Auto News – Page 930 – Automobiles Review

ANDERSON Germany FERRARI 599

Can you imagine that the Ferrari 599 that is already equipped with the nearly spectacular 620 horsepowers (455 kW) can be further enhanced? Well if you do so – you are right. These improvements were made by the Dusseldorf-based ANDERSON Germany Company. It brought its power to the total of 491 kW or 658 HP, with the 6.0 liter capacity and the corresponding torque, by means of optimizing the software. What is interesting as well is that the exhaust system now can be adjusted by a remote control in two sound stages. ANDERSON Germany Company brought to life a nearly-racing edition of the street-legal race car that accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h just in 3 seconds and furthermore it has the maximum speed far beyond 300 km/h.

Basically what they have done is to save weight, and that inevitably speaks of high-tech carbon material. Of this lightweight and at the same time high-strength material, are made the outer mirrors and the front bumper hang-on parts, side skirts and the rear bumper, as well as the rear diffuser. In addition the car features the complete varnishing in “ANDERSON Germany Black Diamant Metallic” with glossy black racing stripes and red rims alongside the windows and tail lights toning which definitely makes a statement. And if you wonder how the connection between this luxury car and the unworthy tarmac is made, the answer lies in the size of 9J x 21″ of the three-spike shiny black rims with red trimmings coupled with 245/30-21 tires. And if you are willing you can also choose size 12J x 21″ rims with 345/25-21 tires. Furthermore a bit style is added by the red-varnished brake caliper which is well visible through the wheels.

Further transformations are made in the interior of the car. First of all thee ANDERSON Germany did a complete finishing with the black carbon leather combined with the red perforated leather. You can also see a diamond-shaped stitching and the red rand on the seat upholstery. Because of the weight saving, gearshift, door handles, window lifters, door sills and center console have been manufactured entirely from the carbon fiber.

Source: Anderson Germany

November 29, 2011

ZAKSPEED Dodge Viper

In order to go into details about this ZAKSPEED Dodge Viper, we have to review some history about it. Firstly in 2010 the current owner acquired the Viper presented here. Obviously this Zakspeed racing car is stunningly racing-tuned. This tuning was made possible because the Heurich Classics plant (founded in 2006 in the Bavarian Zeitlofs-Rupboden specializing in custom work) was commissioned to convert this Viper. The aim here was to bring this Viper back to the streets and let it shine on an occasion. This time however, the car should be painted not in white, but in its old colors again.

In order to achieve the first goal and to get the racer back to the streets, a strategy will be developed jointly with the Engineering Supervision, which eventually was implemented in the Heurich Classics workshop. What they decided to do is to cut the spoiler, remove the rear diffuser, rebuild the side channels, put new tires and wheels, change the brake system and install a hand brake system with CNC-machined caliper carriers. Further modifications have been made in the steering angle which was increased. Next the cooling system was changed, additional fans were installed, engine peripherals were modified, exhaust system was adapted, electrics and complete light control were changed, seats as well as harness were renewed, passenger seat were installed, and finally the glazing was also renewed.

Their goal was to recreate the Viper in its original Hasseröder design of 1999.Hence the original colors of its time have to be made by means of platinum wrapping foils. These improvements were made by the company Cam Shaft in Kempen.

And for the curious ones, the Viper GTS-R was the car that won firstly the Zakspeed and then Michael Martin Racing Systems. It is not a surprise if you know that it features a 6.2-liter V8 with 600 horsepower (441 kW). Moreover the car is equipped with a Tremec six-speed manual gearbox, KW dampers and a Motec M8 system. And if you take all that into account, you’ll be amazed that it weights only 1350 kg.

Source: ZAKSPEED

November 29, 2011

Subaru BRZ

The new Subaru BRZ is developed as a joint-project between Subaru and Toyota Motor Corporation. Their goal was to bring to the world a sports car with superior steering response and driving pleasure that everyone can experience. Subaru BRZ is a rear-wheel drive sports car featuring the Horizontally-Opposed Boxer engine. This engine was positioned even lower than other Subaru models. The reason for this is that the low center of gravity produces astonishing handling character and combined with a light-weight chassis.

“Pure Handling Delight” is what the new Subaru BRZ is all about. As mentioned already the Horizontally-Opposed Boxer engine has special qualities, because of its low center of gravity, lightweight, and compactness. The Subaru BRZ is a fascinating sports car that we assure you you’ll enjoy to drive!

