3rd March 2008

The Monaro lives

That’s the read between the lines message from the stunning Coupe 60 GM Holden unveiled at the Melbourne Motor Show.

After months of speculation and secrecy, the VE-based Coupe Holden that rolled on to the stand is little more than an engineering tweak, a designer’s pen stroke and public demand away from becoming the third generation of the Monaro — in spirit if not in name.


Click here to go to our Melbourne Motor Show page.


“Coupe 60 is Holden’s 60th anniversary gift to its fans worldwide,” GM Holden chairman and managing director Mark Reuss said in introducing the Coupe 60.

In an echo of the 1998 Sydney Motor Show introduction of the two-door coupe that was to become the second generation Monaro, GM Holden head of design Tony Stolfo said: “This is a pure concept vehicle. There are no plans to take it to production.”

“Would I like to see it built? Absolutely, but there have been no discussions along those lines,” he said.

The “last” Monaro was auctioned for charity in February 2006, going to a Queensland buyer for $187,600 as GM Holden stopped production of the two-door coupe amid falling sales demand and the shift to the current VE shape.

The Coupe 60 is almost 60mm shorter than the VE sedan, sitting on 21-inch centre-lock alloy wheels with unique design Kumho high performance semi-slick tyres.

The car’s racetrack leanings are highlighted by a full flat underbody, rear underbody air diffuser, rear deck-lid spoiler with LED tail lamps and huge side-vent exhausts poking out from in front of the rear wheels.

Inside the Coupe the racing theme continues, with one piece carbon fibre bucket seats and a sports-inspired flat-bottomed steering wheel with integrated shift light display and LCD sports instrument cluster.

Under the bonnet is a 6.0-litre V8 engine incorporating the latest technologies such as active fuel management and calibrated for E85 ethanol fuel.

 

- The Daily Telegraph

Read more

posted in Car News Articles | 0 Comments

3rd March 2008

Bugatti Veyron Pur Sang on Sale for $4.8m

Here’s a tip you won’t get from Warren Buffet: invest in Bugatti. You may recall Stephen Wilkinson’s less than flattering blog post on the launch of a Bugatti with a slightly lightened version of it’s 1,000+hp ubercar, the Veyron Pur Sang. It used a little more carbon fiber, avoided paint for exterior aluminum bits, weighed 200 pounds less and cost €1.4 million ($2.1 million). That was then. Today, finecars has one of the five Pur Sangs on sale for the “fixed price” of 3.2 million Euros. That’s 4.8 million McDonald’s cheeseburgers to you and me. Assuming some sucker a discerning car buyer shells out nearly $5m for the fastest ever Volkswagen, the seller will have made a tidy 230 percent profit. See? I knew that was going to happen. I really am in the wrong line of work…

Read more

posted in Car News Articles | 0 Comments

3rd March 2008

Volkswagen Golf Hybrid - first official images

Volkswagen will unveil tomorrow at the Geneva the first hybrid version of the Golf. It will be powered by a combination of high-tech diesel engine, electric motor and 7-speed DSG technology.

Exhibited for the first time at the Geneva Motor Show, the concept car consumes no more than 3.4 litres of diesel fuel per 100 kilometres. This powerful full-hybrid Golf TDI Hybrid can be operated either in internal-combustion mode only or in a combination mode of powerful yet thrifty TDI and electric motor.

The car is also designed to run on emissions-free electric power only. Power transmission to the front axle is managed by 7-speed DSG technology. In city traffic, the vehicle’s automatic stop-start system will even automatically switch off diesel operations.

Read more

posted in Car News Articles | 0 Comments

3rd March 2008

Matte Missile: BRABUS Bullit Black Arrow to attack Geneva


Click above for high-res gallery of the BRABUS Bullit Black Arrow

At its Frankfurt introduction last year, the BRABUS Bullit was positioned as the tuner’s ultimate “sleeper.” Painted a fairly standard-looking gray with subdued black wheels and carbon-fiber accents, the Bullit did differ from some of BRABUS’ more wildly extroverted vehicles, which scream “SUPER TUNER! LOOK AT ME!” That’s not to say that the Bullit doesn’t have the creds, though — a 720-horsepower twin-turbo V12 with torque electronically limited to 811 lb-ft will certainly get the job done. (Sans the electronic safety net, it produces 974 lb-ft, in case you were wondering. Tires become one with the ozone layer at the mere thought of this.)

