Victor Ivanov – Page 251 – Automobiles Review

2012 Mercedes-Benz range for the US: C, CL, CLS, E, F, G, GLK, R, S, SL, SLK, SLS

Mercedes-Benz US has announced the 2012 model range. It will feature revised versions of C, CL, CLS, E, F, G, GLK, R, S, SL, SLK, SLS Class. Furthermore, the manufacturer will put on sale E63 AMG Estate in the US.

Most 2012 models will feature a more fuel-efficient 7-speed automatic gearbox and more powerful direct-injected petrol engines. Furthermore, there will be an entirely new turbocharged four-cylinder engine, naturally aspirated V6 and bi-turbo V8 power units – some with ECO Stop/Start technology.

The interior will boasts a new audio headunit with a 5.8” color display, Bluetooth audio streaming, phonebook download, album cover art and USB port. COMAND with Navigation receives a 7” screen, SIRIUS weather, display of personal photos, 3D city models, intermediate navigation destinations, area avoidance and a larger 10GB Music Register.

The new direct injected 1.8 liter turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine in C250 delivers 201HP (148 kW) and 310Nm (229 lb-ft) of torque. C350 sport will come with new direct-injected 3.5 liter V6 with 302HP (222 kW) and 370Nm (273 lb-ft).

The mighty CLS550 is powered by a 4.6 liter bi-turbo V8 with 402HP (296 kW) and 600Nm (443 lb-ft) coupled to a 7-speed automatic gearbox. CLS63 AMG has new direct-injected 5.5 liter bi-turbo V8 with 518HP (381 kW) and 700Nm (516 lb-ft) with with ECO Stop/Start technology and AMG 7-speed MCT.

Check out the new features to all models at the table, below.

2012 Mercedes SLS Roadster

C-Class Sedan (September)

Restyled four-door sedan with new direct-injection 4- and 6-cylinder engines, more fuel-efficient 7-speed automatic transmission, aluminum hood and increased standard equipment including HD radio, rain-sensing wipers, integrated garage door opener, auto-dimming mirrors, USB interface and integrated compass.
Exterior updates include new headlights, LED DRL’s and taillights, bumpers and grille.
A completely redesigned interior features a color instrument cluster display, new headunit (described above) w/fixed 5.8″ screen, avail. PARKTRONIC w/Parking Assist
New safety features includes standard ATTENTION ASSIST, ADAPTIVE BRAKE with HOLD function and available Adaptive Highbeam Assist, Lane Keeping Assist and Blind Spot Assist.
C250 Sport/Luxury: new direct-injection 1.8-liter 4-cylinder turbo (201 hp, 229 lb.-ft.)
C300 4MATIC Sport/Luxury: continues with existing 3.0-liter V6 (228 hp, 221 lb-ft) and standard all-wheel drive.
C350 Sport: new direct-injection 3.5-liter V6 (302 hp, 273 lb.-ft.)
C63 AMG: receives AMG 7-speed Multi-Clutch Transmission (MCT) and continues with naturally-aspirated 6.3-liter V8 (451 hp, 443 lb-ft) and optimized suspension. Optional AMG Development Package yields 481 hp.

C-Class Coupe (September)

New two-door coupe debuts with bold AMG styling, standard panorama sunroof, steering wheel shift paddles, split-folding rear-seats, front seats with integrated headrests and driver memory plus a fuel-efficient 7-speed automatic transmission as well as the other technology highlights of the sedan.
C250 Sport: new direct-injection 1.8-liter 4-cylinder turbo (201 hp, 229 lb.-ft.) and 17inch 5-spoke alloy wheels
C350 Sport: new direct-injection 3.5-liter V6 (302 hp, 273 lb.-ft.) and 17-inch AMG twin 5-spoke alloy wheels, rear trunk spoiler
C63 AMG: features hand-built naturally-aspirated 6.3-liter V8 (451 hp, 443 lb-ft), AMG 7-speed MCT and 18-inch twin 5-spoke alloy wheels. Optional AMG Development Package yields 481 hp.

