Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com Autoblog http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/%SiteURL%/media/feedlogo.gif Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com en-us Copyright 2008 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[AMG boss confirms future hybrid and diesel plans]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/10/10/amg-boss-confirms-future-hybrid-and-diesel-plans/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/10/10/amg-boss-confirms-future-hybrid-and-diesel-plans/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/10/10/amg-boss-confirms-future-hybrid-and-diesel-plans/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,


Click above for more high-res shots of the SL65 AMG Black Series

Saying that "only a fool would ignore" the emissions of a new vehicle and the current global economy, AMG head-man Volker Mornhinweg realizes that it can't keep building gas-guzzling supercars with reckless abandon. Not that the company will lose its performance edge, mind you. In fact, hybrids and diesels could offer a meaningful performance boost if tuned properly. How so? Torque. Diesel engines are known for their massive axle-shreading twist, and electric motors, an essential part of any hybrid powertrain, make maximum power right off idle, allowing for an internal combustion engine that's tuned for stratospheric revs.

In a recent interview with CAR, the notion of fitting a twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter oil-burning V6 inside the C class was kicked around. Mornhinweg suggests such a vehicle is a distinct possibility as AMG moves forward. Hybrid technology could be based on the new drivetrain powering the recently-unveiled S400 BlueHYBRID. No matter what the future holds, we can be sure that the AMG crew is obviously not made up of a bunch of fools, and will therefore continue to offer cars with the highest performance pedigree, regardless of what's underhood.

Gallery: 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL65 AMG Black Series Live Shots


[Source: CAR]
Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amgamg dieselamg hybridAmgDieselAmgHybridFri, 10 Oct 2008 13:27:00 EST<![CDATA[More 'Ring running: Maserati MC12 beats world's best in super comparo]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/10/10/more-ring-running-maserati-mc12-beats-worlds-best-in-super-co/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/10/10/more-ring-running-maserati-mc12-beats-worlds-best-in-super-co/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/10/10/more-ring-running-maserati-mc12-beats-worlds-best-in-super-co/#commentsFiled under: ,


Click above for more high-res shots of the Maserati MC12

Despite the fact there is no real "Official 'Ring Record" for production cars, manufacturers never miss the chance to time their fastest cars as they lap the famous German race track. After all, there's a great bit of marketing to be had by claiming that your car is faster than everything else. Maserati realizes this just as much as the next company, and the Italian automaker's MC12 is still 'super' even though it's now three years old. Perhaps even more so, as it recently managed to lap the Nürburgring Nordschleife in just 7:24.29. Not only is this an extremely fast time, it betters the marks set by such enviable performers as the Ferrari Enzo, Koenigsegg CCX, Pagani Zonda F Clubsport and Porsche Carrera GT. All of these cars are owned by one (very lucky) man and were tested with the same driver (American Le Mans Series racer Marc Basseng) at the same time and under the same conditions, while lap timing duties went to Europe's evo magazine. All of this lends a dose of credibility to the Trident's accomplishment that's lacking from the incredible 'Ring times that automakers have been claiming lately. So, while not all 'Ring times are created equal, some bragging rights now belong to Maserati.*

*The only car we know of that claims a faster time is the Dodge Viper ACR, which unofficially managed the deed in just 7:22. Your lap times may vary.

Gallery: 2005 Maserati MC12


[Source: Maserati]
Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>maseratimaserati mc12maserati mc12 recordMaseratiMc12MaseratiMc12Recordnurburgringnurburgring recordnurburgring timeNurburgringRecordNurburgringTimeFri, 10 Oct 2008 11:58:00 EST<![CDATA[Rumormill: Bugatti and Bentley join forces to battle Rolls-Royce]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/10/09/rumormill-bugatti-and-bentley-join-forces-to-battle-rolls-royce/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/10/09/rumormill-bugatti-and-bentley-join-forces-to-battle-rolls-royce/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/10/09/rumormill-bugatti-and-bentley-join-forces-to-battle-rolls-royce/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,



The whisperers have it that Bugatti may be borrowing from Bentley for a new sedan. What they can't seem to pinpoint is exactly what kind of sharing the two marques will be doing, and whether or not the resulting super Bug will be a supremely high-powered four-door to compete with the Rolls-Royce Phantom. If the two brands do indeed share something, like the next Arnage's platform, for instance, that might make sense. But just a few months ago, Bugatti said that its next product would be even more expensive than the Veyron, and lead man Josef Paefgen has also said that there will be no inexpensive Bugatti.

