Victor Ivanov – Page 254 – Automobiles Review

Hennessey HPE500 Supercharged Dodge Ram

Hennessey performance has announced a new performance package for the big four-door Dodge Ram 1500. The pick-up has been equipped with a supercharger, which boosts the engine to the whopping 505HP, so you will be able to carry all your instruments incredibly fast. Really useful!

Hennessey HPE 500 performance package includes a big TVS2300 supercharger, a revised intake, new larger fuel injectors, a cat-back sport exhaust system and of course an ECU re-map to make sure that all parts work perfectly together. The result is 505HP from the 5.7 liter HEMI V8.

There are also optional upgrades like a full long-tube header exhaust, high-flow cats, a premium wheel and tire package, and your choice of a lowered or raised suspension.

The tuning company didn’t release any price lists.

Hennessey HPE500 Supercharged Dodge Ram:

• 505 bhp @ 5,400 rpm

The HPE500 Upgrade Includes:
• TVS2300 Supercharger System
• HPE Air Induction System
• Fuel Injector Upgrade
• Stainless Steel Cat-Back Exhaust
• Professional Installation
• HPE Engine Management Calibration
• Chassis Dyno & Road Testing
• Hennessey Exterior Badging
• Hennessey Premium Floormats
• Hennessey Enbroidered Headrests
• Serial-Numbered Dash & Engine Plaques
• 3 Year / 36,000 Mile Limited Warranty

HPE500 Optional Upgrades:
• Stainless Steel Long Tube Headers
• High Flow Catalytic Converters
• Premium Wheel & Tire Packages
• Lowered or Raised Suspension Systems
• Bumpers, Guards & Exterior Lighting
• And More

Source: Hennessey

May 2, 2011

2011 Porsche Panamera Diesel

Porsche has announced the new Panamera Diesel, which will hit the UK market in August, this year. The luxury Gran Turismo car is 3+1, which means that it can carry up to four passengers in sporting comfort.

2011 Panamera Diesel is powered by a 3.0 liter V6 with 250HP (184 kW) at 3800RPM and 550Nm(407 lb-ft) of torque at just 1750RPM. The engine is connected to an 8-speed Tiptronic S transmission, which sends the power to the rear wheels. 0 to 100 km/h in 6.8 seconds and top speed of 242 km/h (150mph). The diesel achieves 43.5mpg and 172 g/km of CO2, which means that you can go up to 1199 km (745 miles) on a single tank of fuel. However, With the optional lower rolling resistance tyres, efficiency improves further still, to 167 g/km and 44.8mpg on a Combined cycle.

The diesel powered Porssche also features auto start/stop function, steel spring suspension and optional adaptive air suspension.

The standard specs include leather interior, Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM), Bi-Xenon headlights, front and rear ParkAssist, tyre pressure monitoring, automatic dimming rear view mirrors, Porsche Communication Management with touch-screen satellite navigation and audio controls, cruise control and a three 3 warranty.

2011 Porsche Panamera Diesel is priced at £62 134.

Source: Porsche

May 2, 2011

Range Rover Sport Afzal Kahn RS-300

Project Kahn has released another tuning program for Range Rover Sport. Their latest project is the Range Rover Sport Afzal Kahn RS-300, which is powered by a 5.8 liter V8 provided by Cosworth. There is no further specification, but the tuning company has equipped the mighty engine with some modifications, which will grant awesome driving pleasure to the customers.

The styling package includes a new custom front bumper A-frame, modified rear bumper, satin front mesh grille, bespoke door handles, color coded side sills and Cosworth-badged stainless steel door entry sills.

Afzal Kahn RS-300 stands on enormous 20” RS rims fitted with low-profile tires.

The interior boasts quilted RS front and rear seats with Cosworth logos, quilted centre glove box and instrument cluster, RS gear shift with contrasting stitching, Cosworth blue dials and time clock, Cosworth numbered conversion plaque and a lot of Cosworth badges and logos.

Range Rover Sport Afzal Kahn RS-300

Source: Project Kahn

April 29, 2011

Prior Design Bentley Continental GTC

Bentley Continental GTC (Cabriolet) is powered by a 6.0 liter bi-turbo W12 with the impressive 560PS and 650Nm of torque at just 1600RPM. The beast pulls like no other vehicle on the road. All that power is put on the asphalt through AWD system.

Prior Design has released a new styling package for the Bentley Continental GTC, which improves the aerodynamics as well as the presence of the car. The body kit includes a ventilated hood, a set of traditional side sills, a massive sports grille with two carbon-fibre air outlets on top and a new front bumper with a carbon fiber spoiler. It also features a stainless steel sport exhaust system and a new rear bumper with an integrated diffuser.

