Tuesday, November 30, 2010
Ford Mustang GT modif with Combat Aircraft Concept
2011 Nissan 370Z Reviews
2011 Nissan 370Z ReviewsNissan did not deliver on its plans to unveil a hybrid 370Z in 2011, but the high performance sports car does deliver unparalleled features in the 40-year Z-series tradition.
Nissan is offering three models of the 370Z convertible roadster: the standard entry level model, the Touring car, and the 370Z Touring with Sport Package option. The 370Z Coupe series features three model options plus the NISMO 370Z. Falling far short of the fuel efficiency figures for Nissan’s drawing board hybrid model, the 2011 Nissan 370Z reports 18 mpg in traffic and 25 mpg on the highway, manual or automatic alike. These high-performance vehicles use high-test fuel as well.
The 2011 Nissan 370Z has the loud engine and quick, responsive handling that sports car enthusiasts love. With smooth, powerful acceleration and stable steering control, this Nissan is a snappy commuter vehicle as well as a high-performance ride. Braking is smooth and controlled.
The spoiler on the NISMO model sits high enough to obscure rear visibility, as well. Add-ons such as the Nissan Hard Drive Navigation System with touch-screen convenience, XM NavTraffic, and XM NavWeather add tech points to the 370Z control panel. Before you visit any local Nissan dealers, used car sales lots with a "2011 Nissan 370Z" or check out any new Nissan deals, make sure you read our automobile reviews and automobile ratings about the 2011 Nissan 370Z you are considering. It could mean the difference between purchasing a great Nissan 370Z or throwing your money away on a problematic Nissan 370Z.
All car ratings and car reviews are submitted by our visitors and the Modified Life community.
Did you used to have an Nissan 370Z you loved or an "Nissan 370Z" you hated? Help others by posting a review about any Nissan 370Z you own or any Nissan vehicle you used to own on Modified Life. The crew over at Inside Line got its hands on some rather curious spy photos of the new 2011 Nissan 370Z 40th Anniversary Edition.
Inside, IL claim's you'll find the "standard Z Touring seats" covered in red leather.
According to Inside Line the only exterior badging that distinguishes the 40th Anniversary car from lesser Zs is a small plaque on the car's rear bumper, just below 370Z. Could it be that Inside Line has additional "spy photos" of the 40th Anniversary Z's rear and isn't posting them?
HONDA UNVEILS BRIO PROTOTYPE THE CITY CAR
In this few month, honda brio is ready to launch to public.The smallest Honda sold in the U.S. market is the 2011 Fit subcompact, its well-reviewed and enormously versatile five-door hatchback.
But other markets demand different types of cars, and today at the Thailand Motor Expo, the company unveiled the Honda Brio prototype, a lightly disguised version of a minicar it will put into production early next year for buyers in emerging markets PRESS RELEASE:
Honda Exhibits World Premiere of Honda BRIO Prototype, Honda's New Small Vehicle Developed for Asian Markets at the 27th Thailand International Motor Expo 2010
Bangkok, Thailand, November 30, 2010 - Honda debuted the world premiere of a prototype of Honda BRIO, the new small-sized vehicle developed for Asian markets and scheduled to be introduced in Thailand and India in 2011, at the 27th Thailand International Motor Expo starting November 30, 2010 (press day: November 30, public days: December 1-12.)
Honda BRIO Prototype is being developed with Honda's advanced technologies, while further advancing Honda's "man maximum, machine minimum" concept*1. Being developed as a commuter which is easy-to-use even in urban areas, the Honda BRIO prototype adopts an easy-to-handle compact body (length 3,610mm x width 1,680mm x height 1,475 mm) while ensuring enough cabin space achieved by highly efficient packaging. With this vehicle, Honda thoroughly pursued the creation of an advanced exterior form, which is compact while asserting a strong presence.
For the mass-production model, which will be an entry-level car, for which demand is increasing in newly emerging nations, Honda will develop unique versions for Thailand and India to reflect different customer needs in those markets. Moreover, with this vehicle, Honda will leverage the resources Honda has cultivated through its motorcycle business and utilize local sourcing of parts and materials such as sheet steel.
For the Thai model that is scheduled to be introduced in March 2011, the fuel economy of more than 5liters/100km*2 will be targeted so that the vehicle will qualify as an eco-car by the Thai government, and a starting price of approximately 400,000 baht will be targeted as well. For the Indian model that is scheduled to be introduced within 2011, local customer needs for a small car will be reflected and local content will be increased to create a model that achieves a good balance between vehicle performance and price.
"Honda would like to expand the joy of mobility to more customers in Thailand, India and other Asian countries through the introduction of a new small vehicle with compact and highly efficient packaging by utilizing our own experiences cultivated by motorcycle business here in Asia," said Takanobu Ito, President and CEO of Honda Motor.
MINI axes jobs at Oxford plant (UK)
290 workers are to lose their jobs at the MINI plant in Oxford.
A statement from the company said that almost 300 agency workers would lose their jobs as a result of a decision to cut its Friday late shift from January.
MINI says the move is a temporary measure to balance production with the current downturn in demand for new cars. MINI announced earlier this month that it was to reduce production at its Oxford and Swindon plants and extend the Christmas break by 2 weeks.
Nissan Navara Reviews
Nissan Navara Reviews
Nissan’s big Navara pickup has been one of those niche products with staying power.