The specific position of the engine is mounted on a specially designed sub-frame that forms an “ultra-low center of gravity package”. The benefits of this are that the BRZ now achieves a low driving position typical for sports car. Furthermore the overall height of Subaru BRZ is 1,300 mm and it has a wide and low body of a stylish coupe at 1775mm. However, it still allows for 2+2 seating and a trunk with sufficient space. Therefore you can use this stunning BRZ as a sport car, as well as a safe companion for long tours.

The new Subaru’s Exterior aims for a sports car, but of course the design was detailed to be instantly recognizable as a Subaru. For example the front fascia has a low hood design. On the other hand the Subaru’s identity is represented by the Subaru six-star ornament, headlights and hexagon lower grille which are common elements across other new models. The aesthetic beauty of the car is combined with functional one. What I mean is that improvements are made in the aerodynamics through C-pillar shape, rear glass inclination, trunk lid layout. Moreover the front and rear overhangs are shortened to express the Subaru BRZ’s liveliness. In addition the design of the rear fascia is so perfectly that puts more on the beauty of the BRZ’s rear view.

What about the interior? The aim here is under the motto “driver and vehicle as one”. This is made possible through the carefully designed details of the new Subaru BRZ. For instance, the steering wheel is made smaller to achieve sports car maneuverability. Next, a tachometer with digitally displayed speedometer is placed in the center of the gauges. In this way the driver can instantly see information without diverting attention from the road.

What is more important and more interesting here are the innovations made in the newly developed engine. It is not only highly efficient with superior output, but also environmentally friendly. It realizes an exhilarating high revving nature of a naturally aspirated sports engine. The engine of new generation has a square bore and stroke of 86 x 86 mm. Toyota’s direct injection and port injection technology “D-4S” was incorporated in the Subaru BRZ’s power unit (don’t forget that it is a joint-project). The highlight here is put on the achievement of an “ultra-low center of gravity package”. This is made possible because of the compactness of the engine.

The joy of sports car driving is achieved through a transmission that focuses on shift feel and response. The 6-speed MT employs a short stroke shift lever, which is optimized in rigidity, shift quality and weight application in its pursuit of a superb shift feel. And to be more precise the he 6-speed AT has “S mode” for better shifting response and “M mode” for optional shifting. Moreover, with the paddle shift and downshifting blipping control, this model can respond faithfully to the driver’s inputs.

The lightweight yet highly-rigid body is of course developed to maximize the advantages of the “ultra-low center of gravity package”. This has been achieved through a durable frame structure which also works in balance with the vehicle’s light-weight. And for the collision safety the new Subaru BRZ is optimized for high drivability and appropriate durability. The light weight of the body is achieved thank to the tensile steel. This material is also used in the upper structure of the Subaru BRZ, and again this contributes to its low center of gravity.

At last, but not least is to be highlighted the chassis of the car. Excellent maneuverability and stability is what is of importance here. This offers a direct and sharp response to the steering and enhances driver’s connection to the car. At one hand the front suspension employs struts for light-weight and high rigidity. On the other hand the double wishbone layout is adopted at the rear for better shock absorption.

The tires used in the brand new Subaru BRZ are 215/45R17. They are combined with lightweight and highly rigid aluminum wheels.

All models of Subaru BRZ are equipped with electronic stability control in order to provide both driving pleasure and safety.

Source: Subaru

November 29, 2011

2013 BMW M6 F13 [render]

Here is two renderings of the new BMW M6 F13, which is most likely to hit the market in 2013. As the previous M5 E60 and M6 E63, the new M5 F10 will share most of its technology with the new M6 F13.

2013 BMW M6 will be available in both variants: Coupe and Convertible. Hopefully, the manufacturer to introduce the four-door M6 Gran Coupe.

The pictures below are thanks to Duron Automotive Artwork and as you can see, the new M6 will come will aggressive aerodynamics package. The typical M four tailpipes are present, along with a sporty diffuser.

The big Coupe will most likely to be powered by the famous 4.4 liter twin-turbocharged V8 with no less than 560PS (412 kW). Still, there are any performance details about the new vehicle, but you have to expect brutal results.

The new M6 will be a perfect base for the tuners, so we can’t wait to see what Hamman M6 F13 will look like.

Stay tuned!

Source: Duron Automotive Artwork via Facebook

November 29, 2011

Hyundai Shouwang BHCD-1 Concept

Hyundai has introduced the Shouwang BHCD-1 Concept at the Guangzhou Motor Show. The vehicle is co-developed by Hyundai and its Chinese partner, Beijing Automotive. The model will actually hit the market under the new Shouwang brand name in China.

