CTS-V After Pulling .99 G on 1/4 mile Launch

2009-10-25T20:01:00.006-04:00

Following an 11.07 sec. (128mph) 1/4 mile run of the 700 horsepower Hennessey V700 Cadillac CTS-V, the longitudinal G's created from the launch caused OnStar to detect a "vehicle event." Check out the video below as the in-car camera catches the whole thing.

It seems the ridiculously savage .99 g-force tripped the warning system into thinking the car was involved in an accident. I'm sure OnStar would have had a few more questions had heard the loud, loped idle of the car's high-cammed engine (notice the guy outside telling the driver to turn the car off).

Source: Hennessey (YouTube) via Autoblog

Video: First Promo Video of the Lexus LF-A

2009-10-23T14:27:00.003-04:00

You may have noticed by now, the Lexus LF-A is kind of a big deal. In order to keep up with the hype surrounding the first Lexus "supercar," I'd be remiss if I did not include this video. This is the first look at the LF-A in motion (with the exception of spy videos) set to the soundtrack of the 9,500 RPM redline, 4.8 liter V10 pumping out 560 horsepower. That means, turn up the speakers.

Click here for the full run-down on the Lexus LF-A

Source: YouTube

Lexus LF-A Officially Revealed at Tokyo Motor Show

2009-10-21T17:29:00.015-04:00

After a seemingly endless wait, Lexus has finally revealed their LF-A supercar to the world today at the 2009 Tokyo Motor Show. Building up to the premier, a few videos gave us a clue as to how awesome the LF-A would be. However, the real deal is far sweeter than any spy video or journalist commentary.

The Lexus LF-A is indeed the first supercar coming from the Japanese luxury automaker and is one hell of a way to break onto turf held by cars such as McLaren, Lamborghini, Koenigsegg and Ferrari. As you can imaging, the Lexus LF-A has a ridiculous supply of supercar goodies under the hood, so I'll just list the specs below.

4.8-liter 72-degree V10 putting out 560 hp at 8,700 RPM (that's 116.5 hp/liter) and 354 lb.-ft. of torque at 6,800 RPM
Titanium valves, connecting rods, forged aluminum pistons, dry sump lubrication and a titanium exhaust manifold
9,000 RPM redline
Six-speed sequential gearbox
Torsen limited slip differential
3,263 pounds with a 48/52 front-to-rear weight distribution
Power-to-weight ratio of 5.8 pounds/hp
20-inch BBS wheels wrapped in 265/35 ZR20 Bridgestone tires in front and 305/30 ZR20 in the rear.
65% of the body is carbon fiber
0-62 MPH (100 km/h) in 3.7 seconds
Top speed of 201.94 MPH
Production limited to 500 units at a price of $375,000

Keep in mind, that just scratches the surface. For more, check out the press release below.

For live photos of the Lexus LF-A at the 2009 Tokyo Motor Show, check out Autoblog's coverage.

Click here for the first official video of the Lexus LF-A

Press Release:

Tokyo, October 21, 2009 - Lexus announces today the official launch of the LFA, a two-seat supercar scheduled to go into production at the end of 2010 as the pinnacle of the Lexus "F" premium sports car series. Pre-sales start today.

Ultra-responsive and extremely stable even when taken to the edge, the LFA creates a sense of reassurance that opens up a new world of driving emotion, exhilarating the senses to move the driver in more ways than one.

The LFA combines high output, superb chassis design and meticulous aerodynamics to achieve instantaneous total-vehicle response characterized by high-rev, seamless acceleration echoed by a self-defining resonance from its 4.8-liter V10.

Only 500 units of the LFA are to be produced and sold worldwide.

A prototype of the LFA is now on display at the 41st Tokyo Motor Show, which is open to the general public from October 24 to November 4 at Makuhari Messe in Makuhari, Chiba Prefecture.

1. Packaging brings out the most in fundamental performance
Strong and light

The newly developed 4.8-liter V10 engine boasts exceptional power, while lightweight materials (aluminum alloy, magnesium alloy and titanium alloy) and a very compact size (smaller than a conventional V8) allows for optimal weight distribution and an exceptional power-to-weight ratio.

