Lidia Todorova – Page 283 – Automobiles Review

2014 Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG Coupé Black Series Revealed

After there had been released a teaser picture on Friday via the official Facebook page of Mercedes-AMG, the 2014 Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG Coupe Black Series had been eventually revealed over the weekend. The high-end super sports car version of the gull-wing model was inspired by the SLS AMG GT3 racing version and it makes the fifth Black Series model from Mercedes-Benz and AMG.

As expected, it delivers breath-taking design, outstanding driving dynamics and uncompromising lightweight construction. The overall weight of the SLS-AMG Black Series is 1550 kilograms, thus the power/weight ratio is 2.45 kg/hp.

Furthermore, the car is equipped with AMG 6.3-litre V8 engine, which produces 631 hp (464 kW) at 7400 rpm and 635 Newton metres (470 lb-ft) of torque. This makes it possible for it to accelerate from standstill to 100 km/h in only 3.6 seconds. In fact this makes the model the most powerful AMG high-performance automobile with a combustion engine. The top speed here is of 315 km/h.

The coil-over AMG RIDE CONTROL performance suspension, the AMG ceramic high-performance composite brake system and the weight-optimized forged AMG light-alloy wheels with newly developed sports tyres, the electronically controlled AMG rear-axle differential lock and the AMG SPEEDSHIFT DCT 7-speed sports transmission are some of the highlights featured here as a standard. Optionally, customers can be supplied with the AMG Aerodynamics package.

The key data of the AMG 6.3-litre V8 engine at a glance:

	SLS AMG Coupé Black Series
Displacement	6208 cc
Bore x stroke	102.2 x 94.6 mm
Compression ratio	11.3 : 1
Output	631 hp at 7400 rpm
Max. torque	635 Nm at 5500 rpm
Maximum engine speed	8000 rpm
Engine weight (dry)	205 kg
Fuel consumption, NEDC combined	20.6 mpg
CO2 emissions	321 g/km
Efficiency class	G
Acceleration 0-62 mph	3.6 s
Top speed	196 mph (315 km/h)

The chassis and suspension of the SLS AMG Coupé Black Series are also new. The basic layout with double wishbones all-round in aluminium is still unchanged. However, all the components have been “touched” somehow in the interests of much enhanced race track performance.

The new developments in details:

AMG RIDE CONTROL performance suspension with tauter basic tuning and electronically controlled two-stage damping (Sport, Sport +) for individual adjustment to the preferred personal driving style
Coil-over spring retainers to enable adjustment of wheel loads for personal race track set-ups
Elastokinematics 50 / 42% more rigid (front/rear axle) for greater stability in fast double bends
Track width increased by 20 / 24 millimetres (front/rear axle) for added grip in fast bends
New hubs on front axle and new front stabiliser tuning for added grip, reduced roll angle in fast cornering
AMG 10-spoke light-alloy wheels, in particularly light forged design with optimised strength, painted matt black with high-sheen finish, dimensions: 10×19 at front; 12×20 at rear. Weight saving: 4.0 kilograms
Newly developed Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 sports tyres. Dimensions 275/35 R 19 at front and 325/30 R 20 at rear, for added grip and sporty cornering limit
AMG speed-sensitive steering with newly defined power steering characteristic for optimum steering precision and outstanding control of the vehicle

The next feature that comes as a standard here is the AMG ceramic high-performance composite brake system, which boasts excellent deceleration performance and outstanding stability. In particular, the ceramic brake discs measuring 402 x 39 millimetres at the front and 360 x 32 millimetres at the rear include enhanced hardness for enhanced thermal stability, accompanied by a weight reduction of around 40 percent. The result is reduced unsprung masses, optimized comfort and grip.

Another interesting fact here is that the SLS AMG Coupé Black Series design was inspired by the SLS AMG GT3 customer sport racing car. The new model however, differentiates with darkened headlamps and black surrounds for the rear lights, which gives it more muscular and aggressive look.

Furthermore, the vehicle’s aerodynamic balance is enhanced by the front apron and rear apron with diffusor along with side sill panels in Black Series-specific design featuring carbon fibre-reinforced plastic front splitter, carbon inserts in the side sills and the rear apron made of carbon fibre. The car also includes the carbon-fibre bonnet with a central air outlet.