The Shouwang sub-brand will specialize primarily on ECO-friendly cars. The BHCD-1 looks a lot like the new the Hyundai Elantra, but it will feature hybrid powertrain. Still no technical data has been released.

The exterior looks quite good featuring sporty styling with a prominent grille, LED headlights and a dual exhaust system.

BHMC is a 50-50 joint venture between Hyundai and Beijing Automotive. It was established BHMC back in 2002 and now has three factories in China.

Source: Hyundai

November 29, 2011

2012 Ford Focus Zetec S Price – £18 745

Ford has announced the new sporty Zetec S, which will join to the Focus’ line-up. The hot hatch is developed specifically for UK customers and combines a new 1.6-litre 180PS EcoBoost petrol engine with sports styling.

The special edition Focus is based on the Zetec model and adds adds a full sports styling kit including unique front and rear spoilers with lower sill extensions and 17” alloy wheels together with sports suspension featuring stiffened springs and dampers, aluminium-style sports pedals, rear LED tail lamps and Ford Power starter button.

“Zetec S models have always been popular with UK customers and so we are delighted to welcome our new Focus Zetec S to the range. With sporty exterior body styling and impressive performance and economy, this latest addition is set to be another showroom hit.”, commented Anthony Ireson, Ford Britain marketing director.

2012 Ford Focus Zetec S is powered by a 1.6 liter EcoBoost with 180PS (132 kW), which grants superb performance – 0 to 100 km/h in 7.9 seconds and a top speed of 222 km/h (138 mph). Furthermore, the emissions are just 139 g/km.

The 1.6-litre 125PS Ti-VCT petrol and the 2.0-litre 163PS TDCi are also available and can be specified with either manual or PowerShift automatic transmission.

2012 Zetec S is priced at £18 745, which is just £1 250 above the equivalent Zetec. The Zetec S and Titanium are identically priced so customers can choose either sport or luxury at the same price point.

Options list includes cruise control with Active Speed Limiter and a Zetec S interior pack featuring Inferno Red partial leather, heated front seats, power driver seat, power rear windows and global closing for £800.

Source: Ford

November 29, 2011

2012 Honda CR-Z MUGEN Price – £24 000

The 2012 Honda CR-Z Mugen will hit the UK market in spring 2012. Prices have yet to be confirmed, but are expected to be approximately £24 000.

The manufacturer had a successful programme launch at the 2011 Goodwood Festival of Speed, where it has joined forces with Mugen Euro, to launch a 130+mph sports hybrid CR-Z, boasting Civic Type R performance.

CR-Z Mugen is powered by a supercharged 1.5 liter petrol engine and an electric motor. The overall power is 175PS (129 kW), which is almost 50% more power than the standard car. The pocket rocket hybrid marks the strengthening of the engineering partnership between Honda (UK) and MUGEN Euro following the limited edition Civic Type R MUGEN in 2010.

The results are thanks to a centrifugal forced air induction system, charge-air cooler and induction system and importantly, a MUGEN Euro-mapped ECU. The performance is more than satisfying, especially for a hybrid – 0 to100 km/h in 6.1 seconds, which is over 3 seconds quicker than the standard car.

“MUGEN Euro magic has created a super responsive yet eco-conscious model building on our sporting credentials and giving us the ability to compete in the “hot hatch” marketplace as we move into 2012.”, commented Martin Moll, Head of Honda (UK) marketing.

Source: Honda

November 29, 2011

Nissan Juke Nismo Concept

Nissan will reveal Juke Nismo at the 42^nd Tokyo Motor Show, next month. With its distinctive styling Nissan Juke has redefined the highly competitive B-segment, but the Juke Nismo Concept is even more dramatic. The crossover is lower, wider and has a meaner stance. Even standing still, it’s clearly a performance car.

“The global sales success of Nissan Juke has proved beyond doubt that customers are looking for something different,” said Andy Palmer, Executive Vice President, Nissan Motor Co., Ltd.

“The Juke Nismo Concept takes that idea to the next level. It’s energetic, distinctive and highly desirable.”, he added.

The Juke Nismo Concept comes with a complete body kit giving the car not only better look, but some performance, too. It consists of a new front and rear bumpers, wider fenders and sill side skirts. The grille pattern has been changed while the tailgate spoiler has been modified by the addition of side elements to control airflow more efficiently. Even the shape of the door mirrors has been altered to enhance the car’s aerodynamic performance and reduce front and rear lift without increasing drag.

Nissan Juke Nismo stands on 19” alloy wheels fitted with low-profile performance tires. There are also improvements in the suspension, which is lowered and the 1.6-litre direct injection turbo gasoline engine has been uprated to deliver more power and performance.