CL-Class Coupe (July)

CL550 4MATIC continues with 4.6-liter direct-injection biturbo V8 (429 hp, 516 lb-ft.)
CL63 AMG continues with 5.5-liter direct-injection biturbo AMG V8 (536 hp, 590 lb-ft) with ECO Stop/Start and AMG 7-speed MCT.
CL600 5.5-liter biturbo V12 model (510 hp, 612 lb-ft) continues
CL65 AMG High-performance 6.0-liter biturbo V12 model (621hp, 738 lb-ft) continues
Model line continues to showcase advanced driver assistance systems such as Distronic Plus with PRE-SAFE Brake, Active Lane Keeping Assist and Active Blind Spot Assist with automatic brake intervention and Nightview Assist PLUS with pedestrian detection.

CLS-Class Four-Door Coupe (June)

New-generation four-door coupe debuts with dramatic styling, two new V8 engines, electromechanical steering, aluminum doors and world-first active LED headlights.
CLS550 new direct-injection 4.6-liter biturbo V8 (402 hp, 443 lb.-ft) with more fuel-efficient 7-speed automatic transmission, AIRMATIC suspension and available with 4MATIC all-wheel-drive (Sept).
CLS63 AMG new direct-injection 5.5-liter biturbo AMG V8 (518 hp, 516 lb-ft) with ECO Stop/Start technology, AMG 7-speed MCT and AIRMATIC rear suspension. Optional Performance Package yields 550 hp/590 lb-ft.
Other new technology includes a color instrument cluster display, multicolor ambient lighting and central controller
LED taillamps and PARKTRONIC with Active Parking Assist
Safety technology includes available Active Lane Keeping Assist, Active Blind Spot Assist, 10 standard airbags and standard ATTENTION ASSIST

E-Class Coupe and Cabriolet

E350 Coupe and Cabriolet (July) new 3.5-liter direct-injection V6 engine (302 hp, 273 lb-ft) and new 17-inch twin 5-spoke wheels
E550 Coupe and Cabriolet (Oct.) new 4.6-liter direct-injection V8 engine (402 hp, 443 lb-ft) and electromechanical steering.
New available assistance systems include both active and passive Lane Keeping Assist and Blind Spot Assist.
Other highlights include new steering wheels with standard shift paddles, color instrument cluster display, standard LED DRLs, more fuel-efficient 7-speed transmission and media interface moved to the center console.

E-Class Sedan and Wagon (October)

Model line features more fuel-efficient 7-speed automatic transmission, new steering wheels, color instrument cluster display and standard LED DRL’s, media interface moved to center console.
E350 4MATIC Wagon continues with sport or luxury models, new direct-injection 3.5liter V6 engine (302hp, 273 lb-ft) and standard all-wheel drive, 3rd-row rear-facing seat, power tailgate, rear air suspension and electromechanical steering,
E350 BlueTEC 50-State V6 turbodiesel (210 hp, 400 lb-ft) continues.
E350 Sport/Luxury new direct-injection V6 engine (302 hp, 273 lb-ft) and available 4MATIC all-wheel-drive.
E550 4MATIC Sport new 4.6-liter twin-turbo direct-injection V8-engine (402 hp, 443 lb-ft), electromechanical steering and standard 4MATIC all-wheel-drive.
E63 AMG Sedan new 5.5-liter twin-turbo direct-injection V8 engine (518 hp, 516 lb-ft) and ECO Stop/Start technology mated to the AMG 7-speed MCT plus new 19-inch AMG 10-spoke wheels. Optional Performance Packages yields 550hp/590lb-ft.
E63 AMG Wagon debuts with drivetrain mentioned above and standard panorama roof
Model line continues to showcase advanced new driver assistance systems such as ATTENTION ASSIST, Active Lane Keeping Assist and Active Blind Spot Assist with automatic brake intervention, PRE-SAFE Brake with Automatic Emergency Braking, Adaptive Highbeam Assist and Nightview Assist PLUS with pedestrian detection.

