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2014 Ariel Atom 3.5R – Price

Ariel Motor Company has finally unveiled the new Atom 3.5R Special Edition coming with epic performance specs and price, of course. It is tagged at £80,000 (around €97,500), which is quite a lot considering that the car is nothing more than a track toy.

Ariel Atom 3.5R is powered by a 2.0 liter four-cylinder engine with 350HP (261 kW) at 8,400RPM and 328Nm (243 lb-ft) at 6,100RPM, which is an increase of 40HP. The result is thanks to a custom sidepod-mounted intercooler and also by increasing boost from 7.5 to 11 psi (0.5 bar to 0.75 bar). The curb weight is just 550 kg (1,212 lbs), which means an impressive performance. 0-100 km/h in 2.5 seconds and 0-160 km/h in 6.0 seconds – dead. Nothing is mentioned about the top speed, but it will easily go with 250 km/h (155 mph).

Other performance mods include an adjustable limited-slip differential, Öhlins springs and TTX adjustable dampers, along with four-piston calipers fitted onto vented discs.

All this improvements make the Atom 3.5R Special Edition the ultimate track car, which will bring epic emotions and adrenaline, if you are behind the steering wheel. Although, it is not planned to hit the US market, the company will announce a similar version specially for the country.

Source: Ariel Motor Company

May 12, 2014

Brabus 850 S based on 2014 Mercedes-Benz S 63 AMG

Brabus is proud to present the most powerful and fastest all-wheel drive sedan in the world – the 850 S based on the latest 2014 Mercedes-Benz S63 AMG. It is capable of doing 350 km/h (218 mph) and to accelerate 0-100 km/h in just 3.5 seconds.

Brabus 850S comes with complete aerodynamics package and drastically improved power. The bi-turbo V8 engine is enlarged to 6.0 liters thanks to increasing the cylinder bore to 99mm and stroke of 96mm. Two new special turbochargers by Brabus and modified exhaust manifolds are also present. The result is spectacular – 850HP (625 kW) at just 5,400RPM and a maximum torque of 1,450Nm (1,069 lb-ft), which is limited to 1,150Nm (848 lb-ft) to protect the gearbox. Speaking about it – a modified SPEEDSHIFT MCT 7-speed sports transmission sending the power to 4MATIC AWD. A Brabus limited-slip differential with a locking rate of 40 % is available as an option.

The performance is insane, considering the dimensions and weight of the luxurious saloon – 0-100 km/h in 3.5 seconds and a top speed of 350 km/h (218 mph). The fuel consumption is a real surprise – 13.8 l/100 km in city; 7.9 l/100 km on the highway and a combined cycle of 10.1 l/100 km with CO2 emissions of 237 g/km – efficiency class E.

The exterior of Brabus 850S features a complete aerodynamics package including a new front spoiler lip and front bumper attachments. The front fenders also come with a Brabus design elements made of clear-coated carbon fiber. The integrated Brabus logo is optionally available in a backlit version whose illumination is activated by operating the remote control or by pulling on a door handle. Last, but not least are the rear spoiler lip, the rear bumper with tailor-made cutouts for the Brabus sports exhaust and integrated diffuser made of clear-coated carbon fiber, and the rear spoiler.

The professional tuner offers a huge choice of tailor-made monoblock alloy wheels in different sizes – 19”, 20”, 21” or even 22”. The forged Brabus Platinum Edition come in size 9J x 21” at the front and 10.5J x 21” at the rear axle fitted with 255/35 ZR 21 and 295/30 ZR 21 tires, respectively.

To further enhance the high level of dynamic handling of the high-performance luxury sedan, BRABUS has developed a special control module for the air suspension of the S-Class. It lowers the ride height of the BRABUS 850 S by 15 mm without impairing the outstanding ride comfort.

The interior comes with a striking combination of black and vanilla leather. But it is not only its tasteful color scheme that makes the interior stand out, but also its design with perforated sections and seat side bolsters quilted in the same patterns as the Brabus leather floor.