The interior boasts a new steering wheel, pedals, gauges, shifter knob and door trims. Further underlining the performance aspects of the car, special leather-trimmed bucket seats have been added while the importance of the tachometer means the dial and needle are illuminated in red.

A feeling of enhanced sporting quality in the cockpit can be attributed to a toned-down effect applied to previously light coloured surfaces, while the dramatic centre console – shaped to resemble a motorcycle fuel tank – has been given a metallic coating to enhance the purposeful feeling of the Concept.

Source: Nissan

November 29, 2011

Nissan Skyline GT-R R34 900HP vs. Bugatti Veyron 1001HP

The reaction time in drag racing is almost as important as the power of your car, because you may have less horsepower than you opponent and still win. However, in this case, the reaction time doesn’t matter and the more powerful car is a winner with few thousandths of a second.

The epic battle is between Bugatti Veyron and highly tuned Nissan Skyline GT-R R34. The run is on one mile and as you can see in the video, the GT-R R34 is in front all the time, because of the superb reaction time and the better ¼ mile time. The power-to-weight ratio is extremely important, when the race is at ¼ mile (402.33 m)and much less, when it is on a full mile (1.609 km).

Bugatti Veyron stops the clock at 10.523 at ¼ mile with 223 km/h and 26.122 at one mile with 328 km/h, while the Skyline GT-R R34 achieved 10.426 at ¼ mile with 216 km/h and 26.154 at one mile with 311 km/h.

Bugatti Veyron is powered by a 8.0 liter quad-turbocharged sixteen-cylinder engine delivering 1001PS (736 kW) and 1250Nm (922 lb-ft) of torque.

The original Nissan Skyline GT-R R34 is powered by a 2.6 L twin-turbo inline-six with 332PS (244 kW) and 392 Nm (289 lb-ft).

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uoEJR3mRTek

Bugatti Veyron vs Nissan Skyline GT-R R34

Source: Dragtimesinfo via Youtube

November 28, 2011

HAMANN Range Rover 5.0i V8 Supercharged

Hamann has announced the Range Rover V8 Supercharged 5.0i. The mighty SUV will benefit from exclusive bodywork, performance, and new interior modifications. The big vehicle now has much more dynamic appearance.

The wide body kit includes a new front spoiler with larger cooling air inlets and harmoniously integrated LED daytime running lights. There are also wider wings, forming a single unit with the newly designed side skirts, adding about 60 mm more width to the vehicle in front and 70 mm at the rear. The rear benefits from a newly designed skirt housing stainless steel exhaust pipes from the HAMANN sports exhaust system. As an option, you can order a carbon roof spoiler, which completes the aggressive exterior design.

Hamann Range stands on enormous three-part forged wheels with the designation DESIGN EDITION RACE “ANODIZED” fitted with 295/35 R22 tires.

The powerful engine is boosted to 530PS (390 kW) and 660Nm (487 lb-ft) at 2600RPM, instead of factory’s 510PS (375 kW) and 625Nm (461 lb-ft). The results are thanks to a new exhaust system, complete with X-manifold, center pipe, and an ECU re-map. The performance is superb for vehicle of such size – from 0 to 100 km/h in 6.0 seconds, flat and a top speed of 227 km/h (141 mph).

Lastly, the interior boasts almost infinite number of combinations of leather, Alcantara, wood, carbon or aluminium trim. Upon request, the HAMANN can produce almost anything that customer needs. From personalized foot mats to complete interior leather finish, everything is made with the highest degree of craftsmanship and precision. Individually designed and integrated into the vehicle by masters of their craft.

Source: HAMANN

November 28, 2011

Toyota Fun-Vii Concept

Toyota Fun-Vii Concept
The innovations from Toyota Motor Corporation (TMC) can be seen at the 42nd Tokyo Motor Show 2011. The Corporation will present the futuristic “Toyota Fun-Vii”1, which is a vehicle concept, that heralds the close future, they assure us. In these times, people, cars and society will be all linked. If you are willing to witness those innovative ideas yourself, the show will take place from November 30 till December 11 at Tokyo Big Sight in Koto Ward. Everything will stand under the theme: “Mobility can change the world.”

Now let’s review what’s so impressive about this new concept from TMC.

VEHICLE FEATURES

If you have ever dreamed that you can easily alter the content displayed on the interior and exterior, then this car of the future offers you this ultimate in personalization function. What is the so fascinating, for example is that the whole vehicle body can be used as a display space, with the body color and display content changeable at will. The benefit of this is not only the exercise of your free will, but also this allows the entire vehicle to function as a mechanism for displaying messages or other information.

