Lidia Todorova – Page 201 – Automobiles Review

2014 Lexus RC Coupe Unveiled

Tokyo Motor Show marks the debut of 2014 Lexus RC Coupe which will be launched next year. The car is based on the GS platform, however it differs in all dimensions from the GS and IS Lines.

The aggressive appearance of the RC has achieved via its deeply contoured lines and the integration of the widest and lowest application of the brand’s spindle grille. It is 30mm wider, 35mm lower and 70mm shorter in wheelbase than the IS Line.

Furthermore, the unique headlamps have L-shaped design at both the front and rear. The car runs on aluminium wheels offered in two choices – a deeply sculpted 10-spoke 19-inch and a muscular five-spoke 18-inch. To make the exterior even more expressive, the designers at Lexus have of course decided to paint it in red.

The same exclusivity of the exterior design is continued in the interior, where one can see an extensive use of contrasting colours, materials and lighting. For example, the Lexus-first lighting package delivers a great sense of occasion, with illumination that reflects upwards, rather than downwards.

Other highlights here include accents in genuine shimamoku wood, which surround the trim.

The driver’s cockpit is divided into operational and display zones. To be more precise, the upper zone houses the instrument panel and a seven-inch navigation screen, while the centre console integrates a new Lexus-first Remote Touch Interface.

The driving dynamics deliver their best thanks to the purpose-built chassis which is a result of the latest goal of the brand to achieve a world-class driving experience. Thicker underbody rocker panels enhance the two-door’s rigidity and support driving performance.

The handling package on the other hand includes aerodynamic aids to underbody. RC sports double wishbone front suspension and multi-link suspension at the rear.

Next, the aggressively styled coupe will be offered with a choice of two powertrains – 3.5-litre V6 petrol engine coupled with an eight-speed Sports Direct Shift with paddle shift transmission, and 2.5-litre hybrid system. The dual injection petrol unit generates 318 hp (234 kW) at 6,400rpm, and a peak torque of 380 Nm (280 lb-ft) at 4800rpm.

The hybrid system utilizes dual injected 2.5-litre four cylinder engine with a 143 hp (105 kW) electric motor driven through an electronic continuously variable transmission with six step gears in a sequential shift-matic feature. 2014 Lexus RC Coupe will drive either through its rear wheels or be available in all-wheel drive (AWD).

Advanced technology is also included here. For instance the upgraded Blind Spot Monitor detects vehicles that are near the back of the car and are driven in higher speeds. In addition, the innovative touch-sensitive Lexus Remote Touch Interface is there to aid the audio and navigation systems.

2014 Lexus RC Coupe Specifications:

	RC 350	RC 300h
Length (mm)	4,695	4,695
Height (mm)	1,395	1,395
Width (mm)	1,840	1,840
Wheelbase (mm)	2,730	2,730
Seating	4	4
Driven wheels	Rear-wheel drive	Rear-wheel drive
Engine type	2GR-FSE	2AR-FSE
Cylinders	V6	L4
Power (kW/rpm)	234/6,400	131/6,000
Torque (Nm/rpm)	380/4800	221/4200-/4800
Total Output kW	–	162
Transmission	8AT	E-CVT
Suspension	Front: Double wishbone Rear: Multilink	Front: Double wishbone Rear: Multilink
Tyres	255/35R19 + 275/35R19	255/35R19 + 275/35R19

Source: Lexus

November 20, 2013

xXx-Performance Updates Lamborghini Gallardo

Lamborghini Gallardo is one of the most famous sportscars which almost everybody has dreamt driving due to its speed, looks and aggressive road-stance. Surprisingly, the Lamborghini is powered by V10 engine and not by a V12 one and has no gull-wing doors.

The tuning specialists at xXx-Performance took a 2005 Gallardo and reconstructed it in a complex manner. They have added traditional LSD gull-wing doors and done some optical tuning. The latter extends the width of the body.

Also new is the front apron in LP560 design as well as the rear apron and the massive side enlargements. In fact, xXx-Performance endowed the rear with original parts made of real carbon from. We are speaking here about the rear flap, rear wing or also the side view mirror.