F-Cell

5-door, 4-passenger hydrogen-electric car (134 hp, 214 lb-ft) continues, available for lease in southern California.
Powered by fuel cell technology with an EPA estimated range of 190 miles (European driving cycle: 240 miles)

G-Class SUV (October)

G550 5.5-liter V8-powered model (382 hp, 391 lb-ft) continues
“Edition Select” package offered in choice of 3 paints, AMG fenders, exhaust sidepipes, silver-painted wheels and other interior highlights including designo upholstery

GL-Class SUV (August)

GL350 BlueTEC 3.0-liter V6 turbodiesel (210 hp, 400 lb-ft) model continues
GL450 4.6-liter V8-powered (335 hp, 339 lb-ft) model continues
GL550 5.5-liter V8-powered (382 hp, 391 lb-ft) model continues
Minor updates to the interior, rearview camera now includes directional lines, all models now feature standard LED DRLs

GLK-Class SUV (July)

GLK350 3.5-liter V6-powered (268 hp, 258 lb-ft) model continues w/available 4MATIC all-wheel-drive.
Media interface relocated to center console.

R-Class Crossover (August)

R350 4MATIC new direct-injection V6 engine (302 hp, 273 lb-ft), more fuel-efficient 7speed automatic transmission & standard 4MATIC all-wheel drive.
R350 BlueTEC 50-state V6 turbodiesel (210 hp, 400 lb-ft) continues
Model line features standard LED DRLs, directional lines on rearview camera and minor interior updates.
New standard equipment includes COMAND system with hard-drive navigation, enhanced voice control for audio, telephone and navigation, Gracenote® media database, HD Radio®, SIRIUS® satellite radio with SIRIUS real-time traffic service, Zagat® Survey restaurant guide, 4GB hard-drive with Music Register

S-Class Sedan (July)

S400 HYBRID continues with the first lithium-ion battery designed exclusively for automotive use and 3.5-liter V6 mild hybrid powertrain (295 hp, 284 lb-ft)
S350 BlueTEC 4MATIC new model features standard all-wheel-drive and 3.0-liter V6 turbodiesel engine (240 hp, 455 lb-ft)
S550 new 4.6-liter direct-injectionV8 engine (429 hp, 516 lb-ft) and more fuel-efficient 7-speed automatic transmission. Available with 4MATIC all wheel drive.
S63 AMG High-performance model continues with 5.5-liter direct-injection biturbo V8 engine (536 hp, 590 lb-ft) and ECO Stop/Start functionality as well as AMG 7-speed MCT. Optional Performance Package yields 563hp/664 lb-ft.
S600 flagship 5.5-liter biturbo V12 model (510 hp, 612 lb-ft) continues.
S65 AMG high-performance 6.0-liter biturbo V12 model (621hp, 738lb-ft) continues.
Model line continues to showcase advanced driver assistance systems such as Distronic Plus with PRE-SAFE Brake, Active Lane Keeping Assist and Active Blind Spot Assist with automatic brake intervention and Nightview Assist PLUS with pedestrian detection.

SL-Class Coupe/Roadster (June)

SL550 5.5-liter V8 model (382hp, 391 lb-ft) continues
SL63 AMG high-performance 6.3-liter V8-powered model (518 hp, 465 lb-ft) with AMG 7-speed MCT continues

SLK-Class Coupe/Roadster

New-generation SLK debuts with SLS AMG styling cues, new powertrains and retractable hardtop that opens/closes within 20 seconds and offers Panorama roof and MAGIC SKY CONTROL. Standard LED daytime running lamps and electronic parking brake.
SLK350 (June): new direct-injection 3.5-liter V6 (302 hp, 273 lb.-ft.) with 7-speed automatic transmission and 18-inch 5-spoke wheels
SLK250 (Early 2012): new direct-injection 1.8-liter 4-cylinder turbo (201 hp, 229 lb.-ft.) available with 6-spd manual or 7-spd automatic and 17-inch 5-spoke wheels
New interior highlights include sun-reflecting leather, Direct Ambient Lighting, COMAND control knob and AIRGUIDE.
New safety highlights include Adaptive Brake, NECK-PRO head restraints, PARKTRONIC with Parking Assist, 8 airbags and standard ATTENTION ASSIST
New standard equipment includes rain-sensing wipers, power-folding auto-dimming mirrors, power memory seats with lumbar support, integrated garage door opener, rearview mirror with integrated compass and HD Radio.
New headunit (described above)