What is more interesting is that the entire interior of the vehicle can also function as a display space. Moreover – the interior is freely adjustable to match the mood of the moment. Further developments are made in the way the information is shown. For instance, the content such as navigation information is blended seamlessly into the interior through the use of augmented reality. Futuristic, isn’t it? In addition, only through a vocal interface, the vehicle’s “navigation concierge” can provide the passengers with driving information and guidance.

Furthermore here is presented the idea ensuring that the driver will have the latest network software versions for the vehicle’s drive, control and multimedia system. This will be made through a network update function.

Everything about The Fun-Vii is concentrated around connection. What I mean is that the ultra-futuristic vehicle will be able to link with surrounding vehicles and infrastructure, allowing it to detect other potentially hazardous vehicles-such as vehicles in blind spots-in advance. Even more – it will be able to connect with friends who are driving nearby.

Of course, vehicle’s functions will be easily accessible remotely via a smartphone or other mobile communication device.

Obviously TMC is offering a fresh proposal and is providing the dream and joy of motor vehicles to as many people as possible. And in addition to the Toyota Fun-Vii is absolutely and fully responding to TMC”s slogan: “Fun to Drive, Again.”

Toyota Fun-Vii Specs:

Length 4,020 mm

Width 1,745 mm

Height 1,415 mm

Wheelbase 2,750 mm

Seating 3

Source: Toyota

November 28, 2011

New Range of Accessories for the M- and B-Class by Mercedes-Benz

Mercedes-Benz has developed all new and comprehensive range of accessories for both the M-Class and the B-Class. The products not only meet the usual high quality standards, but also they will meet the individualization requirements of any customer. Of course, this can only be done by Mercedes-Benz.

First of all let’s review the news around the accessories in the M-Class. It is absolutely adorable that the range of all products that the customer can add to the exterior appearance includes 12 different light-alloy wheels, snow chain systems, valve caps in sterling silver, bonnet fin attachments and aluminium-finish running boards. Furthermore, to optimize the interior look, Mercedes-Benz offers floor mats, a wood/leather steering wheel, illuminated door sill panels, coat hangers or sports pedals in stainless steel, various child restraint systems and various other accessory items. For instance the electronic highlights in the brand new M-Class accessories comprises of a rear-seat integration kit for the Apple iPad® (which undeniably will be very appealing for all Apple users), a Rear Seat Entertainment System or an InCar Hotspot which brings the internet into the car (yes, you can now stay “connected” all the time!). Next comes the powerful Becker ® MAP PILOT navigation system. With it any user can modify the Audio 20 Radio and turn it into a powerful navigation system with 3D map views. Another beneficial option is the new COMAND Online system, with or without DVD changer.

The accessories range has as wee a range of carrier systems, ski and snowboard racks, bicycle racks and roof boxes. Moreover it includes accessories that allow the better and more specific use of the load compartment too.

And for the sport-look lovers there are good news too. Now AMG offers more distinctively sporty exterior, made possible thank to the individualization elements such as AMG bodystyling elements for the front and rear aprons, side sill panels or AMG light-alloy wheels.

And at last the range is fashionably equipped by products from the Mercedes-Benz Collection, including stylish fashionwear, Samsonite suitcases and holdalls, and various practical items such as key rings

On the other hand Mercedes-Benz has developed a new range of accessories for the B-Class too. Here too, it has been included the Electronic highlights. In this Class however, they consist from a portable Rear Seat Entertainment system, mobile phone cradles and parking aids such as a reversing camera or the Quickpark acoustic warning system. Like in the M-Class Mercedes-Benz offers the powerful Becker ® MAP PILOT navigation system. To bring some more individualization to the car, you can chose among a lot of products like light-alloy wheels, valve caps, hub caps and rim locks. And not to forget the interior, you can enhance it further with

a leather steering wheel or stainless steel pedal covers. For the little fellows there is a range of child seats to suit every age group as well. As seen in the M-Class, Mercedes-Benz hasn’t forgotten to include the accessories that meet the transport needs as well. For example here we have the aluminium carrier system (it can be combined with a range of ski and snowboard racks, bicycle racks and roof boxes, or by a trailer coupling). And to keep all those personal bits and pieces tidy and secure there is a range of accessories for the load compartment.

2012 Mercedes-Benz B-Class - Accessories — 2012 Mercedes-Benz B-Class – Accessories

Source: Mercedes-Benz

November 28, 2011

Category: Auto News