The exterior of the beast now sports a more glaring color. Thanks to versatile foil wrapping, the external shell is now in black chrome with the shafts of the side skirt, the interior edges of the front air ducts and the roof edge gleaming in neon orange.

And if one thinks that to give a Gallardo air suspension is impossible, then they surely should be disappointed. For this purpose, the tuners have used G-ride air suspension in combination with the specially adapted and two-fold hardness adjustable KW damping. The system has an electronic level regulation with integrated self-regenerating air-drying.

To round-out the exterior credentials of this tuned sportscar, the xXx-Performance modifiers has given it new set of shoes: exclusive mbDesign KV1 Deep Concave rims in the wheel houses in the dimension 9×20 inches with 235/30R20 tires in front and 12×20 inches with 305/25R20 Hankook S1 Evo tires in the rear. The rims were endowed with black chrome finish.

But this is not all that has been done here. The V10 here has been slightly reworked and the unit now generates over 560 horsepower (442 kW). This was achieved via special carbon air-boxes of BMC and the optimization of the engine software.

Next to the engine upgrade the tuning company added sports exhaust system that is capable of being controlled through Bluetooth. Optionally xXx Performance offers menacing biturbo conversions for the Lamborghini V10 in three power stages from 850 to 1.200 hp.

At last, the interior of the Gallardo was also improved. It now includes exclusive leather fitting with white decorative stitching. There can be seen also top-stitched diamonds and embroidered xXx-logos.

Source: xXx-Performance

November 20, 2013

MINI Reveals 2015 Cooper And Cooper S Models

MINI has just unveiled the new 2015 MINI Cooper and Cooper S models. Although the models are instantly recognizable, they are also built absolutely anew from the ground up. Every component has been modified in order to optimize the function, performance and style of the car.

The result is that the 2015 MINIs now have significant improvements in technology, engine efficiency and power delivery, driving dynamics, quality and personalization in terms of exterior and interior.

Speaking about the cabin, the new model is more spacious than before, safer and secures more dynamic and performance-oriented experience behind the wheel. One of the main highlights inside the car is the new LED display concept that provides the driver with visual feedback.

The exterior of the vehicle is undoubtedly unmistakable; however it also has a contemporary style. The body of the new MINI is 3,821mm long and of the MINI Cooper S is 3,850mm, they are 1,727mm wide and 1,414mm tall. These numbers show that the models are 98mm longer, 44mm wider and 7mm taller than the preceding ones. The wheelbase has been also extended by 28mm.

A subtle reinterpretation can be seen on the hexagonal contour of the radiator grille, circular headlights, ‘side scuttle’ indicator surrounds, upright rear light clusters and black lower body edging.

Another exclusive element of the 2015 Cooper and Cooper S are the available LED headlamps for both dipped and main beam. They are surrounded by an LED daylight driving ring. At the rear are also used LED-powered lights. The brand now also offers five new exterior colours which complement the already existing range of MINI’s palette.

Going inside the car, one finds more spaciousness due to the extended exterior dimensions. The interior is adorned by a choice of fabric or leather finishes, or a combination of both. The dashboard of the new MINI Hatch includes a horizontal structure of the cockpit, linked to circular and elliptical details.

A new display and operating concept can be seen on the instrument cluster on the steering column. On vertically arranged circular dials are displayed the speed, revs and fuel level. In addition, inside is also featured a groundbreaking LED lighting around the central instrument.

Keyless-go is now standard across the MINI Hatch range. More importantly, MINI is now offering for the 2015 Hatch three brand new engines and new gearboxes. Each unit includes MINI TwinPower Turbo Technology. The trio all also offer enhanced performance figures.

2015 MINI Cooper Hatch has a three-cylinder petrol engine with a peak output of 134 hp (99 kW), while the 2015 Cooper S Hatch is powered by a four-cylinder petrol engine which produces 189 hp (139 kW). 2015 MINI Cooper D Hatch comes with a three-cylinder diesel engine with an output of 114 hp (84 kW).

