Chevrolet Camaro tours overseas as new safety car for World Touring Car Championship

Seeing a Chevrolet Camaro setting the pace at a NASCAR or Indy race is not uncommon, but its latest tour of duty has taken GM's modern ponycar to another form of racing altogether: the World Touring Car Championship.

The WTCC pits race-prepped sedan and hatchback touring cars against each other on tracks across Europe and around the world. Considering that the factory-backed Chevrolet Cruze has emerged over the past couple of seasons as the car to beat in WTCC competition, perhaps its only fitting that another Chevy act as safety car.

The Safety Ca(r)maro, as it's been dubbed, appears pretty much bone stock, though we'd assume it has had the necessary safety gear fitted, like a roll cage, five-point harness and fire supression system. But as it stands, its 430-horsepower V8 is about 40% more powerful than the restricted engines in the touring cars it's keeping at bay.

 

WTCC Pace Car Stronger Than A Race Car

Safety Ca(r)maro Becomes A Video Star

In the past two years' FIA WTCC seasons, Chevrolet always was "one wheel ahead" of its peers and with the Cruze ended up No. I plus an additional place on the podium in 2010 and 2011.

In 2012, the world-famous American car manufacturer presents another race car for the
World Touring Car Championship that will leave its competitors far behind: the official Camaro Safety Car. The coolest pace car in the WTCC history is portrayed in its own video clip, which also shows its predecessors and the most emotional scenes from the 46-year Camaro history – outperformed by Chevrolet Europe Motorsport Director Eric Nève.

Even the first Camaro generation, built from 1966 onward, showed a huge motor sports potential. Special racing versions of the pony car won quite a number of trophies. And the Camaro was used as the famous Indy 500's pace cars for many, many years, too. Although as the WTCC safety car the Camaro features a serial engine, it is still always in the lead. After all, with its 432 V8 hp it outraces the touring cars of the series by about 40 percent. In its new video clip, Chevrolet depicted this muscle car's character in a glorious manner.

And just as it should become such a car with a long and successful motor sports history, Bruno Correia, an experienced race driver, will be at the Camaro's wheel. Correia has driven in more than 350 races. To be sure, the Portuguese driver is not supposed to outrace the field, but rather to make the races safer with his aplomb. In the five-minute video clip, he casts a light on the life of a pace car driver and looks back upon an accident in 2009, when the safety car's crew was acting rather rashly and collided with Franz Engstler's race car, thereby causing a serious accident. Engstler, the leading driver, also lost the race, through no fault of his own.

What during a safety car phase you better not do with the Camaro is then shown by WTCC world champion Yvan Muller. After all, this Chevrolet top pilot has a very emotional relationship with the fifth-generation Camaro.

via  Chevrolet

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Ford wants you to give the gift of "some assembly required" for Father's Day

Father's Day lands this weekend, and if you're anything like us, you're doing your best to put off trying to find a gift. Ford has an idea for those of us too lazy to pull up dad's Amazon list and click purchase. The automaker says it takes roughly two years for a hobbyist to complete a classic vehicle restoration from the ground up over nights and weekends. That means that a project Mustang started this summer will be ready just in time for the car's 50th anniversary in a couple of years.

How's that for clever? The company says roughly 95 percent of all Mustang parts are available brand new as reproductions right now through FordRestorationParts.com, including full body shells like the one seen above.

Father's Day Is the Perfect Time to Kick off Restoration of America's Favorite Classic, the 1964-66 Ford Mustang

• Mustang restorations started this summer should be ready in time for the car's 50th anniversary in April 2014

• Ford-licensed restoration parts for classic 1960s Mustangs can improve quality, lower costs and shorten restoration time


DEARBORN, Mich., June 12, 2012 – With the 50th anniversary of the Ford Mustang less than two years away, this summer is the time to begin restoring your classic pony car so that it can be ready for one of the most important milestones in American automotive history.

"Working nights and weekends, and as your budget allows, it takes roughly two years to do a complete wheels-up classic car restoration," says Brian Martin, director of automotive restoration development at McPherson College in Kansas. McPherson is the only school in North America that offers a four-year bachelor's degree in automobile restoration.

Martin says with careful project planning and outsourcing of some specialized jobs such as painting and transmission rebuilding, a father and son following a detailed plan can easily restore a first-generation Mustang in a good-sized home garage. What's needed are basic hand tools, proper manuals, good mechanical skills and a realistic budget.

Restoring a classic Mustang is a great father and son project, and this Sunday, June 17, is Father's Day – a great day to kick off a Mustang restoration with the goal of having the car ready for its 50th anniversary on April 17, 2014.

Jonathan Brand and his dad have restored three classic Mustangs in their home garage, a '65 coupe and two '69 models. It was an experience Brand says he will never forget.

"My dad and I weren't as close before we restored the Mustangs," says Brand, an artist who now lives in New Haven, Conn. "It definitely brought us closer together, all those hours working on the cars. He taught me a lot about cars, and we had a lot of fun."

Brand's advice: Have patience, manage the budget and use Ford-licensed restoration parts, especially for the sheet metal repairs.

"We tried using panels from junkyards, but when you consider the time it takes to get them off and then to get them to fit properly on your car, it just isn't worth it. We found the new parts fit really well," Brand says.

95 percent of classic Mustang parts available
America's love affair with the original Mustang is still going strong after nearly 50 years. Debuting in April 1964, the original Mustang sold more than 1.2 million units – including more than 174,000 convertibles – before its first redesign in 1967.