The aggressive look of the vehicle is additionally enhanced by AMG forged wheels in a series-specific 10 spoke design, painted in matt black with a high sheen finish, provide glimpses of the AMG ceramic high-performance composite brake system.

The rear of the SLS AMG Coupé Black Series shows-off wide wings and striking rear diffuser. It extends beyond the profile of the rear apron and generates additional downforce at the rear axle, which results in greater driving stability at high speeds. Visible air openings behind black grilles serve to control the dischrage of hot air in the area of the AMG titanium sports exhaust system.

In addition, there are two sets of twin chrome tailpipes with a square cross-section. The exclusive AMG logo with contrasting Black Series lettering in black also adds to the exclusiveness of the exterior.

What has been already mentioned as optional equipment is the AMG Aerodynamics package with carbon-fibre components. This package includes a static, adjustable carbon-fibre rear aerofoil and additional carbon-fibre flics on the front apron.

In addition what is also optionally available is the exterior color AMG Solar Beam. Six other exterior paint finishes from the SLS AMG range are available, including the matt paint designo Magno Alanite Grey.

What has remained not discussed here is the interior, which is made with great attention to the detail and precise craftsmanship. High-quality materials demonstrating luxury and prestige. There is a choice of two colour variants: Alcantara® black or Alcantara® black/red.

A highlight among the optional equipment and appointments is the Bang & Olufsen BeoSound AMG high-end surround sound system. It comes with Dolby Digital 5.1 which delivers unforgettable music experience thanks to its 1000 W amplifier and 11 loudspeakers in conjunction with precise distribution of the music signal. The 250 W sub-woofer is accommodated in the rear shelf.

Further individualization options are also available via the AMG carbon-fibre exterior mirror, AMG carbon-fibre engine cover, AMG Interior Carbon-Fibre package, AMG infotainment system (including COMAND APS, AMG Performance Media and reversing camera), Media Interface.

2014 Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG Coupé Black Series will have a market launch in June 2013. Prices will be confirmed prior launch.

Source: Mercedes-Benz

November 12, 2012

Ultimate open-air experience: Lamborghini Aventador LP 700-4 Roadster

One of the most exciting open-top luxury super sports cars has just been unveiled and it is the new Lamborghini Aventador LP700-4 Roadster. Since the coupe version gained many appraises with over 1300 units already delivered to customers, the brand is now offering a convertible version of it.

The new Lamborghini Roadster has unique profile of its upper area, which extends along newly designed geometric lines from the removable roof to the engine hood. The design shows the best combination of performance, elegant presence and delivers ultimate driving pleasure.

To go further into details, the two-piece roof is made entirely from carbon fiber with the help of RTM and Forged Composite® technologies, which ensure optimum aesthetic performance and stiffness.

Additionally, they are easily removable and attachable, and can be stored in the front luggage compartment. The rear pillar here got a new design and offers maximum support for the removable roof. Furthermore it has an automatic protection system for passengers, and provides the engine compartment with ample ventilation.

The central “spinal column” with two pairs of hexagonal windows connected at the sides is what differentiates this convertible from the coupe model. Moreover, the powered rear windshield not only influences the flow of air in the vehicle, but also controls the experience of the sound from the twelve-cylinder engine.

Next, the wind deflector delivers complete calm inside the car, no matter the speed. It is positioned on the front windshield frame and can likewise be stored in the luggage compartment when not in use.

The exterior here is finished in two tones, while the windshield pillar and the two roof sections and the rear window area up to the “fins” are painted in gloss black. In particular, color available is the metallic blue color Azzuro Thetis, whose tone varies with the angle of the light.

How about the interior? Here one can find the leather Sabbia Nefertem wrapped saloon and a great attention to the detail. At last, the Roadster includes Dione 20”/21” rims, crafted in light forged aluminum.

But what is the Aventador all about? Speed of course! LP700-4 Roadster accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in only 3 seconds flat and has a maximum speed of 350 km/h. These numbers a possible thanks to its great aerodynamics and the 6.5 liter aspirated V12.

