Car Makes – Page 859 – Automobiles Review

Volkswagen with four awards from What Car?

Volkswagen managed to get four awards from the prestigious What Car? contest. The famous 2012 Volkswagen Up! claimed Car of the Year as well as the best City Car award. Other two victories are for Small Family Car – Volkswagen Golf VI and the coveted Safety Award.

“The Volkswagen up! sets new standards for a car at £10,000. It’s a city car that can seat four adults, while offering new levels of refinement, quality and maturity at this price; none of its rivals feels quite so grown-up. Buyers will be looking for even more for their money than ever in 2012, so the up! is a worthy winner of the What Car? Car of the Year.”, said What Car? editor-in-chief Chas Hallett.

The Safety Award was in large part the result of the availability of Volkswagen’s innovative City Emergency Braking system on the Up!. Although safety features are no longer the preserve of larger, more expensive models, the judges were impressed by this particular example of ‘big car’ technology filtering down to a smaller model. The system uses sensors to scan the space ahead, then applies the brakes automatically if it detects that the car is about to hit an object in front. City Emergency Braking costs from just £225.

The Up! is available to order now, with prices starting at £7 995 (RRP OTR) and with the first models arriving in showrooms in March.

Source: Volskwagen

January 13, 2012

BMW has won two awards from What Car?

BMW has earned 1st places in two categories at the What Car? Awards event. The new BMW 3-Series Saloon has topped Best Compact Executive Car category, while the 2012 BMW X3 took home the accolade of Best SUV of the year.

2012 BMW 3-Series F30 with EfficientDynamics package is the most economical car in its class. However, it was not just the BMW 3 Series’ outstanding economy that stood out for the judges; it was commended for being smooth and refined whilst still offering that sheer driving pleasure.

“The new BMW 3 Series is great to drive, with sharp steering and a well judged chassis. But the biggest gains are in efficiency; it delivers 60mpg and CO2 emissions so low that it falls into the cheapest 13 per cent company car tax band for diesels. It’s a convincing winner of our Executive Car of the Year award.”, commented Chas Hallett, What Car? editor-in-chief.

“It is a testament to the quality and refinement of the BMW 3 Series to win this prestigious award for seven consecutive years. To have this consistent recognition, across the generations, for all of the hard work that goes into producing BMW’s core model is a great honour.”, Tim Abbott, Managing Director of BMW UK added.

On the other hand, the superb 2012 BMW X3 xDrive20d was awarded the top honour in recognition of its exceptional blend of efficiency, practicality and quality. It has achieved incredible results – 50.4 mpg on combined cycle with emissions of just 147g/km CO2.

“There’s more competition than ever among SUVs, but the BMW X3 wins the category award by offering lots of space, excellent fuel efficiency and a beautifully finished cabin. It’s a great family car, really – and its running costs are around those of a regular hatchback.”, Chas Hallett, What Car? editor-in-chief finished.

Source: BMW

January 13, 2012

LF-LC Sport Coupe Concept Big Hit in Detroit

Some news from the NAIAS – Designers at the Lexus studio in Calty, California can take a much deserved vacation now as the much anticipated Lexus LF-LC Hybrid Sport Coupe Concept is proving itself a big success with an ‘EyesOn Design Award’ for a best concept. Innovative approach has been kept in mind when designing the 2+2 Hybrid which incorporates a certain emotive charge combined with cold blooded technology.

Elements of the new Lexus way, seen in the new GS 450h, can be encountered in the concept, particularly the “spindle“-like grille form and the rear architecture.

Kevin Hunter, Calty President, said: “The LF-LC was a dream car to design and a true collaborative effort at Calty. It is an honour to have that work recognised by our peers and to receive the award.“

In the mean time, Mark Templin, Lexus US Group Vice President and General Manager, commented: “The LF-LC is a striking design and breathtaking in its beauty. The team at Lexus quickly fell in love with this concept vehicle and it’s rewarding to see that the industry agreed. Receiving the EyesOn Design Award is a great start to what promises to be a fantastic year for Lexus.”