For Geneva this year, BRABUS is bringing the Bullitt Black Arrow. What’s different about it? Not much, except that its matte black finish transforms it from “sleeper” to outright “stealth fighter.” You can almost imagine the finish absorbing police radar and dissipating it as the Bullit screams past Johnny Law at 224 mph. Time to call in the chopper, officer — you’re not catching this one on four wheels. Still, in the end, the Black Arrow is essentially just a paint package for an already super-mega-double-secret-handshake special edition tuner car. And it’s got a price to match — €348,000 (same as the regular Bullit).

[Source: BRABUS]

PRESS RELEASE:
BRABUS BULLIT BLACK ARROW
The Four-Door V12 Biturbo Stealth Super Sports Car
With 730 hp (720 hp SAE net), 1,320 Nm (974 lb-ft), 0 – 300 km/h (186 mph) in 24.5 seconds and a Top Speed of More than 360 km/h (225 mph)

Ultra powerful, ultra fast and conspicuously inconspicuous: The four-door stealth super sports car BRABUS BULLIT BLACK ARROW offers performance superlatives like no other car on the market: The basis for the car is the body of the new C-Class sedan, covered with a special matte-black coating. The BRABUS SV12 S Biturbo twelve-cylinder engine was dropped into the engine bay with almost surgical precision. Performance is staggering: 3.9 seconds from rest to 100 km/h (62 mph), 24.5 seconds for 0 – 300 km/h (186 mph) and a top speed of more than 360 km/h (225 mph). BRABUS produces the BULLIT BLACK ARROW in small-series production starting at 348,000 Euros MSRP.

The BRABUS BULLIT BLACK ARROW ensures that the world’s fastest sedans continue to come from Bottrop. The BRABUS BULLIT BLACK ARROW follows in the footsteps of the 330-km/h (206 mph) BRABUS E V12 based on the W 210-series Mercedes E-Class, the 350.2-km/h (219 mph) E V12 Biturbo of the new W 211 generation and the world’s current fastest sedan, the 365.7- km/h (227.2 mph) BRABUS ROCKET based on the Mercedes CLS.

Numerous modifications to the reinforced body were necessary to install the turbocharged V12 engine in the C-Class engine bay. The BRABUS SV12 S Biturbo engine is derived directly from the BRABUS ROCKET and uses the latest Mercedes S 600 engine that has been completely reworked in the company-own engine building shop.

Nothing beats displacement except even more displacement: A crankshaft with longer stroke, larger cylinder bore, and special pistons and piston rods increase displacement of the twelve-cylinder three-valve engine from 5.5 to 6.3 liters (336 to 385 cu. in.).

Cylinder heads optimized for faster gas exchange and high-performance camshafts also contribute to the increase in power output. They are assisted by a more efficient dual turbocharging system, special manifolds, larger turbochargers and larger intercoolers. Because of space constraints in the C-Class body an entirely new stainless-steel high-performance exhaust system with low back-pressure metal catalysts had to be developed.

The BRABUS motor engineers used state-of-the-art engine test benches to program new mapping for engine electronics and on-board diagnostics. The new mapping ensures optimal power yield while meeting strict EURO IV emission limits.

The BRABUS SV12 S Biturbo displacement engine, lubricated like all BRABUS high-performance engines with ARAL Synthetic motor oil, produces 730 hp (720 hp SAE net) / 537 kW at just 5,100 rpm. The peak torque of 1,320 Nm (974 lb-ft) is limited in-car electronically to 1,100 Nm (811 lb-ft).

Power is transferred to the rear wheels via a reinforced five-speed automatic transmission and a BRABUS limited-slip differential with a locking rate of 40 percent. Customers can choose from two final drive ratios. The BRABUS BULLIT BLACK ARROW features all modern driving dynamics systems such as ABS, ASR and ESP.

The matte-black stealth street rocket delivers unique performance: Just 3.9 seconds pass for the sprint from 0 - 100 km/h (62 mph), 200 km/h (124 mph) is reached after just 10.49 seconds. And after just 24.5 seconds the car shatters the 300-km/h barrier (186 mph). Top speed is more than 360 km/h (225 mph).