The latter produces 700 hp (515 kW), and is mated to an ISR 7-speed gearbox. The V12 also includes a cylinder deactivation system when the engine is working at partial capacity. On the other hand the Stop & Start system features high-performance capacitors known as supercaps to awaken the engine.

Lamborghini Aventador LP 700-4 Roadster has a starting price of 300,000 euro.

Source: Lamborghini

November 12, 2012

Caterham Supersport R Completes Iconic Range of Sevens

Caterham Supersport R is the latest addition to the iconic range of Sevens. The two-liter Supersport R packs 180 hp (132 kW) and track-bred dynamics, and it is an elaborate version of the standard Supersport.

Nevertheless, the new edition has many circuit-orientated performance essentials and is equipped with bigger engine and a five-speed gearbox, which delivers astounding performance. Furthermore, the new 2-litre Ford Duratec unit has proven its durability and performance on the track, having been developed during three years in Caterham’s R300 race championship.

In fact, the Supersport R shows the brand’s aim to develop the iconic Seven, which it has been engineering and building for nearly 40 years. And it is more than obvious that this model will grab the attention of driving enthusiasts.

The performance of the car is very impressive an given that it is combined with the accessibility of the suspension specification, this makes the vehicle perfectly balanced, satisfying and fun in terms of the driving experience it offers.

Another highlight here is the front-mounted Caterham-developed Ford Duratec engine, which pairs up with a limited-slip differential to further improve its performance credentials. On the other hand the Avon CR500 tyres, Supersport dampers and race springs allow a highly-focused handling. Aerodynamics is further enhanced by the overall weight of the car which is just 535kg.

At last, the interior of the car includes bespoke Supersport steering wheel, integrated change-up light, composite race seats and four-point race harnesses. An aero screen comes as standard.

Source: Caterham

November 12, 2012

TEASER: 2014 Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG Black Series

The most recent and exclusive news from Mercedes-Benz is that they have just published in their official AMG page in Facebook a teaser photograph of the new 2014 Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG Black Series.

The image shows a car, wrapped in black car cover, but still carrying the emblematic shapes and forms for the SLS. More importantly, what is under this cover is going to be revealed in less than 24 hours.

It is rumored that the new SLS Black Series is going to be equipped with the latest 6.2 liter V8 engine, which generates the outstanding 630 horsepower (463 kW). And this amazing performance will probably result in great acceleration time form standstill to 100 km/h – I bet it is under 3.5 seconds.

The new 2014 Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG Black Series will make its debut at Los Angeles Motor Show. Stay tuned today, because certainly there is to see more of it!

Source: Mercedes-Benz via Facebook

November 9, 2012

Project Magnum: SR Auto Hummer

The next exciting project that the specialists form SR Auto had undertaken recently is called Project Magnum and it is on an outstanding Hummer model. They have been working slowly on it and improving it step by step until now when it soars the sky high.

The phases it went through included an uplifted perspective thanks to the Fabtech lift kit. The six inch lift matched perfectly to the new wheels from Fuel – the Maverick model in Matte Black Face and Gloss Black Lip. The diameter measures in at twenty inches, but the impressive part is the tires.

The monstrous off road tires – Toyo Open Country M/T, are sized at 40×15.5×20, thus making the Hummer more noticeable than ever. The aggressive body was further enhanced by a set of extended fender flares and a Strut Grille Kit.

In addition, the performance was improved via Magnaflow Exhaust System and the suspension extended via Brembo Big Brake Kit and Hotchkis Rear Sway Bar.

The exterior color of the car was changed and the new one is Leios Matte Black Paint, which perfectly complements the new lightning. It is achieved with a set of Bixenon Projector Headlights, Alumina Xenon HID Conversion and PIAA Off Road Fog Lights.

Source: SR Auto Group

November 9, 2012

Projcet Amadeus: SR Auto Mercedes-Benz S63 AMG

SR Auto Mercedes-Benz S63 AMG has just made its official debut and will be also recognizable in the future under the name SR Project Amadeus. Here the specialists from SR Auto Group have worked on a brand new Mercedes-Benz.

