9ff: Comfortably the fastest 911

At a hi-speed run at Papenburg, 9ff managed to set a new world record for 911s. With 1.000 HP in the heavily modified 997 Turbo, they reached 392 km/h.

Promotion video: Lexus LF-A

Here the great newcomer is, in all its supercar glory:

Aha: This is the MB SLS Desert Gold

The very special model of the SLS was first shown at the Dubai Motor Show earlier in December. I miss more sound of the car, though.

Leno and the new Mac

Leno gets a close view of the new super-McLaren. But why is Leno so loosely strapped to the seat?

RR Ghost

Just love those automatic suicidedoors in the back. Look at 1:10 in this clip.

Porsche winter driving

Enjoy a Porsche sideways? Join one of their courses in the Porsche Driving Experience Winter Trainings.



Or maybe just take your own car to the Nordschleife? I mean, it is perfectly OK to have dreams....



Alternatively just change to a car from the same company, Volkswagen?

Aston Martin Carbon Black Special Editions

Aston Martin has announced these specialmodels: The Carbon Black Special Editions

The press release:

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Gaydon, Warwickshire. 18 December 2009. Aston Martin’s two top-of-the-range sports cars; the DBS and V12 Vantage have undergone a unique Carbon Black makeover to create a highly desirable special edition.

Celebrating the enormous success of the DBS and V12 Vantage which have surpassed all sales expectations since launch, the new special editions add a typically understated flair to these acclaimed models. Featuring bespoke Carbon Black metallic paint especially formulated with a subtle metallic twist to create a deep rich patina. Each car will undergo 50 man-hours of hand painting followed by stringent quality checks. For the V12 Vantage the iconic Aston Martin side strake has been fashioned from real carbon fibre backed by a black mesh and complimented with gloss black 10 spoke diamond turned alloy wheels. A bright finished grill and front parking sensors (normally an option) complete the exterior detailing.

Inside, owners will be greeted to swathes of Obsidian Black leather highlighted with a contrast silver coarse stitch all hand stitched by the craftspeople at Gaydon – Aston Martin’s global headquarters in England.
Lightweight seats formed from Carbon Fibre and Kevlar saving 17 kg over the standard seat also feature together with Piano black facia trim, centre stack and centre console, anodised black tread plates and unique sill plaques build on the carbon theme. The Aston Martin 700w Premium Audio System is delivered as standard in the V12 Vantage while the DBS boasts the Bang & Olufsen Beosound DBS audio system as standard.

Customers who order a Carbon Black Edition V12 Vantage will have the opportunity to experience Aston Martin’s renowned Performance Driving Course (UK and Europe only) free of charge which offers a memorable day helping customers to equip themselves with the skill sets to enhance the enjoyment of their Aston Martin on the track.
The Carbon Black Editions are available to order from the official Aston Martin dealership network with final pricing (expected to be approximately 5% over current base prices) to be confirmed in the New Year.

About the DBS
The DBS was launched in 2007 and is Aston Martin’s ultimate GT sports car. Benefitting from weight saving materials including aluminium and carbon fibre; the DBS offers dynamic and aesthetic purity, an exquisite interior and a driving experience unsurpassed by any other car in its coupe and Volante forms. Its hand built V12 engine produces 380 kW (510 bhp / 517 PS) making it one of the most powerful production cars Aston Martin has ever made. In 2009, the DBS ‘Volante’ (Aston Martin’s nomenclature for convertible) joined the DBS line-up

About the V12 Vantage
Launched in 2009, agility and outright performance form the basis of the design of the V12 Vantage creating the most exciting incarnation of the Vantage line-up to date. The V12 Vantage subtly hints at its sporting intent with its controlled aggression and lower, purposeful stance. The naturally aspirated 6.0- V12 engine provides the driver with instantaneous access to high levels of power and torque at all engine speeds, while Aston Martin’s class-leading, all alloy VH (Vertical Horizontal) architecture provides exceptional strength and rigidity.

250 GTO California, "The Ferris Bueller way"

Growing up

I grew up in a neighborhood where one of the guys had one of these Suzuki GT380. A 2-stroke and 3-cylindered engine that made the most incredible sound in the late 70s. Now I know why the engine- and exhaustsound is so important to me.

BMW Concept ActiveE

Compared to the MINI E where the batteries occupies the back seat, the new ActiceE based on 1-series seems to have seats for four. Interesting!

New MB E-class Convertible

Worldpremiere: Kepler Motors MOTION Hybrid

This is the new Kepler hybrid supercar.

New Veyron-models from Bugatti

At Dubai today, Bugatti presented three new Veyron-models.

Here is the press release:

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Dubai, 15th December 2009 – Bugatti Automobiles S.A.S. finishes its Centenary celebrations with three tailor made cars, especially developed for its discerning clientele in the Middle East: the Veyron “Sang d’Argent”, the Grand Sport “Soleil de Nuit” and the Veyron “Nocturne”, limited to five cars only.