SLS AMG

AMG-developed super sports car with aluminum body and high-performance powertrain featuring a hand-built V8 engine (563hp, 479 lb-ft) with front-mid layout and dry sump lubrication mated to a carbon fiber driveshaft and advanced dual-clutch transaxle transmission with 4 driving modes.
New equipment includes standard Blind Spot Assist, optional 3-mode AMG Adaptive Suspension and AMG Performance Media including driving telemetry and G-Force measurement
SLS AMG Coupe (July) continues with new paint offerings
SLS AMG Roadster (late 2011) debuts with power soft top in choice of three colors that opens/closes in 11 seconds up to 30 mph, conventionally hinged doors, standard AIRSCARF and removable wind deflector.

Sprinter Van

Cargo Van, Crew Van, Passenger Van, MiniBus and Cab Chassis models continue with 50-state BlueTEC clean diesel engine
Available in 3 GVWRs, 3 lengths and 2 roof heights.

Source: Mercedes-Benz USA

May 13, 2011

Ferrari 458 Italia GT3

RS Academy, which is one of the best track-driving car clubs, has taken delivery of only the second Ferrari 458 Italia GT3 to leave the factory. The car was taken to victory on its debut outing in the British GT Championship at Oulton Park on April 25^th.

458 Italia GT3 is powered by a 4.5 liter naturally aspirated V8 with 580PS (426 kW) at 9000RPM and 540Nm (400 lb-ft) at 6000RPM with 80% torque available at just 3250RPM. The engine is extremely responsive and builds revs lightningly fast.

With such power, the car is stunningly fast and is currently one of the world’s great GT racers.

“It’s amazing that we have been able to take such early delivery of a 458 Italia GT3 and it’s equally satisfying to see that it has made an impressive racing debut, but we are most excited about the fact that we can offer this unbelievable car to Club members at some fantastic European circuits. It’s this exclusivity which makes RS Academy a unique player in the high-end track day and supercar club market.”, commented RS Academy owner, Rob Stanbury.

The car club also owns – Ascari KZ1R GT3, Noble M600, Ferrari 430 Challenge, Porsche 911 GT3 RS and Ariel Atom. The fleet will be joined by two all-new BAC Mono sports cars.

Ferrari 458 Italia GT3

Source: Ferrari

May 13, 2011

2011 Renault Clio Expression Eco – range of 1526 km

2011 Renault Clio Expression Eco with 1.5 dCi 88 with Stop-Start achieves something amazing – 94 g/km of CO2 and 78.4 mpg on the combined cycle, which is just 3 liters per 100km.

The Eco Pack can be specified as a £250 option on Expression trim level versions of Clio 3- and 5-door. Prices for the standard model, prior to adding the optional pack, are £12 200 and £12 800 OTR.

With such price, the new Clio is a full £1 445 less than the equivalent low-emission Ford Fiesta Econetic – £13 895 OTR and a considerable £2 410 less than the Volkswagen Polo BlueMotion – £14 860 OTR. So, the Clio has enormous advantage over its competitors. Furthermore, the range of Clio Eco 1.5 dCi 88 is 949 miles – over 1526 kilometers on single tank of fuel.

The optional Eco Pack offers 15” Aero wheel trims with body-coloured Aero rear spoiler and ultra-low resistance tyres.The options list includes air conditioning, extra tinted windows and tailgate and fully integrated Carminat TomTom Live satellite navigation.

The new 94 g/km Clio Expression Eco can be ordered now, priced from £12 450 including the optional pack.

2011 Renault Clio Expression Eco

Source: Renault

May 12, 2011

Mostro Di-Potenza SF22 – 2000HP and 2000Nm

MOSTRO DI-POTENZA Sf22 is based on Lamborghini Indomable Concept created by Design 4 Motion. This name comes from the design influence of the F22 fighter jet, and is incorporated in the car. SF stands for Street Fighter and only 50 of these cars will be produced.