Both concept and production vehicles can be honored with the ‘EyesOn Design Award’ which is given after a group of world leading automotive designers and design academics approve the product. Creativity in different areas of design is appreciated which includes aesthetics and innovation, concept implementation, functionality and the spirit of industrial design.

Source: Lexus

January 13, 2012

Alonso and Massa’s Ferrari Way of Skiing

The F1 championship is a demanding, treacherous challenge. For mere preparation, drivers spend weeks in training by submitting themselves to stress which comes in both forms – physical and psychological. So when it comes to blowing off some steam with recreation, Fernando Alonso and Felipe Massa decide to add more stress. The slaloms at the Madonna di Campiglio resort are used to having champions skiing over them but yesterday something was different. There were two Ferrari FF”s lined at the track’s starting point with Alonso and Massa behind the wheels. What followed was a heated, downhill parallel race between two of the world’s best F1 drivers which ended up in a tie.

So why the, four door FF’? Well, on paper the FF is pretty much ideal for the job: it has a 4WD traction system that sends carefully calculated amounts of torque to each wheel independently and its weight balance is good thanks to the front-mid engine layout and the transmission at the back. Besides, were the cars anything other than Ferraris it would have been a bit embarrassing.

Alonso could not hide his enthusiasm: “It’s incredible how easy it is to drive the FF even on a such a demanding surface and at the same time, how high a performance level you can reach in it.” Massa was of a similar opinion: “the most incredible thing about the car is the fact there is no need to compromise maximum performance and useability, whatever the driving environment,” reckoned the Brazilian. “And on top of that, it’s perfect for everyday use with the whole family in the car.”

Alonso and Massa's Ferrari Way of Skiing

Source: Ferrari

January 13, 2012

2013 Corvette 427 Convertible – Rare and Commemorating

Chevrolet have announced that a 2013 Corvette 427 Convertible Collector Edition will make it’s debut on January the 21st and will go on sale this summer. This is big news for we are talking about the first Chevy ever, that can be both a collector and a commemorative edition at the same time Yes, Chevrolet are celebrating their 60th birthday this year and what better way to mark the occasion than producing a convertible, more powerful than the gravity of Jupiter.

Under the hood one can find an LS7, 7.0 liter (427 cubic-inches) engine, rated at 505 horsepower (377 kW) which sends 470 lb.-ft. of torque (637 Nm) trough a compulsory 6-speed manual. The connecting rods in the LS7 are all titanium and so are the intake valves while high-flow cylinder heads and a dry-sump oil pump add to the performance. The 427 is rear-wheel driven just like the Z06, the battery is at the back for better weight distribution and it comes with a Magnetic Selective Ride Control so the suspension is clever too. The front 19-inch and back 20-inch machine-face Cup wheels (ZR1 Black Cup or chromed also available) are fitted with ZR1 Michelin PS2 tires. To save weight, the hood, fenders and floor panels are all made from carbon fiber. That diet has resulted in the Corvette weighing only 3,355 pounds (1,522 kg) which by itself means a power-to-weight ratio of 6.64 – or one horsepower for every 6.64 pounds of vehicle mass. That’s more power than any other convertible can offer including the Ferrari California Convertible, the Audi R8 5.2 RSI Spyder, the Aston Martin DBS Volante Convertible and even the Porsche 911 Turbo S Cabriolet. Predictions suggest a 0 to 60 mph sprint time of just 3.8 second and top speeds exceeding 190 mph.

Corvette 427 Convertible Collector Edition (2013)

For the commemorative spec on any Chevrolet, one does need to opt for the 60th Anniversary Package which includes a color theme of “Arctic White” on the outside with Blue Diamond leather seats inside and gray-painted brake calipers. Convertibles will also get a blue rooftop. Other enhancements include a ZR1 rear spoiler, a “CFZ” carbon fiber front splitter and rocker panels and branding on various places to let you know you are driving a novelty. If one feels the need to spend even more money a graphics package includes racing stripes that slice trough the whole car while a Build Experience option allows customer participation in the construction process of the vehicle… which, doesn’t make any sense if the customer is as inapt as me when it comes to technology.