Carbon fiber reinforced plastic (CFRP) cabin enhances high body-rigidity and reduces weight. This unique cabin is 100kg lighter than a comparable aluminum cabin. Detailed analysis and precise matching of CFRP materials allows for high rigidity and low weight. LFA CFRP production technology, including unique CFRP-to-metal joining, was completely developed by Lexus.

Balanced

Relatively higher weight components such as the engine and transmission are placed within the wheelbase. A low center of gravity is made possible by the use of dry sump lubrication1, along with placing peripheral components (oil pump, water pump) behind the engine. Furthermore, optimal placement of the transmission and the fuel tank in front of the rear axle adds to this application of centralized mass. This minimizes weight shift during cornering and contributes to outstanding performance and stability. Lighter weight components, like the radiator and electric fans, are placed behind the rear axle.

Combined with a front-engine and rear-wheel-drive configuration, the short, wide and low body allows the LFA to achieve its target front-to-rear weight distribution of 48:52.

Driver-centered

The driver's seat is positioned near the LFA's center of gravity. The centralized seating concept (with the seat between the front and rear axles and closer to the left–right center) is made possible by the use of a rear transaxle and vertically stacked torque tube and exhaust pipes reducing the width of the center tunnel. The driver placement is aimed to provide maximum car-to-driver feedback, especially under sport or high G-force driving conditions.

2. Emotive performance embodies an extraordinary driving experience High–rev engine

Titanium valves, ultra–light weight rocker arms with a diamond–like coating and a fully integrated lower crankcase that reduces pumping losses at high RPMs combine to provide the driver with overwhelming acceleration right up to the 9,000rpm redline. The LFA's purpose-built V10 delivers 90% of its peak torque between 3,700rpm and 9,000rpm.

Precise Response

Independent, electronically controlled throttle bodies ensure precise air-feed to each of the 10 cylinders, enabling immediate engine response from the accelerator pedal. The engine response time is approximately half the normal response time of a single-throttle valve.

The six-speed ASG transmission features heavy-duty synchronizer rings and a newly developed gearshift actuator, providing the driver with a very direct shift feel. Four selectable driving modes and a seven-stage shift-speed selector that results in upshift speeds down to 0.2 seconds provide a higher level of driver control.

Track-sized high-performance (Carbon Ceramic) CCM brake discs and Electronically Controlled Braking system generate ultra-powerful yet stable braking.

Responsive handling and engaging dynamics

The very light and rigid CFRP cabin, combined with a front double-wishbone suspension and a rear multilink suspension, result in a very stable, controlled ride. Detailed aerodynamic engineering results in elements such as a flat underbody, a diffuser and a speed-controlled rear wing, which allows precise vehicle response at all vehicle speeds, thus creating unity between driver and machine.

Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management integrates numerous vehicle dynamic functions that provide a high level of vehicle stability and preventative safety without interfering with the driver's intentions, especially when sport driving.

Exciting engine sound and L-finesse2 design
Equal-length exhaust manifolds combined with an equal-length dual exhaust system routed through a multistage titanium main muffler fine tunes the exhaust note.

An acoustically tuned surge tank linked to 10 individual throttle bodies creates a powerful induction sound. The coordination of intake and exhaust sounds overlap at various RPMs to create a unique, exciting and inspired soundtrack.

The exterior design includes carefully tuned aerodynamics and airflow management. The use of CFRP, in addition to strength and weight advantages, frees up the design of the exterior panels allowing a fresh supercar L-finesse design. The interior design combines state-of-the-art instrument-panel design and technology, along with a variety of custom-tailored interior trim packages to suit the most discerning driver.

Sources: OmniAuto and Autoblog (2)

Dealer Wrecks Customer's Koenigsegg CCX on Joy Ride

2009-10-21T17:15:00.003-04:00

If you own an expensive car (or just love the car you own), you've probably had that worried feeling after dropping your car off at the dealer or mechanic. Part of you hopes that they don't break anything while performing the service and the other half is terrified by the thought of an employee taking your supercar for joy ride. This post covers the latter.