“We knew that entering a market as a new supercar company has become a rarely successful trend. We hope to make our niche by offering the customers something they could never imagine,” commented Anthony Crudup, Chief Executive Officer, 215 Racing/ Mostro Di-Potenza.

The car is powered by a brutal 572 cubic inches GM Engine with two turbochargers and as you expect, the power is just over 2000PS as well as the torque. The hyper car also has a 6 speed billet sequential transmission, a Carbon fiber/ Kevlar blend composite body, a full touch screen cockpit , Airspeed adjustable intercoolers and wing/speed brake.

“We think it’s time for the Bugatti Veyron to pass the top speed production car crown to us. They have held it for 10 years! But that is not our primary focus, we want to give the owner something that can only come from Mostro and I think we nailed it with this design. Also 70% of all our vendors are American Companies and we pride ourselves on keeping our fingers on the pulse of the newest and most innovative automotive technology the industry has to offer,” finished A. Crudup.

The amazing news is that the car will actually go in production in the Philadelphia, PA area, at a production rate of 2 per month. It is also expected to hit the market in mid- 2012. We can’t wait to see that!

Mostro Di-Potenza SF22

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZW9Zs0pwidQ

2012 Mostro Di-Potenza SF22 Technical Data:

Engine Location Mid
Drive type Rear wheel
Body/Chasiss Carbon-fiber/Kevlar monocoque
Production Years 2012-
Weight 3000 lbs | kg

Performance (est.)

0 to 60 2.5
1/4 mile 9.5 sec
Top Speed 265 mph |

Engine

Engine Configuration V
Cylinders 8
Engine Dry Sump Lubrication
Aspiration/Induction Twin-Turbo
Displacement 9.4 L
Horsepower 2000
Torque 2000
Fuel Feed Fuel Injected

Standard Transmission

Gears 6

Transmission Sequential

Dimensions

Fuel Capacity 20 Gallons Primery | 8 Gallons Secondary
Seating Capacity 2
Doors 2

Exterior

Length 4460mm
Width 1905mm
Height 1230mm
Wheelbase 2650mm

Wheels

Front 235/35R20
Rear 305/30R20

Source: mostrodi-potenza.com via autoblog.com

May 12, 2011

Renault Twizy ZE – £6 690

Renault will actually hit the market with the Twizy, which will be on display at the Barcelona Motor Show. The manufacturer will exhibit two versions powered by a 17HP motor: Urban and Technic. The price of Twizy will be £6 690 ORT.

The Technic trim level costs £7 400 and monthly battery lease cost for both versions will be £40 including VAT for a 36 month/4 800 miles per year agreement.

Customers can now pre-reserve their Twizy online at renault-ze.com and this requires a £20 deposit via a secure online payment module. The website is available in 38 countries and has already received more than five million visits, a figure which provides a dramatic illustration of the interest motorists are showing in the Renault Z.E. programme.

Renault Twizy ZE

Twizy makes city motoring easier and safe:

Twizy gets around town faster than a traditional city car thanks to its unprecedented ultra-compact dimensions which also allows easy parking
It offers two occupants – sitting in tandem, one behind the other – greater safety compared with a two-wheeled vehicle, thanks to an extensive list of active and passive safety features

Twizy makes getting round town more enjoyable

It is more agile than a car, whilst its acceleration performance is comparable with that of a scooter
Twizy’s electric motor accelerates smoothly and silently, while torque is immediately available
Its wraparound bodywork and side deflectors ensure enjoyable open-air motoring, protected from the elements

Accessories for the Twizy lifestyle

An all-purpose bag with a capacity of 50 litres
Additional protection against the weather
A Parrot audio kit including Bluetooth connectivity, plus a USB connector, a jack socket and an Apple connector
Rear parking sensors
A range of customisation accessories (coloured alloy wheels, decals) enabling owners to personalise their Twizy