Here is a full spec-list of the 427:

Overview

Overview
Model:	Chevrolet Corvette 427 Convertible Collector Edition
Body styles / driveline:	two-door convertible; rear-wheel drive
Construction:	composite body panels, hydroformed steel frame with aluminum and magnesium structural and chassis components
Manufacturing location:	Bowling Green, Ky.

Engines

Engines	7.0L V-8 LS7 (Z06)
Displacement (cu in / cc):	427 / 7008
Bore & stroke (in / mm):	4.125 x 4 / 104.8 x 101.6
Block material:	cast aluminum
Cylinder head material:	cast aluminum
Valvetrain:	overhead valve, two valves per cylinder
Fuel delivery:	SFI (sequential fuel injection)
Compression ratio:	11.0:1
Horsepower (hp / kW @ rpm):	505 / 377 @ 6300*
Torque (lb-ft / Nm @ rpm):	470 / 637 @ 4800*
Recommended fuel:	premium required
Estimated fuel economy (city / hwy):	15 / 24 (no guzzler tax)

Transmission

Transmission	six-speed manual
Application:	std.
Gear ratios (:1):
First:	2.66
Second:	1.78
Third:	1.30
Fourth:	1.00
Fifth:	0.74
Sixth:	0.50
Reverse:	2.90
Final drive ratio:	3.42

Chassis/Suspension

Front:	short/long arm (SLA) double wishbone, cast aluminum upper and lower control arms, transverse-mounted composite leaf spring, monotube shock absorber; Magnetic Selective Ride Control
Rear:	short/long arm (SLA) double wishbone, cast aluminum upper and lower control arms, transverse-mounted composite leaf spring, monotube shock absorber; Magnetic Selective Ride Control
Traction control:	electronic traction control; Active Handling

Brakes

Type:	front and rear power-assisted disc with ABS with six-piston front and four-piston rear calipers, cross-drilled rotors;
Rotor diameter x thickness (in / mm):	front: 14 x 1.3 / 355 x 32 rear: 13.4 x 1 / 340 x 26
Brake swept area (sq in / mm):	front: 309 / 1994 rear: 269 / 1735

Wheels/Tires

Wheel size:	front: 19-inch x 10-inch aluminum rear: 20-inch x 12-inch aluminum
Tires:	front: 285/30ZR19 rear: 335/25ZR20

Dimensions

Exterior

Wheelbase (in / mm):	105.7 / 2685
Overall length (in / mm):	175.6 / 4460
Overall width (in / mm):	75.9 / 1928
Overall height (in / mm):	48.7 / 1236
Curb weight (lb / kg):	3355/ 1522
Weight distribution (% front / rear):	50 / 50

Interior

Seating capacity	2
Interior volume (cu ft / L):	52 / 1475
Headroom (in / mm):	38 / 962
Legroom (in / mm):	43 / 1092
Shoulder room (in / mm):	55 / 1397
Hip room (in / mm):	54 / 1371

Capacities

Cargo volume (cu ft / L):	11 / 295 (top up); 7.5 / 212 (top down)
Fuel tank (gal / L):	18 / 68.1
Engine oil (qt / L):	10.5 / 9.9

Source: Chevrolet

January 13, 2012

GRMN Toyota iQ 130G MT

Several interesting Toyota models are showcased at the 2012 Tokyo Auto Salon. The new interpretations of the cars include from off-the-wall concepts to race-tuned specials.

One of the most interesting is the small GRMN Toyota iQ 130G MT. It comes with a supercharged 1.33-litre engine delivering 128PS (95 kW) and 180Nm (133 lb-ft). The engine is connected to a 6-speed close ratio transmission.