The “Nocturne” – a special Veyron five car edition exclusively for the Middle East Market
The Veyron “Nocturne” strikes with an extraordinary partition of surfaces never used so far, giving the car a new dimension of lateral length. Bugatti is experimenting with galvanized side windows continuing the line of the polished aluminium upper body parts to the rear of the car and contrast vividly with the uni black of the side- and door-panels and the roof. Added to that is the hood, also covered in polished aluminium which emphasizes this impression of elegant length. Special polished custom rims at the exterior and a futuristic interior dominated by a black nanocoated magnesium dashboard and a centre console in galvanized Platinum complete this unique combination of individualized modern design.
This mini series has been especially developed for the Middle East Market honouring its importance and its strong partners in the area - Al Habtoor Motors, UAE, Al Zayani Trading Co., Kuwait, Al Ghassan Motors, Saudi Arabia and Dana Motors, Quatar.

“Sang d’Argent” and “Soleil de Nuit” - two dreams for 1001 nights
The two-tone-scheme of the Centenary Villa d’Este cars were at the origin of the “Sang d’Argent”, a one-off Veyron version built exclusively for the Middle East. But the country coded coloured parts of the car have now been changed to a subtle silver metallic which discreetly flows into the lines of the polished aluminium parts – doors and front wings – thus enhancing the “silver theme” of this car; yet another unique Bugatti creation celebrating the 100th anniversary of the brand. The “Sang d'Argent” has the Grand Sport rims, they complete together with the air intakes on the roof the overall silver appearance

Through the windows shines a differentiating Havanna interior with quilting pattern on seats and saddle and other very personalized items emphasizing the unique features of this very special Bugatti.

The “Soleil de Nuit” – Sun of the Night – is another stunning example of how a modern interpretation of Bugatti’s core values “Art, Forme, Technique”: A very unusual colour/material split characterizes the “Soleil de Nuit”, the second Middle East one-off model created for the Dubai Motor Show. The horizontal split in the lower part of the car – a synthesis of polished Aluminium, painted Black Blue Metallic enriched by mirror shine meshes – softens the lines of this Grand Sport and gives the body a new touch of sportiness. Blue Metallic in the upper body parts and also in the inner side of the (“Sang Noir”) rims, the outer side of which are in diamond cut, underline the exquisite appearance of this dramatic looking car. A strong burnt orange interior crowns the attractiveness of this impressive “Soleil de Nuit”.

The cars will be available for delivery in the first quarter of 2010. Their prices range from 1.65 Mio Euro for the five car series of the “Nocturne” to 1.45 Mio Euro for the “Sang d’Argent” and 1.55 Mio for the “Soleil de Nuit”, the Veyron and Grand Sport one-off models.

Wildchilds from MB for Dubai

The Middle East is an important market for MB. Today the company released this:

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Dubai (VAE) – The Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG, the highlight of this year's
International Motor Show (IAA) in Frankfurt/Main, is on display in a stunning gold paint finish at the Dubai International Motor Show. This matt silk finish with the designation "AMG Desert Gold" lends an extraordinary aura to the new super sports car. The show in Dubai is also the premiere of the special G 55 AMG KOMPRESSOR "Edition 79" model. The Dubai Inter-national Motor Show is regarded as the most important motor show in the Middle East, and takes place every two years.
Matt gold on the aluminium body together with striking highlights in high-gloss black – an extraordinary and highly attractive combination. With its matt silk surface, "AMG Desert Gold" further accentuates the sporty appearance of the Gullwing model. All the decorative and mounted features that are in shining chrome or Silver Shadow in the standard SLS AMG have been given a deep-black paint finish by AMG's designers. Whether for the Mercedes star and the trim strip on the cross fin at the front, the fins on the bonnet and flanks, the filler cap or all the model plates: high-gloss black is used everywhere, ensuring a striking contrast with the matt silk sheen of the gold paintwork. The black-painted AMG light-alloy wheels in size 9.5 x 19 at the front and 11.0 x 20 at the rear are embellished with a golden ring on the rim flange.
"AMG Desert Gold" has currently only been used for the display vehicle at the Dubai International Motor Show, but given sufficient customer demand, this special gold paint finish could become available as an individual optional extra from the AMG PERFORMANCE STUDIO. Two alluring matt paint finishes - AMG Monza grey magno" and "designo magno alanite grey" - are already offered for the SLS AMG. And as a highlight, the unique "AMG alubeam silver", a finish that makes the paintwork glisten like liquid metal. At present SLS AMG customers have a choice of nine attractive paint colours.
Completely black interior, with plenty of solid carbon-fibre
The interior of the special SLS AMG model is in uncompromising, sporty black, the AMG sports bucket seats corresponding with the solid carbon-fibre centre console and other carbon-fibre interior features. Opening the bonnet reveals the 420 kW (571 hp) AMG 6.3-litre V8 engine, which is strikingly framed by the high-quality carbon-fibre engine compartment cover.
"The premiere of the SLS AMG in "AMG Desert Gold" at the Dubai International Motor Show is a token of respect for the Middle East. After the USA, Germany and Japan, the Gulf region is the fourth-largest market for AMG," says Volker Mornhinweg, CEO of Mercedes-AMG GmbH.

