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2005 BMW E60 ///M5 – The Last Naturally Aspirated M5

BMW has started production of M5 back in 1986 and since then all sports premium saloons have been powered by a powerful naturally aspirated engines. The E28 M5 had 3.5 liter I6 with 286HP (210 kW), the E34 M5 had 3.6 or 3.8 liter I6 with 315HP (232 kW) and 340HP (250 kW) respectively, the E39 M5 had a mighty 5.0 liter V8 with massive 400HP (294 kW) and the 2005 BMW E60 M5 is powered by a 5.0 liter V10 with 507HP (373 kW). The M5 F10, which was presented in 2011 is powered by a 4.4 liter twin-turbo V8 with 560HP (412 kW).

2005 BMW E60 M5 is probably the last naturally aspirated M5 ever produced. Due to ECO and noise regulations, the future M5 cars will have downsized turbocharged engine and ever hybrid powertrains. This is a huge loss for the real motorsport fans, who adore everything in E60 M5 and especially the impressive engine.

Speaking about it, the S85B50 powering E60 M5 is a 5.0 liter 90-degree V10 producing 507HP (378 kW) at 7,750RPM and 520Nm (384 lb-ft) of torque at 6,100RPM. It has cast aluminum block with bed plate design split at the crankshaft axis, cast aluminum heads with 4 valves per cylinder and CNC machined ports and combustion chambers. The valves are actuated through non-rotating inverted bucket cam followers. It also features oil-cooled, forged aluminum pistons from Mahle Motorsport and forged steel crankshaft with counterweights, shared crankpins producing an uneven firing interval of 90 or 54 degrees. The double VANOS system varies both intake and exhaust cam phasing. Last, but not least are the ten individual electronically controlled throttle butterflies and Quasi-dry sump lubricating system. The firing order for the S85B50 is 1-6-5-10-2-7-3-8-4-9.

The engine is connected to an all-new Getrag SMG III single-clutch 7-speed semi-automatic transmission, which can change gears in impressive 65 milliseconds.

The performance is simply impressive for a family saloon – 0-100 km/h in 4.7 seconds (there are records ranging between 4.1 to 4.5 seconds), 0-200 km/h in 14.0 seconds and an absolute top speed of 330 km/h (205 mph), which is unreachable for most of the supercars produced nowadays. The E60 M5 weighs 1,855 kg, so it has a power-to-weight ratio of 3.66 kg / HP.

Other interesting figures for the E60 M5 are a Nurburgring lap in 7 minutes and 52 seconds and a Top Gear lap in 1 minute and 26.2 seconds.

We sorry, so much that BMW won’t ever produce such epic naturally aspirated engines, but life goes on!

Enjoy the video published by our friend Zender Motorsport owning an impressive, black E60 M5!

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j_ESDd12UQ0

March 28, 2014

D2Forged Updates BMW X5

D2Forged offers a tuned version of the BMW X5, which stands out with custom created wheels and other exterior enhancements. For the upgraded looks of this particular X5 at help came the specialists from D2Autosport.

In particular, they have equipped it with a set of new bumpers delivered by the cutomizers at AC Schnitzer. Then all the plastic and other body panels were finished in the factory paint. The last step was to add D2ForgedMB1 Monoblock wheels.

They were as mentioned custom made, and are in sizes 22×9.5 at the front and 22×11 at the rear. An impressive highlight here is their titanium graphite finish and the featured brushed lip stripe.

The new 2014 BMW X5 has gotten sDrive25d and xDrive25d with a TwinPower Turbo four-cylinder diesel engine. The unit produces 218 horsepower (160 kW). Other options for BMW’s outstanding model are the xDrive35i with a powertrain that develops 306 hp (225 kW) and the xDrive40d with a six-cylinder diesel engine rated at 313 hp (230 kW).

2014 X5 is also equipped with wide range of new technologies and features in the BMW ConnectedDrive range. For instance such are the new Traffic Jam Assistant and the fully automatic BMW Parking Assistant.

Source: D2Forged Wheels

March 28, 2014

2015 Chrysler 200 Delivers Up To 36 MPG

There has been a lot lately going around the new 2015 Chrysler 200. Except for its simple elegance and exhilarating driving experience that it delivers, the brand has just announced that it also offers fuel economy of up to 36 miles per gallon.

