Auto News – Page 516 – Automobiles Review

Mercedes-Benz Restores 540 K Streamliner

Mercedes-Benz 540 K Streamliner was built in the first half of 1938 and was delivered in June that year to the tyre manufacturer Dunlop. The car was employed for the testing of high-performance tyres for particularly fast and heavy vehicles, and then was adopted into the collection of the Mercedes-Benz Museum during the 1950s. 73 years after its introduction – in 2011 the vehicle was submitted for a full restoration process. The work began in the beginning of the following year and took approximately two and a half years to be fully reconstructed.

540 K was featured a streamlined aluminium body, which was an absolute one-off. It was designed strictly in accordance with the understanding of aerodynamics at that. As you can see it has flowing lines, low silhouette and minimal surface interruptions.

Streamliner was driven by an engine with 5401 cc output that produced 115 horsepower (85 kW). With a supercharger the power reached 180 hp (132 kW). The car managed a top speed of 185 km/h and a drag coefficient of Cd = 0.36.

Thorough research in the archives the specialists at Mercedes-Benz found that the vehicle was painted in silver-bronze and featured grey interior appointments and walnut wood trim. An important basis for the restoration was provided by the photos, quotation drawings and a historical description of the surface of the outer shell.

Of course, the restoration and reconstruction process was conducted via contemporary craft skills, methods and materials. The original line drawing of 1938 was transposed in meticulous detail to a 3D surface model with the help of CAD design techniques.

Extreme precision in the preparation and implementation of every detail and each stage of the work was then implemented. Original components were preserved and re-used, still showing the marks of time.

An interesting fact is that rebuilding the body shell alone involved more than 4800 hours of work. Then the reconstruction of the underbody panelling involved the help of aerodynamic experts from Mercedes-Benz passenger car development. The engine and transmission were repaired and eventually tested. The result is stunning – don’t miss the pictures below!

Source: Mercedes-Benz

May 27, 2014

Mercedes-Benz Citan Extra-Long Wheelbase

Mercedes-Benz is going to offer an extra-long wheelbase of the popular Citan in Germany. The 7-seater boasts high flexibility thanks to the variable usable interior space. The new model variant aimed at the alternate transport of people and material in commercial use, for use as a taxi and on the mixed-use for professional and private purposes.

The new long Citan is 4,705 mm and offers seating for up to 7 people. The luggage compartment is between 300 and 400 liters, but can be expanded to up to 3500 liters, when the second row is folded flat and the third row is removed.

The power is coming from a tiny, but versatile 1.5 liter diesel engine – 90HP (66 kW) and 200Nm (147 lb-ft) of torque. The same engine is also available with 110HP (81 kW) and 240Nm (177 lb-ft) of torque, which is obviously the better variant.

The practical vehicle boasts a number of safety technologies included as standard – Adaptive Electronic Stability Program – ABS (anti-locking braking system), VDC (Vehicle Dynamic Control), TCS (Traction Control System) and ASR (Acceleration Skid Control).

2014 Mercedes-Benz Extra-Long Wheelbase Citan is currently available on the market with pricing starting from €19,400 (excluding VAT).

Source: Mercedes-Benz

May 27, 2014

2015 Volkswagen Passat Revealed In Sketches

2015 Volkswagen Passat has been revealed in several drawings. The company has also disclosed the first technical details of the new Saloon and Estate trims. The car will have its official debut July, while in front of public it will be premiered at Paris Motor Show in October. This is the eighth-generation Passat. For 41 years the car model been sold in over 23 million examples worldwide. From the brand are promising that it will bring a range of new technologies and features.

For the 2015 Passat Volkswagen has utilized advanced materials such as high-strength, hot-formed steel and aluminium. This has saved up to 85 kg (in comparison to its predecessor), thus achieving fuel-efficiency improvements of up to 20 per cent. The exterior dimensions are marginally smaller than those of the previous Passat. However, the interior space is improved, with more leg- and head-room and increased luggage space.

One of the main highlights of the new model is the high-performance, four-cylinder, 2.0-litre, bi-turbo diesel engine. It produces 240 horsepower (176 kW) and the huge 500 Nm (370 lb-ft) from 1,750 rpm. This engine will be mated only with the new seven-speed DSG gearbox and 4MOTION all-wheel drive.