People liked the Spanish-built Nissan Navara chunky looks and separate chassis, with a switchable two/four-wheel-drive system which gave it genuine skills off tarmac, and Nissan sold far more “Navara pick ups” than they did Pathfinder 4×4s, which were essentially the same vehicles, but with big, station wagon bodies and independent coil spring rear suspensions, rather than the pick up’s rear axle’s hefty leaf springs.
The Nissan Navara claimed combined 33.2mpg is a notable improvement on the old model’s 28.8mpg.
With stiff rear springs (intended not to sag if the load bay, with its clever range of fixing points, is filled with heavy gear), the "Nissan Navara" ride proved un-jittery when semi-loaded. For those who like even more power, Nissan is also offering a 3.0 litre V6 diesel in the Nissan Navara for the first time.
No nonsense 2x4 and 4x4 strength with modern comfortable interiors are why the latest Nissan Navara vehicle is such a success. Built for the toughest conditions, the Nissan Navara gets the work done with minimal fuss.
Standout features for this year are things like: a 3-tonne towing capacity, a lusty class leading turbo-diesel engine, advanced safety features, a balanced ergonomic dash, smooth detailing, chrome trim, alloys, power outlets and keyless remote control entry.
You’ve got it covered with the Nissan Navara. At first glance, you see a crew cab pickup truck with loads of features. The "Nissan Navara" is a tough muscular truck with loads of style.
The Nissan Navara range features plenty of power and torque. The Nissan Navara range is a strong ute that is such a loyal and robust working companion. Nissan's latest generation 4.0 litre V6 petrol engine is available on all Dual Cab models, and it's a true beauty. The 2.5 litre turbo diesel offers Nissan's latest generation common-rail technology. The diesel graces the Dual Cab and King Cab models. Naturally, being diesel, this engine returns impressive fuel economy and reliability. Switching from 2 to 4 wheel drive has never been easier in the Nissan Navara. The Nissan Navara's interior has dual zone climate control, cruise control, and comfortable and well designed seats with the option of leather.
The front seats are powered and heated, while the rear has a 60/40 split bench seat, thick rich carpeting, and an in-dash CD auto-changer with steering wheel controls, tilt steering, air conditioning, electric sunroof and fold flat passenger seat.
Your safety isn't compromised in the Nissan Navara either, with front and rear crumple zones. You will quickly realize that the Nissan Navara isn't any ordinary mundane truck.
Nissan Navara Dual Cab DX 4x4 Turbo Diesel 3.0
Nissan Navara Dual Cab RX 4x4 2.5
Nissan Navara Dual Cab RX 4x4 4.0
Nissan Navara Dual Cab ST-R 4x4 Turbo Diesel 3.0
Nissan Navara Dual Cab STX 4.0
Nissan Navara Dual Cab STX 4x4 2.5
Nissan Navara Dual Cab STX 4x4 4.0
Nissan Navara Single Cab 3.0 DX Diesel 4x4
Nissan Navara Single Cab ST-R 4x4 Turbo Diesel 3.0
Nissan Navara is a double cab and this feature makes it advantageous over others. It is true that, all big cars do not offer better performance especially with heavy load vehicles.
Here are a few details what Navara is capable of.
Front end is revised with a new designed grille and bumper.
Nissan Navara is available in different trim options. Navara does not lack the common features like stability control, cruise control, surround sound system, rear view camera etc. Safety features include the stability control and fully loaded air bags including the side screen air bags.
The all new V6 diesel engine is built primarily to offer economy and class performance with reduction in CO2 emission. Power developed is 170 KW with 550 Nm torque. Maximum torque is available at a low 1700 rpm and is available all the way up to 2500 rpm. One adopted technique includes the Overcooling exhaust gas which reduces Nitrogen oxides emission. 2010 Nissan Navara is definitely superior to the previous model and impresses by offering comfort and luxury to passengers. "2010 Nissan Navara" will really be a good option if you adjust with the negative features it comes along.
Monday, November 29, 2010
2010 Mercedes-Benz Sport Cars Biome Concept
2010 Mercedes-Benz Sport Cars Biome Concept
Born out of the 2010 LA Auto Show’s Los Angeles Design Challenge, in which automotive designers are given free range to envision the future of transportation, the Biome is meant to blend seamlessly into the planet’s ecosystem. That means all components of the 2010 Mercedes-Benz Sport Cars Biome Concept car are “grown” organically, and it emits pure oxygen and is fully compostable at the end of its service life.
2010 Mercedes-Benz Sport Cars Biome Concept
The basis for the Biome Concept is a vehicle that "grows in a completely organic environment from seeds sown in a nursery." Not only that, but it's powered by a combination of the sun and a chemical bond from an imaginary liquid dubbed BioNectar4534. It's all natural, all organic and all science fiction.
"As the inventor of the motor car, we wanted to illustrate the vision of the perfect vehicle of the future, which is created and functions in complete symbiosis with nature. The Mercedes-Benz BIOME is a natural technology hybrid, and forms part of our earth's ecosystem. It grows and thrives like the leaves on a tree" according to Hubert Lee, Head of the Mercedes-Benz Advanced Design Studios in Carlsbad.
2010 Mercedes-Benz Sport Cars Biome Concept
This year the competition had called for the creation of a vision of a safe and comfortable 2+2 compact car featuring good handling and a first-class design, and weighing only 1,000 lbs (around 454 kg/kerb weight).