A $400,000 sedan wouldn't be inexpensive, true, but compared to $1.6 million for a Veyron, it's a flat-out bargain. Besides, the $242,000 Arnage T, after all the bespoke options, would come perilously close to a $400K Bugatti in price, and the next Bentley Arnage is growing in order to fight the Phantom. So if a Bugatti sedan with Bentley underpinnings were that close in price to a Rolls Phantom... then who's Bentley meant to get in the ring with?

[Source: TopSpeed via German Car Blog]
Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bentleybentley arnageBentleyArnagebugattibugatti sedanbugatti successorBugattiSedanBugattiSuccessorphantomplatformplatform sharingPlatformSharingrolls-royce phantomRolls-roycePhantomsedansThu, 09 Oct 2008 15:59:00 EST<![CDATA[C&D performs first instrumented testing of Corvette ZR1]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/10/09/candd-performs-first-instrumented-testing-of-corvette-zr1/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/10/09/candd-performs-first-instrumented-testing-of-corvette-zr1/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/10/09/candd-performs-first-instrumented-testing-of-corvette-zr1/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Click above for our high-res ZR1 burnout gallery!

Car and Driver recently strapped its test gear to the new Chevrolet Corvette ZR1 and, as expected, recorded some impressive numbers. All eyes have been on the supercar Vette as it enters the boxing ring to duke it out with the heavy-hitting Dodge Viper SRT10 ACR, Nissan GT-R and Porsche GT2 (among others), and it looks like the latest Corvette will more than hold its own. According to C&D's trusty electronic gear, the supercharged 638-hp beast knocked off a 0-60 mph time of just 3.4 seconds as it continued towards a blistering 7.6 second 0-100 mph run. The quarter mile was cracked in 11.5 seconds @ 128 mph (Chevrolet claims 11.3 seconds, but the guys at C&D didn't believe in "...that sort of drivetrain abuse" to get lower numbers). The top speed also remains unverified as the team "ran out of room" before they could hit the claimed 205 mph. Under braking, the ZR1 set a new C&D record as it hauled itself down from 70 mph in just 142 feet. Of course, we must mention the obligatory claimed Nürburgring lap time of 7:26 (at the hands of Chevrolet). So you don't have to Google the competition's best-claimed Ring times yourself, here they are: Porsche GT2 - 7:32, Nissan GT-R - 7:29, and the Dodge Viper ACR - 7:22. Of course, we'd like to see all four on the track under identical conditions, and with some digital timing gear!

Gallery: Covette ZR1 burnouts


Gallery: First Drive: 2009 Corvette ZR1


[Source: Car and Driver]

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>0-1000-600-60corvette0-60timesAccelerationcar and driverCarAndDriverCDChevrolet ZR1ChevroletZr1CorvettefastquickspeedVetteThu, 09 Oct 2008 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Lamborghini reveals Estoque interior for first time]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/10/09/lamborghini-estoque-interior-revealed/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/10/09/lamborghini-estoque-interior-revealed/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/10/09/lamborghini-estoque-interior-revealed/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Click above for more live shots of the Lamborghini Estoque concept's interior

At this point, we've seen nearly every possible angle of Lamborghini's latest raging bull, the Estoque, with one rather large exception: the interior. As a four-door sedan, the compromises one naturally expects from the Italian motor company's supercars are wholly unacceptable in this application, so there is naturally a sense of luxury inside the Estoque that's missing from the Gallardo and Murcielago. We can also see large paddle shifters for the e-gear transmission that are yanked straight from the Gallardo and plenty of two-tone grey and creamy white leather covering most every surface. Plus, there's a whole lot more space now for such pleasure-inducers as a Blu-ray player, in-cabin television and, um, legroom. Still, it's clear that this is a concept cockpit that was likely rushed to deadline for the Paris Motor Show. The buttons in the cockpit are all hard black plastic, which is not exactly fitting for a sister brand of Audi, an automaker that arguably sets the gold standard for interiors by which others are judged. Take a look at the Estoque's interior for yourself in our gallery below.