The model is equipped with a standard nine-speed transmission and available all-wheel drive. It also offers customers a choice of two powertrains that contribute for en economic and exceptional ride quality.

Precisely, as a standard the 2015 Chrysler 200 comes driven by the 2.4-liter Tigershark MultiAir2 I-4 engine. Namely, this power plant delivers an EPA estimated 23 mpg city, 36 mpg highway and 28 mpg combined fuel consumption.

The second powertrain is the available 295 horsepower (217 kW) Pentastar V-6, which is rated at 19 mpg city, 32 mpg highway and 23 mpg combined. When the model is equipped with the aforementioned engine and the all-wheel-drive system, then the ratings are the following: 18 mpg city, 29 mpg highway and 22 mpg combined.

These exceptional numbers of fuel efficiency are due to the advanced technologies included in the new Chrysler 200. The firs to mention is the innovative optional all-wheel-drive system which features fully disconnecting rear axle that improves fuel economy by operating in front-wheel drive when all-wheel drive is not needed. This system also includes one-speed power transfer unit (PTU).

Next is the nine-speed automatic transmission, which dispenses power smoothly for elevated performance. This is possible because the ratio steps between its gears are smaller than those of other transmissions.

Moreover, the model also offers outstanding aerodynamics with a 0.27 Cd that also contributes towards improved fuel economy, on-road dynamics, and reduced noise, vibration and harshness (NVH).

2015 Chrysler 200 has a starting price of just $21,700 USD.

Source: Chrysler

March 28, 2014

2014 Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class – Off-Road Debut [video]

Mercedes-Benz has published a nice photo session and video with the all-new 2014 GLA-Class doing some off-road. The crossover comes with 4MATIC all-wheel drive system providing superb traction in all conditions.

Combining the unique suspension setup of the new GLA which aims to strike a balance between on- and off-road demands and the traction afforded by 4MATIC, the car thrived in the challenging conditions within the mine – its traction systems coping with the broken terrain and salt road tunnels with ease. The Intelligent Light System (ILS) fitted to the cars meant the eight-metre high tunnels (most of which are completely dark) were lit up spectacularly.

The GLA was driven in the empty spaces left behind by the mining of salt – spaces now being filled by a thriving DeepStore document storage business. Organisations such as the National Archives now store millions of physical files deep below the ground in a secure and extremely dry environment – the mine naturally remains at a constant 14 degrees – making it ideal for such purposes.

2014 Mercedes-Benz GLA is now available on the market with pricing starting from £25,080 OTR for the GLA 200 CDI.

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9Epxp3PBLmI

Source: Mercedes-Benz

March 28, 2014

Volvo Inscription Package Added For 2015 Models

For the 2015 model year line-up, particularly the Volvo XC60 and S80 models, the Swedish company is introducing stunning interior upgrade via the luxurious Inscription package. The latter features Inscription Sovereign Hide full soft leather upholstery in several colors, which adds more uniqueness to the premium cars.

In addition, the package also adds beautiful leather covered instrument panel, premium wood inlays, soft leather on the back of seats, center armrest and head rest with an embroidered Inscription logo as well as floor mats. What is more, the Inscription options extend to the exterior as well by offering three radiant color alternatives – Crystal White Pearl, Electric Silver and Ember Black (S80) as well as 19-inch (S80) or 20-inch (XC60) ten-spoke wheels.

Furthermore, Volvo announced that this summer its new models, except for the XC90, will be equipped with the updated on-board infotainment and navigation system called Sensus Connect which will feature Volvo On-call as a standard. This is a cloud-based service that allows the driver to find and pay for parking from the car, discover new destinations and many other convenient options.

It also includes HERE Location Platform, which provides connected navigation with 3D maps. The Sensus system also includes upgraded sound system delivered by Harman Kardon which has 5x130W amplifier with the sound enhancement software Dirac Live and up to 12 loudspeakers.

Volvo also will supply its models with super-efficient Drive-E engines starting this May. The new Drive-E powertrain family combines drivability and low CO2 emissions, and of course great fuel efficiency. The engines are even more fun-to-drive and also will surprise its drivers with a smooth engine sound.