The 2010 Mercedes-Benz Sport Cars Biome Concept symbiosis vehicle is made from an ultralight material called BioFibre and tips the scales at just 875.5 lbs (around 394 kg). This material is significantly lighter than metal or plastic, yet more robust than steel. BioFibre is grown from proprietary DNA in the Mercedes-Benz nursery, where it collects energy from the sun and stores it in a liquid chemical bond called BioNectar4534.
2010 Mercedes-Benz Sport Cars Biome Concept
The 2010 Mercedes-Benz Sport Cars Biome Concept is powered by BioNectar4534, which is stored in the BioFibre material of the chassis, interior, and wheels. In addition, Mercedes-Benz has developed a technology to equip trees with special receptors which can collect the excess solar energy and turn it into BioNectar4534. This creates a direct link with nature's energy sources and acts as an incentive to cover mobility energy requirements through more trees and at the same time maintain natural resources.
The Los Angeles Design Challenge is part of the Design Los Angeles conference, taking place from 17 to 18 November 2010 as part of the Los Angeles Auto Show.
2010 Mercedes-Benz Sport Cars Biome Concept
2010 Mercedes-Benz Sport Cars Biome Concept2011 Honda Fit EV Concept electric car
The Fit EV is designed to meet the daily driving needs of the average metropolitan commuter and utilizes the same 5-passenger layout found in the popular Fit hatchback. When the Fit EV production model is introduced, it will be powered by a lithium-ion battery and coaxial electric motor.The high-density motor, derived from the FCX Clarity fuel cell electric vehicle, delivers excellent efficiency and power while remaining quiet at high speeds.
The Fit EV will have a top speed of 90 mph.
The Fit EV will achieve an estimated 100-mile driving range per charge using the US EPA LA4* city cycle (70 miles when applying EPA’s adjustment factor). Driving range can be maximized by use of an innovative 3-mode electric drive system, adapted from the 2011 Honda CR-Z sport hybrid. The system allows the driver to select between Econ, Normal, and Sport to instantly and seamlessly change the driving experience to maximize efficiency or improve acceleration. While in Econ mode, practical driving range can increase by as much as 17 percent, compared to driving in Normal mode, and up to 25 percent compared to driving in Sport mode. Acceleration improves significantly when in Sport mode, generating performance similar to a vehicle equipped with a 2.0-liter gasoline engine.
A special meter display advises the driver when to shut off air conditioning and other accessories to conserve battery power.
To help the driver deal with the electric vehicle ownership experience, the Fit EV will have a standard connectivity system that allows the driver to stay connected through a smartphone and personal computer, or the Honda-exclusive interactive remote, while away from the vehicle. The pocket-friendly, interactive remote provides connectivity to the vehicle without the need for an internet connection or mobile phone signal. Through the connectivity system, drivers will be able to remotely view the vehicle’s state of charge, initiate charging and activate the air conditioning, even while connected to the grid, to reduce the drain on the battery at start-up. The mobile application and website also offers the ability to set charging notifications and alerts to optimize utility rates, and provides 24-hour roadside assistance, along with a public charging station locator. The Fit EV will come equipped with a standard Honda Satellite Linked Navigation System™ that includes a public charging-station locator capability.
The Fit EV is designed to be easy and convenient to charge. Battery recharging can be accomplished in less than 12 hours when using a conventional 120-volt outlet, and less than six hours when using a 240-volt outlet.The Fit EV Concept displayed at the Los Angeles Auto Show features an exclusive Deep Clear Blue Pearl exterior color and distinctive five-spoke aluminum-alloy wheels with blue inserts. The Concept has unique LED headlights, a chrome front fascia, aerodynamic bumper, clear LED taillights and EV decals. Inside, the Fit EV Concept is outfitted in an eco-friendly gray bio-fabric on the seating surfaces.
Displayed alongside the Fit EV Concept at the show is a prototype Honda charging stand. To begin charging, the driver swipes a card in front of the screen and then connects the charger to the vehicle. The Honda charging stand provides a glimpse at the future of an electric-charging infrastructure that is easy to use and intuitive for consumers.
Displayed alongside the Fit EV Concept at the show is a prototype Honda charging stand. To begin charging, the driver swipes a card in front of the screen and then connects the charger to the vehicle. The Honda charging stand provides a glimpse at the future of an electric-charging infrastructure that is easy to use and intuitive for consumers.
2012 Ferrari 612 Scaglietti
The history of the 612 Scaglietti started in 2004 when Ferrari chose it as a successor for the smaller 456 M. It was designed as a 4 seater gran tourer with adequate space in the rear seats for adults. But, if we’re going to be honest, the 612 Scaglietti features the most out-dated design in all of the current Ferrari line-up.Thankfully, Ferrariis coming to the rescue with a successor to the Scaglietti. This new model will be unveiled next March at the Geneva Motor Show with sales beginning in the summer of 2011. Prices are said to be in the 300,000 euro area.
Ferrari has already confirmed that the next 612 model will feature lots of modifications, including a gasoline-hybrid technology which is a system Ferrari developed from the KERS system it currently uses in Formula One race cars. This system was already previewed by the 599 GTB Fiorano HY-KERS concept unveiled earlier this year.
Exterior and Interior
While the prototypes caught testing all over the world looked almost identical to the current 612 Scaglietti, the next model will adopt a totally new look. It will combine design elements from both the 458 Italia and the Vettura Laboratorio HY-KERS. The sports car will get a strong front, curved hood, and wider wheelbase.