The original Mustang has long been America's most popular classic car of the postwar era and is usually No. 1 or 2 on the list of most popular cars Hagerty Classic Car Insurance of Traverse City, Mich., insures.

Ford Motor Company aggressively supports the original Mustang with thousands of high-quality, officially licensed reproduction parts available at www.fordrestorationparts.com. These replacement parts look, fit and perform exactly as the originals. Many Ford restoration parts are actually made from the original Ford tools that have been preserved for the restoration market. About 95 percent of all the parts needed to build a "new" classic '64 to '66 Mustang are available today.

"We offer everything from a door handle to a complete Mustang body," says Dennis Mondrach, Ford Restoration Parts licensing manager. "We just recently launched a 1965 Mustang convertible body – the complete assembly, all the sheet metal from the hood to the trunk. It is designed to enable fans of the original Mustang to build the classic of their dreams using a body that is stronger than the original."

Reproduction Mustang bodies are available in every classic model year from 1965 to 1970 along with the ever-popular 1965 and 1967 convertibles. All cars feature modern welding and assembly techniques and are made from high-strength, modern automotive-grade steel. Officially licensed fenders, bumpers, door skins and other body parts for project cars that have restorable bodies are available to replace parts susceptible to rust or damaged in accidents.

Mondrach says it is nearly impossible to pluck a restorable 1964-66 Mustang or such parts as fenders, bumpers and grilles from scrapyards. Most have been wrecked, or rusted, and Mustangs with any parts good enough to be reused were long ago picked clean by restorers.

Classic Mustang restoration: Easier than you might think
Because the original Mustang uses technology that was state-of-the-art for mass-produced cars in the 1960s, the car is extremely easy to work on compared with today's vehicles. Also, the Mustang's mechanical components have always been easy to find and affordable, further adding to the car's appeal among collectors. In addition, the car can easily be modified with better suspension, performance and safety options that were unavailable at the time.

Ford Racing, for example, offers many optional crate engines and performance options to meet the needs of every Mustang enthusiast.

Mondrach suggests starting a restoration with a Mustang whose body is sound and not in need of major rust, welding or accident repairs. "The costs add up quickly when you are cutting out and replacing damaged body panels. It may be more cost effective to start with a complete new body and use the engine, transmission, suspension and major trim from a donor car," he says.

Martin, of McPherson College, recommends refurbishing the drivetrain, suspension and other mechanical components before the body and paintwork. He says a reasonable budget for a complete restoration is between $30,000 and $50,000, but that would include a new or rebuilt performance engine, transmission, rear axle, brakes, suspension, cooling and electrical systems, as well as all the trim, paint and interior parts to be as good as new.

Before starting a restoration, experts say, knowledge is the first and most important thing to attain. "Join a club. Buy the original Ford-issued repair manuals," Martin says. "Ford service manuals from that time were really good. They were designed to speak to mechanics with a high school education, not like today's repair manuals that assume you have an engineering degree."

Other tips for restoring a classic Mustang
• Decide how you will use the car when it is done. This will influence the cost of the restoration. Building a 100-point show car is far more expensive and time consuming than building a very clean weekend cruiser
• Keep track of all the money you spend on parts, service and supplies, says Jonathan Klinger of Hagerty Insurance. You will need to document your costs to prove to the insurance company what you have invested, and receipts will be required when registering a custom-built "assembled vehicle" for title
• Join the local Mustang club, a good source for used parts and knowledgeable members

Via: Ford

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Ferrari restoring Steve McQueen's 275 GTB/4 to factory condition

Even 32 years since his death, Steve McQueen captures the imagination of driving enthusiasts. The actor's cars continue to fetch big bucks at auction. Last summer at Pebble Beach, McQueen's personal 1970 Porsche 911S, driven in the opening scene of Le Mans, sold for $1,375,000 - a figure nearly matched by the racing suit he donned for the same movie. His metallic brown 1963 Ferrari 250 GT Lusso sold at Christies a few years back for $2.3 million, and now another Ferrari from McQueen's past has returned home to Maranello.

The car in question is a 275 GTB/4 that the King of Cool acquired in San Francisco while filming Bullitt. Sometime after McQueen sold the car, its subsequent owner had its roof chopped off, transforming it into a de facto Spyder (there are only 10 real 275 GTB/4 NART Spyders). The car's new owner, however, has sent it back to Ferrari to have its roof rebuilt and the car returned to original factory specification.

The conversion is being undertaken by the Ferrari Classiche division, which will certify its authenticity once the process is completed. The unit was established in 2006 specifically for that purpose, and has since then dealt with some 3,300 classic Ferraris. 

AN ICON IN MARANELLO: STEVE McQUEEN'S 275 GTB4

Maranello, 11 June 2012 – Ferrari Classiche recently took delivery of one of the more interesting cars ever to leave the factory – a 275 GTB4 that originally belonged to legendary American star, Steve McQueen who took delivery of the car in San Francisco when he was on the set filming Bullitt.

The new owner brought the car to Ferrari Classiche for the company's authenticity certification process, knowing that at some time during the 1980s, when under previous ownership, the car had been converted to a Spider.

Under the provisions of the certification process, a Ferrari can only be authenticated if it is to exactly the same specifications as when it left the factory. To this end, the new owner wisely decided to return the car to its original coupé form and Ferrari Classiche has undertaken the restoration reproducing the roof and buttresses with hand-beaten steel panels.