Source: Brabus

May 12, 2014

Mercedes-Benz S63 AMG Coupe – Night and Carbon Packages

AMG Performance Studio now offers a number of upgrades for the stylish and powerful 2014 Mercedes-Benz S63 AMG Coupe. The enhancements are specially developed for the model and include a styling and performance improvement. The all-new S63 AMG Coupe is simply perfect car, but there are customers who want to feel more special, so AMG Performance Studio will take car for that.The options list now includes new styles of 20” forged alloy wheels, an AMG carbon ceramic break system and a complete exterior carbon fiber package including – mirror housings, new front wing, a pair of side skirts and the upper part of the rear apron. Mercedes-Benz is also offering a Night Package including a glossy black look for the side skirts, mirror caps, rear apron, exhaust pipes, front wing and front splitter.If you are a fan of high speeds – AMG Driver’s Package is also available. It raises the speed limiter to 300 km/h (186 mph) and adds red brake calipers, AMG Performance steering wheel upholstered in black Nappa leather and microfiber DINAMICA as well as a new carbon engine cover and door sills with AMG logos.As a reminder, the S63 AMG Coupe is powered by a new 5.5 liter bi-turbo V8 – 585HP (430 kW) and 900Nm (664 lb-ft) of torque. The power-to-weight ratio is 3.41 kg/HP. 0-100 km/h in 4.3 seconds and a top speed of 250 km/h (155 mph) – electronically limited.The 4MATIC cuts the acceleration time to 3.9 seconds. As usual, the engine is coupled to a seven-speed sports gearbox with three modes: “C” (Controlled Efficiency), “S” (Sport) and “M” (Manual).

May 12, 2014

Volkswagen Golf R 400 – Even More Horsepower!

Volkswagen Golf R 400 is expected to have even more power in its production version. Of course, it won’t reach 450 or 500HP, but we expect an increase of around 20 or 30HP. If, this happens, the new Golf VII R 400 will be the most powerful turbocharged car in the world (HP / liter).

For now, the most powerful production turbocharged car is Mercedes-Benz A 45 AMG powered by a 2.0 liter four-cylinder engine with 360HP (265 kW) – a specific output of 180HP / litre.Volkswagen Golf VII R 400 Concept was revealed at the 2014 Beijing Motor Show. It comes with a 2.0 liter four-cylinder turbocharged engine with 400HP (294 kW) and 450Nm (332 lb-ft) of torque.

The engine is connected to a 6-speed DSG transmission sending the power to 4MOTION all-wheel drive system. 0-100 km/h in 3.9 seconds and a top speed of 280 km/h (174 mph).The reason we believe that the Golf R 400 will have more power is that the Volkswagen’s head of research and development Heinz-Jakob Neusser said at the Vienna engine symposium in Austria – “The new Golf R 400 could make more than 400 horsepower“.

The uprated engine comes with a number of modifications including a newly developed turbocharger with a higher maximum charge pressure and reinforced crankcase. A water-cooled exhaust gas feed to the turbocharger integrated in the cylinder head helps to reduce full-load fuel consumption, while variable valve control with dual camshaft adjustment enhances the economy and performance.

The ultra-hot hatchback also has a number of improvements including performance tires and big brake system. The suspension is also revised in order to handle all that power.

May 12, 2014

2015 Mazda MX-5 [render]

Mazda MX-5 is the best-selling roadster in the world and it is time to get an all-new look. Still, the manufacturer didn’t reveal any information or pictures of the upcoming 2015 Mazda MX-5. Until then, here is a nice render picture of the next generation MX-5 created by Theophilus Chin.

2015 Mazda MX-5 will be smaller and lighter compared to the outgoing model. The weight reduction will be more than 100kg (220 lbs), which means a lot better acceleration, improved fuel economy and superb handling. The new model will also adopt a lower center of gravity making the roadster a lot safer and harder to roll-over.

The new MX-5 will get Mazda’s Kodo design language, so it will offer a very attractive styling as seen in recent products such as the 6 and 3, as well as the Hazumi Concept.

Other highlights include more powerful engines in the range and a more rigid body that will also make it safer in case of a collision. Sales of the all-new Mazda MX-5 are expected sometime in the beginning of the next year and the model will probably make official debut in the end of 2014.

Stay tuned!