In addition, Volkswagen announced that a plug-in hybrid model will also be offered. It will have the potential to travel up to 31 miles on battery power alone, and with a maximum range of around 600 miles.

Other new technology includes the Active Info Display, a heads-up display, the latest Modular Infotainment System, including the Car-Net remote app, 360-degree Area View function and the latest generation of Park Assist. The latter includes the option for the car to park itself forwards into perpendicular spaces as well as the world-first Trailer Assist that helps when reversing a vehicle with a trailer attached.

Other safety technology includes Side Assist with Rear Traffic Alert, Traffic Jam Assist, Emergency Assist and the latest Front Assist system with City Emergency Braking that can optionally combine both radar and camera sensors to add pedestrian detection. 2015 Passats will boast LED tail lights, while the headlights will be halogen or LED. In conjunction with Dynamic Light Assist, one of the two LED headlight options automatically modifies the beam for optimum illumination of the road.

More details and the first pictures of 2015 Volkswagen Passat will be available before the official premiere in July. The sales will start before the end of this year.

Source: Volkswagen

May 27, 2014

JE Design Seat Leon Cupra – 350HP and 440Nm

JE Design has unveiled their latest project based on the “King of the Ring” – Seat Leon Cupra 280. The ultra-hot hatchback comes with a number of styling upgrades and a significant power increase.

The 2.0 liter four-cylinder turbocharged engine is boosted to 350HP (258 kW) and 440Nm (324 lb-ft) of torque – an increase of 70HP and 60Nm. 0-100 km/h in 5.1 seconds and a top speed of 250 km/h (155 mph) – electronically limited. The result is thanks to only an ECU re-map and the car still fulfills the EURO 6 emissions standard. The price is €1,899.

Other performance upgrades include KW coilover suspension DCC Plug & Play – €2,299. The ride height can be adjusted according to driver’s needs, but not lower than 45 mm. Alternatively, lowering springs for original shock absorbers are offered. They provide approximately 35 mm of additional depth, and are also suitable for DCC – €236.

JE Design also offers a full sports exhaust system featuring twin tailpipes – each with diameter of 80 mm. The system, which comes with EC approval, costs €2,023. Those who choose real carbon tail pipes will pay €2,392.

Aerodynamics package features a new front spoiler – €417 and side skirts in carbon look – €357. Last, but not least is the set of Y-Spoke JE Design wheels – 8.5J x 19” ET 45 fitted with 235/35 R19 performance tires – €1,851.

Source: Je Design

May 27, 2014

Eibach Adds Pro-Kits To Seat Leon Cupra

Eibach Seat Leon Cupra is equipped with tuning company’s suspension components which make the car even more dynamic. The Leon Cupra is in fact one of the most powerful cars in its sector, delivering 280 horsepower (205 kW). It is also famous for its dynamics. The proof for this is from the most recent lap record that the Spanish hatchback made (in its class) on the famous Nordschleife of the Nürburgring. However, the professionals at Eibach saw more fine-tuning potential here.

The modifications offered by them are through several Pro-Kits. Namely they are: the basic Pro-Kit, B12 Pro-Kit, Pro-Street-S, Anti-Roll-Kit and the Pro-Spacer. The first one offers additional performance springs, which reduce Seat’s centre of gravity. This of course also contributes towards a lower to the ground silhouette and more dynamic handling.

Next, the Eibach B12 Pro-Kit builds on the first one but also includes specially adapted Bilstein monotube gas-pressure shock absorbers. Eibach Pro-Street-S features Coil-Overs with stainless-steel components and the option for an individual height adjustment.

The Anti-Roll-Kit comprises of performance sway bars and offers less body roll and an even sportier set-up. It can be combined with the previous kits. At last, the Eibach Pro-Spacer Wheel Spacers are made of aluminum. They lend the Seat Leon an more energetic look by widening the track width.

Source: Eibach

May 27, 2014

Nissan Skyline 200GT-t JDM

Nissan has unveiled an all-new Skyline 200GT-t in Japan. The sedan will be built exclusive for Japanese domestic market and is expected to go on sale on June 5^th. Although, it has the name of the legendary Skyline R-model, the new 200GT-t is a normal everyday vehicle.