Ferraris continue to be an excellent investment, as has been shown in a recent report by Business Week on a private treaty sale for $35 million of a 250 GTO built for Stirling Moss.

A world record price that celebrates the 50th anniversary of the launch in 1962 of this homologation special (hence the designation Gran Turismo Omologata), of which just 36 examples were built, and which achieved a seemingly endless series of victories in GT racing in the early 1960s, culminating in three consecutive Manufacturers' titles in 1962, '63 and '64.

The Ferrari 250 GTO has been revered in classic car circles for decades for its combination of thoroughbred looks, performance and motor sports heritage and, in 1990, a 1962 example set a then record auction price of $10,756,833. This world record was to stand for 18 years until it was beaten in 2008 by another Ferrari, a 1961 250 California sold by RM Auctions in collaboration with Sotheby's in Maranello for $10,910,592. That record was again beaten in 2011 by the sale in Pebble Beach of a 1957 250 Testa Rossa for $16.39 million.

A considerable contribution to the interest for classic Ferraris in recent years has come from the company's direct involvement, with its dedicated department providing certificates of authenticity which testify to the originality of a car. Set up in 2006, Ferrari Classiche has to date processed over 3,300 certification requests using the company's exhaustive archive records and original designs.

via: Ferrari

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Top Gear finishes its Nissan Deltawing knockoff, looks surprisingly good

If you've been keeping tabs on the crew at TopGear.com, you know they recently embarked on the ambitious task of building a replica of the new Nissan DeltaWing prototype race car. After enlisting the help of custom-car builder Andy Saunders, the crew looks to have succeeded, and the machine is on its way to cover this year's 24 Hours of Le Mans. The finished product looks no more ludicrous or phallic than the real deal. Surprisingly enough, the creation will have no part in either the actual race or even the "Top Gear" television show we all know and love.

Power comes from a 1.6-liter Ford four-cylinder engine, and the rear wheels are borrowed from a Ford Mondeo. The steering rack originally belonged to a Hillman Imp, and the body work comes from such eclectic nameplates as the Peugeot 207, Fiat 126 and Morris 1000. All told, the machine took Saudners 337 work hours over fewer than 40 days to stitch together. Not too shabby. 

via: autoblog

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B&B Audi A8 4H Tuning Programs

German Tuner B&B offers upgrades for the new Audi A8 (model 4H). B&B can upgrade both the petrol and diesel engines of the Audi flagship with performance increases up to 510hp and 950Nm of maximum torque. This takes the luxury saloon from Ingolstadt in to sportscar territory with a possible sprint time of 0-100km/h in 4.3sec, 0-200km/h 15.5sec and top speeds in excess of 300km/h. B&B offers three stage upgrades for five different engine versions: 

The first stage program for the 3.0 TFSI engine in the A8 starts with a change in the electronics and a slight increase in boost pressure to increase the power of the 3.0 TFSI engine to 367 hp and 475 Nm. In stage 2 390hp and 510Nm are achieved by optimizing air induction, air ducts and intercooler, the boost pressure will be increased about 0.25 bar and the injection map tuned to these new changes. 

Stage 3 reaches 408hp and 54 Nm and includes in addition to stage 2, a B&B sport exhaust system that reduces the exhaust back pressure and exhaust temperature. Finally, an adaptation of the motor management closes this setup. This results in a higher power output while reducing the thermal load of the engine is reached.

The 4.0 TFSI engine in the A8, the three-stage motor program begins with a change in the electronics and a slight increase in boost pressure to increase the power of the 3.0 TFSI engine to 475hp and 670Nm. In stage 2 495hp and 700Nm are achieved by optimizing air induction, air ducts and intercooler, the boost pressure will be increased about 0.25 bar and the injection map tuned to these new changes.

Stage 3 (510hp / 710Nm) includes in addition to stage 2, a B&B sport exhaust system that reduces the exhaust back pressure and exhaust temperature. Finally, an adaptation of the motor management closes this setup. This results in a higher power output while reducing the thermal load of the engine is reached.

The three-stage engines program for the A8 3.0 TDI with 204hp starts with a change in the electronics and a slight increase in boost pressure of 0.15 bar to get the engine to 250hp and 470Nm. The second e-optimize performance achieves 272hp and 495Nm. By special injection elements in conjunction with work on intake paths, air ducts and intercooler, this engine reaches its third stage, 300hp and maximum torque of 520Nm.

The three-stage engines program for the A8 3.0 TDI with 250hp starts with a change in the electronics and a slight increase in boost pressure of 0.15 bar to get the engine to 280hp and 585Nm. The second e-optimize performance achieves 300hp and 625Nm. By special injection elements in conjunction with work on intake paths, air ducts and intercooler, this engine reaches its third stage, 325hp and maximum torque of 660Nm.

The two-stage engines program for the A8 4.2 TDI with 350hp starts with a change in the electronics and a slight increase in boost pressure of 0.2 bar to get the engine to 390 hp and 910Nm. By special injection elements in conjunction with work on intake paths, air ducts and intercooler, this engine reaches its second stage, 420hp and maximum torque of 950Nm.

Prices range from €1,498 for the first stage upgrade for the Audi A8 3.0 TDI to €7,950 for the Stage 3 510hp upgrade for the Audi A8 4.0 TFSI version. Additionally B&B offers an electronical lowering of 30mm for all models with air suspension and a stainless sport exhaust system, six-piston high performance brake system and a range of wheels in 19 to 21 Inch for all new A8 models.