At these speeds favorable aerodynamic properties are absolutely essential. The BRABUS BULLIT BLACK ARROW was honed to perfection in the wind tunnel. The BULLIT front apron features large air ducts to supply cooling air for radiators and front brakes. Its sophisticated design further reduces lift on the front axle. Its aerodynamic counterparts in the rear are a three-piece rear spoiler and a rear apron with integrated diffuser. Both front and rear aprons are made from especially light yet highly robust autoclave-baked carbon fiber.

A wider track optimizes directional stability so elementary at speeds beyond 300 km/h. The BRABUS designers have styled aluminum wheel arch flares for front and rear axle. They are seamlessly melded to the production body and add six centimeters (2.4 inches) to the C-Class width. BRABUS rocker panels optimize the airstream along the sides. They also feature integrated entry lights that make entering and exiting the vehicle safer in the dark.

The visual appearance of the BRABUS BULLIT BLACK ARROW is further characterized by the new aluminum hood. Its integrated ‘gills’ are not just distinctive features, they also ensure the engine’s thermal health.

The wheel arch flares provide space for especially wide matte-black BRABUS Monoblock S light-alloy wheels with high-performance tires from technology partners YOKOHAMA or Pirelli. The 9.5Jx19 wheels on the front axle are shod with size 265/30 ZR 19 tires. The rear axle is fitted with size 10Jx19 wheels and size 285/30 ZR 19 tires.

The height-adjustable coil-over suspension was developed specifically for the BRABUS BULLIT BLACK ARROW. The gas-pressure shocks feature ten selectable settings each for bound and rebound. They provide a sporty yet comfortable ride and safe handling in any situation. Sport stabilizers reduces body roll to a minimum during fast cornering.

The BRABUS high-performance brake system can handle even the most extreme stress. It features 12-piston aluminum fixed calipers on the front axle that grip vented and grooved 380 x 37 millimeter (15 x 1.46 inches) brake discs. The rear axle stops with 360 x 28 millimeter (14.2 x 1.1 inches) discs and six-piston aluminum fixed calipers.

Exclusive individuality also abounds in the interior of the BRABUS automobile: The standard equipment package includes a fully leather interior hand-crafted in the company-own upholstery shop from the finest Mastik and Nubuk leathers.

The custom BULLIT seats offer a perfect combination of comfort and lateral support. Their carbon-fiber rear covers lend the interior an especially sporty feel. This look is complemented by carbon-fiber components on dashboard, center console and door panels as well as by the ergonomically shaped sport steering wheel and aluminum pedals and shifter.

BRABUS BULLIT BLACK ARROW – Technical Data

Body

4-door sedan based on Mercedes-Benz C-Class, W 204 series

Steel unibody widened with BRABUS fender flares by 60 mm (2.36 inches). BRABUS aluminum hood with integrated gills.
BRABUS BULLIT aerodynamic-enhancement kit with BULLIT front and rear bumper manufactured from carbon fiber baked in an autoclave. Rocker panels with integrated entrance lights, three-piece rear spoiler.

BRABUS BULLIT BLACK ARROW with matte-black coating.

Measurements:
Length 4.590 mm 180.7 in.
Width 1.830 mm 72.0 in.
Height 1.402 mm 55.2 in.
Curb weight 1,850 kg 4,079 lbs.

Engine

BRABUS SV 12 S Biturbo displacement engine based on Mercedes 600

V12-cylinder 3-valve light-alloy engine with twin turbochargers
Displacement 6,233 cmÂł (380 cu. in.)
Compression ratio 9.0 : 1
Rated power 730 hp (720 hp SAE net) / 537 kW at 5,100 rpm
Peak torque 1,320 Nm (974 lb-ft) from 2,100 rpm (electronically limited to 1,100 Nm – 811 lb-ft)
Fuel: Super plus (98 octane)
Motor oil: ARAL

BRABUS SV 12 S Biturbo engine conversion consisting of:
Displacement increase to 6.3 liters with special crankshaft with longer stroke, enlarged cylinder bore with corresponding larger pistons. Both cylinder heads feature flow-optimized ports and special camshafts. Two high-performance turbochargers with special exhaust manifolds; more efficient intercooling system and BRABUS stainless-steel high-performance exhaust system with low-back-pressure metal catalysts. Newly programmed mapping for engine electronics and on-board diagnostics.