It is powered by a 2.0 liter four-cylinder turbocharged engine taken from Mercedes-Benz. It develops 211HP (155 kW) and 350Nm (258 lb-ft) of torque. There are no official performance figures, but the small saloon is going to have “exhilarating driving response and powerful acceleration.”

The engine is equipped with direct-injection, variable valve timing and an engine start/stop system. This means – 7.3 liters / 100 km (31.9 mpg US or 38.4 mpg UK) on combined cycle, which is decent considering the power.

Besides the new engine, the Skyline gains a modified rear suspension, a Drive mode selector and an optional Direct Adaptive Steering system. 2014 Nissan Skyline 200GT-t is priced from ¥3,834,000 (including tax). The manufacturer is expecting to sell 200 units every month.

Source: Nissan

May 27, 2014

2014 Fiat 500 Facelift – Price £10,160

The new 2014 Fiat 500 Facelift is already available in the UK. It is priced from £10,960 OTR for the hatchback and £13,510 OTR for the 500C. Available options include Dualogic transmission for £750 (1.2 69HP and 0.9 TwinAir 85HP), an electric sunroof for £580 and Blue&Me connectivity for just £270. A key new feature is the segment-first 7” TFT digital instrument display, developed in collaboration with Magneti Marelli.

Standard on 500S and Cult models (and optional on Lounge versions), the layout and execution of the speedometer, rev counter and trip computer will be familiar to anyone who has driven the current FIAT 500, but the centre of the display – which contains a digital image of the car – can be configured to show various trip computer readouts, such as distance travelled, instant fuel consumption, range, etc.

Other significant innovation is the new 0.9 liter TwinAir Turbo engine. It comes with a high-efficiency turbocharger; an exhaust manifold integrated into the cylinder head; a Start&Stop fuel-saving system and the new MultiAir II intake valve control system to provide an even more enticing combination of power and efficiency. It is connected to a 6-speed manual gearbox.

The power is 105HP (77 kW) at 5,500RPM and 145Nm (107 lb-ft) of torque at just 2,000RPM in “sport mode” and 98HP and 120Nm in “eco mode”. 0-100 km/h in 10.0 seconds and a top speed of 187 km/h (117 mph). Despite the improved performance, the small car is able to return 67.3 mpg UK (4.2 liters / 100 km) and just 99 g/km of CO2.

A high level of safety equipment includes – ABS with EBD, 7 airbags, ISOFIX attachments and DRLs. ESP, complete with ASR/MSR and Hill Holder, is also available on all versions as an extremely affordable option.

FIAT 500 Model	Hatchback 500 OTR Price	Convertible 500C OTR Price
Pop 1.2 69hp	£10,160	£13,160
Pop 1.3 16v MultiJet 95hp	£12,560	£15,560
Colour Therapy 1.2 69hp	£10,960	£13,510
Colour Therapy 0.9 TwinAir 85hp	£12,160	£14,710
Lounge 1.2 69hp	£11,560	£14,560
Lounge 0.9 TwinAir 85hp	£12,960	£15,760
Lounge 0.9 TwinAir 105hp	£13,560	£16,360
Lounge 1.3 16v MultiJet 95hp	£13,960	£16,960,
500S 1.2 69hp	£11,710	£14,710
500S 0.9 TwinAir 85hp	£13,110	£15,910
500S 0.9 TwinAir 105hp	£13,710	£16,510
500S 1.3 16v MultiJet 95hp	£14,110	£17,110
Cult 1.2 8v 69hp	£13,060	£15,560
Cult 0.9 TwinAir 85hp	£14,460	£16,760
Cult 0.9 TwinAir 105hp	£15,060	£17,360
Cult 1.3 16v MultiJet 95hp	£15,460	£17,960

Source: Fiat

May 26, 2014

ABT Audi S3 Saloon – 370HP and 460Nm

ABT has revealed their latest project based on the recently introduced Audi S3 Saloon. It boasts upgraded engine and impressive exterior.

The 2.0 liter TFSI is boosted to 370HP (272 kW) and 460Nm (341 lb-ft) of torque – an increase of 70HP and 80Nm. This helps the S3 to achieve a top speed of 265 km/h (165 mph) and a staggering acceleration 0-100 km/h in just 4.5 seconds. The result is thanks to a new sports exhaust system and an ECU re-map. There is also a complete cold air intake system including high-flow filter.