Gallery: Paris 2008: Lamborghini Estoque LIVE


[Source: Lamborghini]

Continue reading Lamborghini reveals Estoque interior for first time

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>lamborghinilamborghini estoquelamborghini estoque conceptlamborghini estoque interiorLamborghiniEstoqueLamborghiniEstoqueConceptLamborghiniEstoqueInteriorparis 2008paris motor showparis motor show 2008Paris2008ParisMotorShowParisMotorShow2008Thu, 09 Oct 2008 11:27:00 EST<![CDATA[Nissan to Porsche: Put the GT-R down before you hurt yourself]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/10/09/nissan-to-porsche-put-the-gt-r-down-before-you-hurt-yourself/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/10/09/nissan-to-porsche-put-the-gt-r-down-before-you-hurt-yourself/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/10/09/nissan-to-porsche-put-the-gt-r-down-before-you-hurt-yourself/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


Click above for high-res gallery of the 2009 Nissan GT-R

The GT-R/911 schoolyard scuffuffle continues, with Nissan looking at Porsche's test and basically saying "yer doin it wrong" to the German automaker. Chief engineer Kazutoshi Mizuno has graciously offered remedial driving classes to the driver for Porsche's lapping session where a GT-R was reportedly 25 seconds off Nissan's torrid time of 7 minutes, 29 seconds. Porsche had concluded that special tires must have been quietly fitted in a quest for 'Ring primacy. Porsche has yet to say anything other than "Ve don't sink zee car can do it in schtock form."

Not so, says Nissan. While a claim to the fastest production car on the Nürburgring might help prospective customers froth up some money, and owners are unlikely to try verifying the claim, Nissan is not interested in wasting time on one-offs, according to Mizuno. "For us, testing the car in standard production specification is far more relevant", says the engineer. The very tires that carried driver Toshio Suzuki on the 7:29 run are in the hands of Sumitomo, and Nissan would encourage interested parties to STFU and go look at the rolling stock. It seems Nissan thinks Porsche needs a little help figuring out the GT-R, to which the company will be happy to help. "We are aware that several automakers have purchased the GT-R for their own testing and evaluation," Nissan says in its most recent rebuttal, "we would welcome the opportunity to help any auto manufacturer with understanding the full capabilities of the GT-R." Nissan's statement is after the jump.

Gallery: In the Autoblog Garage: 2009 Nissan GT-R


[Source: carsguide]

Continue reading Nissan to Porsche: Put the GT-R down before you hurt yourself

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>gt-rgt-r nurburgringGt-rNurburgringgtrnissan gt rnissan gt-rnissan gt-r spec vnissan gt-r spec-vnissan gt-r v-specnissan gtrnissan gtr nurburgringNissanGt-rNissanGt-rSpec-vNissanGt-rSpecVNissanGt-rV-specNissanGtrNissanGtrNurburgringporsche gt-rPorscheGt-rThu, 09 Oct 2008 10:27:00 EST<![CDATA[VIDEO: Michael Schumacher saunters around 'Ring in Ferrari California]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/10/09/video-michael-schumacher-saunters-around-ring-in-ferrari-calif/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/10/09/video-michael-schumacher-saunters-around-ring-in-ferrari-calif/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/10/09/video-michael-schumacher-saunters-around-ring-in-ferrari-calif/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Click image above for high-res mini-gallery of MS and the California at the 'Ring

This past Sunday, Ferrari had its Racing Days event at the Nürburgring in Germany and after the customers got a chance to 'ring out their rides, company legend Michael Schumacher wheeled out the new Ferrari California and put it through its paces. For those of you waiting to hear a lap time, don't hold your breath. The track was wet, the course was the F1 track, and the event was more of a meet-and-greet than a pedal-to-the-metal assault on the GT-R. This short YouTube clip by JurreAG will show you MS taking the California through the first few turns from a standing start near turn one. While you can clearly see that the car has some oomph, there aren't any real references for comparison or hard data for bragging/arguing/flaming yet. Sure does sound nice though, and it beats the last video clip we had of the car pretty much sitting still and posing for beauty shots. Check out the mini-gallery of stills below and the YouTube clip after the jump.