The interior has received minor changes – all wooden decoration is changed with exclusive carbon fibre elements.

However, the PRIOR-Design refiners impressively prove that the customer’s wishes have no limits.

Prior Design Bentley Continental GTC will be unveiled on May 5th, at Tuning World Bodensee in Germany.

Source: Prior Design

April 29, 2011

2012 Chevrolet Corvette : full details

Chevrolet has released full information about the staggering 2012 Corvette Centennial Edition.

“We constantly strive to make the Corvette a better car on the road and the track,” commented Tadge Juechter, Corvette vehicle line director and chief engineer.

“For 2012, the Corvette lineup achieves its highest performance, while at the same time being easier to drive and enjoy thanks to several changes and new features inside the car.”, Tadge Juechter added.

The manufacturer can fit the new 2012 Vette with optional Michelin PilotSport Cup Zero Pressure tires available for the most powerful models – the lightweight, 505PS (377 kW) Z06 and the maximum-performance, 638PS (476 kW) supercharged ZR1. The vehicles also have Performance Traction Management (PTM) technology, which delivers an 8-percent gain in maximum lateral acceleration, to more than 1.1G.

The tires are included in the optional Z07 performance package on the Corvette Z06 and a new PDE performance package on the ZR1. The dimensions are 285/30 ZR19 at the front and 335/25 ZR20 at the rear. They are fitted to the all-new aluminum Cup-style wheels in satin black or machined finishes.

Another interesting feature for improved aerodynamics is the full-width racing-style spoiler, which also come with the 2012 Z07 and PDE packages. The Z06 model will now offer Magnetic Selective Ride Control, the world’s fastest-reacting suspension technology. The Brembo carbon ceramic brakes will be a part of the Z07 chassis package and standard on ZR1. Michelin Pilot Sport 2 tires remain standard on the ZR1.

Finally, a carbon fiber hood will be an available option on 2012 Z06 models.

Inside, all 2012 Vettes will come with a new seat design and a new steering wheel. Microfiber suede seat inserts are optional and improve tactile feel, as well as add additional support.

The audio system is from Bose and includes 9 speakers. A new Technology Package (2LT trim level) brings together many of the Corvette’s popular infotainment features and makes them available for more models. The package’s equipment includes the navigation radio, head-up display, Bose premium audio system, Bluetooth wireless phone connectivity and a USB port.

With all new features, the customers will be able to create a unique 2012 Corvette, which will bring them a lot of joy both on public roads as well as the race tracks.

2012 Chevrolet Centennial Edition Corvette Z06

Source: GM

April 29, 2011

Free inspection for Porsche Cabriolet models

Porsche has announced a special complimentary vehicle inspection on June 4 at participating Porsche Centres nationwide. The manufacturer will celebrate the start of the summer holiday season with this service, which will help ensure all Porsche cabriolet owners maximise their open-air driving pleasure.

All Porsche cabriolets are welcome, whatever their model or age. The service will include all cars from a 356 Speedster, a 1994 968 Cabriolet, or the latest Boxster Spyder or 911 Turbo Cabriolet.

The national Porsche Cabriolet and Roadster Service Clinic will inspect the cars for free. Furthermore, the owners will also get the chance to attend a workshop at their local Porsche Centre together with their technician. These Service Clinics will also provide customers with information and advice to ensure that the operation of the hood folding mechanism is correct and that the roof remains wind and weather-proof. Other checks will ensure the expected safety, reliability, and performance levels of their cars are maintained.

The Service Clinics will be conducted one week before the Le Mans 24 Hours race in France.

The idea is simply great, because many of the drivers don’t have enough time and resources to make a full inspection of their vehicles.

Porsche 911

Source: Porsche

April 29, 2011

Mercedes C 63 AMG Safety Car – 2011 DTM season

Mercedes has introduced the new C63 AMG DTM Safety Car, which is entirely ready for the 2011 racing season. The vehicle is based on the latest C-class with the mighty 6.2 liter V8 AMG engine.

It also features adjustable coil-over suspension, a high-performance braking system and a roof-mounted LED light bar. The interior boasts sports bucket seats, an advanced communications system, a leather and Alcantara steering wheel with paddle shifters, a radio system and a TV monitor..

The engine is the well-known 6.2 liter V8 with installed AMG Performance Package. The power is 487PS (358 kW) and 600Nm (443 lb-ft) of torque. The engine is mated to a AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 7-speed sports transmission, which enables the car to accelerate from 0-100 km/h in 4.3 seconds.