The sporty iQ also features bigger brake system, a sports tuned suspension and a nice dual exhaust system for more power and incredible sound.

The exterior boasts complete body kit including new front and rear bumpers, a pair of side skirts and a rear spoiler. The stance is completed by a set of 16” Enkei alloy wheels. The interior is also upgraded with sports seats and instruments.

Actually, the model is scheduled for a limited 100 units production run later this year.

Other interesting tuned Toyota cars at the show are – a new Yaris Turbo with 1.5 liter turbocharged engine delivering 180PS (132 kW); the new GT 86 in two styling interpretations from TRD and Modellista and Gazoo Racing FT-86.

Source: Toyota

January 13, 2012

2013 SEAT Ibiza

The new 2013 SEAT Ibiza captures the heart with its young, emotional design and fun-to-drive zest, innovative technologies and quality. The new line is developed to match even more the indvidual taste of the customer. The range includes the compact and sporty three-door Ibiza SC, the dynamic and universal five-door Ibiza, the elegantly practical Ibiza ST estate car, the extremely efficient Ibiza E-Ecomotive, the exceptionally sporty Ibiza FR with 110 kW (150 hp). However there is something in common for all the models and it is the high standard of quality and outstanding value for money. The introduction to the market of the new models will be in the spring of 2012.

Of course the new models will offer again its expressive and unique design. However beneath it the new Ibiza offers an impressive array of innovative technologies, such as the latest-generation state-of-the-art TDI and TSI power units, the DSG transmissions and the start/stop system, which combines dynamics with exceptional efficiency and exciting driving. Furthermore in it is included the Portable Media System with touchscreen monitor, which combines the functions of a navigation system, on-board computer, audio system and hands-free device. While it is fully integrated into the Ibiza’s on-board electronics, it is also removable for use on-the-go.

In details the sporty character and high product quality can be seen all over the new Ibiza’s exterior. The distinctive centrepiece is the trapezoidal grille featuring the SEAT logo. The flatter proportions and horizontal honeycomb structure of the grille and the lower air intake emphasise the width of the new Ibiza. A redesign in the front and rear bumpers give the a look that is particularly accentuated on the sporty Ibiza FR version. Standard equipment on the FR and available as an option on other models are the large fog lamps with integrated cornering light. With these models SEAT has proved again that it has put again a great attention to the details. Take as an example the sophisticated design of the headlamps. In details, the edgy style of the lamps is a hallmark feature of the new SEAT design language, while being perfectly integrated into the Ibiza’s sculptural form. The headlamps are available in two halogen versions or with optional bi-xenon lamps and LED daytime running lights. The latter trace the form of the headlamps to deliver a unique light signature, as do the optional LED rear lights. Moreover the new Ibiza looks like a piece of art on wheels. The characteristic “Línea Dinámica” runs from the headlamps over the powerfully drawn wheel arches to the rear. A second, equally sharp character line runs across the muscular rear shoulders to the rear lamps. These powerful lines and the interplay of taut surfaces give the Ibiza an athletic character – on both the coupé-like three-door and the universal five-door. And even the functional estate car conveys an unmatched look of dynamism – without any restriction to its exceptional utility.

The interior on the other hand is as exquisite as the exterior. First of all it has a forceful but extremely minimalist and clearly structured cockpit design. The feeling of quality, the high precision of the workmanship, the wide choice of colours and materials ranging all the way to fine leather upholstery serve to underline SEAT’s standards. Here we also have a great attention and effort put on the detaisl. It can be sensed through the steering wheel, in the new design of the climatronic, in the new paint surfaces. Nevertheless the main focus here remains on functionality –for instance take the new instrument binnacle with its improved display or the significantly larger glove compartment. In details it now has a generous storage volume of 10.7 litres and thus offers more space for a lot more accessories and useful items.