The Engine
The current 612 Scaglietti is powered by a 5,748 cc V12 engine that delivers 530 HP and 588 Nm of torque. But the next model will adopt a hybrid drive train that will combine a V12 front engine that delivers a total of 550 HP with a 100-HP electric motor at the rear. This new system will help improve fuel consumption by at least 35%.We expect to see the same dual-clutch 7-speed F1 transmission as in the Vettura Laboratorio HY-KERS concept.
The Competition
The next Ferrari 612 Scaglietti takes on models like the Aston Martin DBS, which is also about to enter its second generation. The new Bentley Continental GT will also have a few reasons to fear the 612.
When Can I Get One?
The new Ferrari 612 Scaglietti will make its world debut in March 2011 at the Geneva Motor Show. Sales will begin in the summer of 2011; expect a price of around 300,000 euro, or $410,00 at the current exchange rates.
Nissan LEAF has won the European Car of the Year award
Now the two most prominent electric cars each rule a continent -- Chevrolet Volt in the U.S. and Nissan Leaf in Europe.
The all-electric Nissan LEAF just beat out 41 also-rans to be named 2011 European Car of the Year. The award comes in the same month that Volt won Motor Trend's and Automobile magazine's Car of the Year Award.
The "Nissan LEAF" was hailed as a breakthrough for electric cars and able to match conventional cars in many respects. A panel of journalists has named the battery-powered Nissan Leaf has been named 2011 European Car of the Year. It is the first all-electric car to be chosen for the award.
"The jury acknowledged today that the Nissan LEAF is a breakthrough for electric cars. The Nissan LEAF is also competing for 2011 North American Car of the Year honors, against a wide variety of vehicles that ranges from the extended-range electric Chevrolet volt to the Jaguar XJ luxury sedan. Nissan's battery electric Nissan LEAF has won the European Car of the Year award by a clear margin of nine points.
Sunday, November 28, 2010
Nissan Micra Reviews
Nissan Micra Reviews
With more standard features than some luxury European cars and a starting price of just $12,990 ($13,990 drive away), the all-new 2011 Nissan Micra is by and large one of the best light cars on sale
Nissan is a car company run by people that actually love cars (believe it or not, that’s a rarity these days). The only major Japanese manufacturer that has managed to keep its soul amid the global financial crisis by building models that appeal to the heart of every car enthusiast, whilst also staying in touch with the everyday car buyer.
With the new Nissan Micra, Nissan is not taking ‘no’ for an answer. The model is all about delivering an affordable light car jam-packed with so many standard features that it’s bound to put the competition to shame.
Although more conformist than ever, the new Nissan Micra now appeals to a much wider range of potential buyers and it makes Nissan Australia’s ambitious target of 1,500 Micra sales per month a conceivable possibility.
The new model also covers the entire light-car segment. To celebrate the launch of newNissan Micra, Nissan brought Australia’s automotive press to a roof-top car park of Docklands tourist centre in Melbourne. Given the Micra isn’t exactly a GT-R or 370Z, the traditional Motorkhana style (or MicraKhana as Nissan called it) was adjusted to suit the car.
Test the car in its native environment: car parks, busy streets, tight spaces and inner-city driving.
First up, a "Nissan Micra" Ti 1.5-litre automatic. 15-inch alloy wheels; reversing sensors; auto folding door mirrors; intelligent key; push button engine start/stop.
With 76kW and 136Nm of torque, the range-topping 1.5-litre four-cylinder Micra accelerates with reasonable pace from a standstill and also on the road, making overtaking manoeuvres an easy task. All Micra’s have a turning radius of just 4.5m, so they can do tight turns pretty damn well. There are some rather cool features inside the new Nissan Micra too, simple but clever things.
Nissan says one of the ways it has improved the new Micra is by building a lighter car. If you also happen to care about the environment, you’ll be happy to know the new Nissan Micra is 98 percent recyclable.
Sitting behind the wheel the first thing I noticed was the lack of telescopic steering wheel adjustment (pulling steering wheel towards you), which is disappointing. The dashboard controls are pretty easy to manage and the seats are pretty good for the price.
The "Nissan Micra’s" internal computer has an anniversary reminder so you won’t forget birthdays or other special days. This resulted in lots of handbrake turns around tight corners with the car’s electric stability control having a panic attack.
The boot isn’t all that spacious but 60:40 split fold rear seats allow you to make good use of the Micra’s little space. As far as interior-practicality goes, the Nissan Micra still trails the Honda Jazz’s (but it’s also much cheaper).
It’s hard to review a car like the Micra without treating it like your own. In and around Melbourne CBD it’s easy to say the Nissan Micra is ideal, but so are pretty much all the cars in its class.
Take it for a test drive and you’ll notice pretty darn quickly that the new "Nissan Micra" is a generation ahead of its main rivals. Unlike the previous generation Japanese built Micra, the new one comes from Thailand. The new Micra measures 3780mm long, 1665mm wide and 1525mm high. It’s sold in over 160 countries, so if you’re an avid traveller of places relatively unseen, you’re more likely to find a Nissan Micra than a Big Mac (sold in 125 countries).
As it stands now, if you’re thinking about buying a new light car you’d be mad not to put the new Nissan Micra at the very top of your list.