The C 63 AMG Safety Car stands on multi-spoke AMG light-alloy wheels painted in matt black with a high-sheen rim flange – 235/35 R 19 front tyres and 255/30 R 19 rear tyres.

Mercedes-AMG has provided the Safety Car ever since the “new” DTM’s inception in 2000 and alternates with Audi from race to race. The flagship V8 C-Class model from AMG has been used in DTM since its launch in 2008.

AMG Safety Car DTM

Source: Mercedes

April 29, 2011

Alfa MiTo MY2011

Alfa Romeo has announced the new MiTo MY2011, which is significantly improved compared to the predecessor. The new one includes higher standard specifications, and a new congestion-busting sub-100g/km CO₂ model.

The new MiTo will feature the Sprint trim level, which will replace both Turismo and Lusso. Entry level versions are now known as Progression, and Distinctive and Quadrifoglio Verde versions replace Veloce and Cloverleaf.

The prices are also reduced and now Alfa MiTo is priced at just £12 250 OTR for the entry level 1.4 8V Progression. The top of range 1.4 TB MultiAir 170BHP Quadrifoglio Verde is priced at £17 955 OTR.

The engine range will feature three new engines:

1.4 8V with 78BHP with and Start&Stop as standard

1.4 MultiAir with 105BHP

1.3 JTDm-2 with 85BHP and just 95g/km of CO2

Distinctive and Quadrifoglio Verde levels will now include Cruise Control, Sports pedals and rear parking sensors as standard.

The new MiTo is available in Metal Bronze finish with special Sprint Bronze upholstery. The model was previewed at the 2011 Geneva Motor Show.

Alfa MiTo MY2011 Price List:

	Basic Price	VAT	Total Price	OTR Charges	Total OTR
1.4 8v 78 bhp Progression	£9,703.72	£1,940.74	£11,644.47	£805.53	£12,250.00
1.4 8v bhp Sprint	£10,287.06	£2,057.41	£12,344.47	£805.53	£12,950.00
1.4 TB MultiAir 105 bhp Sprint	£11,028.72	£2,205.74	£13,234.47	£720.53	£13,955.00
1.4 TB MultiAir 105 bhp Distinctive	£12,028.72	£2,405.74	£14,434,47	£720.53	£15,155.00
1.4 TB MultiAir 135 bhp Distinctive	£12,787.06	£2,557.41	£15,344.47	£805.53	£15,950.00
1.4 TB MultiAir 135 bhp ALFA TCT Distinctive	£13,870.39	£2,774.08	£16,644.47	£805.53	£17,250.00
1.4 TB MultiAir 170 bhp Quadrifoglio Verde	£14,362.06	£2,872.41	£17,234.47	£720.53	£17,955.00
1.3 JDTM-2 85 bhp Sprint	£11,537.06	£2,507.41	£13,844.47	£805.53	£14,450.00
1.6 JTDM-2 120 bhp Distinctive	£13,370.39	£2,674.08	£16,044.47	£805.53	£16,850.00

Alfa MiTo MY2011

Source: Alfa Romeo

April 28, 2011

A 7-year “Ferrari Geniune Maintenance” Programme

Ferrari is taking a huge risk with their special 7-year Genuine Maintenance programme. It covers all the scheduled maintenance for the first seven years, regardless of vehicle mileage. The programme offers services for all new Ferrari California, 458 Italia and FF models.

Furthermore, the Ferrari Genuine Maintenance programme is transferable to a new client in the event of a change of vehicle ownership. It is designed to anticipate one annual service each year during the 7 years, but because of the no mileage restriction, clients who reach the service intervals by mileage, will be able to have their car serviced more than once per year. The service intervals are every 20 000km (12 500miles).

The Ferrari Genuine Maintenance programme will be supplied as standard with all Ferrari California, 458 Italia and FF models delivered from 15 March 2011 and is only available through the official Ferrari service centre network. The programme ensures:

cars are maintained in accordance with Ferrari’s recommended schedule
safety and environmental standards are maintained thoughout the period
enhanced residual values for the original and subsequent owners

Such kind of service is unique and Ferrari will probably attract more clients of luxury supercars than their competitors.
Ferrari California

Source: Ferrari

April 28, 2011

Zagato Alfa Romeo TZ3 Stradale

Zagata Alfa Romeo TZ3 Stradale is part of the company’s celebrations for the 100th anniversary of the Italian manufacturer. The car is based on a Dodge Viper ACR chassis and has a body, which is built entirely from carbon fiber for maximum strength and weight reduction. Furthermore, TZ3 Stradale will also feature a USA engine.