Engine		MINI Cooper Hatch	MINI Cooper D Hatch	MINI Cooper S Hatch
Type/no. of cylinders/valves		in-line / 3 / 4	in-line / 3 / 4	in-line / 4 / 4
Capacity	cc	1499	1496	1998
Bore/stroke	mm	82.0 / 94.6	84.0 / 90.0	82.0 / 94.6
Compression	:1	11.0	16.5	11.0
Output	kW/bhp	100 / 134	85 / 114	141 / 189
at engine speed	rpm	4500 – 6000	4000	4700 – 6000
Torque (with overboost)	Nm	220 (230)	270	280 (300)
at engine speed	rpm	1250 – 4000	1750	1250 – 4750

A six-speed manual transmission comes as a standard here, while the six-speed automatic transmission is available as an option. Both make a contribution towards reducing CO2 levels. In addition, the suspension of the MINI has been optimized due to the less weight and it now delivers more fun of driving.

Also new to the car is the Variable Damper Control, which presents drivers with the choice of a more comfort-oriented response or a sportier and firm one. MINI Cooper Hatch and MINI Cooper D Hatch run on 15-inch forged light alloy wheels, while the Cooper S Hatch is fitted with 16-inch light alloy wheels as standard.

In terms of safety and security MINI offers front and side airbags as well as curtain airbags for the front and rear seats, automatic passenger airbag deactivation and front and rear ISOFIX. Furthermore, a lot of standard features have been included for the MY2015. For instance there are electrically adjustable exterior mirrors, air-conditioning, door sill cover strips with a model-specific inscription, front fog lamps, onboard computer, MINI Radio including aux-in, USB interface and Bluetooth.

They can be complemented by the available features such as two-zone automatic air-conditioning, heated front seats, panoramic glass roof, visibility package including windscreen heating, rain sensor and automatic light control, a Harman Kardon hi-fi speaker system, sports leather steering wheel, Park Distance Control, electrically heated and folding exterior mirrors, and both interior and exterior mirrors with automatic anti-dazzle function.

The technologies included in terms of connectivity are MINI Connected or MINI Connected XL, MINI Visual Boost Radio and MINI Navigation System. On the other hand, the driver assistance systems include MINI Head-Up-Display, a camera-based cruise control and distance control function, a collision and pedestrian warning system with initial brake function, road sign detection and high-beam assistant. As an option, there are also available rear view camera and parking assistant system.

Next to the ABS anti-lock brakes, electronic brake force distribution (EBD), cornering brake control (CBC) with brake assistant, the driving stability control system (DSC), 2015 MINI includes a drive-off assistant, brake dry function, fading brake support and dynamic traction control (DTC).

The brand also offers a lot of personalization features which add to car’s individuality and exclusivity. The list of interior and exterior customizable features the following: John Cooper Works rear spoiler, various decorative trims for roof, exterior mirrors, bonnet, seat upholstery, interior surfaces and Colour Lines.

2015 MINI Cooper Hatch is priced at $24,660 USD (£15,300). It will be built in Britain at Plant Oxford and launched in the spring of 2014.

Source: MINI

November 19, 2013

Vorsteiner Transforms Audi S4 Series Sedan

The latest exclusive vehicle transformed by the specialists at Vorsteiner is the Audi S4 Series Sedan. The car looks stunning thanks to the added Aero Kit, of course made by carbon fibre. The S4 Sedan is equipped with Audi’s exceptional 3.0 L TFSI supercharged V6 engine.

The latter has been chosen as one of Ward’s 10 Best Engines for 2012 list. One of the resons for this is that the unit delivers 333 horsepower (245 kW) and 425 Nm (325 lb.-ft.) of torque. It has all-aluminium structure and four vane Roots-style supercharger. This makes it easier for the powertrain to behave like V8 one but at the same time to remain economical.

The same engine is utilized in A6 sedan, A7, Q7 and S5. When equipped with manual transmission, it offers an acceleration time of 4.9 seconds for the sprint from 0 to 100 km/h. Now these figures can be transformed to even better ones due to Vorsteiner’s Aero Kit.