And in fact it wasn’t an ordinary one, but the S63 AMG model. They have used for this tuning the WALD, which comprises of WALD Black Bison Front Bumper, WALD Black Bison Side Skirt, WALD Black Bison Rear Bumper, WALD Black Bison Front Fenders, WALD Black Bison Rear Trunk Spoiler, WALD Black Bison Rear Roof Spoiler.

Thanks to these modifications this exterior is more aggressive and exudes power. What are left are the wheels – the Vellano VKU.

The twenty two inch wheel was paired with the Basics lowering suspension for a precise fitment with no rubbing and the better performance was ensured via the Meisterschaft Exhaust System. To offset that large white exterior, the wheels were finished in a two tone shade of matte anthracite and satin black.

Source: SR Auto Group

November 9, 2012

ROUSH Performance Ford Raptor Phase 2 Gets More Power

Ford Raptor is one of those vehicles which can not go unnoticed. The reason certainly is its huge size, but also another factor is that it has such powerful stance, that it brings about awe and admiration.

Exactly on this model ROUSH Performance decided to do some calibrations. Although that the vehicle is initially powerful, the specialist form the tuning company decided to enhance its strength.

The truck is something they have put together to help support Cooper Tire and Mickey Thompson for SEMA week to showcase Cooper’s tires and Mickey Thomspon’s rims. Nevertheless they have used the event to show thier new Phase 2 R2300 calbibration for the 6.2L Raptor.

But to go further into details, now the V8 power unit under the bonnet of this Ford generates the staggering 590 hp (434 kW) and has a maximum output of 590 Nm (435)! This ensures that the ride can easily drive away from, through or over obstacles both on the road as well as off-road. This tuning is the perfect example of an amazing combination between rough power, strength, exclusive safety and passenger comfort.

Source: ROUSH Performance via Facebook

November 9, 2012

DMC Ferrari F430 Scuderia Carbonio In Full Carbon Fiber

Yesterday came news from DMC announcing and more correctly – teasing their new project DMC Lamborghini Aventador Limited Edition. Today we are pleased to be informed that the Germany’s exotic car tuning company has rolled up the sleeves and passionately working on another project.

This time the attention isn’t put on their favorite Lamborghini brand, but on another Italian extremely powerful one – the Ferrari. And if you remember, the specialists from DMC were first to modify the Aventador with the Molto Veloce Project, and now they are also being first to customize the F430 with a conversion to the Scuderia in full carbon fiber.

Additional details haven’t been released yet. However, it is good to remind what kind of supersportscar they are dealing with. The famous red sports car excels as a true race ride with striking sport characteristics and dynamics.

Furthermore, the F430 is equipped in a 4.3L V8 petrol engine, which has a powerful outout. In particular, its specifications are: 483 hp (360 kW) at 8500 rpm and 465 Nm (343 lb-ft) of torque at 5250 rpm/ The Scuderia has a top speed of 196 mph (315 km/h) and can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in only 4.0 seconds

Source: DMC via Facebook

November 8, 2012

IND BMW E92 M3 and F10 M5

The specialists from IND have transformed recently not one but two BMW models, and probably inspired by the book “50 Shades Of Grey” have made them in distinctive and outstanding exterior color.

The first model that needed to be changed was the E92 M3 one and although the owner wished initially only for some small improvements, the car eventually ended up with new grey-silverfish exterior color and unique combination of wheels.

Here the M3, was equipped with the Lamborghini Rosso Vik BBS FI wheels and ESS Supercharger manifold, which made the perfect contrast with the new skin of the E92. Inspired by the great results they have achieved, the IND professionals continued the same tuning philosophy on the BMW F10 M5.

Despite that this one took more introverted approach, they have given it unique modified appearance. Here the combination is achieved with Eisenmann exhaust and 3D Design aero parts, and custom painted HRE wheels are the center piece of the car.

Firstly, HRE’s matte bronze finish was chosen as a base; then was applied a real gold leaf insert inside the HRE logo found in the spoke of each wheel, along with the HRE center cap. The last step was to utilize the custom clear coat to allow the original matte bronze finish to truly shine.