Technical data

DIMENSIONS
Length		2,337mm
Width, not including door mirrors		1,191mm
Height		1,461mm
Wheelbase		1,684mm
Front/rear track		1,050mm/1,036mm
Front/rear overhang		292mm/345mm
Kerb weight		450kg, including battery (100kg)
Tyres		125×80 R13 (front) / 145×80 R13 (rear)
MOTOR
Type		Electric
Transmission		Direct, with reducer and forward/reverse inverter
Maximum peak power (EEC)		13kW (17hp)
Maximum torque (EEC)		57Nm
BATTERY
Type		Lithium-ion
Standard cycle range		62 miles
PERFORMANCE
Top speed	50 mph

Twizy Urban – standard equipment

Red or grey paintwork
‘Urban’ TEP water resistant upholstery
Coded electronic immobiliser
Lockable handbrake and steering column
Driver’s airbag
4-point front seat-belt
3-point rear seat-belt
Anti-submarining front seat
Child seat compatible rear seat (under 15kg)
Regenerative braking system with 4 disc brakes
Audio pre-wiring
Cable and integrated charger for a 3.5 hours full charge (using a domestic electrical supply or all types of public charging spot)
Econometer, range and ‘Eco driving’ gauge
Two gloveboxes (one lockable)
31-litre lockable storage under rear seat
55-litre lockable rear storage achieved by turning rear seat over

Options

Metallic paint – black or white
Scissors doors with translucent lower half
Transparent roof

Twizy Technic adds:

‘Carbon fibre’ graphics
‘Diamond black’ alloy wheels
Metallic paint – black or white
‘Technic’ TEP water resistant upholstery with driver’s seat in white

Options

Scissors doors with translucent lower half
Transparent roof

Source: Renault

May 12, 2011

Delta E-4 Coupe

Delta Motorsport has announced the battery-electric E-4 Coupe, which features light weight and high-efficiency systems included in stylish two-door coupe with a nice range of 200 miles on a single charge. Furthermore, the car can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in under 5 seconds.

Delta E-4 Coupe was tested at Silvestone race track on May 9^th and the results are more than satisfying. It is a proper sports car with zero emissions.

Delta Motorsport was founded in 2005 by Simon Dowson and Nick Carpenter.

Simon Dowson commented: “We became involved with the design of hybrid and electric vehicles because they share many of the engineering challenges associated with motor sport – light weight parts, aerodynamic efficiency and innovative packaging solutions. We’ve had to re-think road cars from the beginning, looking at low cost composite structures, system efficiencies and novel occupant packaging.”

Delta E-4 Coupe

Delta E-4 Coupe:

The carbon composite chassis, designed by Delta and manufactured by KS Composites, weighs just 85kg – 2/3 less than a comparable steel structure despite being designed to pass EU crash tests.
The high performance direct-drive electric motors were designed in partnership with Oxford University and spin-out Oxford YASA Motors and produce well over 600Nm of torque and over 120hp each while only weighing 23kg.
The low, sporty seating position with the batteries mounted under the floor means that the car handles superbly but it also helps reduce aerodynamic drag.

Source: Delta Motorsport

May 12, 2011

Renaulsport – 2011 Trackday Calendar

Renaultsport are ready with the 2011 trackday calendar, so the owners of the manufacturer’s hot hatchbacks will be able to explore the limits of their track-bred cars. The events will include three of the most iconical UK circuits – Silverstone, Brands Hatch and Knockhill. Furthermore, there is a chance to join Renaultsport with a trip to the world-famous Nurburgring Nordschleife race track in Germany and Bedford Autodrome.

Renaultsport are not new in running trackdays. They have been doing that since 2002 and at every circuit, experienced and trained instructors will be on hand offering personalised tips to improve car control.

The programme will include Twingo Renaultsport 133 Cup, the Clio Renaultsport 200 Cup or the Megane Renaultsport 250 Cup. The drivers will also enjoy a “hot” lap in the car from the passenger seat with a qualified instructor at the wheel.

“Renaultsport trackdays are the perfect way of our customers sharing our passion for Renaultsport. This gives them the opportunity to realise the full potential of their cars in a safe and relaxed atmosphere. The tuition provides invaluable experience to improving skill levels.”, commented Phil York, Renault’s Marketing Director.