Other highlights include 20” DR alloy wheels fitted with performance tires. There are also 18” or 19” versions and the ER-C and CR wheels are also available. ABT fitted the sports saloon with new fender inserts made from high-quality ABS plastic. ABT integrated entrance lights, floor mats and air caps round off the package and raise the styling to a higher level.

And at full throttle, the S3 saloon will indeed resemble a rocket. “Lean back, accelerate and enjoy,” as ABT Sportsline CEO Hans-Jürgen Abt said.

Pricing for the upgrades is available upon request and all of them can be ordered separately. The tuning specialists from Abt offer installation at additional cost.

Source: ABT

May 26, 2014

Brabus Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class

Brabus has introduced their latest tuning program for the facelifted Mercedes-Benz GL-Class. The tuning company offers both styling and performance improvements for the big crossover. The exterior features complete aerodynamics package, while the interior can be upholstered in any desired color.

Outside, Brabus GL-Glass comes with a new front spoiler and Brabus attachments for the side air inlets. There is also a LED lighting system that is activated with the keyless remote or by pulling on a door handle. At the rear, there is a new spoiler that attaches to the hatch, and the BRABUS rear bumper insert that mimics the underride guard design of the front element. There are also four tailpipes of the Brabus stainless-steel sport exhaust. All components are manufactured in OEM quality from high-grade PUR plastics.

Brabus GL rolls an enormous 9J x 21” “Platinum Edition” wheels fitted with 255/30 R21 tires from Continental, Pirelli or YOKOHAMA. The stance is further improved thanks to a set of sport springs lowering the vehicle by 25 mm. However, the tuning specialists also offer a suspension kit that raises the ride height of the GLA by about 30 millimeters.

There are performance upgrades for GLA 220 CDI and all four-cylinder turbocharged gasoline models of the vehicle including the mighty GLA 45.

The GLA 220 CDI is boosted to 210HP (155 kW) and 410Nm (302 lb-ft) of torque – an increase of 40HP and 60Nm. 0-100 km/h in 8.0 second and a top speed of 220 km/h (137 mph).

The GLA 45 AMG is boosted to 400HP (294 kW) and 500Nm (369 lb-ft) of torque – an increase of 40HP and 50Nm. 0-100 km/h in 4.4 seconds and a top speed of 270 km/h (168 mph).

Brabus also offers numerous refinement options for the interior. Bi-color stainless-steel scuff plates with Brabus logo – also available with optional lighting – are part of the product range as are matt-anodized aluminum pedals, door-lock pins and Race aluminum shift paddles.

Source: Brabus

May 26, 2014

BMW 1-Series M-Power – 0-250 km/h [video]

Motorsport has published an interesting video showing the brutal acceleration of BMW 1-Series ///M from 0 to 250 km/h. The sports coupe comes with several upgrades making the motorsport engine even more impressive.

Originally, the 1-Series M comes with 340HP (250 kW) and 500Nm (369 lb-ft) from a twin-turbo 3.0 liter inline six-cylinder engine. It is connected to a 6-speed manual gearbox. 0-100 km/h in 4.9 seconds and 0-200 km/h in 17.3 seconds. The top speed is electronically-limited to 250 km/h (155 mph). It can cover 100 km with just 9.6 liters of petrol and CO2 emission of 224 g/km – combined cycle.

This particular car was upgraded by Auto Racing. The result is 420HP (313 kW) and 600Nm (442 lb-ft) – an increase of 80HP and 100Nm. 0-100 km/h in 3.9 seconds.

2011 BMW 1-Series M has a curb weight of 1,495 kg (3,295 lbs). As a true ///M car, it comes with sport-tuned suspension, big brakes, a complete aerodynamics package and a lot of ///M styling features. Last, but not least is the ///M differential that responds to differences in rotational speeds in the right and left rear wheel, redirecting drive torque within a fraction of a second to maintain perfect traction.

Enjoy!