Gallery: Schumacher drives California at 'Ring

Continue reading VIDEO: Michael Schumacher saunters around 'Ring in Ferrari California

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ferrari californiaFerrariCaliforniamichael schumacherMichaelSchumachernurburgringThu, 09 Oct 2008 08:56:00 EST<![CDATA[GM on Corvette ZR1 cancellation rumor: "Not true."]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/10/07/gm-on-zr1-cancellation-rumor-not-true/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/10/07/gm-on-zr1-cancellation-rumor-not-true/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/10/07/gm-on-zr1-cancellation-rumor-not-true/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,



The rumormill is a funny thing, and sometimes it can run amok. This appears to be one of those times. The DigitalCorvettes.com forum posted a note earlier this evening saying that Corvette ZR1 production has been halted (Bowling Green is shut down this week, so no Vettes are being built at the moment) and suggesting that the ZR1 may be cancelled. A post on dealer Rick "Corvette" Conti's blog, linked in the referenced DigitalCorvettes thread, added to the intrigue.

Autoblog has contacted GM's Terry Rhadigan, who handles global communications for the Chevrolet brand. We presented the DigitalCorvettes link and asked for an official response. His was very clear:

"Not true."
Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breakingcorvettecorvette ZR1CorvetteZr1zr1Zr1 cancellation rumorZr1CancellationRumorTue, 07 Oct 2008 22:37:00 EST<![CDATA[No future for the mid-engine Corvette]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/10/07/no-future-for-the-mid-engine-corvette/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/10/07/no-future-for-the-mid-engine-corvette/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/10/07/no-future-for-the-mid-engine-corvette/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,



With GM facing well-publicized challenges -- along with just about everyone else who needs a little thing called money -- certain high-profile and expensive programs are crowding up on the back burner. Even America's sports car, the Corvette, is not exempt, with CAFE regulations clouding the view inside the 'Vette Nation's crystal ball.

Motor Trend, commenting on the C7 Corvette's delayed arrival, has said that the new coupe won't appear until the 2014 model year at the earliest. The mid-engined route has also been scrapped, since it would simply cost too much to re-engineer the entire car for the purpose of easier integration of fuel saving tech like cylinder deactivation.

That means a six-cylinder is still being talked about -- by GM outsiders only, at this point -- as an option for the C7. If we take the Camaro as an example, that 2014 introduction date could mean late 2012, but that still only gives you four years to mentally prepare for a budget- and economy-minded V6 Corvette. Get cracking.

[Source: Motor Trend]

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2014 corvette2014Corvettec7c7 corvetteC7Corvettechevroletchevrolet corvetteChevroletCorvettecorvettecoupesgmmid-engined corvetteMid-enginedCorvettenext generationnext generation corvetteNextGenerationNextGenerationCorvettesports carsSportsCarssupercarsTue, 07 Oct 2008 14:28:00 EST<![CDATA[Pics Aplenty: New Ferrari California shots show off car's good side]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/10/07/pics-aplenty-new-ferrari-california-shots-show-off-cars-good-s/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/10/07/pics-aplenty-new-ferrari-california-shots-show-off-cars-good-s/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/10/07/pics-aplenty-new-ferrari-california-shots-show-off-cars-good-s/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Click above for high-res gallery of the 2009 Ferrari California

Yesterday we told you that the Ferrari California was officially sold out through 2010. Some of you seemed to think that this was a ploy. Others thought it fitting. Still others thought it ridiculous because of the car's lack of aesthetic appeal. Well, for all but the last group, here is the newest batch of official photos from Ferrari showing this hot little coupe/cab. More beauty shots of the red and blue models have popped up in the wake of the Paris Motor Show and we have them here for you to see and download. They might even convert a few of you who have thus far been impervious to this car's charms. Click any image here to go to the full high-res galleries.

