Lidia Todorova – Page 309 – Automobiles Review

2013 Dodge SRT Viper GTS-R Returns to American Le Mans Series [VIDEO]

2013 Dodge SRT Viper GTS-R will return to American Le Mans Series making its firs appearance on 4th of August.

SRT Motorsports has worked in collaboration with Riley Technologies on the design-and-build process of the new SRT Viper GTS-R race cars. In details, the team will compete in the Mid-Ohio Sports Car Challenge with two identical SRT Viper GTS-R cars.

They will take part in the production-based GT class in the series. In the GT class can compete only slightly modified production-based two-wheel-drive race cars. And during the race the Viper will compare its powers with vehicles such as Aston Martin Vantage, BMW M3 GT, Corvette C6.R, Ferrari F458 Italia, Lotus Evora and Porsche 911 GT3 RSR.

What is common between all of the cars in the same class is that they have a minimum weight of 2,745 pounds, produce between 450-500 horsepower and have a top speed of up to 180 mph.

Another important information is that four three full-time drivers are signed already to drive the Dodge: Dominik Farnbacher, from Ansbach, Germany; Marc Goossens from Geel, Belgium; and Kuno Wittmer from Montreal, Ryan Hunter-Reay from Fort Lauderdale, Fla.

httpv://youtu.be/G2VtmdINQU8

Source: Dodge

July 16, 2012

Ford Focus ST has a leading role in Ultimate Urban Playground [VIDEO]

2013-Ford-Focus-ST-THUMB If you live in San Francisco, than there is a huge probability that you have witnessed a spectacular event with the participation of 2013 Ford Focus ST. However, if you haven’t view it by your own, or if you aren’t living in this beautiful city, we have good news for you: all that was going one has been recorded and you can watch the video below.

Ford Focus ST taking part in the Ultimate Urban Playground Video

But what is it all about? Well the project is called Ultimate Urban Playground and is conducted by of Ken Block. In fact, this video is the fifth installment of the award-winning viral video franchise. In it Block’s Gymkhana unleashes the 246 horses (180 kW) of the Ford through the iconic streets of San Francisco.

Focus ST is Ford’s first global performance car, priced from £21 995 it will go on sale in September.

httpv://youtu.be/LuDN2bCIyus

Source: Ford

July 16, 2012

Third generation Seat Leon revealed [VIDEO]

2013 Seat Leon has just been introduced officially, combining beauty and practicality. The Seat vehicle was entirely redesigned, packed with high-end technology, having a new chassis, advanced infotainment systems and sophisticated driving aids.

In addition the new Seat Leon comes equipped with new full-LED headlamps, which are made in striking design and have exceptional illumination. Full-LED lights are available for the first time in the compact class.

What is more the new Leon is more practical now. Although the exterior is more compact, the interior offers more spaciousness. At 4.26 metres long, the new Leon is around five centimetres shorter than its predecessor. However the wheelbase is up by almost six centimetres.

The rear end of the new SEAT Leon has redesigned as well. You can see the large logo, which now serves as an opener for the rear hatch.

On the other hand the interior has a clear and uncluttered look, which adds even more elegance to the vehicle. The dashboard is unconventional and elegant, with a two-tone design that makes. A lot of attention has been put on the details: for instance, the large air vents, the controls for the air conditioning and the three-dimensional form of the trim elements. The luggage compartment now has bigger volume of 380 litres.

In addition, the new Seat model has a longer wheelbase because of the new architectured implemented. This contributes also to a more balanced distribution of axle load – factors that bring about more comfort and sporty handling.

httpv://youtu.be/_SI7oK4fNso

More importantly, the car is powered by a series of fuel-efficient TDI and TSI engines, ranging from 1.2- to 2.0 litres. All engines include direct injection and turbocharging, and have been engineered for low internal friction and fast warm-up.

The 1.6 TDI generates 104 hp (76 kW) and 250 Nm (184 lb.ft) of torque. In the Ecomotive version with start/stop system and brake energy recuperation, it returns an astonishing 74.3 mpg on average, equating to just 99 g/km CO2.

The 2.0 TDI has the impressive 70.6 mpg in the Ecomotive version, however it still generates 150 hp (110 kW) and 320 Nm (236 lb.ft) of torque.

In the early 2013, Seat will launch the 1.2 TSI engine in two versions with 86 hp (63 kW) and 105 hp (77 kW); a 1.4 TSI with 122 hp (90 kW); and at the top of the petrol range, a 1.8 TSI with 180 hp (132 kW) and a combination of direct and manifold injection.