The once mighty Nissan Micra is a vaporous ghost in Tyne and Wear these days, haunting Nissan’s Sunderland factory where workers once toiled over the froglike supermini.
The Nissan Micra best year was 2003 with British sales of 42,000, yet the annual projections for this fourth-generation car are for about 18,000. But then you need to add 20,000 Juke sales, 15,000 Notes and about 7,000 Pixo models, so Nissan shifts about 18,000 more cars into the segment than when the Micra ruled this Lilliputian car world.
If sales projections are pared, so, too, is the rest of the new Nissan Micra, in weight, design and specification. Two transmissions are available to drive the front wheels; a five-speed manual and a continuously variable unit. Nissan is quite open about the type of buyer who will be attracted to the Micra. With steering that only adjusts for reach, taller and shorter drivers will need the height adjustable driver’s seat that comes with the Acenta trim. While rivals use soft-touch materials in this sector, Nissan’s plastics are hard, if well fitted. Top speed is quoted at 106mph, with 0-62mph acceleration in 13.7sec.
The result is a fine riding car, with good bump absorption and body control through corners. The electronically assisted steering system is well-weighted and, thanks to a London taxi-rivalling turning circle, the Micra feels nippy and wieldy in traffic.
Nissan may be a little known car maker in India, but that’s about to change. The Nissan Micra is also pretty practical.
Like all Nissans, there is no traditional key on this car. It’s the first for a B-segment car.
The Micra is powered by a 1198ccc three-cylinder motor that makes 79bhp but unlike other three-cylinder motors sold in India, there is no balancer shaft used. Nissan says it has engineered the car with fewer parts to keep the weight down, and it sure seems to have helped. The car feels nice and sprightly and acceleration is impressive enough to satisfy most drivers. Straightline stability on the car is impressive as well. With a wheel at each corner and most of the weight contained between the wheels, the Nissan Micra drives more like a big car than a little one. Nissan has offered automatic climate control, a feature that’s not common among hatchbacks. Of course, all these features are reserved for the high-end model and in basic trim, you still get power steering and front power windows (manual at the rear). The front seats are very comfortable and Nissan has consciously made the nose of the car visible from the cabin; this is apparently a common complaint from first-time drivers who will make up a fair percent of Micra buyers.
Nissan needs to improve the seat squab before launching the car in India. It is clear that Nissan, known for its engineering and innovation skills, has the know-how to build very effective small cars. The new Micra may not look wildly exciting but behind its cheerful, cute lines lies solid engineering and innovation. How well Nissan tunes and adapts this car for Indian conditions remains to be seen but we are confident that the Nissan Micra will take to Indian roads like a duck to water.
What we don’t know is how Nissan will price the car. Some say that Nissan might even undercut the Swift to get market share. If Nissan prices the Nissan Micra right, it has a winner on its hands.
2012 SSC Ultimate Aero II
Exterior Design
The outgoing Ultimate Aero was very generic in its looks. The body, like the rest of the car, was designed by company owner Jerod Shelby (no relation to muscle car legend Carroll Shelby). He admits that the need for slippery aerodynamics governed the outcome of the final product and being an engineer by trade, design wasn’t his greatest strength. Enter Italian American designer Jason Castriota who, in the beginning, had reservations about taking on the project. We couldn’t really blame him after looking at his impressive resume. He has penned cars for the very best in the industry: Ferrari, Pininfarina, Rolls Royce, and Bertone to name but a few. The last thing his career needed was to design a car destined for failure for a small company with more hopes than money or brains. After a visiting the facility and getting to know the staff and more importantly, their ideals and the car, he took the plunge and created what you see before you.
The outcome is breathtaking, especially once you peel the body work away to reveal how technically challenging it was to overcome the dreaded forces of nature at 200+mph, whilst packaging the required mechanical components. It is the ultimate example of form meeting function, to create a harmonious whole. We like the black teardrop shaped canopy that sits on top of the white exterior, creating a stunning contrast of power and beauty. The shape is classic and pivotal, and has a very low drag co-efficient. The car features dihedral stabilizers or wings that have been borrowed from the realm of aviation. The term “flying buttress” might be construed as a being a bit naughty, but they are actually wings that help support the structure of the car. In this case, they are those bits on the side of the SSC Aero II, which channel air towards the engine intakes – a Castriota design signature.
The front looks intimidating and purposeful with its low slung nose and carbon fiber headlights. Looking closely, you’ll notice venting for the carbon brakes and a cohesive front splitter that generates enough downforce to keep the nose planted at speed. There is no hood or luggage space, or any kind of compromise with this car. The side profile is sleek and sexy – there are no door handles or side repeaters and the car barely stands over a meter tall. Massive lower recesses house air intakes in front of the rear wheel arches and feed the ravenous engine and cooling radiators with much-needed cold air, while doing its bit to balance the look. It checks all the hypercar boxes and then some. Elements of the first Aero are maintained, most notably the party piece doors and simple-spoked wheel design. The latter being the first ever one piece carbon fiber wheels ever fitted to a car. They are products of Australian company, Carbon Revolution, and the 19" fronts weigh just 5.8kg each.