Source: Volvo

March 28, 2014

Abu Dhabi BMW 1-Series M135i – Another One!

Abu Dhabi Motors has unveiled another BMW 1-Series M135i Special Edition . The hot hatchback comes with minor styling upgrades only for the exterior.Outside, Abu Dhabi M135i comes with white paint finish and a lot blue and black accents. There is a full ///M Performance Package including carbon fiber bumper splitters, side sills and mirror covers along with a blackened kidney grille and smoked taillights. Last, but not least are the decals on the side doors. The look is way more cleaner and impressive than the previous version.The engine is a 3.0 liter six-cylinder twin-turbo with 320HP (235 kW) at 5,800RPM and 450Nm (332 lb-ft) of torque at 1,250RPM. 0-100 km/h in 4.9 seconds and a top speed of 250 km/h (155 mph) – electronically limited.No words about pricing, yet.

March 27, 2014

Toyota TS040 Hybrid Race Car

Toyota Racing has unveiled the new 2014 TS040 Hybrid Race Car, which will compete in FIA World Endurance Championship. The new car, revealed today at the Paul Ricard circuit in the South of France, represents the most advanced hybrid technology in modern racing. Tomorrow it will begin an official championship test session, prior to making its competition debut at the season-opening Six Hours of Silverstone race on 20 April.

The drivetrain includes a 480HP (353 kW) all-wheel drive hybrid boost and 520HP (383 kW) 3.7 liter V8 petrol engine. The overall power is exactly 1,000HP (736 kW), so the rival manufacturers Audi and Porsche should be very concerned.

The new powertrain has been developed in line with revised WEC technical regulations, which put an emphasis on fuel economy. Teams are required to use 25% less fuel than in 2013, with savings achieved through changes to powertrains, aerodynamics and driving style. By adopting more road-relevant technology, the WEC will increase the possibilities for the transfer of Toyota’s race-bred technical know-how to its production cars, strengthening is status as the world’s leading manufacturer of hybrid vehicles.

Toyota Racing have made gains in efficiency and performance by using specialist lubricants they have developed with their official partner, Total. The more open regulations have also allowed the team to engineer a major increase in hybrid power, using a new motor-generator on the front axle in addition to the unit at the rear. Under deceleration, these motor generators apply braking force in combination with the traditional mechanical brakes to harvest energy, which is then transferred via an inverter to a super-capacitor. When the car accelerates, the motor-generators reverse their function, delivering a power boost to all four wheels.

2014 FIA World Endurance Championship Calendar:

20 Apr	Six Hours of Silverstone (GB)
3 May	Six Hours of Spa-Francorchamps (Bel)
14 Jun	Le Mans 24 Hours (Fra)
20 Sep	Six Hours of Circuit of the Americas (USA)
12 Oct	Six Hours of Fuji (Jpn)
2 Nov	Six Hours of Shanghai (Chi)
15 Nov	Six Hours of Bahrain
30 Nov	Six Hours of Sao Paulo (Bra)

Source: Toyota

March 27, 2014

2015 Ford Mustang GT – 5.0 liter Supercharged V8 – 700HP

The new 6^th generation Ford Mustang is going to get a supercharger kit from Whipple. They will offer a 2.9 liter twin-screw supercharger for the V8 5.0 liter engine.

The result is no less than 700HP (522 kW) when running on 91-octane fuel. This is an increase of 280HP, but nothing is mentioned about the torque. The supercharger kit is offered with a standard six-or optional ten-rib belt system along with an aluminum intercooler.

The customers will be able to opt for a 5-year or 100,000-mile engine warranty.