The diesel line-up will be enhanced by the 1.6 TDI with 90 hp (66 kW) and the powerful, range-topping 2.0 TDI with 184 hp (135 kW), which delivers a maximum torque of 380 Nm (280 lb.ft).

In the new Leon, the customers will find up-to-date infotainment solutions. Seat has included the Easy Connect operating system, which controls the Sound System entertainment and communication functions via a touch-sensitive screen in the cockpit.

The new Leon also features driver assistance systems such as the drowsiness detection feature, an advanced camera mounted behind the rear-view mirror, Full Beam Assistant, Heading Control lane-keeping assistant.

The refreshed badge of the company will be included in this model, which makes it the first one to carry it. It can be seen on the grille, rear and steering wheel of the car. The logo is now with cleaner design and now represents the precision and elegance of the brand’s design language, while also reflecting the company’s engineering and quality leadership.

Source: Seat

Video Source: YouTube

July 16, 2012

1964 Chevrolet Corvair Van: High Mileage [VIDEO]

Another great story told by Depth of Speed. This time on the spot is the 1964 Chevrolet Corvair van, which is being driven by John Jackson. With this vehicle Jackson has undergone more than 170 000 miles in only 4 years.

In fact, Jackson himself is involved in the automotive industry. He is one of the guys who make the great images of the cars we are always delighted to see. In this short film he shares what is the feeling to travel across the entire country in search of cool hot rods and bikes, and what made him have so unique profession.

Not only does he travel upwards of 60,000 miles a year, but he does it in a Corvair van. The van is bagged with a custom paint job, where you can see the logo of his company: NonStock Photography. In addition, the interior of the van is also pretty cool: it doubles as a bit of a rolling art gallery for his photography.

Only a click is separating you from hearing this great story.

httpv://vimeo.com/45579844

Source: Depth of Speed

July 13, 2012

Aston Martin V12 Vantage Roadster spotted on the streets [VIDEO]

Few days after the official release of Aston Martin V12 Vantage Roadster, it has been already spotted on the narrow streets of London. The new sports car by the famous British brand looks even better than on the pictures. And just wait to hear the roaring sound at the end of the video.

Aston Martin V12 Vantage Roadster on the streets of London

Being a limited edition model, the V12 Vantage Roadster has one of the coolest interiors I’ve ever seen: a red indulgence of carbon fiber material. This undoubtedly will give the lucky one driving the car the feeling of luxury and uniqueness.

In particular, this Aston Martin’s power comes from the naturally aspirated 6.0-litre V12 engine. Mated to a six-speed manual gearbox, it generates the stunning 517 horsepower (380 kW) at 6,500 rpm and a muscular 570 Nm (420 lb-ft) of torque at 5,750 rpm.

Given these facts, I am sure it will be no surprise for you to read that the 0-62 mph sprint is dispatched by it in just 4.5 seconds.

httpv://youtu.be/K2YVH7FLkP8

Video Source: YouTube

July 13, 2012

2013 Skoda Rapid: the new class of Skoda

2013 Skoda Rapid is the new compact saloon offered by Skoda which is going to be seen at dealerships in the beginning of the autumn this year.

At first sight, one gets a great impression by the new vehicle: it delivers a lot of spaciousness, has an expressive design, an excellent price, a comprehensive safety offering and efficient engines. Again this model is expected to grab the attention of many.

First of all, thanks to the exterior dimensions that the Rapid has: 4.48 m in length, 1.71 m in length, 1.46 m in height, the vehicle can comfortably accommodate up to five persons. In addition, in this amount of space inside of the car, are also included practical holder for the warning vest underneath the driver’s seat, storage for the ice scraper, refuse bin in the side door.

Furthermore, the Rapid is the first Skoda to entirely include the brand’s new design philosophy. It has perfect proportions, clear and cleanly modeled surfaces and sharply drawn lines. The front end shows a new take on Skoda’s typical design elements.

For instance, the new brand logo confidently stands out front edge of the bonnet. In addition, the grille shows a finely drawn chrome frame and is formed by vertical slats. The headlight ensemble is grouped at the front of the Skoda Rapid to form a cloverleaf shape. Not only the front of the car looks so inviting, but also its body side conveys pure emotion. Thanks to it, being a long wheelbase, the car has a coupé-like silhouette.

In fact, the Rapid is going to be the new class of the brand, because it takes the place exactly between the Fabia and the Octavia, making it through to the so-called A segment.