Via gtspirit

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Last Lexus LFAs up for Sale

Rumours emerged that the limited Lexus LFA (500 pieces) is nearly sold out. Apparently the last ten cars on the initial production run are up for sale. Based on reports from mid 2011 Lexus aimed to produce 20 LFAs a month and was on par from a December 2010 production start, this would mean that by the end of this year all 500 Lexus LFAs could be produced. Although Lexus wouldn’t comment if the 500 LFAs including 50 Nurburgring Editions are indeed nearly sold out, it is a good moment to look back at what Lexus achieved with its special supercar. 

Back in 2005 the Lexus LFA was first presented as a concept car, it made its public debut at the Tokyo Motor Show four years later in October 2009. With a base price of $375,000 US it was one of the most expensive Japanese cars ever and from its launch on position in a special league of supercars. We had the pleasure to review the Lexus LFA in Monte Carlo in 2010. Over the years more and more rumours hit the web that Lexus enjoys playing in the supercar league and works on a Lexus LFA II.

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Hybrid Imperia GT to Enter the Market This Year

Imperia Automobiles, a new and ambitious carmaker from Belgium, is working on a retro-looking hybrid GT designed to show that “a socially- and environmentally-responsible approach does not rule out the finer pleasures in life.”

The Imperia GT will be powered by a so-called PowerHybrid propulsion system consisting of a 1.6 liter four cylinder engine, which provides 211 horsepower and a maximum torque of 260Nm. An electric motor provides an additional 100kW (136hp) and 300Nm of power. In all-electric mode, the Imperia GT should have a range of 70km. In hybrid mode, the car has an average fuel consumption of 1.9 liter per 100km and an emission level of less that 50 grams per kilometer. 

According to the carmaker, the Imperia GT will also be the only hybrid car that can be recharged from the mains, via a power socket. The price of refuelling is also quite interesting. Imperia’s website states that “full charge is obtained in 4h30, for an unbeatable cost per kilometre ratio (€ 0.034/km on day tariff, € 0.016/100 km on night tariff).”

As for its performance, the GT accelerates from standstill to 100km/h in 6.0 seconds in purely electric mode, and in 4.0 seconds in hybrid mode. At this stage there is not information regarding its top speed.

The development mule of the Imperia GP has been tested already. The car is scheduled to enter the market later this year for an estimated price tag of €90,000. 

Via Autoblog.nl

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Gentle Pagoda by Vilner Studio

The Mercedes-Benz W113 ‒ better known as the Mercedes Pagoda ‒ was produced from 1963 through 1971 and has aged very well. Therefore Vilner Studio has given the classic Mercedes SL some light exterior interventions and a complete renewing of the interior.

The interior of the two-seat roadster is fitted with high-quality leather in vintage colors. The dashboard is upholstered, the chromed elements and mahogany steering wheel are renewed and the inside features embroidered Gentle Pagoda labels. The distinctive “pagoda” hardtop roof also received a treatment on par with the rest of the café and latte colored interior. Even the trunk has received a luxurious makeover.

The exterior of the Mercedes Pagoda has been slightly altered as well. Besides adding the vintage striping onto the body, the Bulgarian tuner installed a new exhaust. But the rest of the Mercedes is still original, Vilner only added more style and luxury ‒ making this Mercedes once designed as “a sports car with high performance which provides a very high degree of traveling comfort” even more comfortable, even according to today’s standards.

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Cars & Girls: Inden Design Mercedes SLS AMG & Katja Runiello

Inden Design has released a series of photos entitled ‘Haute Couture meets Tuning’ starring the Inden Design Mercedes SLS AMG and German photo model, dancer and television personality Katja Runiello. 

Inden Design fitted the Mercedes with a set of 21 inch light metal rims painted in high-gloss black combined with gloss-lathed beddings. The wheels are completed with Continental high-performance tires measuring 265/30R21 at the front and 295/25R21 at the rear. 

The German tuner also tweaked the exhaust catalysts and the manifold. Thanks to engine mapping the 6.2 liter V8 engine of the SLS now provides 623hp compared to the standard 571. For more information regarding tuning of the Mercedes SLS AMG, or any other car made by Mercedes or Ferrari, please contact Inden Design.

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2013 BMW Alpina B7

BMW’s main competitors Mercedes and Audi both offer high-performance versions of their top models. Mercedes has the S63 AMG and S65 AMG, Audi offers the S8, but there isn’t a BMW M7. Those who want a high-performance version of BMW’s flagship model there is the Alpina B7. And now the Alpina B7 has been enhanced in-line with updates to the 2013 BMW 7 Series Sedans including more power, more performance, and more efficiency.

Whereas the previous Alpina B7 produced 500 horsepower and 700Nm of torque, the updated powerful and luxurious sedan now features an additional 40hp and 30Nm, resulting in a total output of 540hp and 730Nm. The 4.4 liter V8 is paired with a new eight-speed transmission. The sprint from standstill to 100km/h is done in 4.3 seconds and the top speed is now an impressive 312km/h, which makes the updated B7 30km/h faster than its predecessor. 