Its parts are made of Autoclaved Pre-Preg Carbon Fiber which gives them superior stiffness, aerospace strength and durability, when compared to traditional hand laid carbon fiber composites. What wxactly has been added here are the following elements: Carbon Fiber Front Add-On Spoiler, Carbon Fiber Rear Diffuser and Carbon Fiber Deck Lid Spoiler.

Source: Vorsteiner

November 19, 2013

Porsche 918 Spyder With Weissach Package

Porsche 918 Spyder is definitely the fastest Porsche currently on the road. The reason for this is that it has been optimized with Weissach package that firstly contributes towards weight reduction. The result of course is nearly limitless speed and astonishing acceleration.

To speak in numbers, the 918 Spyder accelerates from standstill to 62 mph (100 km/h) in just 2.6 seconds, which is 0.2 seconds quicker than the previous model; and from 0 to 124 mph (200 km/h) in 7.2 seconds (which saves 0.5 seconds). The top speed is passes the 186 mph (300 km/h) and it is reached after 19.9 seconds.

The improvements delivered by the package also bring benefits in terms of the electrical performance of the hybrid super sports car. The latter has been equipped with two electric motors on the front and rear axle which allow the 918 Spyder to accelerate from zero to 62 mph (100 km/h) in 6.1 seconds, without producing any emissions.

What is more, Porsche 918 Spyder complete with Weissach package has also achieved a lap record for road vehicles on the Nürburgring Nordschleife, with a time of 6:57 minutes. At the same time, the model is certified to efficiency class A+, as a vehicle which is particularly low in consumption and emission figures.

To be more precise, the thanks to the Weissach package, the total NEDC fuel consumption of the 918 Spyder amounts to 94 mpg (3.0 l/100 km) , while the CO2 emissions are estimated at 70 g/km. The level of energy consumption is 12.7 kWh/100 km during the approval cycle.

Source: Porsche

November 19, 2013

Chevrolet To Debut Thirteen Vehicles In LA

Exactly thirteen Chevrolet models on display at this 2013 LA Auto Show will be making their first official appearance. It has been announced last week that the brand will premiere the brand new 2015 Colorado on 20th of November at the event.

The vehicle has been designed and constructed in order to be the most versatile and technologically advanced midsize pickup truck in the market. Another first appearance will be made by two new sedans to the Sonic family – the Sonic RS Sedan and the Sonic Dusk.

The latter has even been teased with an image, which you see above, and which clearly shows a new head-light design with probably some innovations on the grill. Both Sonic models offer vehicles with advanced technology and functionality.

Other Chevrolet vehicles making their debut in Los Angeles include the 2014 Corvette Stingray coupe and convertible, SS Performance Sedan, the fuel-efficient Cruze Clean Turbo Diesel, the track-focused Camaro Z28 and the Chevrolet Silverado.

Source: Chevrolet

November 19, 2013

Audi Reveals The Interior Of 2014 A8 L W12 Exclusive Concept

The interior of the exclusive concept vehicle 2014 Audi A8 L W12 has been just revealed by the brand. The outstanding special edition of its flagship has a W12 engine that can produce up t 500 hp (368 kW). The small-series production model will have a limited production of 50 numbers and is scheduled to begin rolling off the assembly line in March 2014.

As one can see from the released teaser image, the interior is elegant and features premium materials. Audi designers have utilized here aniline leather in the color Agatha cognac. As a matter of fact, this leather is sourced from the tradition-laden Italian designer furniture maker Poltrona Frau.

It is characterized by softness of touch and natural look. Moreover, the center sections of the seats include diamond quilting, while the inlays are made of fine grain olive ash natural silver brown.

The latter has a gray-brown shade that perfectly matches the granite gray piping, stitching and central pleat of the seats. The shade granite gray can be also seen on the steering wheel, the door top shoulders and the upper section of the instrument panel.

Fine Nappa leather on the other hand is used on the aforementioned part of the instrument panel. The headlining is in snow white Alcantara, the rear shelf is covered with cognac brown Alcantara and the carpeting is jet gray. At last, what has been revealed is that each vehicle will have a special logo on the door sill trims.

Source: Audi

November 18, 2013

Citroën C1 VT, Edition And Platinum Offer Additional Equipment

Additions of Citroën’s mini C1 line-up are the now presented C1 Platinum, Edition and VT. The vehicles include more standard equipment, when compared to the base version.