May 12, 2014

2014 Jeep Cherokee – Outdoor Activity Vehicle of the Year

2014 Jeep Cherokee has been named “Northwest Outdoor Activity Vehicle of the Year” by the Northwest Automotive Press Association (NWAPA). In addition, the 2014 Jeep Grand Cherokee was named the winner of the Premium Standard Utility class, and the 2014 Jeep Cherokee also was the winner of the Compact Utility class.

“The 2014 Jeep Cherokee Trailhawk was named the winner based on its outstanding performance, off-road capabilities, features, fuel economy and value after rigorous testing,” commented Ryan Douthit, Co-Chair of the event.

“The new Cherokee represents a near-perfect blend of the features and performance that northwest buyers expect.”, he added.

The all-new 2014 Jeep Cherokee sets new standards in the mid-size SUV segment. It delivers improved fuel economy, superior on-road ride and handling, revolutionary design, world-class craftsmanship, clever functionality and versatility, more than 70 safety and security features and user-friendly technology. There is also unmatched off-road capability while not sacrificing on-road ride and handling, comfort or segment-leading features.

It also has an unprecedented combination of best-in-class fuel economy and driving range, available clean-diesel technology. The manufacturer has recorded the best two sales months in its 73-year history in March and April. Both Cherokee and Grand Cherokee recorded more than 15,000 sales.

Source: Jeep

May 12, 2014

Russian Drag Racing Championship [highlights]

Dragtimesinfo has published another epic video with highlights from Russian Drag Racing Championship. If you think that the street cars from Unlimited 500+ are fast consider that again. The beasts from RDRC are the real deal.

The moments in this video are just spectacular and will take your breath away. Burnouts and insane starts are all over place. Those are one of the fastest cars on the planet and of course most of them need parachutes to help them stopping.

Even, if you are not a fan of drag racing, these cars will impress you. From a turbocharged BMW E30 to old Nissan Skyline and even a Lada Samara, all of them are just spectacular. Most of the cars has a lot more power than they actually weight and the acceleration is staggering. Do not think that drag racing is an easy discipline, where drivers should just go in straight line and change gears. It needs superfast reflexes, months and years of preparation, and devotion like all other motorsports.

Take a moment and enjoy this full of adrenaline and epic moments video, which will take you away from the reality to a different world full of power and craziness.

“For those ten seconds or less, I’m free.”

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X-M7S2XbL6Y

Source: Dragtimesinfo

May 10, 2014

2016 BMW 2-Series ///M2 [spy photos]

Worldcarfans has published several spy photos of the upcoming 2016 BMW 2-Series M2. It comes with wider front and rear tracks compared to the standard model. It also features some cues from the M235i Racing.

Other highlights include the new blue ///M big brake system and a set of 19” alloy wheels taken from the M3 and M4. Still, there are a lot of improvements to come, but the car looks pretty much production ready.

The most important – a six-cylinder 3.0 liter turbocharged petrol with around 380HP (279 kW) and over 500Nm (370 lb-ft) of torque. This is an increase of 54HP and 50Nm compared to the M235i. The acceleration 0-100 km/h in be around 4.2 seconds and a top speed of 250 km/h (155 mph) – electronically limited. The engine is connected to a an 8-speed ZF automatic gearbox sending the power to a variable ///M differential at the rear wheels.

According to the latest rumors, the new BMW 2-Series M2 will be officially unveiled in the end of the next year, and first deliveries are expected sometime in 2016. Still, there is a lot of time, so more information and pictures will be published.

Stay tuned!

May 10, 2014

Renault Megane RS275R Will Lap Nurburgring in 7:45

Renault is going to unveil the Megane RS275R on June 16^th. The ultra-hot hatchback will claim the title “Fastest FWD car” at the world famous Nurburgring race track. The Megane Trophy held the record for a long time, but the current number one is Seat Leon Cupra 280.Renault Megane RS275R is powered by a 2.0-liter turbocharged gasoline engine with 275HP (202 kW) – an increase of 10HP thanks to the new Akrapovic sport exhaust system.The previous version Renaultsport 265 Trophy had 265HP (195 kW) and 360Nm (265 lb-ft) of torque available between at 3,000RPM. It achieves impressive power-to-weight ratio of 191HP / tonne.Besides of the engine, Renaultsport 265 Trophy has a set of 19” gloss black Speedline alloys with red rim fitted with high-performance Bridgestone Potenza RE050A tyres. The car boasts “Trophy” red decals on the F1-style front blade and doors, and LED DRLs.We also expect some additional weight saving for the new RS275R, so it will aim at 7 minutes and 45 seconds around the Green Hell. The target is not impossible considering the new modifications. We will soon find out whether the improved RS275R will be the King of the Ring once again or Renault will have to work additionally to take the crown from the mighty Leon Cupra.