Gallery: More pics of the 2009 Ferrari California

Continue reading Pics Aplenty: New Ferrari California shots show off car's good side

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>californiaferrariferrari californiaFerrariCaliforniaTue, 07 Oct 2008 12:59:00 EST<![CDATA[SEMA Preview: 650 hp Evo X, GT-R and Tundra tuned for Toyo]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/10/06/sema-preview-620-hp-evo-x-gt-r-and-tundra-tuned-for-toyo/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/10/06/sema-preview-620-hp-evo-x-gt-r-and-tundra-tuned-for-toyo/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/10/06/sema-preview-620-hp-evo-x-gt-r-and-tundra-tuned-for-toyo/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , ,


Click either image for a high-res gallery

Toyo has tapped a handful of tuners to produce six SEMA creations to highlight its range of track-ready and dirt-friendly tires. Unfortunately, we've already seen the 800 hp, Bentley Continental-based Tetsu GTR, but joining that rolling abomination to tasteless consumption are a handful of rides that better represent what SEMA is all about.

To begin with, Bulletproof Automotive is trotting out a customer-owned Nissan GT-R, wearing limited edition (and GT-R specific) BBS LM-DBK-P wheels wrapped in Toyo's 20-inch Proxes R888 tires. An Amuse Super Tough Titanium exhaust, Endless monoblock six-piston front and rear brakes and a smattering of carbon fiber aerodynamic parts round out this track- and show-friendly package.

Vivid Racing will be joined by several other firms bringing tuned Mitsubishi Evolution Xs to the show, but Vivid should stand out with its Porsche GT3 RS paint job, 18x10-inch AME Tracer 02 wheels and 650 hp on tap. We'll be on hand in a few weeks to find out how Vivid went about freeing those extra 350 ponies.

Additionally, an unnamed sixth vehicle will be accompanied by a 2009 Toyota Tundra CrewMax SR5 built by Two Brothers Custom Trucks, along with Choppin' Block Custom Fab's four-door 1931 Studebaker Model 54, riding on a custom air suspension, Centerline Smoothie wheels and powered by a Chevy 350 fed by a trio of two-barrel carburetors.

Hit the jump for all the details and stay tuned for our SEMA coverage beginning the first week of November.

Gallery: Toyo Tires at 2008 SEMA

Continue reading SEMA Preview: 650 hp Evo X, GT-R and Tundra tuned for Toyo

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Mon, 06 Oct 2008 19:28:00 EST<![CDATA[California is a true Ferrari: sold out through 2010]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/10/06/california-is-a-true-ferrari-sold-out-through-2010/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/10/06/california-is-a-true-ferrari-sold-out-through-2010/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/10/06/california-is-a-true-ferrari-sold-out-through-2010/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,



What recession? Ferrari just confirmed that the Ferrari California is officially sold out through 2010. The 179,000 Euro supercoupe/cab is scheduled to be produced in batches of about 2,000 per year and has been a runaway success for the Maranello manufacturer. Company President Luca di Montezemolo was recently quoted as saying, "In 2008 there was the success of the Scuderia. 2009 will be characterized by the California. It has been an incredible success. We have already sold all of the 2008 and 2009 production. You have to now wait until 2011 for one."

Rather than act as a replacement for anything in the current lineup, the California was intended to be an eight-cylinder car that would compliment the F430 and be a vehicle with a lot of flexibility according to Ferrari. While some say it isn't the most beautiful Ferrari they've ever seen, the performance should be pretty spectacular for those lucky souls with a signed contract already in hand. The new direct-injection, 460-hp 4.3L V8 should be more than adequate for propelling this prancing pony down the road with gusto. We'll keep our fingers crossed that someone listening will loan us one for a short stay in the garage so we can confirm our suspicions.