At the top of the range is positioned the C1 Platinum which replaces the current VTR+ trim level and includes a new standard specification ‘Look Pack’. The latter comprises of Carlinite Grey roof with colour-matched rear spoiler and door mirrors.

What is more, the new trim is being offered in two body colours that contrast the Carlinite Grey roof and exterior trim, namely – the Agrume Red and Lipizzan White. The third body colour option is Carlinite Grey to match the roof.

Other additional features that also come as a standard here are the brand’s Connecting Box (Bluetooth with USB socket), dark tinted rear windows, shiny black interior details and front fog lights.

Next, Citroën C1 Edition actually replaces the VTR models, and will offer a wide range of new equipment as standard including 14-inch ‘Rift’ alloy wheels and a leather trimmed steering wheel with matching gear knob.

At last, the entry-level C1 VT retains the same equipment and pricing as before. Both VT and Edition models are being offered in a choice of six colours. All three models are powered by the 1.0i 3-cylinder petrol that develops 68 horsepower (50 kW). The unit is matched with an Efficient Tronic Gearbox (ETG).

Citroën C1 VT includes the following:

ABS with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD)
Emergency Braking Assistance (EBA)
Cornering Stability Control (CSC)
Electronic Stability Control (ESP)
Driver’s & front passenger’s airbags
Front lateral & curtain airbags
Variable power assisted steering
RDS stereo radio/CD player
Auxiliary socket for MP3 player
Rear 50/50 split/folding seats
Rear Isofix child seat anchorage points
Height-adjustable steering wheel
14” ‘Notus’ wheel covers (set of four)

Citroën C1 EDITION adds:

Daytime-running LEDs
14” ‘Rift’ alloy wheels (set of four)
Air conditioning
Rev counter
Leather trimmed steering wheel & gear knob
Front electric windows
Body colour door mirrors & door handles
High-frequency remote control central locking
Rear head restraints
Black grille with chrome finish surround

Citroën C1 PLATINUM adds:

Platinum ‘Look Pack’ (Carlinite Grey roof, Carlinite Grey rear spoiler, Carlinite Grey door mirrors, black side rubbing strips)
Connecting Box (Bluetooth® system with USB socket)
Front fog lights
Dark tinted rear windows
Shiny black interior details

C1 VERSION	ECONOMY (COMBINED)	CO2 EMISSIONS	MRR OTR PRICE
1.0i 68 manual 3-door VT	65.7mpg	99 g/km	£8,095

1.0i 68 manual 3-door Edition	65.7mpg	99 g/km	£9,670
1.0i 68 manual 5-door Edition	65.7mpg	99 g/km	£10,070

1.0i 68 manual 3-door Platinum	65.7mpg	99 g/km	£10,345
1.0i 68 manual 5-door Platinum	65.7mpg	99 g/km	£10,745
1.0i 68 ETG 5-door Platinum	62.8mpg	104 g/km	£11,245

Source: Citroën

November 18, 2013

Mercedes-Benz Unveils AMG Vision Gran Turismo

Mercedes-Benz designers have created a visionary concept of a super sports car for the new PlayStation 3 racing game Gran Turismo 6. The car is named Mercedes-Benz AMG Vision Gran Turismo and it features extreme proportions, sensual contours and intelligently high technologies.

In addition, its breathtaking visual appearance perfectly complements its breathtaking performance of 585 hp (430 kW) and 800 Nm (590 lb-ft) of torque. The futuristic model will make its world debut on 19 November 2013 at the opening of the new Mercedes-Benz Research & Development Center in Sunnyvale, California.

Mercedes-Benz AMG Vision Gran Turismo sports extreme proportions and variable LED radiator grille. In other words, the sports car proportions that are a typical Mercedes feature have been reinterpreted. To be more precise, the long bonnet has a flowing transition into a compact greenhouse offset to the rear.

There the rear end is made with broad shoulder contours. The dynamism of the vehicle is highlighted by an extended, dramatic side contour and a pronounced bulge to the wheel arches, which blend into the low-slung, muscular bodyshell.