The entire body and chassis, save for front and rear impact zones, are all made from carbon fiber - further emphasizing lightness as key. This is not necessarily for top speed, but more for everyday driving and handling. All mid-engined cars require apertures in the bodywork to help get rid of heat – they usually take the form of slats or louvers but since this car is anything but, it features circular cut outs in various diameters to expel heat and generate pub controversy. Moving to the other-worldly rear, dynamics take over, with aesthetics playing second fiddle. The entire under floor of the car is sealed leading up to the rear which functions as the mother of all diffusers, complete with F1-style exhaust. From this angle, it does bear slight resemblance to an R8 and by slight, we mean slight – the proportions and shapes are similar. Between the rear stabilizers is a hydraulically operated air brake – ala Bugatti Veyron and Merc SLR that comes into play at higher-than-allowed speeds. Dimension wise, the Aero II is slightly more narrow than before to comply with FIA GT regulations, should they decide to race it.
Interior
The interior remains a bit of a mystery – probably because it isn’t 100% finished yet - but we could have a guess as to what to expect. There will be room for two with all the necessary creature comforts like seatbelts and aircon. We wouldn’t bet on heated and electric massaging seats just yet. Judging from the old model, whose interior was pretty sloppy, the new car’s interior has to be better and get the basics right. We believe the design will be based around a large central LCD display and have better quality finishes – after all this car does cost a smidgen under $1 million.
Performance
Do you really have to ask? The numbers on paper are staggering enough – even before getting to actual performance times and stats. The proposed record breaker is powered by a quad-cam, twin-turbo V8 displacing 6.8 liters. The engine, like all the other mechanical parts, are all developed in-house by SSC themselves. The new powerplant shares a lot with the old 6.2 liter item – the block and its innards are the same design, so are the dimensions and location of its 10 radiators. Changes come in the form of a four-valves-per-cylinder overhead cam (OHC) setup as opposed to push rods and new SSC spec turbochargers. The new setup is good for a colossal 1350HP and will rev to 9000RPM! Zero to 62mph will arrive in around 2.8 seconds and SSC claims a top speed of, wait for it, 275mph! The in gear acceleration figures are not known as of yet, but you can be sure they will be absolutely mind blowing. Thank goodness the new car will feature traction control, ABS with servo assistance, and Brembo carbon ceramic stoppers. We can’t even begin to imagine letting that kind of power loose on public roads without fear of being apprehended by the long arm of the law while experiencing acceleration that will rip your face off. This thing should sound the way it goes – an all turbo whoosh and snarling, angry V8.
Because it’s RWD rather than 4WD like our friend the Veyron, it’s lighter...much lighter. The Aero II weighs 1200kgs, a full 638kgs lighter than the comparatively pudgy Bugatti – and it produces more power. You don’t have to be a rocket scientist to figure out that the power to weight ratio is over 1000HP per tonne, putting it in the league of the Caparo T1. Where the Bugatti is luxurious, refined, and civilized to drive, the Aero II is raucous, unforgiving, and about as scary as a getting a shave from Edward Scissorhands.
Suspension remains as the same coilover setup and so does the triple plate carbon clutch. Whether it’s as good at going round corners as it is in a straight line still remains to be seen. One thing is for certain though, it will set your trousers on fire every time you use the pedal on the right.
Competition
In short, there is none other competition except for the Veyron SS and it costs $2.4 million, more than twice the price of the $970,000 Aero II. You could also buy a Koenigsegg Agera, but the price is unconfirmed and so is the top speed. The cars should be closely pegged, but we guess it depends on personal preference and if you’re into the whole “mine’s bigger than yours” thing. Let’s hope the Aero II will not squeak, rattle, or fall apart like so many other cars made by small firms in small numbers. The first cars will be delivered to their proud new owners around the last quarter of 2011.
Only time will tell whether SSC will bring the top speed crown back to the US.
Porsche 911
EXTERIOR AND INTERIOR
Among the additions Vorsteiner installed on the 911’s exterior include a VRT front bumper cover with spoiler attachment carbon fiber, a VRT rear bumper with diffuser carbon fiber for the LED tail lights, a VRT intercooler shrouds carbon fiber, a VRT aero engine lid with wing blade carbon fiber, a VRT sport roof replacement carbon fiber, an upgraded Porsche LED taillights, carbon fiber side mirror housings, and a custom clear bra protection on a number of parts including the bumper, hood, fenders, door and mirrors.
In the interior, there’s plenty more Vorsteiner additions, including a thicker sport steering wheel with red deviated stitching, sport aluminum pedals with heel toe extensions, sport aluminum floor boards, carbon fiber on the center console, rear ash tray, and seat belt trim, and plenty of Alcantara to go around including in the set inserts, as well as embossed in the arm rest, chrono pod, and hand brake with red deviated stitching. Finally, there are also Volrsteiner-embroidered floor mats with red piping in the front and rear.
PERFORMANCE
The Vorsteiner VRT 911 Coupe is powered by a horizontally opposed 3.6-liter V6 engine that produces 460 horsepower and 480 lb/ft of torque mated to a six-speed manual transmission with dual mass flywheel.
To further boost its performance, Vorsteiner also included a stainless steel exhaust system, performance intercoolers, a GIAC custom sport tuning programming & device switch unit,
and a KW hydraulic lift coilover system that raises the 911’s front end by one inch.
PRICING
The standard retail price for a newly outfitted 911 Turbo Coupe goes for $132,705, but seeing as this car already has some mileage to it – about 8,500 miles – the asking price has been dropped to $99,500. It might still be a high asking price for a slightly used Vorsteiner VRT 911 Turbo Coupe, although if you really think about it, all the modifications total to a price tag of $57,815.