May 10, 2014

1991 Lamborghini Diablo – Test by Jay Leno

Lamborghini Diablo had been produced from 1990 to 2001, when it is replaced by the spectacular Murcielago. The true classic supercar – 1991 Lamborghini Diablo is a “guest” in the latest episode of Jay Leno’s Garage.

The words can’t describe this incredible car featuring exceptional Italian craftsmanship. It is powered by a 5.7 liter V12 48-valve engine featuring dual overhead cams and computer-controlled MPFI (multi-point fuel injection). The power is epic (considering the age) – 499HP (367 kW) and 580Nm (428 lb-ft) of torque. 0-100 km/h in 4.5 seconds and a top speed of 325 km/h (202 mph). It has a RWD (rear-wheel drive) layout with a 5-speed manual gearbox.

Other features include fully adjustable seats and steering wheel, electric windows, an Alpine premium audio system and power steering from 1993 onwards. ABS (anti-lock brake system) was not initially available, but the manufacturer eventually installed it.

The option list was short and included a custom-molded driver’s seat, remote CD changer and a subwoofer, rear spoiler, factory fitted luggage set and an exclusive Breguet clock for the dashboard.

Enjoy the test!

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PyAUxLFR04Q

Source: Jay Leno’s Garage

May 10, 2014

Mercedes-Benz C-Class Night Package

Mercedes-Benz has announced the Night Package for the new C-Class W205. The manufacturer will get orders from the next month and first deliveries are expected not earlier than September, this year.The Night Package will be available exclusively for the AMG Line trim and will bring upgrades such as black chrome tailpipes, glossy black diffuser, dark tinted rear and sinde windows, lacquered high glossy black mirror frames, high-gloss black double-slat grille, black anodized window frames and a glossy front splitter.Other highlights include black accents to the 18” and 19” AMG wheels, while the upcoming C-Class Estate S205 will also get black anodized roof rails. The C-Class Estate will be unveiled by Mercedes-Benz on May 23^rd.The engine range of the 2014 Mercedes-Benz C-Class includes C180, C200, C300 and C400 4MATIC petrol variants and C180 BlueTEC, C200 BlueTEC, C220 BlueTEC and C250 BlueTEC diesels. For the first time, there will be two hybrid models – C300 BlueTEC HYBRID and C 350 HYBRID Plug-In.

May 10, 2014

BMW Introduces 7-Series Edition Exclusive

2014 BMW 7 Series Edition Exclusive is enhancing the range of luxury vehicles in BMW’s “garage”. The new limited edition vehicle comes right after the introduction of BMW 7-Series Horse Edition that was specifically intended for the Chinese market and introduced at Auto China this April. Edition Exclusive will be available for the BMW 7 Series Sedan and the BMW 7 Series Sedan with extended wheelbase. It will be introduced to the markets this summer.

The car delivers the typical for the German company supreme elegance, luxury and driving pleasure. It is painted in metallic paintwork exterior and rides on 19-inch light-alloy wheels in V spoke design. This design was exclusively created for this particular model.

The interior of this vehicle features exclusive Nappa leather trim. The instrument panel is also finished in leather. As an option BMW offers the available BMW Individual all-leather trim Merino fine grain and the BMW Individual Alcantara roof lining.

Edition Exclusive can be combined with all engine variants. For instance, BMW 760i and BMW 760Li are powered by the twelve-cylinder petrol engine – TwinPower Turbo V12. The latter accelerates the Sedan from 0 to 100 km/h in just 4.6 seconds. The powerplant is coupled with an 8-gear Steptronic transmission that keeps the revs low even at high speeds.

Source: BMW

May 10, 2014

Category: Auto News