Furthermore the new Ibiza is offered in three body styles to fit perfectly to every lifestyle. There are the three-door Ibiza SC and the five-door Ibiza, which are not only design masterpieces, but are also very well equipped to cope with the practical challenges of everyday life. They has an interior that is generous for this class of vehicle, a luggage volume of 284 or 292 litres and a variable rear bench. Undeniably the bodyshell of the Ibiza ST offers a very high degree of functionality. Despite its sporty design, the load volume of 430 to a maximum of 1,164 litres is surprisingly generous.

2013 Seat Ibiza - Front Ange

More importantly the engines included are a cmbination of sportiness and efficiency. The range of petrol units extends from the economical 1.2 litre with 44 kW (60 hp) to the immensely perky 1.4 TSI with supercharger and turbocharger. 110 kW (150 hp) and the standard-fit DSG transmission catapult the Ibiza to 100 km/h in just 7.8 seconds, and onwards to an impressive top speed of 212 km/h. In the new Ibiza, this power unit is now also available for the ST estate version. A highlight here is the Ibiza 1.2 TSI Ecomotive – the state-of-the-art power unit with 77 kW (105 hp) delivers refined drive with its maximum torque of 175 Newton metres at just 1,550 r/min, yet sips on an average of just 5.1 litres/100 km – thanks also to the start/stop technology that is fitted as standard. Additionally the TDI engines are even more efficient when it comes to fuel consumption and emissions. The efficiency highlight is the Ibiza 1.2 TDI E-Ecomotive (also with a start/stop system). Its average fuel consumption is the almost unbeliavable 3.4 litres, equating to a first-class CO2 figure of 89 grams/km! Nevertheless the compact hi-tech TDI delivers attractive performance with its 55 kW (75 hp) and its very respectable torque of 180 Newton metres. The sporty pinnacle of the Ibiza diesel line-up is the 2.0 TDI with 105 kW (143 hp). No competitor in this segment offers such a powerful diesel; no other masters the combination of performance and efficiency so perfectly – a top speed of 210 km/h comes with an average fuel consumption of just 4.6 litres. And how about the transmitions which fit to those modern engines? There are featured perfectly spaced five and six-speed manual gearboxes. Moreover a number of engines are offered with DSG transmissions either as standard equipment or as an option. This dual-clutch transmission offers not only the comfort of an automatic, but also the advantage of compelling efficiency. The running gear of the new Ibiza shows sophisticated layout that has been carefully fine tuned, giving the compact model handling characteristics that are as sporty as they are safe. In addition the precise steering and the perfectly tuned ESP stability control, as well as the XDS electronic differential lock (as of 100 hp) offer safety in hazardous situations. Next to be mentioned is the powerful brake system with ABS, which is also included. Last but not least, the new Ibiza runs on wheels ranging in size from 15 to 17 inches and sporting a new design.

Source: SEAT

January 13, 2012

Nissan March Nismo Concept

Nissan Motor Co. has just revealed the brand new March Nismo Concept at Tokyo Auto Salon 2012. This is the third premium sports compact vehicle released by Nismo, following on the Juke Nismo Concept and the LEAF Nismo Concept. The car is based on Nissan March and features the exclusive Nismo parts. The result is March Nismo Concept which is an extraordinary and excellent expression of the combination of a premium sports compact car and practical but exciting driving performance.

First of all the exterior of the concept includes a lower stance and bolder styling thanks to a modified front grille design. In addition there are also featured efficiency-enhancing aeroparts which were developed as part of Nismo’s racing technology. Moreover, the door mirror design has been tailored, and a rear lip spoiler added, to further enhance the car’s aerodynamic performance. What about the interior: Nismo designers have created purpose-designed seats. Additionally the steering wheel has been adapted to aid smooth interaction between the driver and the car. The March Nismo Concept comes with pearl white paint finish with red highlights, and the signature Nismo colors for performance-focused premium sports models. The vehicle is also fitted with several of Nismo’s vaunted racing technologies. For instance, such are the high-performance suspension and large-diameter lightweight wheels, thank to which the March Nismo Concept will deliver superior handling and stability that adds to the pleasure of sporty driving.