– An estimated 700HP with 91-octane fuel
– No other upgrades required, just massive power right out of the box, more HP per PSI than any other system
– Front entry W175ax (2.9 liters) Whipple twin-screw supercharger that significantly outperforms competitions 1.9L and 2.3L roots-type systems
– 26% more displacement then Eaton 2.3L supercharger
– Integrated Crusher™ 170mm oval inlet
– Massive air-to-water aluminum bar-plate intercooler with 15% more square area then previous generation
– Massive aluminum intercooler reservoir holds more than double the IC water then previous generation
– Whipple Superchargers massive oversized intercooled air-bypass system for industry leading reduction of burst knock and incredible fuel economy
– Self-contained oversized oil system for dramatically reduced oil temps in even the most demanding conditions
– One-turn turn inlet allows for decreased induction losses when compared to rear inlet systems and 180deg bends
– Center discharge port for better cylinder to cylinder distribution then other twin-screws with cobbled together billet adapters and forward facing discharge
– Discharge down design allows for less pressure loss which gives more power at lower boost levels
– Top mount design allows for cooler operation then upside down SC’s that conduct heat from engine and are trapped by runners and covers, causing hotter manifold temps and less power per pound of boost
– More boost at the “hit” than any other twin-screw
– Flat torque curve for incredible acceleration
– Oversized heat exchanger for incredible intercooler water temps
– 65lb/hr high flow fuel injectors included
– Proven 6-rib belt system with adjustable idler system for easy belt changes and multiple pulley configurations
– Optional race 10-rib belt system
– Stainless steel jack-shaft with unique plastic cover (or optional carbon fiber) for increased safety
– OEM quick connect fittings for easy installation, no ugly brass or steel fittings on the SC
– Complete kits, Tuner kits and Hot Rod kits are available
– Available in wrinkle black, polish or any custom color
– Easily upgradeable with big cold air intakes and bigger throttle bodies
– Optional 5-year 100,000 mile powertrain warranty

Source: Ford

March 27, 2014

2014 BMW 2-Series Active Tourer ///M Sport

Can you think of something uglier than BMW 2-Series Active Tourer? No, it’s not Fiat Multipla (even though it is quite nasty), it is 2-Series Active Tourer with ///M Package. The German automaker has quietly introduced it as they hope nobody will see it, but we do.

The exterior comes with complete aerodynamics package including new front and rear bumpers, a high-gloss black grille, a new diffuser and sport tuned suspension ( reducing the ride height by 10 mm). There are also new 17” or 18” alloy wheels fitted with low-profile tires.

The interior features leather sport steering wheel, leather front sports seats, an anthracite roof and ///M door sill plates.

The engine range of 2-Series Active Tourer includes a 1.5 liter three-cylinder petrol with 136 HP (100 kW) and 220 Nm (162 lb-ft) of torque; a 2.0 liter four-cylinder petrol with 231 HP (170 kW) and 350 Nm (258 lb-ft) and a 2.0 liter four-cylinder diesel with 150 HP (110 kW) and 330 Nm (243 lb-ft) of torque.

Source: BMW

March 27, 2014

2015 Ford Mustang Convertible Combines Function And Design [VIDEO]

2015 Ford Mustang Convertible is here and as its fastback sibling it is redesigned from the wheels up in order to offer more driving enjoyment. As a true Mustang it has unique design characteristics which make it instantly recognizable.

As a matter of fact, it has an entirely redesigned top system, and as the technicians and creatives at Ford say, it is the best convertible they have ever built. Both the fastback and the top-lees 2015 Mustangs include an array of important changes, while at the same time deliver enhanced standards of performance, luxury and refinement.

An innovation for the MY2015 is that every convertible roof is getting a full fabric outer layer, as well as full inner headliner to incorporate the five-bow structure. In between these layers is positioned the full 10-millimeter thick insulation pad which contributes for the quietness of the muscle car inside.

Furthermore, the new Ford Mustang features electromechanical drive system, which raises or lowers the roof in half the time required previously. This is achieved via press of a button on the center console. The significant use of high-strength and ultra-high-strength steels throughout the body structure delivers more stiffness, which is enhanced by 13 percent, and fully utilizes the independent suspension. As a result, the cabrio has more refined ride quality and enhanced handling.

Usable cargo space is also offered in the 2015 version of the Mustang. This is due to the more compact roof and flat load floor, making enough space for two large golf bags. In addition, the wider rear and the new top design contribute towards more shoulder and hip room for rear-seat occupants.