Gallery: Ferrari California LIVE



[Source: la Repubblica via Eurocar Blog]
Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ferrari californiaFerrariCaliforniaMon, 06 Oct 2008 16:33:00 EST<![CDATA[Alfa Romeo 8C goes on sale now in U.S., already sold out]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/10/06/alfa-romeo-8c-goes-on-sale-now-in-u-s-already-sold-out/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/10/06/alfa-romeo-8c-goes-on-sale-now-in-u-s-already-sold-out/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/10/06/alfa-romeo-8c-goes-on-sale-now-in-u-s-already-sold-out/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


Click above for a high-res gallery of the Alfa Romeo 8C Competizione

And with these words, the Alfisti shall rejoice: Alfa Romeo is finally back in the United States. While a full scale return by the Italian maker won't happen until 2009 or 2010, you can officially buy the Alfa 8C Competizione starting this month through one of the designated Maserati dealers tabbed to carry this rolling piece of automotive hotness. Check that, you can arrange delivery. Seems all of the 8Cs earmarked for the U.S. are already spoken for. So at least in theory, Alfa has returned. The 8C Spider open air version won't show up until 2010, but we really like the coupe enough not to be too distressed about the wait.

When the full operation ramps up, we are expecting that someone strolling into an Alfa Romeo dealership will be able to purchase not only the 8C Competizione and 8C Spider, but hopefully the hotter 8C GTA, the Brera and 159 or their replacements, the MiTo and 149, and whisperings also suggest a large rear-drive car possibly based on a Jaguar platform, along with a BMW X3 rival. Sounds a bit like Heaven. As always, we'll keep you posted.

Gallery: 2009 Alfa Romeo 8C Competizione


Gallery: 2009 Alfa Romeo 8C Competizione


[Source: Automotive News, sub. req.]
Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alfa 8calfa 8c competizionealfa romeoalfa romeo 8c competizioneAlfa8cAlfa8cCompetizioneAlfaRomeoAlfaRomeo8cCompetizioneMon, 06 Oct 2008 13:02:00 EST<![CDATA[MG planning supercar SV-S WRC convertible]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/10/06/mg-planning-supercar-sv-s-wrc-convertible/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/10/06/mg-planning-supercar-sv-s-wrc-convertible/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/10/06/mg-planning-supercar-sv-s-wrc-convertible/#commentsFiled under: , ,



Following all the plot twists in the ongoing saga of what's become of MG Rover in recent years is more difficult than unravelling the Harry Potter series in a half hour. Looking like something distinctly last century, the MG XPower SV started life as a derivate of the Qvale Mangusta. Ex-racer William Riley, a member of the famed English automotive clan, managed to wheel and deal for the rights to the MG X-Power name, as well as the flared and gilled V8-powered supercar intender.

What better thing to do with a kevlar-bodied piece of automotive bombast but cut the top off? That's exactly the thinking that's led to the prototype MG X-Power SV-S WRC. WRC stands for William Riley Convertible, and the car sports a supercharged V8 and is claimed to be capable of hitting 62 mph in 3.8 seconds on its way to a top speed of 195 mph. It will cost Anglophiles £87,000 to support their local supercar bakery, though there will be lower achievers that cost less but still deliver the same jagged-glass eye pain. Still, considering that this mobile cheese grater is about half the cost when powered by a 3.5 liter Ford V6, it's a bargain for such an exclusive car. Thanks for the tip, pottz!

[Source: Auto Express]
Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>MGMG convertibleMG supercarMG X-Power SV-S WRCMgConvertibleMgSupercarMgX-powerSv-sWrcWilliam RileyWilliamRileyMon, 06 Oct 2008 08:28:00 EST<![CDATA[Top Gear Magazine (sorta) reveals Aston Martin One-77]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/10/06/top-gear-magazine-sorta-reveals-aston-martin-one-77/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/10/06/top-gear-magazine-sorta-reveals-aston-martin-one-77/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/10/06/top-gear-magazine-sorta-reveals-aston-martin-one-77/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,



The Paris Motor Show has given up its secrets, but that doesn't mean the teasing is over. Top Gear magazine has the story on the Aston Martin One-77, joined by what will probably be more tease-tastic renders. One thing that can be gleaned from the rendering on the TG microsite is the headlight layout, with an inner row of LEDs leading back to an array that includes at least one additional cluster of LEDs. The front end still looks a tad overwrought to us - and a little reminiscent of the GTbyCitroen - but we suppose we'll just have to get a copy of Top Gear before we vote with our thumbs.