Source: Nissan

January 13, 2012

World premiere of the new BMW M Series at the International Geneva Motor Show 2012

The new vehicles from the BMW M Series, which are going to make a world debut at the International Geneva Motor Show 2012 (8-18 of March), are promised to offer even more sporting characteristics, exclusive engine line-up, enhanced agility, precise chassis tuning and astonishing design. Few months are left till the disclosure of the new product range, which was especially developed for drivers seeking sporty driving experience and at the same time count on comfort and practicality. First of all the BMW M Performance Automobiles are equipped with exclusive engine variants. Moreover they have noticeably enhanced agility and outstanding precision on the road, plus design laced with emotional appeal. The harmonious interplay of engine output, power transfer, chassis technology and aerodynamic balance are also provided by the new models.

Moreover the BMW M Performance Automobiles represent a totally new model category, which will offer inspirational driving dynamics. “We are targeting our efforts at customers looking for more emotionality and more performance, but who don’t want to forgo the everyday usability of their cars,” said Dr Friedrich Nitschke, President of BMW M GmbH. Furthermore, Nitschke announced that there are going to be more improvements and additions to the new models, such as for example, both petrol and diesel-engined variants. In addition, the intelligent all-wheel-drive system BMW xDrive would also play a significant role in the BMW M Performance Automobiles. The continuation of the last year’s success of BMW will be made possible through the arrival of the BMW M6 in 2012. Moreover, the President of BMW M GmbH also added, that BMW Group subsidiary can call on decades of motor sport experience when it comes to translating outstanding engine power into excellent dynamics. This development expertise also imbues the BMW M Performance Automobiles with their distinctive character.

The models in the new product category will continue the steps of the famous BMW M535i. The latter model was unveiled in 1980 and since then it captured the hearts of performance-minded customers thank to its extra power, precisely tuned chassis technology and subtly modified design. A fresh addition to the BMW 5 Series ranks, the Sedan remained a highly successful member of the line-up through two model generations and – up to 1987 – with the BMW M5 for company within the range. Obviously this year the tradition will continue, thank to the new BMW M Performance Automobiles.

Dr. Friedrich Nitschke, Vice President BMW M GmbH

Source: BMW

January 13, 2012

2012 FIAT 500 Abarth – Price $22 000

Great news for all who love the brand FIAT! Today the company announced U.S. pricing for its new 2012 Fiat 500 Abarth. The Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP), however without included destination in it, is starting form $22 000. Fiat 500 Abarth will now bring to the US years of traditions and success made on the European roadways and racetracks: world-class performance and precision, purposeful and aggressive styling, high power-to-weight ratio and limited production volume.
This race-inspired Fiat 500 Abarth comes standard with many performance features. First of all, there is included the all-new 1.4-liter MultiAir® Turbo engine, which delivers 160 horsepower (119 kW) and 170 lb.-ft. (230 N•m) of torque. Moreover Abarth comes with tuned suspension, brake systems and dual exhaust, turbo-boost gauge with integrated LED shift light and 16-inch aluminum wheels! In addition driver and passenger performance seats include one-piece design with large side bolsters, racing-harness pass-through and accent stitching. The Fiat 500 Abarth also comes standard with BLUE&ME™ Handsfree Communication, Bose premium audio system and steering-wheel-mounted audio controls.

Included in the price of each 2012 Fiat 500 Abarth is the opportunity for new owners to attend a segment-exclusive driving experience. At no additional charge, they can visit the Abarth Driving Experience, which is an entire day of full-throttle training, guided by professional instructors from the Richard Petty Driving Experience. All this is made in order to ensure fun and top-level instruction in a safe and structured setting.