Drivetrain

Rear-Wheel Drive

Reinforced five-speed automatic transmission
Gear ratios:
1st gear 3.59
2nd gear 2.19
3rd gear 1.41
4th gear 1.00
5th gear 0.83

BRABUS locking rear differential with 40 percent locking rate
Final drive either 2.65 : 1 (top speed 315 km/h – 196 mph) or 2.24 : 1 (top speed 350 km/h – 217 mph – electronically limited).

Suspension

Independent suspension front and rear with height-adjustable BRABUS coil-over suspension.

Front axle:
Three-link, anti-dive geometry. Height-adjustable BRABUS struts with coil springs and gas-pressure shocks featuring ten settings each for bound and rebound; BRABUS sport sway bar.

Rear axle:
Five-link, anti-dive and anti-squat geometry. Height-adjustable BRABUS struts with coil springs and gas-pressure shocks featuring ten settings each for bound and rebound; BRABUS sport sway bar.

Wheels:
BRABUS Monoblock S light-alloy wheels with YOKOHAMA or Pirelli high-performance tires.
Front: 9.5Jx19 H2 with 265/30 ZR 19
Rear: 10.0Jx19 H2 with 285/30 ZR 19

Brake System

Dual-circuit brakes with Brake Assist and BRABUS high-performance brake system.

Front: BRABUS 12-piston fixed aluminum calipers with vented and grooved 380 x 37 mm
(15 x 1.46 in.) steel brake discs.
Rear: BRABUS six-piston fixed aluminum calipers with vented and grooved 360 x 28 mm (14.2 x 1.1 in.) steel brake discs.

Performance

0 - 100 km/h (62 mph): 3.9 sec
0 - 200 km/h (124 mph): 10.49 sec
0 - 300 km/h (186 mph): 24.5 sec

Top speed: more than 360 km/h (225 mph)

Read more

posted in Car News Articles | 0 Comments

3rd March 2008

HUMMER: A Kinder, Gentler, Crossover?

First, HUMMER was the vehicle for celebrities. Witness California governor Arnold Schwarzenegger’s quick involvement with it.

Read more

posted in Car News Articles | 0 Comments

3rd March 2008

Mercedes set to beat GM and Toyota to lithium-ion punch

Like the dark horse nobody ever expected to beat the front-runners, Mercedes-Benz has come out of nowhere with its own lithium-ion battery breakthrough that’s going to put the ongoing argument between Toyota and GM over who will be the first to market with a production hybrid that uses lithium-ion batteries on the back burner — at least for now. The Germans seem to be a few steps ahead of both and the S400 BlueHybrid is set to arrive before either the third-generation Toyota Prius or the Chevrolet Volt, albeit without a plug-in system.

Read more

posted in Car News Articles | 0 Comments

3rd March 2008

Comparison: 2008 Chevrolet Tahoe vs. 2008 Ford Expedition vs. 2008 Nissan Armada vs. 2008 Toyota Sequoia

A tour deep into the Sierra Nevada Mountains to determine which full-size sport/ute is the best of the bigs.

Read more

posted in Car News Articles | 0 Comments

3rd March 2008

Dynamic Diesel: Audi Q7 V12 TDI quattro headed for production

Audi’s gone and done it. After cramming its V-12 TDI diesel powerhouse engine into concept versions of both the Q7 (2007 Detroit show) and R8 (2008 Detroit), the automaker has decided to forge ahead with a production version of the Q7 called the Audi Q7 V12 TDI quattro.

Read more

posted in Car News Articles | 0 Comments

3rd March 2008

Mexico bans imports of most used cars

HIDALGO, Texas — Some are dented, scratched and rusty. Others rattle and belch under faded paint jobs. But the “‘98″ soaped onto their windshields and a surprise change in Mexican import rules have turned a single year’s worth of used cars into pick of the used-car lot.

Read more

posted in Car News Articles | 0 Comments

3rd March 2008

Ex-Czech deputy PM will head VolkswagenÂ’s Russian sales

Former top Czech politician Martin Jahn will lead Volkswagen groupÂ’s sales operations in the booming Russian market. Jahn, 38, will become general director of Volkswagen Group RUS effective April 1.

Read more

posted in Car News Articles | 0 Comments