The headlamps have angled form and thanks to their color scheme, the car receives even more determined look. The aggressive and sporty impression is additionally reinforced by the bonnet with its expressive forms and motorsport details, such as the release catches on the bonnet and the fuel cap.

Red-glowing contour lines are positioned on the lower part of the vehicle. They create a contrast to the silver-painted bodywork. Another eye-catching feature is the radiator grille, which has a shape reminiscent of the legendary 300 SL racing car of 1952. Variable LED grille with different light patterns is a further development of the diamond grille introduced with the new A-Class.

The interior of the car is inspired by the Formula 1 cockpit. It includes red integral sports seats, black flooring of the footwell, dashboard in the form of two gullwing doors which are positioned on each side of the steering column. As a result the actual doors themselves appear to be an extension of the instrument panel.

More importantly, Mercedes-Benz AMG Vision Gran Turismo is equipped with AMG V8 biturbo engine that develops 585 hp and a maximum torque of 800 Nm. The entire car is made of an aluminium space frame body and components in carbon fibre, which contributes towards the weigh of the car that is only 1385 kilograms.

The excellent deceleration values and fade resistance at the highest level are ensured by the AMG ceramic high-performance composite braking system. On the other hand, the AMG sports exhaust system with eight tailpipes is positioned at the rear end and deliver a powerful accompaniment whenever the car accelerates.

Source: Mercedes-Benz

November 18, 2013

Mercedes-AMG Presents S 65 AMG And SLS AMG GT Final Edition

Mercedes–AMG is going to make a double debut simultaneously at two shows. It will present the S 65 AMG and the SLS AMG GT Final Edition at the Los Angeles Auto Show and the Tokyo Motor Show.

Twelve cylinders, biturbocharging, an output of 630 hp (463 kW) and torque of 1000 Nm (738 lb-ft) are the key characteristic of the powertrain of the new Mercedes-Benz S 65 AMG. The car accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 4.3 seconds on its way to a top speed of 250 km/h.

The fuel consumption here is estimated at 11.9 litres per 100 kilometres (NEDC combined), which makes the S 65 AMG is the world’s most fuelefficient V12 high-performance saloon.

The unit of the vehicle is coupled with an AMG SPEEDSHIFT PLUS 7G-TRONIC, which has three individual transmission modes: Controlled Efficiency (C), Sport (S) and Manual (M). The ECO start/stop function is always activated in “C” mode.

S 65 AMG also includes a lithium-ion battery, which is an innovative technology that benefits from a capacity of 78 Ah, and contributes towards a weight saving of over 20 kilograms.

In addition, the car features as standard the AMG sports suspension based on MAGIC BODY CONTROL, which recognizes road surface undulations and adjusts the suspension in advance to suit the situation.

The S 65 AMG runs on AMG forged multi-spoke light-alloy wheels in sizes 8.5 x 20 (front) and 9.5 x 20 (rear), and tyres in sizes 255/40 R 20 and 285/35 R 20 respectively. AMG ceramic high-performance composite braking system is also a standard.

The exterior design of this Mercedes-Benz has a high-gloss chrome design element that can be seen on the V12 radiator grille, louvres and flics, the front splitter, the side sill panels, the rear diffuser and the twin tailpipes of the AMG sports exhaust system.

On the other hand, inside the vehicle is characterized by an exceptional ambience coupled with exquisite materials such as nappa leather upholstery, diamond stitching and sophisticated delineated perforations. Additional AMG equipment includes a sports steering wheel, instrument cluster and the high-quality IWC-designed analogue clock. As standard the vehicle also sports head-up display that projects important information about the car.

The second car to make an official double debut is the exclusive Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG GT Final Edition. The vehicle is built in a limited run of just 350 units. It also represents the last opportunity for customers to order a SLS AMG. The super sports car generates 591 hp (435 kW) due to its AMG 6.3-litre V8 front-mid engine, offers an exciting combination of truly exceptional design and equipment features.