[Source: Top Gear via Motor Gears]
Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aston martinaston martin one 77aston martin one-77AstonMartinAstonMartinOne-77AstonMartinOne77coupesone-77paris 2008paris motor showParis2008ParisMotorShowrenderingssports carsSportsCarssupercarstop geartop gear magazineTopGearTopGearMagazineMon, 06 Oct 2008 07:58:00 EST<![CDATA[Paris 2008: Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren 722 S Roadster]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/10/03/paris-2008-mercedes-benz-slr-mclaren-722-s-roadster/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/10/03/paris-2008-mercedes-benz-slr-mclaren-722-s-roadster/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/10/03/paris-2008-mercedes-benz-slr-mclaren-722-s-roadster/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,


Click the image above for a high-res gallery of SLR 722 Roadster pics

Certain cars encourage a response that is as routine and predictable as the reaction to a stoplight, and the Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren 722 S Roadster is one of those cars. This is what happens every time someone gets in one, irrespective of their age, sex, or nationality: she snuggles into the seat, looks into the footwell to make sure her feet are placed just so on the pedals, slides her hands around the steering wheel for a couple of seconds to find just the right position, snuggles into the seat again... and then she just sits there, staring off into the distance. She might flip the paddles once or twice, or check out the center console. Then it's back to the thousand yard stare at the wall in front of her. She gets her picture taken, notices the line of people waiting to do the same thing, and it's all repeated again and again. And for good reason - the SLR McLaren 722 S Roadster is topless testosterone-topped terrificality. 650 horsepower from a supercharged 5.5L V8 and a convertible soft top that'll stay put above 208 mph deserves the attention. You can check out the specs after the jump, or better yet, go straight to the gallery of high-res images below that we snapped in between the line of people waiting to sit in it.

Gallery: Paris 2008: Mercedes SLR McLaren 722 S Roadster

Continue reading Paris 2008: Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren 722 S Roadster

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>coupesmclarenmclaren slr 722mclaren slr 722 roadsterMclarenSlr722MclarenSlr722Roadstermercedesmercedes mclarenmercedes mclaren slr 722 roadstermercedes-benzMercedesMclarenMercedesMclarenSlr722Roadsterparisparis 2008paris motor showParis2008ParisMotorShowslr 722slr 722 roadsterSlr722Slr722RoadstersupercarsFri, 03 Oct 2008 14:58:00 EST<![CDATA[Citroen GT Concept now available in GT5 Prologue]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/10/03/citroen-gt-concept-now-available-on-gt5-prologue/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/10/03/citroen-gt-concept-now-available-on-gt5-prologue/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/10/03/citroen-gt-concept-now-available-on-gt5-prologue/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


Click above for shots of the GTbyCitroen, Ferrari California and Lotus Evora in GT5

Polyphony's Gran Turismo 5 Prologue is about to get a pretty substantial upgrade. The next time you boot up your Playstation 3, an update will be available for GT5 that will add the GT by Citroen, Ferrari's new California and the Lotus Evora. Lotus fans got a sneak peek into the Evora's GT5 inclusion at the British Motor Show a few weeks back, and now everybody gets to join in on the aluminum-intensive fun. It's always a pleasure to strap yourself in a Ferrari, in real-life or virtually, and the California is the latest Italian Stallion around, so its addition was a foregone conclusion. The biggest news, though, is the new French GT, which its maker says was "a partnership between Citroën and Polyphony." In the game-realm, the new GT concept will be powered by electrons generated from a hydrogen fuel cell. Even if the technology isn't quite ready for prime time in your driveway, it can always make waves in digital form, running around various race tracks while emitting nothing but water.