Next, the vehicle also will offer its customers wide range of active and passive safety features such as ABS and ESP systems (which are a standard option), tire pressure monitoring, fog lamps with ‘corner function’,‘hill-hold control’ assistant, front, side and head airbags, adjustable-height 3-point safety belts with tighteners, headrests.

More importantly, the Rapid will be available with four petrol and two diesel engines. The petrol entry-level engine is the 1.2 l MPI three-cylinder producing 55 kW (75 hp). The other petrol engines are the 1.2 l 63 kW (86 hp) TSI, the 1.2 l 77 kW (105 hp) TSI and the 1.4 l 90 kW (122 hp) TSI.

On the other hand the 1.6 litre diesel engine comes with direct common rail injection. The basic diesel generates 66 kW (90 hp) and may be combined with the optional seven-speed DSG (double-clutch transmission). The 1.6 l TDI CR version is more powerful, putting out 77 kW (105 hp).

Source: Skoda

July 13, 2012

Mercedes-Benz C 63 AMG Coupé Black Series offers unique driving experience

Mercedes-Benz C 63 AMG Coupé Black Series will be “unleashed” on the circuits at Mercedes-Benz World with the aim to bring the driving experiences to another dimension. In fact, this is the most powerful C-Class up to date, which was designed especially for those keen on bringing the adrenaline levels higher ad higher.

Did you know that only 600 units from the Black Series will be produced? This means hat during this event many people will have the chance to experience dynamism and driving excitement of this stunning Mercedes-Benz.

But let’s talk in details. The full power of the special edition C 63 comes from the AMG 6.3 liter V8 engine. Therefore it is no surprise that it can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h for only 4.2 seconds. Furthermore, the vehicle comes equipped with track-honed aerodynamics which further improve the driving experience.

During the exclusive experience at the Mercedes-Benz World, which will happen after the 14th of July, the drivers will have the opportunity to develop their circuit craft behind the wheel of a Mercedes AMG.

Next, with the circuit ingrained on the mind and a professional Mercedes-Benz Driving Specialist in the passenger seat, the next 30 minutes the driver will spent in the C 63 AMG Coupé Black Series, where he or she will indulge fully, driving one of the most powerful cars in the world.

Source: Mercedes-Benz

July 13, 2012

2013 Ford Focus ST shows impressive efficiency

2013 Ford Focus ST turns out to be highly efficient, because of its new 2.0-liter EcoBoost® four-cylinder engine. Thanks to it the Ford achieves incredible fuel economy numbers: 32 mpg highway, 23 mpg city and 26 mpg combined.

This means that the Focus ST, which is six-speed manual only, has better fuel efficiency performance compared to its rivals in the same class, for example such as Volkswagen GTI and MazdaSpeed3.

If we have to make a comparison between this and the current version of the 2013 Ford Focus ST with the previous-generation Ford Focus, well the latter produced only 140 horsepower (103 kW) and 136 lb.-ft. (184 Nm) of torque. Now, the Focus ST gives up only 3 mpg on the highway but gains 112 horsepower (82 kW) and 134 lb.-ft. (182 Nm) of torque, this means a total of 252 horsepower (185 kW) and 270 lb.-ft. (366 Nm).

The main reason for the great economy results is the special engine that the car has. In fact, the Focus ST is the first that has the four-cylinder performance EcoBoost engine. Now, the fuel-efficient EcoBoost powertrains are a mainstay in Ford’s lineup.

Source: Ford

July 13, 2012

Hartmann Vansports Volkswagen T5 Prime

Hartmann Vansports Volkswagen T5 Prime is powerful and stylish, and although it is based on a van, it looks better, sportier and more luxurious.

Hartman has added more power and dynamic to the Volkswagen by upgrading the engine. In details, the Vansports electronic Diesel-Performance-Kit pushes the 2.0 TDI from 103 kW (140 hp) up to 122 kW (165 hp), and the torque from 340 Nm (460 lb-ft) up to 395 Nm (535 lb-ft). If the bus is equipped with the 2.0 BiTDI then the transformation is from 132 kW (180 hp) up to 156 kW (212 hp), torque from 400 Nm (542 lb-ft) up to 460 Nm (623 lb-ft).

The driving fun is further enhanced thanks to the Hartmann’s sport-exhaust-system and an electronic accelerator pedal kit. What they do is basically to optimize the standard signal in the T5, which allows a significantly shorter reaction response during acceleration.

Furthermore, the sports suspension which has been added is giving a better visual outlook to the van. In addition it enhances the road handling for all steering, acceleration and braking maneuvers without sacrificing any comfort.