Mercedes-Benz S 65 AMG
Displacement	5980 cc
Output	463 kW (630 hp) at 4800-5400 rpm
Max. torque	1000 Nm at 2300-4300 rpm
Fuel consumption, NEDC combined	11.9 l/100 km
CO2 emissions	279 g/km
Acceleration 0-100 km/h	4.3 s
Top speed	250 km/h*

Source: Mercedes-Benz

November 18, 2013

DMC Ferrari 458 Italia ESTREMO Edizione 10/10 Revealed

In the beginning of the week a very special tuning project was teased. We are speaking here about the DMC Ferrari 458 Italia ESTREMO Edizione 10/10. Now the German luxury refiner DMC is proud to officially reveal its new Limited Edition project.

In it, the DMC’s engineers go the freedom to create the latest high-tech, without any boundaries. The vehicle is limited up to 15 highly exclusive sets world-wide. What is more, every third client will receive a Gold-Edition which features a Custom Owner Plate signed by the car’s designer and an extra body part. The latter is kept in secret.

Of course, the Gold series kits are limited up to five units. To go further into details, the automobile is based on the base of the Ferrari 458 Italia. However, it now has enhanced power and a stunning new body. In addition to this, the car’s weight was reduced dramatically due to the extensive use of carbon fibre.

The first example of this Limited Edition model was assembled by DMC’s partner in Japan for a client in Tokyo. As one can see from the pictures it sports a completely new front fascia with modified air channels for better cooling.

There is also added a new side-vented front hood as well as redeveloped side panels that smoothen windflow while adding an aggressive touch. At the rear, the carbon fiber in the massive wing spoiler creates additional dowforce. The total weight saving are estimated between 50-80 kg, when compared with the stock car.

Even more was done on this project. The tuner enhanced the performance of this Ferrari via optimized engine management, refined air-filter and professional exhaust system. The result is additional 22 horsepower and a total output of 592 hp (435 kW). The run to 100 takes only 3.1 seconds, while the top-speed clocks features additional 7 km/h (332 km/h).

Next, DMC also improved Estremo’s suspensions by lowering the car to 30mm. There has been added also a remote controlled lift system which can raise the car to stock-height. DMC Ferrari 458 Italia ESTREMO Edizione 10/10 runs on forged wheels in sizes 9×20 for the front and 11×21 at the rear coupled with Sport tyres in sizes 245/35 ZR20 and 305/30 ZR21, respectively.

The interior of the vehicle was also entirely redesigned and it is wrapped in leathers like Sting-Ray. It also includes a plenty of Carbon Fiber, which makes it even more unique.

Source: DMC

November 15, 2013

Aston Martin Vanquish Volante Neiman Marcus Edition With Premiere In LA

2014 Aston Martin Vanquish Volante Neiman Marcus Edition is a bespoke example of the new 2014 Vanquish Volante which was officially unveiled at the Pebble Beach Automotive Week in July this year.

The unique Neiman Marcus Edition model is now set to make a first public appearance at the 2013 Los Angeles Auto Show. It has been hand-made by the company’s bespoke customization arm: Q by Aston Martin.

The car took inspiration from the iconic 1969 DB6 Volante, which is currently owned by HRH Prince of Wales and which was featured in the Royal wedding of Prince William. The vehicle will be produced in only ten examples and will also be the first Vanquish Volante to enter the US market.

As a matter of fact, the Vanquish Volante is the first fully carboned Volante in the brand’s 100-year history. It also has the stiffest Volante body structure. In addition to this, the Neiman Marcus Edition is also equipped with triple-skin lightweight fabric roof. The latter can be operated at speeds of up to 30 mph and takes just 14 seconds to fold.

In my opinion, the Vanquish Volante is probably the most beautiful car in its class. Under its hood is positioned the AM11 6.0-litre V12 engine, thanks to which the car delivers engaging driving and breath-taking performance figures.

The unit is coupled with a Touchtronic 2 six-speed automatic gearbox. The car is capable of producing 565 hp (415 kW) at 6,750 rpm and has a peak torque of 620 Nm (457 lb-ft) at 5,500 rpm. The top speed stands at 183 mph.

Source: Aston Martin

November 15, 2013

Author: Lidia Todorova