Gallery: GTbyCitroen, Lotus Evora and Ferrari California in GT5

GTbyCitroenFerrari CaliforniaLotus EvoraGTbyCitroenGTbyCitroen

[Source: PlayStation Blog via Joystiq]
Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ferrari californiaFerrariCaliforniagran turismogran turismo 5gran turismo 5 prologuegrand turismogrand turismo 5GrandTurismoGrandTurismo5GranTurismoGranTurismo5GranTurismo5Prologuegt by citroengt5gt5 prologuegt5 updateGt5PrologueGt5Updategtbycitroenlotus evoraLotusEvoraFri, 03 Oct 2008 14:29:00 EST<![CDATA[Nissan defends GT-R 'Ring time]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/10/03/nissan-defends-gt-r-ring-time/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/10/03/nissan-defends-gt-r-ring-time/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/10/03/nissan-defends-gt-r-ring-time/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Click above for a high-res gallery of the Nissan GT-R

As expected, Nissan has responded to Porsche's claims that the GT-R isn't quite as fast as they say it is. In fact, representatives for the German automaker suggested that Nissan may have used racing slicks to achieve the 7:29:03 lap time of the Nürburgring. Says Nissan, "The final word from us is that it was done on absolutely standard tires which are available to customers in the showroom. They're not trick tires - absolutely standard tires, normal road tires."

Despite the allegations, Nissan is remaining calm about the issue, adding that the fast time was set by its racing driver, Tochio Suzuki, and achieved using the GT-R's optional Dunlop tires. Could it be that Porsche purchased a model with the slightly slower Bridgestones? Maybe, but can having the right tires could account for a 25-second lap time difference? In any case, Nissan's taking the high-road, falling short of suggesting that Porsche's drivers are slow. Thanks for the tip, Ed!

[Source: The Nissan GT-R Owners Club]
Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>nissannissan gt-rnissan gt-r lap timenissan gt-r nurburgringnissan porscheNissanGt-rNissanGt-rLapTimeNissanGt-rNurburgringNissanPorscheFri, 03 Oct 2008 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Super rich may avoid super expensive cars because of bad image]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/10/02/wealthy-folks-may-be-avoiding-super-cars-because-of-bad-image/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/10/02/wealthy-folks-may-be-avoiding-super-cars-because-of-bad-image/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/10/02/wealthy-folks-may-be-avoiding-super-cars-because-of-bad-image/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,


Click the image above for a hi-res gallery of the Rolls-Royce Phantom Coupe

If you've got it, flaunt it. The super high-end automotive market has been counting on that attitude for years, and it may now be coming back to bite them. It seems that sales of luxury marques such as Bentley, Maybach and Aston Martin have been on a downward trajectory over the last year. Despite the fact that there are a number of people who still have plenty of dough to purchase these expensive toys, public perception is causing some of them to hold back and keep those fat wallets in their pockets.

To combat the problem, some high-end brands are choosing to aim even higher. If ex-customers with a net-worth of less than $5 million find it socially unacceptable to make a purchase, Bentley has said it will begin marketing to those with at least a net worth of $25 million. Let us add that we've driven a few Bentleys and Rollers and can say with certainty that they are definitely conspicuous in a sea of CamCords and Mustangs.

Gallery: First Drive: Rolls-Royce Phantom Coupe


[Source: Advertising Age]
Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bentleyhigh end carshigh-end carsHigh-endCarsHighEndCarsluxury carsLuxuryCarsmaybachrolls royceRollsRoyceThu, 02 Oct 2008 19:29:00 EST<![CDATA[Paris 2008: Ferrari California in the flesh]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/10/02/paris-2008-ferrari-california-in-the-flesh/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/10/02/paris-2008-ferrari-california-in-the-flesh/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/10/02/paris-2008-ferrari-california-in-the-flesh/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Click either image to view the Ferrari California live in high resolution

It's not every day that Ferrari unveils a new sportscar. And when it does, it's almost invariably billed as a successor to the one that came before, or a version of something already on the market. But the Ferrari California is an entirely different beast, expanding the Prancing Horse's line-up into a new segment, and it certainly looks the part when viewed up close. We'll have to reserve our judgment for the time being on the California's driving dynamics, but the Italians promise it'll keep up its end and then some with its new direct-inject, 460-hp version of the company's 4.3L V8. In the meantime, today was a big day for Ferrari, and we've got the pictures to prove it. Click the thumbnails below to see for yourself.

Gallery: Ferrari California LIVE


Gallery: 2009 Ferrari California

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ferrariferrari californiaferrari california parisferrari parisFerrariCaliforniaFerrariCaliforniaParisFerrariParisparisparis auto showparis motor showParisAutoShowParisMotorShowThu, 02 Oct 2008 12:59:00 EST