The company didn’t release any further information , but Zagato will build only 9 Alfa Romeo TZ3 Stradale units worldwide and the first three will be delivered to the USA, Japan and Europe, of course.

Price is not announced, too or any technical details. However, the car looks wonderful and it will be superbly fast considering the mighty V10 engine of Dodge Viper and the super lightweight of the whole TZ3 Stradale.

Stay tuned for more information about this beautiful car!

Zagato Alfa Romeo TZ3 Stradale

Source: Zagato

April 28, 2011

Impressive TDI engine for the new Audi R18

Audi had to develop a new TDI engine for the R18 Race car, because of the regulations.

“Audi invented the TDI engine and is convinced that this technology remains one of the most efficient and modern forms to power a car – especially at Le Mans where engines with high specific power, low fuel consumption and low emissions are a necessity.”

The new compact 3.7 litre V6 TDI is much lighter than its V10 TDI predecessor fitted to the older R15 TDI Race car. The V6 TDI engine powering the Audi R18 TDI, which has a cylinder angle of 120 degrees and an extremely low center of gravity, is technically generations further along the line and is also a technology-demonstrator for future production engines. It is fitted with a single turbocharger that also sits above the engine and draws its air directly through the air scoop mounted on the roof.

The 3.7 litre V6 TDI has a power of more than 540PS (397 kW). Simply an incredible result of such small, light and compact power unit.

Furthermore, the Audi R18 TDI is probably the quietest race car Audi Sport has ever built.

“Noise is unused energy,” underlines Dr. Wolfgang Ullrich who is delighted by the whispering murmur of the R18 TDI.

“The sound is unique,” raves Le Mans record winner Tom Kristensen.

“It’s hard to describe. You have to hear it yourself. I think it’s fantastic.”, he finished.
TDI engine for the new Audi R18 Le Mans 2011

Source: Audi

April 28, 2011

BRABUS B63 – 620 PowerXtra CGI

BRABUS has introduced a special performance package for the latest V8 bi-turbo engines of Mercedes-Benz. Depending on the model and the level of tuning, the engine can be boosted up to 620PS (455 kW) and 1000Nm (737 lb-ft) of torque. The performance package is avalable for the latest S and CL 500 ( US: S550 and CL550) as well as the S and CL 63 AMG models.

Furthermore, the tuning company now offers modified aerodynamic components made from carbon fiber, huge custom alloys of up to 21” and some exclusive interior options. All parts come with BRABUS Tuning Warranty of 3 years or 100 000km.

The performance package BRABUS B50 – 490 PowerXtra CGI for for S 500 and CL 500 costs EUR 4 900. The 4.7 liter bi-turbo V8 is boosted to 490PS (360 kW) and 780Nm (575 lb-ft), instead of the factory’s 435PS (320 kW).

The BRABUS B50 – 520 PowerXtra CGI performance kit is available for EUR 5 900. It raises the power to 520PS (382 kW) and 820Nm (604 lb-ft). Equipped with this kit, both sedan and coupe reach a top speed of 300 km/h (188 mph) in combination with the BRABUS Vmax Unit.

BRABUS B63 – 584 PowerXtra CGI is available for the S 63 and CL 63 models. It is priced at EUR 5 900 and boosts the engine to 584PS.

The most powerful package is the BRABUSB63 – 620 PowerXtra CGI, which offers 620PS (455 kW) at 5500RPM and 1000Nm (737 lb-ft) available between 2250RPM and 3750RPM. 0 to 100 km/h in just 4.3 seconds and top speed of 320 km/h (199 mph).

BRABUS also offers sport exhaust system with exhaust flap control, which can be adjusted by the push of a button on the steering wheel. It comes with two ceramic-coated tailpipes.

Another performance part is a LSD (limited-slip differential) with a locking rate of up to 40 percent for the S 63 and CL 63 models.

The aerodynamic package includes front spoiler, carbon-fiber moldings for the gills in the sides of the front bumper. BRABUS aluminum sport fenders lend the car a decidedly dynamic appearance. Carbon-fiber diffuser with integrated reflector and the carbon-fiber rear spoiler.

There are also BRABUS Monoblock alloy wheels with diameters ranging from 19 to 21” for all Mercedes S- and CL-Class models.The rims are fitted with Pirelli or YOKOHAMA high-performance tires.

The interior can be upgraded according to the customer’s taste and the oppotunities are almost unlimited.
BRABUS B63 - 620 PowerXtra CGI

Source: Brabus

April 28, 2011

Author: Victor Ivanov