The Alpina B7 will be offered in short and long wheelbase models, with optional xDrive. The car rides on the iconic 21-inch Alpina 20 spoke wheels, which are the most noticeable feature on the outside. Other modifications like the rear spoiler and renewed front- and rear bumpers are quite subtle. Optional are full LED headlights, new exterior colors and interior upholstery choices in-line with the 7 Series update and a Bang & Olufsen sound system. 

The renewed Alpina B7 will make its debut at the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance in August and will go on-sale immediately thereafter. Pricing starts at $128,495.

via gtspirit

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Ferrari 2008 F1 Car - Brutal Launch and Burnout

Formula One is a very serious sport, for serious people. It is at the pinnacle of automotive technology and many other auto clichés, both good and bad, but we won’t get into that now. Ferrari are an equally serious brand, which take their racing very seriously and invest millions upon millions in research, development, testing, driver contracts etc.

Them being serious, translates into very competent Formula One cars year after year, always at least as good as their competition, usually better (historically-speaking). Their F60 F1 car from 2008 was a monster, a trait due mainly to its 2.4-liter V8 engine, which produced in excess of 800 hp and revved to 19,000 rpm. This meant that the 605 kg car is propelled from 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) in around 2 seconds, with 200 km/h (124 mph) coming up in around 4 seconds and 300 km/h (186 mph) arriving in around 9 seconds - extreme numbers, to say the least.

Well, Ferrari’s F60 F1 car was driven as it should, recently, at a recent event which took place on the Vairano di Vidigulfo circuit, located in Italy. The car did a few quick starts and a couple of burnouts - a spectacle well worth watching.

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White Party - Aventador, 458 Italia and McLaren

Do exotic cars go hand in hand with techno/trance music? Not necessarily, because they’re engineered to be owned by everybody from 70-year old tycoons to 20-year old football players.

Color is an important choice as it’s basically the biggest statement you can make right off the production line before going to the tuners. If you’re a rapper, you go for black on black, and if you’re a footballer you go for orange.

However, there are some people in the world for whom money is no object. They can afford to match their cars to the clothes they wear that day, and why not go all-white for one of those white parties where you rave out with a bunch of your palls.

So, which would be the perfect car to buy in white, the Lamborghini Aventador, the Ferrari 458 Italia or the McLaren MP4-12C.

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BMW USA Explains Why X1 Is Good

BMW only decided that the BMW X1 was worth bringing to the US as ‘the Ultimate Driving Machine’, which combines the best attributes of the car with those of an SUV, thus creating the Sports Activity Vehicle.

Why it’s smaller than the X3, there’s still plenty of practicality left in the X1, and so the vehicle is ideal for the outdoorsman in you. Of course, nobody is really going to take a BMW off-roading, so you’re basically left with the badge.

The 2013 BMW X1 will arrive in the US this fall staring at a MSRP of $31,545 (including $895 Destination and Handling).

There are two engines available right now, both in combination with brake energy regeneration, while the X1 sDrive28i and xDrive28i models also get from Auto Start/Stop. If it’s performance you want, the top of the range xDrive35i will be priced at $39,345.

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Pagani Heaven: 11 Cars in One Place with Zonda and Huayra

Pagani owners recently held a secret event called Vanishing Point (the 2012 edition was the 8th one) and we have a video that shows just how spectacular this was. The clip, which comes from Youtube use Marchetinno, allows us to see a line-up of 11 Pagani supercars, also coming with a nice audio flavor.

The meet brought together all sorts of Pagani goodies, ranging from the C 12 S, to the Huayra. In between the two, you’ll find monsters (elegant monsters, that is) such as the Cinque, Tricolore, the R race car, as well as the orange Prototype 2 that delivers 750 hp.

And if we remember that all those sleek body panels hide naturally-aspirated V12 engine coming from AMG, this party gets even better. Thus, we're inviting you to sit back, relax and enjoy the madness.

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This papercraft Volvo 240 is pure lunacy

We've seen some pretty impressive papercraft creations as of late, including a massive Bugatti Veyron and a 1969 Ford Mustang, but this Volvo 240 Wagon takes the cake. The pieces come in a sizable tome, complete with instructions, and buyers can choose from a ludicrous number of options. Your papercraft Volvo 240 can be made with either a right-hand or left-hand-drive steering wheel, black or silver trim, automatic or manual transmission and electric or crank windows as well as a slew of wheel options. We can't exactly say we have the patience to sit down, cut out and assemble a paper box of our own, but we're in awe of the finished product.

If you have a soft spot for bricks and some time to kill, you can buy the kit from eBay for the low price of $12.90, plus $6.00 for shipping. Sounds like a steal to us.

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Local Motors wants your help designing the next Peterbilt big rig

No, that's not Peterbilt's new concept for a futuristic long haul truck you're looking at. It's an entry in the company's RIG2: Road Icon Generation 2 competition, a contest being run by Local Motors to develop new ideas in aerodynamic designs for Peterbilt semis.

Contest entry is open through June 26, with design materials including CAD and Photoshop files available at the Local Motors Forge website. Prizes include $10,000 for the winning entry, and cash for anyone who finishes in the top ten. All will be selected via community voting, except for the top prize, which will be chosen by Peterbilt from the top 10 vote-getters.

The partnership with Peterbilt is just the latest effort in crowd-sourcing from Rally Fighter builder Local Motors, which launched its Forge collaboration site at SEMA last year.

via: Local Motors via Fox News

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Audi unveils A1 in exclusive red and white flavors

Audi is launching a German-market special edition of its tiny A1 and A1 Sportback. Called A1 Amplified, the special models are available now in either Misano Red or Glacier White paint and include some special trim and other upgraded options.