2007 Porsche 911 Turbo Competition
2007 Porsche 911 Turbo Coupe by Vorsteiner
The Porsche 911 is a favorite among auto tuners for a number of reasons. First, it’s fast. Second, it’s fast. And third, well, it’s fast. Apart from being fast, the 911 has and will always be Porsche’s signature sports car and fans of the brand always seem to have an insatiable appetite for the 911, especially when it’s been given an aftermarket treatment.
German firm, Vorsteiner, knows the Porsche and the 911 all too well, having done a number of aftermarket projects on the brand and the model in the past. This particular project is a 2007 model that is being sold with a pretty generous discount. We’re not going to reveal how much the price is until after the jump, but if you’re looking for a tuned-up Porsche done by an authority in aftermarket projects for the Stuttgart brand, you won’t find anybody else better than Vorsteiner.
German firm, Vorsteiner, knows the Porsche and the 911 all too well, having done a number of aftermarket projects on the brand and the model in the past. This particular project is a 2007 model that is being sold with a pretty generous discount. We’re not going to reveal how much the price is until after the jump, but if you’re looking for a tuned-up Porsche done by an authority in aftermarket projects for the Stuttgart brand, you won’t find anybody else better than Vorsteiner.
New Car Collections | Panoz Abruzzi Spirit of Le Mans
Don Panoz has recaptured the spirit of Le Mans. This time, one of the world’s most forward-thinking entrepreneurs pairing his latest masterpiece car with the heritage of the world’s greatest motor race. The Panoz Abruzzi “Spirit of Le Mans” broke cover at the Circuit de la Sarthe, a suitable place for the world premiere of a groundbreaking car with a very appropriate delivery and acquisition program for its customers.
“This result in equal time, effort and dreams,” said Panoz, founder of the Panoz Motor Sports Group. “The Panoz brand has always proudly on hand-building and the provision of an exotic car and experience to our customers. Our new service takes this a whole new level.”
Abruzzo “Spirit of Le Mans is more than a technical masterpiece of Panoz Auto Development (PAD), based in Hoschton, Ga. It is a new chapter in automotive production and delivery tied to the world’s most demanding car race.
The super sports car will be offered as a strictly limited edition. Abruzzi only 81 “Spirit of Le Mans” cars will always be created, maintained according to the number of Le Mans 24 Hours competition between the start of the race in 1923 and the race in 2013.
The hand-made Abruzzi “Spirit of Le Mans” is a unique, front-engine, rear wheel drive transaxle and rear heater super sports cars – road-legal in Europe and many countries in Asia, the Middle East and South America. The drive train deliver 600-plus HP with 590 ft.-lbs. Torque. Advanced design and aerodynamic downforce and provide amazing traction.
The performance is just one facet that apart Abruzzo other exotics. It also breaks new ground in environmental design and construction, starting with the unprecedented implementation of the giant – provides system, the body environment, performance and structural advantages than any other body system on the planet – Recyclable energy-absorbing matrix system. Never before used on a road vehicle, the multi-layer composite system is lighter than carbon fiber or equal strength. Unlike carbon, it is dent-resistant, unbreakable and recyclable.
Abruzzi leads TRIFECTACOOLING technology. In addition to a normal high-efficiency coolers are to stage two and stage three systems, the low coolant temperature on both the inflow and outflow from the cooler.
“This is progress, start a new era of automotive design,” said Panoz. “It comes from our first road car – the AIV Roadster – PAD has a believer in efficient construction and design of this philosophy is our Abruzzo ..”
The Panoz Abruzzi back to a day when the driver would pilot their cars to Le Mans race twice around the clock then go back home. It essentially captures the “Spirit of Le Mans” with a never-before-seen acquisition program, which sets new standards for personalization and delivery.
Since the roots of the automotive dreams Panoz, it is only appropriate that the Abruzzo “Spirit of Le Mans” is the owner of the famous Circuit de la Sarthe be delivered there directly supplied by the Panoz factory. Each car will be linked to a specific race Le Mans 24 hours, even with the chassis number with that particular race date and the initials of the victorious driver and the story of the year.
Professional drivers will own drive in the car on the Bugatti Circuit in Le Mans to instruct. Service and repairs are also on the bodies of the ACO 24 Hours of Le Mans circuit in part.
New vehicle owners will also be invited to the 24 Hours of Le Mans and Panoz as guests of the ACO ACO on hospitality facilities in the Model Sportif “at the track. New owners will go to the one-time opportunity for a parade lap of the full 8.3-mile circuit at this year’s event.
During the race at Le Mans week a “Spirit of Le Mans” reception at the home of the famous golf club of the 24 Heuer in the historic town Arnage instead. The new owners this year will be the guests of the ACO officials and past “Spirit of Le Mans winner Jacky Ickx and Derek Bell as.
“The place with the ACO and Le Mans is very special to me,” said Panoz. “The ability to stand side by side with the heroes and legends of Le Mans gives me a sense of appreciation and enthusiasm for this great event. I felt it was important to our customers the same experience and I am grateful that our partners to the ACO for the help make this happen. ”
Panoz Auto Development produces the-art, fully-certified cars and is best for the first US-manufactured AIV (Aluminum Intensive Vehicle) known – the Panoz AIV Roadster. The Panoz Esperante body and chassis also extensively employs aluminum for performance, safety and efficiency. The Panoz Esperante GTLM deserves world-renowned stature as a race car after winning the GT2 class at the two Mobil 1 Twelve Hours of Sebring and the 24 Hours of Le Mans in a single year – 2006.