In particular, the sport suspension brings the T5 30 mm closer to the road. Additional visual highlights are the front spoilers, the side-skirts and the rear skirt extension, as well as the light alloy wheel program.

The wheel design here is created by VEST 3 and the size is 9 x 20 inches coming along with 275/35 R20 Tires. At last, the interior styling of this vehicle offers velour carpeting with an embroidered Hartmann emblem, antiskid rubber-knobs and interior parts in carbon optic.

Source: Hartmann

July 12, 2012

Nissan Leaf starts patrolling Portuguese streets

Nissan Leaf Blue Light will be used by the police in Portugal. Not only one example of the Leaf will support the local patrolmen but a whole fleet of eight units.

In fact this Nissan model is famous with its multi-awards for being one of the best zero-emission cars currently on the market. The car will be also utilized in a Safe School Program, and thanks to the flashing blue lights, sirens and clear ‘Polícia’ markings, the students will be called upon to perform thier police duties.

Of course, no other car but Nissan Leaf has been chosen to reduce the ecological footprint in Portugal. The great example given by the local officers is expected to be followed by other people in the country.

This makes Portugal an EV pioneer in Europe. And did you know that it was one of the first countries to install a network of EV chargers in its big cities and was the first to sell Nissan Leaf to the European public.

Nissan Leaf is the world’s most selling electric vehicle. Its AC motor generates 80 kW (108 hp) of power and 280 Nm (380 lb-ft) of torque. This means that it has a maximum speed of 145 km/h.

The electric motor is powered by a Nissan-developed laminated lithium-ion battery with an output of more than 90 kW (122 hp). And one of the most convenient facts is that the recharging time is only eight hours, of course we are speaking here for 100% recharging. However, it takes only 30 minutes to “refill” the battery’s power from 0 to 80% thanks to the quick charger in optimal conditions.

European production of Nissan Leaf will start in early 2013.

Source: Nissan

July 12, 2012

Wimmer Rennsporttechnik Mercedes-Benz C 63 AMG with 624 horsepower

Wimmer Rennsporttechnik Mercedes-Benz C 63 AMG is an interesting project which deserves some attention. It stays under the guiding principle of AMG’s handmade engineering art and luxury philosophy, and in addition is able to produce the great amount of 624 horsepower (460 kW).

However, before the tuning from Wimmer Rennsporttechnik, the Mercedes-Benz got only 487 hp (358 kW). The professionals from Wimmer achieve this enhancement of power through various means such as the upgrade of the cylinder heads, the sport cam shafts, throttle and the optimization of the intake manifolds.

Furthermore, they have added a larger fuel pump, which additionally works very efficiently. Next, onto the C 63 AMG were added also especially crafted headers from Wimmer and special sport catalysts from HJS Company, as well as sport exhaust system made from stainless steel, again by Wimmer. The wider audience can enjoy the sound of the engine thanks to the 84-mm- wide Y-pipes.

Wimmer Rennsporttechnik Mercedes-Benz C 63 AMG

The Mercedes runs on 19 inch BBS rims fitted with Dunlop tires. A club sport suspension from KW, spacers from H & R, plus limited slip differential of Drexler Company, must also be recognized in this tuning.

The exterior color of the vehicle has been modified by the tuners from Kempener. They have covered a Mercedes with material of the film manufacturer BRUXSAFOL in shiny “electrical- yellow”. The floor mats Ronsdorf of the interior stress the origin of this powercar by Wimmer logo.

Source: Wimmer Rennsporttechnik

July 12, 2012

Vorsteiner BMW E9X M3 GTS5 with new Front Bumper

Vorsteiner BMW E9X M3 GTS5 is a unique combination between the retiring E9X M3 and Vorsteiner’s GTS5 Front Bumper. The car will be produced only in limited 88 units so that it keeps the one-of-a-kindness of the driving experience to only a few people.

The GTS5 front bumper adds little details that first improve the overall appearance of the BMW. Furthermore it is important to mention the quality with which it is made.

Secondly an accent is put on the eyebrow over the bumper vent, thanks to a refinement which makes this Vorsteiner vehicle extraordinary. It is this very small element that will set anyone apart from the crowd.

In addition, the tuning company added also vertical vents which give more aesthetic outlook to the front bumper and also serve as a functional air flow for brake cooling.

What’s more here are some of the same features that are on the GTS3 Front Bumper. The integrated carbon fiber front lip detaches from the bumper for easy replacement in the event of road damage. Its strength, durability and reliability are also enhanced thanks to the latest innovations in carbon fiber technology.

Source: Vorsteiner

July 12, 2012

Author: Lidia Todorova