The Amplified A1 is based on Audi's A1 Ambition trim line, but tacks on an extra $2,500 to cover its unique equipment. With glossy black-finish roof arches, mirrors, grille and S Line spoiler, the look is more aggressive than the suspiciously cute standard A1. Black 17-inch alloy wheels and a matte-finish stripe complete the transformation. On the interior, upgrades include sport seats and body color air vents, as well as a unique set of floor mats.

As if that's not enough, buyers can opt for two further levels of amplification. For just over $5,000, you can get an Amplified Plus A1, which also includes a black headliner, LED interior lights, a color-coordinated key, and more body color interior trim. Stainless pedals and a full exterior body kit with LED taillights add to the sportiness quotient, along with a gloss black rear diffuser and dual exhaust for A1 models fitted with engines over 103 horsepower.

There's also a third Amplified package, reserved for A1s with over 120-horsepower engines. This one adds S Line sport package interior, including leather seats with contrasting stitching, body color setback shells, and bright floor mats. Rear glass is tinted and the body kit and roof wing are done up in gloss black. With 18-inch wheels and Xenon headlights, this is one truly loaded A1, which carries an $8,800 premium.

• New sporty edition models can be ordered for the A1 and A1 Sportback
• Exterior and interior color schemes in Misano Red and Glacier White
• Three different equipment levels available for each edition

Audi has released two new exclusive editions for the A1 and the A1 Sportback. Their names are the A1 amplified red and the A1 amplified white, and they are being launched on the market now.

The new edition models are based on the Ambition line, which is available for all engine versions of both models. The models combine exclusive optional features from Audi, quattro GmbH and Audi Genuine Accessories. In the amplified red line, the body is painted in Misano Red pearl effect, while the amplified white is painted in Glacier White metallic. Both lines are available in three different equipment levels that build on each other.

The first level is known as amplified. On this model, high-gloss black is applied to the roof line, S line roof spoiler, exterior mirror housings and single-frame grille. The exterior is further accentuated by 17-inch alloy wheels in five-arm design with black inserts and a matt, transparent film for the engine hood, roof and rear hatch. Eye-catching features inside the car include air vent sleeves in the body color, black sport seats with stitching in Parade Red (amplified red) or Rock Gray (amplified white) and floor mats with piping in matching colors.

The second level of the two edition models is called amplified plus. Its interior is upgraded by a black headliner, an LED interior light package and a color coordinated ignition key. The interior is further customized by the center console and interior mirror housing, which are both painted in the body color. Stainless steel caps for the pedals and foot rest underscore the car's sporty character. The exterior has sporty add-on parts from the aerodynamics competition kit, painted the same color as the body, and LED taillights. A special feature is the high-gloss black diffuser insert that integrates two matt black tailpipes on the left side (one tailpipe for engines up to 77 kW).

The third level, amplified advanced, is reserved for A1 models with over 90 kW of engine power. This represents the pinnacle of the sporty edition models. In addition to the equipment features offered for the amplified and amplified plus levels, this version offers the interior features of the S line sport package. In this package, Audi installs S sport seats with black upholstery in Silk Nappa leather and contrasting stitching in Parade Red or Dark Silver. The seat back shells painted in high-gloss Misano Red or Glacier White are the absolute highlight. A matching finish on the floor mats rounds out the color concept. Dark tinted glass at the rear offers privacy. The add-on parts from the aerodynamics competition kit and the large roof wing are both painted in high-gloss black. Xenon plus headlights and matt black 18-inch wheels in five-arm "Rotor" design emphasize the dynamic character of the A1 amplified advanced special edition model.

The A1 amplified red edition models are available now, and the amplified white versions will follow shortly. Prices start at €1,990, while the two higher levels are priced at €3,990 and €6,990.

via: Audi

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Lancia contemplating Chrysler 300-based Thema coupe?

Head overseas and you may run into a Chrysler 300 wearing a distinctly foreign badge: that of Lancia. The awkward stepchild of the Fiat group rebadges Chrysler vehicles as their own and gives them nameplates from their own back-catalog. Lancia calls its rebadged 300 the Thema, but aside from the handle, it's pretty much the same. But could Chrysler's Italian cousin prompt the development of a coupe version?

According to the latest churn of the rumormill, yes, it could. Chrysler has already used the platform for the two-door Dodge Challenger, a vehicle that isn't officially offered in Europe. When Auburn Hills wanted to offer the Dodge Magnum in Europe, it gave the low-slung power-wagon bodystyle to the 300, but with that model out of the way, why not a two-door?

The question for us, of course, is – were Lancia to go ahead with such a development – could it make it back over to the States? An Italian-designed American two-door might satisfy a market (however small) that was last filled in the late 1980s Chrysler TC by Maserati and the Pininfarina-designed Cadillac Allanté. 

via: Autoblog.nl

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Audi SQ5 released with 313-hp twin-turbo diesel

Audi is using the 24 Hours of Le Mans as a launching pad for its latest performance machine. Based on the Q5 crossover platform, the (long-rumored) SQ5 boasts 313 horsepower and 479 pound-feet of torque from its twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter diesel engine to move its not insignificant mass to 60 miles per hour in just five seconds.