A car dealer in New York decided it would be a good idea to take a customer's $500,000+ 2008 Koenigsegg CCX for a joy ride through the city. As you can see from the photo, the result was far from "joy." According to the report from Wrecked Exotics, the dealer not only crashed into a guard rail but also managed to hit a 2009 Porsche 911 GT2 in the process.

Source: Wrecked Exotics via Carscoop

AmericanMuscle - On the Set of SpeedTV's Pass Time

2009-10-14T10:16:00.002-04:00

September 30, 2009, MALVERN, PA — Surely a sign of the looming apocalypse, AmericanMuscle.com recently went under the bright lights, and behind the scenes of a nationally broadcast TV show, SPEED TV’s hit game show Pass Time. Filmed on location at many of America’s favorite grass roots drag strips, Pass Time offers a chance for any would-be drag racer, whether first timer or experienced pro, Mustang or minivan, to make a run pass as two contestants attempt to predict 1/4-mile drag times to win cash. Simply put, “Guess the time, win the cash – it’s that easy,” according to show host Brett Wagner.

As the current owner of three Ponies, AmericanMuscle.com on-the-phone Mustang expert Karen Baum is no stranger to the track. In fact, she’s been drag racing Mustangs for years, but never before in front of the cameras of a popular TV show. Karen, and fellow AmericanMuscle staffer Dave Kaeck, took their Mustangs to Maryland International Raceway where Pass Time producers selected the AmericanMuscle customer service rep out of 500 candidates to “make a pass” on camera. Driving an AmericanMuscle-prepped ‘03 GT Coupe, the Mustang enthusiast put the pedal to the metal and left all expectations in the dust in her first primetime appearance.

While Karen was getting ready for her SPEED TV debut, AmericanMuscle went behind the scenes to get a first-hand look at how Pass Time producers can turn a day at the drag strip into an engaging game show. From the host Brett Wagner, to Ken “The House” Herring, to Paige the ultra-hot car wrangler, these on-air personalities form the heart of the show. Add in two long days of passionate behind-the-scenes work and somehow the dedicated Pass Time team manages to turn out nine speed-filled episodes every time they pull into a drag strip.

To get a better look at AmericanMuscle’s time at Pass Time, visit: http://blog.AmericanMuscle.com/, or for the YouTube video go to: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uF-6SZ6J61Q.

Video: John Mayer Cruises Through Malibu in his Gulf Livery Ford GT

2009-10-14T08:10:00.004-04:00

Who knew John Mayer had such good taste in cars? While reading Jalopnik today, I came across their post showing John Mayer fueling up his Gulf livery Ford GT (photo above). After a little Googling, I found something even better. Check out this video of Mayer driving his Ford GT through Malibu to his garage.

Video: X17online.com
Photo: Celebrity Cars Blog via Jalopnik

2011 Volvo S60 Spied Testing New Safety Systems in Copenhagen w/ Video

2009-10-13T00:31:00.007-04:00

The people of Copenhagen may have been quite confused as to what the strange black car was doing driving their city streets. In fact, the car is a 2011 Volvo S60 test mule in full camo using the Danish city as a test bed for Volvo's latest safety systems, including such features as a new pedestrian collision warning system. Check out the video below for the full report.

Press Release:

Volvo Cars tests new, unique safety technology in Copenhagen – in a disguised S60 prototype

Recently, sharp-eyed citizens in Copenhagen have had the opportunity to get a sneak preview of the upcoming, sporty Volvo S60 – which won’t be introduced to the world until next year.

The new technology – Collision Warning with Full Auto Brake and Pedestrian Detection – will be introduced together with the all-new Volvo S60 in 2010. Volvo Cars’ safety experts have been working with Pedestrian Detection technology for ten years and test cars have been rolling all over the world – most recently in the busy streets of Copenhagen.

“Factors like traffic behaviour, road conditions and climate must be taken into account in the design of the final system. All told we have collected more than 500,000 kilometres of real-life data. We can also use the information from these traffic tests to conduct advanced computer simulations,” says Thomas Broberg, Senior Safety Advisor at Volvo Cars.