New Car Collections | Ford Fiesta RS WRC
Ford’s new challenger for the 2011 FIA World Rally Championship, the new Fiesta RS World Rally Car made its first global public appearance at the Paris Motor Show.
13. February – The Fiesta RS WRC will be premiered in competition Swedish Rally, the opening of the 2011 FIA World Rally Championship, the 10 . Make
For Paris, the preview model in a striking blue and gray livery, designed specially for the show of Ford of Europe design team has developed over. The new World Rally Car, the best-selling car Fiesta street derives developed by Ford of Europe and its partner M-Sport Rally.
Used as the basis of the Ford Fiesta S2000 rally car, the legendary Rallye Monte Carlo on his debut last January and other international and national rallies in 2010 won the Ford of Europe design team and M-Sport have worked together to fine-tune the styling of the to create body and aero package of the new Fiesta an exciting replacement for the outgoing Focus RS WRC.
Although no detailed changes may be made as the Fiesta RS WRC car, the development program will continue through the balance is pre-season tests this year and timely specialized to the start of the team, the final car will share the striking appearance and celebrated ‘kinetic design’ elements of style synonymous with the latest road Ford vehicles. The interior is also now available as Fiesta RS WRC rally car, as it contains a number of production parts.
The Fiesta RS WRC competition car is part of a new era for the World Cup. The Fiesta rally car will be equal to boast all-wheel drive transmission and a 1.6-liter turbo engine, the new Ford EcoBoost engine family based, with new rules.
The new Ford EcoBoost engine family features gasoline direct injection and turbocharging to maximize the performance and efficiency. “The introduction of the latest engine-Ford technology to its rally program further strengthens our commitment to motor sport. It also demonstrates our continued support for affordable competition from an off-the-shelf production engine on which our WRC power base,” said Mike Norton, the European motorsport manager have Ford engineers at Ford and M-Sport worked together closely in developing this 1.6-liter engine, bringing with prestigious French tuner Pipo Moteur additional know-how to the power plant.
The Fiesta RS WRC appearance at the Paris Motor Show, the car is the first major test program with the full 2011 specification engine on gravel roads in Spain next week. The car has almost 3,000 km of testing in the UK and France, which initially driven by the current WRC engine and more recently by a prototype 1.6-liter Ford EcoBoost turbo unit completed.
The test will take the first opportunity for BP Ford Abu Dhabi World Rally Team drivers Mikko Hirvonen and Jarmo Lehtinen and team-mate Jari-Matti Latvala and Miikka Anttila of the new Fiesta RS WRC.
Gerard Quinn, Ford of Europe’s motorsport director has charge of the Ford program to develop throughout 2010 and says. “We are pleased to have a preview of the Ford Fiesta RS WRC in such a prominent Paris Motor Show, as there are significant visual differences from the Fiesta S2000 base car and big changes under the skin. The biggest, of course, is the 1.6-liter Ford EcoBoost turbocharged engine of the original version that was Ford’s Powertrain Engineering team develops. ”
M-Sport managing director and BP Ford Abu Dhabi World Rally team director Malcolm Wilson is just as enthusiastic about the new car.
“This is is an exciting time for all involved in the auto-development,” says Wilson. is “Countless hours in the Fiesta RS WRC gone to reach this point, and this car, the public is presented for the first time a proud moment for us. We are satisfied on the right track with our development and the team with Tests to date. Another important step will be taken in early October, when the car tests in 2011, the full technical specification for the first time.
“We have a test car, under the leadership of our technical director Christian Loriaux. Mikko and Jari-Matti lead our challenge with the new car in the 2011 WRC, so their feedback is from the review of critical importance and will provide valuable data for our engineering team to work with, “added Wilson.
The Fiesta RS WRC is to replace the record-breaking Focus RS WRC Ford Championship challenger. The Focus RS WRC won back-to-back world championship titles manufacturer in 2006 and 2007, and its victory in New Zealand in May was the 75th Blue Oval WRC level, so that Ford’s most successful producers in the world championship history.
Ford has sold more than one million of the hugely successful, the latest generation Fiesta road cars around the world as they went on sale in October 2008. Fiesta, Ford truly global car, the No. 2 best-selling car in Europe.
The latest Fiesta has already proven his skills in motor sport to the test. The International Trophy for Sport Fiesta Fiesta cars R2 is a series of successful support to the FIA World Rally Championship and the Fiesta S2000 rally car is currently with the S-series support within the WRC WRC.
American sports icon Ken Block has advertised a fiesta rally car in the Rally America Championship this season, and the car won gold and silver medals in two Super Rally Car and Rally events at the X Games event in Los Angeles in July.
“The Ford Fiesta has already established itself as a serious contender in a range of global motorsports activities, and we can not wait until our official car of the highly sophisticated world rally championship debut next year,” said Gerard Quinn.
“We worked hard the car is without doubt the best-selling Fiesta road vehicle that is itself a global success story to ensure you. Ford’s design and product development teams have close and effective working with our partners at M-Sport, the enormous know -how to deliver the key not only a competitive rally car, but also a car that is stylish and seen a Ford Fiesta, “he added.
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