Top speed comes in at 155 miles per hour, limited we presume, and, just as importantly, fuel mileage on the European cycle is listed at 7.2 liters per 100 kilometers (32.67 U.S. miles per gallon). As a reminder to the occupants that this is no ordinary oil burner, Audi has added a so-called sound actuator – a loudspeaker, according to the press release – to pump exhaust noise into the interior atmosphere.

An eight-speed Tiptronic transmission sends all that torque to all four 20-inch wheels shod in 255/45 rubber. The body has been lowered 1.18 inches closer to the tarmac for improved handling, and Audi's dynamic steering system is optional. Exterior updates are limited to the wheels, a sportier fascia treatment and aluminum-look mirrors. On the inside, expect sporty touches like leather and Alcantara seats, a new steering wheel design and a bunch of S badging.

This is Audi's first diesel-powered S model, meaning the company is joining fellow German automaker BMW into the torque-filled performance well for European buyers. Pricing starts at €58,500 for those living across the pond, and deliveries will begin in the first part of 2013. We're not expecting to see this one come Stateside.

via: Audi

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Le Mans starting grid set, Audi hybrid takes pole but Toyotas break up the pack

There were times during the past two days of qualifying when it looked like Audi might own the first two rows of the starting grid for this weekend's 24 Hours of Le Mans. The R18 e-tron quattro hybrid cars were running the quickest lap times, with the two diesel R18 Ultras following close behind. The two Toyota TS 030 hybrid cars were also quick, but it seemed they were always nipping at the heels of an Audi's lap time, much like the Audis used to trail the faster Peugeots during qualifying for Le Mans races of the recent past. And we all know how that usually ended for Peugeot.

So when the third and final qualifying session ended last evening, we were surprised to learn the starting grid had ended up as anything but expected. An Audi will have pole position, and a hybrid car at that, which marks the first time such a powertrain has earned the honor. The No. 1 R18 e-tron quattro beat all comers with a fastest lap of 3:23.787, nearly two seconds quicker than last year's pole.

Next to the first R18 e-tron quattro will be another R18, but not a hybrid. The No. 3 R18 Ultra will be starting second, followed by the No. 8 Toyota TS030 hybrid starting third, the other R18 e-tron quattro starting fourth, the No. 7 Toyota TS030 hybrid starting fifth and the final R18 Ultra starting sixth. So not a single car of the quickest six will start next to its twin, which suggests that none of the three powertrain technologies has a lock on leading the race.

In LMP2, the No. 25 Oreca Nissan led the field with a fastest lap of 3:38.181, followed closely by the No. 24 Oak Racing Morgan Judd and then four more Oreca Nissans. The Nissan DeltaWing, racing in an experimental class of its own, wound up near the back of the LMP2 field with a fastest lap of 3:42.612 set on the first day of qualifying.

The GTE Pro class promises to be as exciting as ever this year, with the pole being led by the No. 71 AF Corse Ferrari 458 Italia, which recorded a particularly quick lap of 3:56.484 during the final qualifying session. The Ferrari will be followed by Aston Martin Racing's No. 97 Vantage V8 and the first of two Corvette Racing C6 ZR1s.

Lastly, the GTE Am class will be lead by the No. 79 Flying Lizard Motorsports Porsche 911 RSR with a leading lap time of 3:57.594, followed by another 911 from Prospeed Competition and the No. 99 Aston Martin Racing V8 Vantage.

via: LeMans.org

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AOL Autos giving away a Mini Countryman to readers

AOL Autos, sister site to Autoblog, is giving away a Mini Countryman to readers who "Like" the AOL Autos Facebook page.

AOL Autos and Autoblog have been sharing a Mini Countryman as a long-term tester for about a year. And what with Mini celebrating its tenth anniversary in the U.S., AOL Autos Editor-in-Chief David Kiley thought it a good way to kick off what we hope will be a series of AOL Autos Giveaway cars.

The process for winning is pretty painless. When you "Like" AOL Autos on Facebook, you are taken to a very short entry form where you will be asked for a few bits of information. Those who are following AOL Autos on July 1 will be eligible to win the car, a Mini Countryman S fitted with the Tech Package and automatic transmission.

True, we prefer the manual tranny. But AOL Autos ordered the car from Gratz, and the fact is that a lot of the people who will be eligible to win don't drive a stick. The automatic, though, is nothing to scoff at, especially in the S trim.

Stay tuned the week of July 4-14 as AOL Autos/Autoblog editors Scott Burgess and David Kiley join Mini for its Mini Takes The States tour from New York City to Los Angeles, stopping at many cool places in between. We will have daily updates from Scott and David with pictures, bits of video and, as always, interesting posts from the road.

via: autoblog

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BMW reveals Alpina B7 upgrades for 2013

We've already read about the new features that will be available on the refreshed 2013 BMW 7 Series, but now, the German automaker has spilled the beans about its delicious Alpina B7, as well.

As you'd expect, the B7's 4.4-liter twin-turbocharged V8 has been massaged for the new model year (including the addition of start/stop), and drivers will now be able to enjoy 540 horsepower and 538 pound-feet of torque – increases of 40 and 22, respectively. All of this runs through a new eight-speed automatic transmission and can be sent to the ground via standard rear-wheel drive or through BMW's xDrive all-wheel-drive system. BMW says that depending on drive configuration and wheelbase length, the sprint to 60 miles per hour can be achieved in either 4.3 or 4.4 seconds.