Source: Fiat

January 13, 2012

2012 Vilner Infiniti EX37 – The Modern Crossover with Оld School Interior

For the first time this year we have news from the tuning company VILNER. Now, those excellent tuners have prepared for us a modification of the interior of the Infinity EX37 which will leave us speechless! While making the luxury interior, Vilner has used high-quality, expensive, and mostly unpopular materials.

For example take a look at the seats, the doors, the lower part of the panel, the hoods and the gearshift – they all have been “dressed” in aniline leather, which is incomparably mild and pleasant to touch. Furthermore the material is extremely fine and more importantly there is no chemical treatment or dying on t! And just see the design of the seats – doesn’t it astonish you! It is definitely something you can’t see everyday. At their upper part the bands made from aniline leather create oval forms. And in contrast in the middle and the lower part they are vertical and wider. An accent here is made by the engraved with the “Vilner”’s logo asymmetrically positioned band (made from the same material), which can also be seen at the muff of the gearshift (which is also engraved with the logo). An interesting fact, used in the tuning here, is that through the exploitation of this leather as a result there is a beautiful patina. This undeniably adds more to the Old School character of the interior.

To go further into details, the needlework is light and bright. In contrast the ceiling and the console of the steering wheel are made from a high-quality nabuck – Аmaretta®. It also has those distinguished details made from the fine bands VideoFlex Film Extra®. Can you imagine that even the rearview mirror is fashionably dressed in Аmaretta®? If you can’t, well – see the pictures below!

The steering wheel is transformed by hand again in high-quality Napa in order to deliver more comfort, ergonomics and aggressive looks. In addition the luxury image of the vehicle is complemented by the chrome-plated parts of the steering wheel, the buttons for seats management, the ceiling handles, the protectors on the doors speakers and the plafond.

Wait, the great news isn’t over! The Audio system included in this tuning is the one which won the first place on “EMMA Balkan Sound & Tuning 2011” in the class of the “Advanced 7 channels”. In details, it includes the original Infiniti player, the processor „AudiSon” and the „Ground Zero” amplifier and speakers!

Moreover the coupe of the vehicle is additionally made noiseless in order to improve the overall comfort experience of the passengers and the driver, and of course – to deliver even greater sound experience.

Obviously for Studio Vilner every detail is of utmost importance. Hence, the perfect needlework and luxury materials have the most significant place in the creation of the interior. Well done Vilner! A great start of the year for you!

Source: Vilner

January 13, 2012

Hennessey Cadillac vs Nissan GT-R – Interesting Outcome [Video]

Hennessey is a Texas tuning shop famous for creating Texas-sized horsepower numbers and for modifying super cars that will steal a Bugatti Veyron’s lunch money.” – TopGear USA

Ever wondered what it feels like to thunder down the road in a 6000 lbs fortress? Well, here is a video of a Cadillac Escalade humiliating a Nissan GT-R on a street drag race. Impossible, right? Not if Hennessey have something to do about it. The seemingly standard SUV actually has an HPE1000 Twin Turbo Upgrade on its drivetrain which boosts up the power up to the nuclear 1000 bhp. The company have replaced almost all there is to replace on the engine including the cylinder heads, the camshaft, intake manifolds, catalytic converters air filters etc. They have also fiddled with fuel management system, bolted on two ball bearing turbochargers and after much Dyno tuning and road testing, this is the result: A 60 mph sprint in 3.3 seconds and if you dare to keep your foot down for 11.3 second, you’ll get to 124 miles per hour (provided that it is run on 93 octane fuel).

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NXpV8_LXrCM

Head-to-head, on paper, the Nissan is the underdog here: A “mere” V-6, 520 hp, 3.8 Liter engine. But let us not forget that the GT-R is a Nurburgring veteran and should not be ashamed of anything. In real life, it will pass trough the Escalade as soon as the first corner comes around. The point of that drag race really, is to show Hennessey flexing their muscle – A proof of how capable they are when it comes to extracting power from machinery.

Source: Hennessey

January 12, 2012

Category: Car Makes