Source: IND

November 8, 2012

Vliner Triumph Speed Tripple Bulldog Custom Bike [VIDEO]

We are mainly used to see great car transformations from the talented tuning specialist of Vilner. However, a few months ago we have seen how they have modified extremely well a two-wheel drive – the Vilner Ducati Monster 1100 Evo.

Now we are ready to see more from them in terms of enhancing two wheel bikes and making them look astonishing. Their new creation is named Vliner Triumph Speed Tripple Bulldog and it is based on the model Speed Triple of Triump, which has appeared in 1994.

In its development it got more aggressive appearance via the increased size of the headlights. In fact this is the most popular model of Triumph. Next came the newer models which got a flashy motor with aggressive appearance, but in general the changes made on the model follow the British trends.

The end result is Bulldog, but in the beginning it began just with few detailed sketches and 3D model. After the addition of new details, the model became even more aggressive and got more powerful stance.

For instance, two headlamps were replaced by one, for which there was created a special box and stand. Next, the mirrors have been replaced over the handlebars, the stand number is processed and the exhaust pipes are in black.

Furthermore, the Bulldog got new racing OZ wheels and additional details mounted in the blinkers. The added rear details were connected at the bottom with another piece. In fact this is where the vehicle got its name – the Bulldog – the optical innovation and the specific forms of broadcast additions are certainly reminiscent of dogs breed.

httpv://youtu.be/_3E0rE4pzws

Video Source: YouTube

Source: Vilner

November 8, 2012

Lexus Launches 2013 LS Line

Lexus LS model line has just been launched in two luxury models the new all-wheel drive short wheelbase LS 600h F Sport model and the 444 hp (327kW) LS 460 Sports Luxury. Fifty per cent of the vehicle’s components were entirely redesigned, re-engineered or even replaced as part of the major upgrade.

And to go even further into details, the changes made here are approximately up to 3000 mechanical and component modifications. The entire LS Line benefits from significant engineering input. This enhances the vehicle’s driving dynamics, refinement and specification while reducing overall noise, vibration and harshness.

Furthermore, another result of the engineering efforts is that the torsional rigidity has been increased by sixty per cent and the steering support rigidity by twenty per cent. Noise, vibration and harshness reductions make the Lexus with a class-leading quietness and with great rear seat conversation clarity.

Additional improvement is made in term of exterior design. Here the brand has applied the new signature “spindle grille”, which significantly improves LS’ visual stance while increasing aerodynamic performance.

Moreover, the interior has been modified as well. Here on can see a new dash and interior design, which enhances utilization and visual appeal. In few words – evolution is what we see in this model line, which combines sharper driving dynamics and highest levels of refinement and luxury.

2013 Lexus LS 460 Sports Luxury and LS 600h F Sport are going to be available for order from February next year.

Specifications for the LS Line:

MODEL		LS 460	LS 600h
		1UR-FSE	2UR-FSE
Capacity (cc)		4608	4969
Engine type
		90-degree V8 with four vales per cylinder, chain-driven double-overhead cam (per bank), Dual VVT-i with VVT-iE for intake	90-degree V8 with four vales per cylinder, chain-driven double-overhead cam (per bank), Dual VVT-i with VVT-iE for intake
Fuel type		95 RON (ULP)	95 RON (ULP)
Bore x stroke (mm)		94.0 x 83.0	94.0 x 89.5
Compression ratio		11.8:1	11.8:1
Max. power
• Petrol engine		285kW@6400rpm	290kW@6400rpm
• Combined (hybrid)			327kW
• Max. torque		493Nm@4100rpm	520Nm@4000rpm
Hybrid system
Type			Series/parallel, full hybrid
System output			327kW (Combined)
Electric motor			AC synchronous, permanent magnet
Max. power (kW)			165
Max. torque (Nm)			300
Voltage (V)			650
Electric generator			AC synchronous, permanent magnet
Voltage (V)			650
High-voltage battery			Nickel Metal Hydride (Ni-MH)
Voltage (V)			288
Transmission