The slight visual enhancement to the 2013 7 Series is indeed noticeable here on the Alpina B7, with the larger kidney grille up front flanked by redesigned headlamps. Revised taillamps are found out back, and of course, the B7 is offered in its signature Alpina Blue Metallic rounded off with the car's signature 21-inch, 20-spoke wheels at all four corners.

BMW will officially debut the 2013 Alpina B7 at the Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance in August. Short-wheelbase models will be priced at $127,600 (rear-wheel drive) and $130,600 (xDrive), with long-wheelbase B7s retailing for $131,500 and $134,500, respectively.

via: BMW

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Auto Sales in China Exceed 1.6 Million in May

The total number of cars made in China in the month of May was 1.57 million, while total sales accounted for 1.61 million units. This latest production figure marks a 4.66% decrease as of April, but it’s 16.9% higher than that of May 2011.

Sales have followed roughly the same pattern, decreasing by 1.06% in May, when compared to April, but growing by 15.97% from last May. Of the total figures, passenger cars accounted for 1.27 million of total vehicles produced, with sales having a surprisingly close number, recording 1.28 million cars sold in May - the Yin-Yang principle of balance seems to be working on the Chinese auto market, as these figures clearly show a relatively mature market without too many fluctuations and uncertainties (that’s why everybody wants a piece).

A landmark that was achieved in May, was the breaking of the 100,000 mark when it comes to exports, with 103,400 vehicles, 18.2% more than in April and a whopping 43.4% increase as of May last year. China’s main export markets are Algeria, Russia, Chile, Iraq and Iran.

  Via autonews.gasgoo.com

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Audi A5 Avant Rendering

The Audi A5 was created out of the desire to differentiate the A4 cabrio from the sedan. Instead of simply getting a better looking car, we got one of if not the best design in Audi’s current linup, one which we think they diluted for a bit of market share with the A5 Sportback, a car that looks too much like the A4 sedan.

Now though, wagons are making a comeback, as Jaguar and Mercedes Benz are taking the market by storm with the XF Sportbrake and the upcoming CLS Shooting Brake.

Audi could stick it and continue offering the same cars, since both the the A4 and A6 Avant are recognized the world over.

However, just look at this rendering of the A5 Avant, showing what could potentially arrive in your driveway. The back window is rakish and flat, yet still has typical Audi lines. It’s sad what they might do to the A5, but at least it’s a cool people-mover.

Via Theophilus Chin

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Vossen CLS63 AMG Lifestyle Short Film

It’s almost the weekend and it’s time to take on those heavy work boots and put your feet up. And to get you in the mood, the guys at Vossen Wheels will get you in the mood for some night cruising in the Mercedes Benz CLS63 AMG.

This satin white beauty has been tricked out with a set of concave VVS-CV3 wheels, with five spokes, a matte graphite finish and sized 20x9 up front and 20x10.5 round the back, giving the car that perfect stance.

The video is about a young lady who gets ready to take a night cruise round town in the CLS 63 AMG. No drifting, no drag racing, no tire smoke - at least not yet, as this is a glossy, tranquil setup that gets you in the mood to get behind the wheel and place that right foot where it belongs.

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Lamborghini Gallardo LP560-4 with Tubi Exhaust Sound

The Lamborghini Gallardo won’t be on the market for too long now, as the Raging Bull is preparing to offer us a replacement for its entry-level supercar. However, the vehicle will definitely stay in tuner’s hearts for quite a long time and the reason for this is that it comes with an ultra-high tuning potential.

We’ve brought along a video that shows how delicious a Gallardo LP640-4 that had been gifted with a custom exhaust system coming from Tubi, one that perfectly suits the supercar.

The video, which comes from Youtube user NM2255, allows us to listen to the deep growl of the V10 powerplant and, and despite the fact that the driver only revs it in neutral, this manages to bring us into an explosive mood.

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BMW i8 Hybrid to Cost Over €100,000

BMW’s ‘i’ sub-brand, while despite going on tour around the world, has also been surrounded by uncertainty and doubt. However, according to autonews.com, it seem that everything is going according to plan and BMW are now sorting out the pricing of the first two models, the i3 and i8.

According to BMW, the i3 is due in 2013 and will be priced “very competitively for the substance you get and following the opening of their first showroom, in London, Ian Robertson, Global Sales Chief at BMW said (about the new showroom) “it’s a further demonstration of our commitment to electro-mobility”. The i8 sports car will make its public debut in production form probably some time in 2014, with a price tag over €100,000 ($125,000).

The third car to follow the i3 and i8 will be an i8 roadster, previewed by the i8 Spyder concept, which was released onto the internet in April.

Via autonews.com

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DMC Reveals SV-Style Spoiler for Lamborghini Gallardo

DMC is a German tuning that usually makes carbon fiber parts for exotic Italian supercars. Recently, they’ve focused their attention on the Lamborghini Gallardo with the result being the Toro body kit. Now, they have taken things further, by launching an aftermarket spoiler that looks just like that on the SuperVeloce.

The Germany tuner was approached by a Chinese owner who wanted the apparel of the LP67-4 SV on the LP560-4 Gallardo and they were only too pleased to make one. Now that they have the capacity to make it, you too can have carbon fiber goodness installed on the back of your LP520 or LP560.

nstead of just making the original SV legs fit the Gallardo, the whole wing was reengineered in order to suit the Gallardo's size and aerodynamic requirements. The result may split fans into haters and lovers, but it undeniably is something unique, DMC says.

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