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bTNlvgKq4B4

Source: Motorsport

May 26, 2014

First Look: MINI Superleggera Vision Concept

MINI Superleggera Vision Concept is an exclusive interpretation of an open-top two-seater. It was created by MINI and Touring Superleggera. A classic roadster and a compact and agile two-seater, this car expresses minimalism and emotional style. In addition, it features an electric drivetrain, classic Italian body construction and hand-shaped metal sheeting. The exterior and interior elements have been reduced to the optimum level, in order to deliver a clear focus on the distinctive driving experience. High-end materials were utilized for the construction of this car: leather, aluminium and black chrome highlights.

The electrically powered MINI’s exterior features a stretched bonnet, long wheelbase and cool, short overhangs. The wheels are set widely on the body, while the passenger cell is slightly set back. At the front one can see the two circular headlights and a hexagonal grille define, which are unmistakable for the brand.

Classic sports car elements such as a wide track and distinctively curved wheel arches give the front a dynamic presence. The MINI bonnet stripes are three-dimensionally embossed. They run on into high-quality polished aluminum accents.

In addition, the horizontal rib look of the radiator grille evokes a classic sporty touch. The two fog lights perfectly complement and echo the circular contours of the headlamps. Also in circular form are the air inlets. A flat front splitter made of carbon fibre closes off the front to the road.

The large aluminium sheets of the construction of this concept vehicle are hand-crafted with the help of the most performing frame structures. What is more, the car was painted in specially developed exterior paint finish called Como Blue.

The rims and the elegant exterior mirrors in long-hole look are completed with a mirror base in polished aluminium. Discreet CFRP sills not only echo the front section, but also underscore the sporty character of the MINI Superleggera Vision.

At the rear, one finds striking fin, unusual lights designed in the form of a Union Jack and divided in two, a chrome bar that demarcates the rear lights at the centre of the rear, as well as a CFRP diffuser.

The interior of the vehicle is as minimalistic in terms of design as the exterior. Only a surrounding shoulder line in polished aluminium separates them. The most striking is the dashboard, which was created from a single aluminium sheet and has been left in the state the automobile body would look like without a paint finish.

The doors and the sporty 3-spoke steering wheel pay tribute to the traditional method of construction. The structural elements in the doors form a Union Jack. On the other hand, the Center Instrument in the middle of the instrument panel includes a touch-sensitive control element. Two circular instruments with metal surrounds are positioned on the right.

Furthermore, the interior was covered in brown leather in the classical color Sabbia. The structural elements in the doors and centre console are finished in high-quality black chrome. This sets them apart from the aluminium surfaces and the matt textured paint finish in the footwell area. The sporty bucket seats are covered in high-quality black leather. Misty Magenta was used for the air outlets under the instrument panel and inside the door openings in the structural elements of the doors.

MINI Superleggera Vision undoubtedly blends creativity and flexibility, classic beauty and pure art. It will have its world premiere at Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este.

Source: MINI

May 26, 2014

BMW i8 – Innovative Technologies

BMW has published a nice promotional video of the incredible i8 hybrid sports car. It features a lot of Efficient Dynamics technologies, which aim to make the vehicle faster and more economical. Weight saving is one of the key characteristics, so the BMW i8 is able to combine dynamics and efficiency.

2014 BMW i8 is powered by a 1.5 liter three-cylinder TwinPower Turbo petrol engine – 231HP (170 kW) and 320Nm (236 lb-ft) powering the rear wheels and an electric motor – 131HP (96 kW) and 250Nm (184 lb-ft) on the front axle. The total output is 362HP (266 kW) and 570Nm (420 lb-ft) of torque. 0-100 km/h in less than 4.4 seconds and a top speed of 250 km/h (155 mph).

The i8 weighs just 1,490 kg (3,285 lbs). It is able to return 113 mpg UK or 94 mpg US – 2.5 liters / 100 km and a zero-emission range of 35 km (22 miles) with top speed of 120 km/h (75 mph).

Extensive standard equipment includes the Navigation system Professional with proactive drive system for all-electric driving, fully-digital instrument display, BMW iDrive with freestanding Control Display and leather sports seats; choice of four exterior paint finishes and four interior equipment variants There are also 20” alloy wheels, a rear view camera, high beam assistant, speed limit info, Surround View, Head-Up Display and Collision Warning with pedestrian recognition.

Source: BMW

May 26, 2014

Category: Auto News