The next step – protecting the unprotected

The new safety functions in Collision Warning with Full Auto Brake and Pedestrian Detection represent the next stage in Volvo Cars’ continuous development of technology to detect risky situations and help the driver mitigate or avoid accidents by providing support in the decision-making process.

“The previous stages were developed to help the driver avoid collisions with other vehicles.

Now we are taking a giant step forward with a function that also boosts safety for unprotected road-users. What is more, we are advancing from fifty percent to full automatic braking power. To the best of our knowledge, none of our competitors have made such progress in this area,” explains Thomas Broberg. He adds:

“This technology helps us take an important step towards our long-term vision of designing cars that do not crash. Our aim for 2020 is that no-one should be killed or seriously injured in a Volvo.”

First a warning, then automatic braking

Collision Warning with Full Auto Brake and Pedestrian Safety consists of a new dual-mode radar unit integrated into the car’s grille, a camera behind the inside rear-view mirror and a central control unit. The radar and camera continuously monitor the road in front of the car. The radar’s task is to detect objects and measure the distance to them. The camera determines what type of objects they are.

In an emergency situation, the driver is first alerted by an audible warning together with a flashing light in the windscreen’s head-up display. In order to prompt an immediate, intuitive reaction, the visual warning is designed to look like a brake light coming on. If the driver does not respond to the warning and the system assesses that a collision is imminent, the car’s brakes are applied with full braking power.

“Active brake deployment requires that the object is confirmed by both the radar and the camera. Thanks to state-of-the-art sensor technology, it is now possible to engage full braking power,” explains Thomas Broberg.

Accidents with pedestrians common in urban traffic

In the EU countries’ capital cities, 1,560 people died in road accidents in 2007. Of these, 43 percent were pedestrians. The speed of the car is of considerable significance to the outcome of an accident and the risk of a pedestrian being killed in an accident at 50 kilometres per hour is 85 percent higher compared to if the speed is 25 kilometres per hour.

“Our aim is that this new technology should help the driver avoid collisions with pedestrians at speeds below 25 km/h. If the car is travelling faster, the aim is to reduce the impact speed as much as possible. In most cases, we can reduce the collision force by about 75 percent. Considering the large number of pedestrian fatalities that occur, if we manage to lower the fatality risk by 20 percent this new function will make a big difference. In specific situations the fatality reduction can be up to 85 percent,” says Thomas Broberg.

Source: egmCarTech and YouTube

Video: Two Lexus LF-A's Spied at Nurburgring Gas Pumps

2009-10-13T00:19:00.003-04:00

Seeing as we're less than a week away from the car's official reveal at the Tokyo Motor Show, Lexus LF-A fever is at an all-time high (at least for me). Here's a short video of two Lexus LF-A test cars leaving the gas station at Nurburgring. Thankfully, the drivers weren't bashful with the throttle.

Source: YouTube via egmCarTech

Video: Just How Awesome is the Lexus LF-A?

2009-10-12T23:50:00.008-04:00

So I've been wondering, "just how awesome is the Lexus LF-A?" Thanks to Dutch auto journalist, Thomas Bangma, I now know. In Bangma's words, the Lexus LF-A is "the best car I've ever driven in my whole life as an auto journalist." He also ranks the LF-A with such high company as the McLaren F1 and Pagani Zonda. Listen to that engine!

Source: YouTube via Jalopnik

Spied: 2011 US-Spec Ford Fiesta Images From Mexico Assembly Plant

2009-10-12T22:53:00.008-04:00

The 2011 Ford Fiesta is certainly getting closer to reaching American soil (so get ready to compare car insurance). Caught at Ford's Mexican assembly plant, these photos show only a few alterations are visible on the US-Spec Ford Fiesta.

Though disassembled (or being assembled) these photos are the first showing the 2011 US-Spec Fiesta without camouflage. The only changes to the US-Spec Fiesta appear to be made to comply with DOT requirements. Both front and rear bumpers are slightly extended along with the addition of amber turn indicators.