Type		Longitudinal, rear-wheel drive	Electronically-controlled Continuously Variable Transmission (E-CVT) with eight-step shiftmatic system and two-stage motor-speed reduction device
Gear ratios
First		4.596	Eight-step CVT
Second		2.724
Third		1.863
Fourth		1.464
Fifth		1.231
Sixth		1.000
Seventh		0.824
Eighth		0.685
Reverse		2.176
Final drive ratio		2.937	3.916:1
Suspension
Type	Front	Multi-link with upper and lower double ball joint independent
	Rear	Multi-link independent
Shock absorber/spring		Adaptive Variable Suspension; Air Suspension, with Automatic Height Control
Driveline
Type		Rear-wheel drive	Permanent all-wheel drive with front and rear differentials
Brakes
Front		357mm x 34mm spiral-fin ventilated discs with four-piston callipers (Sports Luxury); 380mm x 36mm spiral-fin ventilated discs with six-piston callipers (F Sport, 600h)
Rear		335mm x 22mm spiral-fin ventilated discs with two piston callipers
Additional features		Electronically Controlled Braking (ECB)
		Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management (VDIM)
		Hill-start Assist Control (HAC)
		Brake Hold
		Electric Parking Brake
		Regenerative Braking (LS 600h only)
Steering
Type		Rack and pinion, Electric Power Steering (EPS)
Turns lock-to-lock		2.40-3.59 (Sports Luxury); 2.28-3.51 (F Sport); 2.32-3.66 (LS 600h)
Minimum turning diameter – tyre		11.0m	11.6m
Wheels and tyres
Standard		245/45R19 8.0J
Body/exterior dimensions
Overall length (mm)		5090
Overall width (mm)		1875
Overall height (mm)		1465	1470
Wheelbase (mm)		2970
Track front (mm)		1610
Track rear (mm)		1615	1610
Overhang (front)		925
Overhang (rear)		1195
Coefficient of drag (Cd)		0.26	0.27
Interior dimensions
Room length (mm)		2175 (Sports Luxury); 2200 (F Sport)	2200
Room width (mm)		1600
Room height (mm)		1165
Weights/loads
Kerb weight (kg)		1940-2080 (Sports Luxury); 2200 (F Sport)	2270-2340
Capacities
Fuel tank (L)		84
Performance
Max. speed (km/h)		250 (speed limited)
0-100 km/h (sec)		5.9	5.7
0-400m (sec)		13.8
Fuel consumption (L/100 km)*
Combined		10.7	8.6
CO₂ emissions (g/km)*
Combined		249	199
Exterior Colours: Sonic Silver, Volcanic Bronze, White Nova, White Pearl, Starlight Black, Mecury Grey, Lapis Lazuli, Vermillion, Metallic Silk, Elysium Blue, Onyx.

Source: Lexus

November 8, 2012

Petrolicious: Mercedes-Benz 220SE and Family History [VIDEO]

A strange family tradition was inherited in Mark Markoff’s family, since his father – Don, had a very unusual and yet one of the best hobbies – to collect valuable cars. One such example is the 1960 Mercedes-Benz 220SE, which Don bought for the mother of Mark in 1963.

Back then the Mercedes was pricing was $3100 – an amount of money, which today we can barely imagine giving for a new car. Nevertheless, back in the days this was a lot of money and only a few could drive beauties like this convertible.

And this particular model is probably one of the most special ones in the collection of Don, because it is attached to so much family history and so many precious and unforgettable moments.

But behind the passion around expensive cars was something more profound – Don’s interest in how the Mercedes was created – handmade and with great deal of craftsmanship. In fact, in his opinion, the quality made it a life-time car carrying a life-time style.

But to go further into details the production f 220SE began in 1960, however first with the coupe model, which had its first appearance in February 1961. The convertible showed up few months later and was almost the same as the coupe version, however equipped with soft-top roof.

Under the hood of this cabrio was 2496 cm3 M129 engine, which was able to generate 150 horsepower (110 kW) at 5500 rpm. This made it very easy for the car to have an acceleration time of 12 seconds from standstill to 100 km/h, on its way to a top speed of 193 km/h (120 mph).

httpv://vimeo.com/52428288

Video Source: Vimeo

November 7, 2012

Author: Lidia Todorova