2015 Mustang fastback and convertible are equipped with the line-up of Ford engines, including the new turbocharged EcoBoost 2.3-liter power plant. There is also available the updated 420 hp (309 kW) 5.0-liter V8 unit, which can be coupled with a manual or automatic six-speed transmission. The models are also equipped with state-of-the-art connectivity systems, available advanced driver-assist systems, track applications and launch control.

Source: Ford

March 27, 2014

Shelby To Show Four Vehicles At The Ford Shelby Nationals Event

Shelby American will show its latest vehicles 624 hp Shelby GT/SC and 50th Anniversary Shelby FIA Cobra at the 40th Annual Mid-America Ford Shelby Nationals event in June. At the festivals an appearance will also make the 850 hp GT500 Super Snake and Shelby Raptor muscle truck.

The first generation Shelby GT was unveiled in 2008. Now the brand is returning with the new version of that car. At the event Shelby will have the opportunity to put its ultra-performance vehicles through their paces on the road circuit at Hallett and the Tulsa drag strip, and make some spectacular demonstrations.

Shelby GT is equipped with a host of performance options and more importantly its engine was upgraded and now delivers 624 hp (459 kW). In fact, any 2011 to 2014 Ford Mustang GT V8 can be converted into a Shelby GT or Shelby GT/SC.

A very special appearance at the show will make the FIA Cobra, which has been built in oreder to celebrate the birth of the 289 Ford powered roadsters. In fact, Shelby American is building 50 limited edition continuations (CSX7000) of the Shelby 289 FIA Cobra. The car is painted “Viking Blue” with FIA stripes and roundels, and includes a black FIA interior, special billet anniversary badges, original style wheels and a variety of additional options.

The other vehicle featured at the event is the stunning Shelby Raptor, who doesn’t mind getting a little dirty. The truck offers heart pounding, supercharged 575 hp (423 kW) and is tuned with Shelby Stinger exhaust, leather interior, all wrapped in Shelby graphics and styling, and finished with registry number and badges.

At last but not least, Ford Shelby GT500 Super Snake, which was unveiled at 2013 North American Auto Show in Detroit, will also join the company of the other three vehicles. The Super Snake is offering street-legal 850 horsepower (625 kW) and is equipped with a wide body package.

40th Annual Mid-America Ford Shelby Nationals will take place in Tulsa, Okla., from June 11- 15.

Source: Shelby

March 27, 2014

Audi Unveils 2014 R18 e-tron quattro

The new 2014 WEC season began for Audi with spectacular appearance. The brand has just unveiled the updated Audi R18 e-tron quattro not only rolling on the Le Mans legendary race track, but also on public traffic. Tom Kristensen, who holds nine victories and who is a record holder of the Le Mans 24 Hours, drove the diesel hybrid sports car from the Saint-Julien du Mans cathedral in the city centre to the famous race track.

Audi’s newly livered LMP1 race car completed the ten kilometer distance through the city in a motorcade, did a lap on the Circuit Bugatti and eventually arrived in front of the race track’s center. The new colour scheme of the vehicle now has white, silver, red and black, and also features fresh and expressive graphics.

These colours are symbolic: silver emphasizes the past success in racing and is used as a base for the livery; white harmonises with the former color and stands for the hybrid drive, being utilized asymmetrically in order to highlight the complexity of the powertrain technology; black is used for the front and rear wings, as well as on sections of the fenders and sides with highly defined geometric contours, and this contrasting color stands for light-weight design; at last, red is Audi’s performance colour.

The graphics featured include Audi’s logos and inscriptions. They have longitudinal orientation and express the speed that is also emblematic for Le Mans. Red color is also included in the rims, and due to the wheel rotation, it also achieves a very dynamic effect.

2014 Audi R18 e-tron quattro is equipped with a V6 TDI power plant, which was increased from 3.7 to 4 litres, thus additionally optimizing the efficient engine. The energy flows through a motor generator unit (MGU) at the front axle and is stored in a flywheel energy storage system.

The new race car provides the optimum balance between efficiency, size, weight, energy conversion efficiency, responsiveness, drivability and durability. It is expected to participate in the official test of the FIA World Endurance Championship (WEC) at Le Castellet in France on 28th and 29th of March.

Source: Audi

March 27, 2014

Category: Auto News