Date	20^th May	23^rd May	17^th June	22^nd July	4^th August	22^nd September
Venue	Bedford Autodrome	Knockhill	Nürburgring Nordschleife	Bedford Autodrome	Silverstone	Brands Hatch
Driver	£95	£119	290 €	£95	£179	£149
2^nd Driver	Free	Free	145 €	Free	Free	Free
Extra tuition	£10	£10	n/a	£10	£10	£10

Renault Clio Renaultsport 200

Source: Renault

May 12, 2011

1936 BMW 328

An iconic BMW model has celebrates its 75^th anniversary. BMW 328 built between 1936 and 1940 laid down a milestone in automotive history and was the most successful sports car of the 1930s on the racing scene.

This model combined everything that a race car needs – agility, acceleration, reliability and lightweight construction.

BMW 328 has decent performance and it is fast even now. The car weighs just 780kg and the engine develops 80PS. The top speed is 155 km/h, so it was one of the quickest cars around. However, only 464 units are ever made, so the BMW 328 is today one of the most sought-after collector’s items on the market. 328 appeared to be the best visually appealing sports cars of the pre-war period as well as the most successful racing machine in Europe.

BMW 328 made its race debut on 14 June 1936 (Sunday). 34 runners were listed in the sports car category of the International Eifel Race. The sound rumbling to the surface through the bonnet’s two leather securing belts indicated the presence of a six-cylinder unit producing maybe 80 or even 90 horsepower.

Around 200 units have survived from 30s to nowadays. Around 120 are in Germany and many still take part in historical races to this day. In 2003 Sweden’s King Carl XVI Gustav teamed with Prince Leopold of Bavaria for the reborn Mille Miglia – now run as a regularity test – in a BMW 328 Touring Roadster.

To be reminded of just how tough and rigid the 1940 cars still are today, you need only witness their journey to Italy for the event. They don’t need a transporter or trailer, instead, just as they did 70 years ago, they travel from Munich to Brescia on their own power. And even more impressively, they complete the journey on a single tank of fuel.

The drivers and cars are able to encounter a wide variety of weather conditions en route to Brescia and during the event itself, but nothing can dampen the spirits of the drivers and cars alike.

Real spirit, real drivers, real cars!

BMW – Sheer Driving Pleasure!

1936 BMW 328

Source: BMW

May 11, 2011

2012 Ford Mustang Mayhem

Ford has announced a special version of 2012 Mustang V6, which will be offered with a new Mayhem performance package.

“We saw great enthusiasm from fans, with tons of creative, unique names coming in,” commented Brian McClary, Ford social and emerging media specialist.

“The contest was twofold – it let us engage with fans by letting them have a say, and it helped build awareness for the package.”, he added.

2012 Ford Mustang Mayhem is powered by a 3.7 liter V6 engine with 309PS (227 kW) and 379Nm (280 lb-ft) of torque. It is mated to a 6-speed manual gearbox and returns 19 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway.

The car comes with a sport-tuned suspension, a strut tower brace and a revised electronic stability control system. Mustang Mayhem features a high performance braking system. It stands on big 19” alloy wheels fitted with Pirelli high-performance tires. The power is put on the road through LSD (limited slip differential) with ratio of 3.31.

2012 Ford Mayhem Mustang Package:

3.31 rear axle ratio for quicker off-the-line acceleration
Mustang GT coupe front and rear stabilizer bars
Mustang GT front struts and rear shocks/springs
Shelby GT500 rear lower control arm
Unique 19-inch wheels
Pirelli performance tires for improved grip
Mustang GT front and rear brake calipers with Performance Friction pads
Strut tower brace for increased body rigidity
Unique electronic stability control calibration with sport mode for performance driving
Unique badging

2011 Ford Mustang GT

edit: Ford Mustang GT on the pictures

Source: Ford

May 11, 2011

Piecha 2012 Mercedes SLK

Piecha Design aren’t waste any time and the tuning company has already released a special styling package for the latest 2012 Mercedes SLK – R172 model. The name of the project is Accurian RS and it includes only aerodynamic enhancements. Still, we expect them to release some performance packages for the powerful Mercedes’ engines.