Source: Left Lane News

Very Cool Honda NSX Police Car from Japan w/ Video

2009-10-12T21:43:00.004-04:00

I always jump at the chance to write a post about exotic police cars. This has to be one of greatest examples of high performance law enforcement I've ever seen. A Honda NSX Police car from Tochigi Prefecture, Japan. Also, check out the Subaru WRX STi in the background of the video, donning the same Police regalia.

Reportedly, the NSX was donated to the Tochigi Prefecture Police by Honda and is used primarily as a highway patrol car.

Source: YouTube and Jalopnik
Photo: Wikipedia

Lamborghini LP 640 JB-R - JB Car Designs Takes on the Murcielago LP640

2009-10-12T17:06:00.007-04:00

You may have noticed, there aren't too many "tuned" Lamborghinis out there. Mainly because it's hard to upgrade perfection. However, JB Car Designs took the challenge by tuning a Lamborghini Murcielago LP640 and managed to make a truly awesome exotic car even more awesome and more exotic with their LP 640 JB-R.

At first glance you're most likely staring at the ridiculously exotic paint job. When I say "ridiculously exotic," I mean it, really. The paint is known as "Blood to Black Diamond" and takes rare paint schemes to another level. The paint is patent registered by JB Car Designs and costs a staggering €280 per liter and is limited to only 911 liters worldwide.

Aside from the paint, various carbon fiber additions and custom aero-kit, the Lamborghini LP 640 JB-R boasts two levels of power derived from the upgraded V12. Horsepower will range from 710 and 750 horsepower. Also, the car features a "premium flap controlled sport exhaust systems offers the best sound at the push of a button. With the provided remote control the customer can change the sound of the exhaust pipe while driving."

If you're interested, you can buy the demonstration car with only 9,000 km from JB Car Designs for €350.000,00 which is a steal considering the total cost was €500.000,00!

Press Release:

Lamborghini LP 640 JB-R - by JB Car Design

JB Design presents the ultimate car among the coupés. The LP 640 JB-R is a sports car of breathtaking fascination, menacingly power and uncompromising luxury. The 12-cylinder engine performs now after power level I (28.000,00 Euro) 525 KW (710 hp). The Lamborghini comes in combination with a changed underbody (ground effect) to an unbelievable final velocity. Not until the sports car has reached 370 km/h the air drag decelerates it. Gears are changed using a F1 steering wheel rocker switch.

No question, with the upgraded LP 640 JB-R JB Car Design has raised the bar for competition in the section super sports cars again a lot: with his increased performance up to 710 respectively 750 hp and his VIP-finishing in "Blood to Black Diamond" he not just delivers again a clear growth in output but an individual visual appearance as well. The patent registered finish is only available through JB Car Design. It costs (ready to be sprayed on) 280,00 Euro per litre and is limited to 911 litre worldwide, whereby the exclusivity is guaranteed.

The sharpened version of the LP 640 JB-R is as close to racing as no other car with MOT approval. But luxury is also to be found, as for example in the interior. The whole interior was colour adjusted to the exterior by using high quality materials in combination with dark red Ultrasuede and black smooth leather in bi-colour as well as little extras made of carbon fibre. In addition very decent and in black: tinted windshield, back and side windows (2.370,00 Euro including the approval of the Technical control board).

After having made over the interior it is now turn of the wheelset. New three part 20" Schmidt Revolution aluminium rims with hardened outer rim made of stainless steel in combination with Michelin wide base tires size 265/30-20 and 335/30-20.

As impressive as the sprint on the long straight stretch might be, most fun with the LP 640 JB- R you have in the curves. This is the reason why JB Car Design has intensified the abrasion by using their own aerodynamic-package consisting of front- and rear spoiler, rear diffusor, air intake in the front, side coverings, side skirts, the front opening hood as well as the engine hood. They have newly adjusted the running gear and tuned the super athlete thus he practically sticks to the street.

The built in, premium flap controlled sport exhaust systems offers the best sound at the push of a button. With the provided remote control the customer can change the sound of the exhaust pipe while driving.

The demonstration car is available for a price of 355.000,00 Euro ( YOC 2008, 9.000 km). The original price incl. the costs of the conversion is 500.000,00 Euro!

Source: Jalopnik