The body kit includes an Accurian RS front spoiler lip with lateral grids, Accurian RS side skirt covers, Accurian RS sills with LED lighting units. There are also a revised rear apron, a new diffuser, a trunk-mounted spoiler and a four-tailpipe sport exhaust system.

Piecha Accurian RS stands on enormous alloys with dimensions 8.5J x 19” ET25 with 225/35 R19 tires at the front and optional 9.5J or 10.5J x 19” with 255 or 275/30 R19 tires at the rear.

The stance is brutal, because of the lowering springs kit, which cuts 25 mm of the height of the SLK.

Finally, the Mercedes specialists from Rottweiler offer practical comfort top control, which allows for an opening and closing of the top via the serial key up to a speed of 60 km/h.

Piecha Accurian RS 2012 Mercedes S

Source: Piecha Design

May 11, 2011

Ford Focus ST Prototype

Ford will soon introduce the new version of Focus ST, which will feature unique paintjob, lowered syspension, huge alloys wheels fitted with performance tires and central rear double exhaust.

“The new Focus ST is eagerly awaited around the world, which is appropriate as this is our first global performance model,” commented Jost Capito, Ford’s director of Global Performance Vehicles.

“It must live up to Ford’s reputation for producing affordable yet exciting and sporty versions of its smaller cars that reward and delight enthusiast drivers, but can also be used every day.”, he added.

“We’ve done all the engineering groundwork, and now we’re using some of the most demanding roads we can find in Europe and North America to validate and fine tune the performance and driving dynamics.”, mr. Capito finished.

The new Focus ST will be powered by a specially developed engine with 2.0 litres of displacement. The EcoBoost power plant will deliver 250PS, while the fuel consumption will be significantly improved.

The drivers will be helped by highly tuned Electric Power Assist Steering (EPAS) system. The new ST will also have driver-orientated seats, sports steering wheel and some other goodies. The car will bring staggering performance and unique driving pleasure.

“Fuel efficiency is a key leadership target for Ford Motor Company globally. We want to be class-leading even with a performance vehicle, so we’re working on getting the best possible blend of high power and fuel economy from the new ST,” said Matthias Tonn, chief program engineer, Global Performance Products, Ford of Europe.

“We’re fine-tuning, testing, and fine tuning again many of the small but critical details to make sure it is worthy of the ST badge,” Tonn said.

“We will build upon and improve the ride, steering and handling strengths that defined the current European Focus ST.”, he added.

“The seats and seating position were very good in the previous Focus ST, but the new model is sleeker and the driver will sit lower. The new seats which will provide even more support,” Tonn finished.

Ford Focus ST Prototype

Source: Ford

May 11, 2011

2011 Diesel Car Awards – Ford with double victory

Ford managed to get two awards at the 2011 Diesel Car Awards. The two honoured models are the latest Focus and refined Mondeo. Diesel Car evaluated the 1.6 and 2.0-litre Ford Focus TDCi models – each available in two power outputs.

“The Ford Focus is quite simply the best handling, most dynamically accomplished car in its class – the one the others have to match. A new benchmark has been set for this size of car, because the bar has been raised by new Focus.”, commented Ian Robertson, Diesel Car editor.

Mondeo TDCi is powered by 1.6 litre diesel with Auto-Start-Stop as standard. It achieves the amazing 65.6 mpg and emissions of just 114 g/km of CO2.

Ian Robertson added: “The Mondeo delivers driving dynamics that are second-to-none. There’s a magic about the way this car handles. It is superbly nimble and poised, with great handling and excellent steering feel that crisply communications what’s happening down there at the road surface.”

“This is a sizeable market for Ford, with 45 per cent of Focus cars bought being diesels and 86 per cent of Mondeos. To receive independent endorsement of these cars from Diesel Car is recognition of the UK-based Ford engineers and manufacturing specialists producing these engines.”, commented Jon Wellsman, Ford Britain sales director.

ford mondeo titanium

Source: Ford

May 11, 2011

Author: Victor Ivanov