Special G 55 AMG KOMPRESSOR "Edition 79" model
Exclusively destined for the Middle East, the special G 55 AMG KOMPRESSOR "Edition 79" model is a reference to the sales start of the series in 1979. This 373 kW (507 hp) off-road icon has a particularly large community of fans in the Gulf region – which is the largest sales market for the top AMG model. The "Edition 79" has a highly attractive combination of unique features: the exclu-sivity of this limited edition of 79 off-roaders is immediately made apparent by the "designo magno alanite grey" paint finish. This matt finish is already familiar from the SLS AMG, but is otherwise unavailable for the G-Class. The G 55 AMG KOMPRESSOR "Edition 79" differs from the standard model in having a crash bar at the front, carbon-look side trim strips, 19-inch AMG light-alloy wheels in a titanium finish and chromed protective grilles for the front indicators, tail lights and the underguard. Eyecatching interior features include the designo leather seats in black/sand, high-quality, solid carbon-fibre trim and the Edition logo "1 out of 79" positioned in front of the selector lever.

Gemballa MIG-U1

Exciting! The motorshow of Dubai opens tomorrow, and among the new cars Gemballa will show the MIG-U1.

Techart sets new world record for SUVs

Techart showed strength at the Nardo-circuit, managing 321,2 km/h with a Cayenne producing 680 HP.

From the press release:

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321,2 km/h – Fullsize-SUV high speed record for TECHART

Leonberg, December 2009. TECHART Automobildesign really set the sparks flying at this year`s trial of strength at the High Speed Event in Nardo/Italy. Test driver Sandro Reuter reached a top speed of 321,2 km/h, respectively 200 mph, with the TECHART refined Porsche Cayenne Turbo. TECHART thus secured a new speed record for Fullsize-SUVs. The circular 12.4 kilometer track is still considered to be the world´s fastest motor racing circuit, even ahead of the Indianapolis Motor Speedway in the United States.
The winner car, refined with the TECHART equipment, is based on a Porsche Cayenne Turbo with Turbo S technology. The installed TA 055/2.2 performance kit takes the engine up to 680 hp, an increase of 130 hp compared with the standard production model. The Aerodynamics Kit I, together with the “Sport” air suspension module, additionally delivered the necessary performance on the circuit.
But thought was also given to TECHART´s usual external upgrades on the vehicle. The TECHART daytime running lights, sports steering wheel, carbon kit, aluminium pedals, decorative stitching and seat belts in gray, additional leather in Luxury Black and illuminated door entry guards with the TECHART logo made the car to a highlight in the pit lane.
Along with the driver`s skills, this success was primarily driven by the perfect, systematic adjustment of the wheels and the suspension. For the record run at moderate temperatures the TECHART Team chose Continental Cross Contact UHP high-performance tires on 22-inch TECHART Formula rims, which were exposed to specific loading as a result of the one-sided cornering on the circuit. Longstanding TECHART test driver Sandro Reuter said with great satisfaction: “The SUV was ideally prepared for the event. Both the engine and the tires showed a high level of performance and consistency.”

Tell me! Veyron vs F1

TopGear has put two of the most serious heavyhitters of all time up against each other. Veyron vs F1. Tell me which one you would prefer. Come on, comments please!!

G-Power BMW X5 M and X6 M

Sorry guys, I normally enjoy G-Powers wild M3s, M5s and M6s. But this just doesn´t do it for me. I will reconsider if the company shows the cars in all black. More stealthy. But I do like the 600+ HP and 300+ km/h topspeed.

Here is what the company says:

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Derived from the G-POWER Widebody-Kit TYPHOON, G-POWER presents an excitingly styled aerodynamics pack made of full carbon which renders 15 percent more cooling power to the 4.4l V8 BI-Turbo engine in the BMW X5 M and X6 M and therefore clears the way for increasing the basic performance by 45 hp to altogether 600 hp.
The first thing catching your eye with M-models modified by G-POWER, is the front skirt made of full carbon which entirely replaces the original component part. The front skirt with the striking air inlets derives from the G-POWER Widebody-Kit TYPHOON RS and turns the visual appearance of the BMW X5 M and X6 M significantly more aggressive. Due to the elaborate design, the aerodynamic lifting forces at the front axles could be also reduced. A further highlight is the G-POWER TYHPOON bonnet made of Kevlar hybrid or full carbon which ensures an improved removal of the hot exit air from both turbo chargers out of the engine compartment by a central Venturi engine compartment ventilation for driving and 2 lateral ABS-grids for the standard ventilation. Moreover, the new face of the BMW X5 M and X6 M are formed in a subtle way.

Moreover, the G-POWER full carbon add-ons for the serial side skirts perfectly and harmonically combine the visual intersection between the wheel houses. With the X5 M, these contain forged, one-part G-POWER SILVERSTONE EDITION aluminium wheels in the dimensions 11x23 and 12x23 inches, whereas the X6 M is equipped with three-part G-POWER RS forged wheel in the same dimension (if desired, also available in 22 inches). As far as the tyres are concerned, G-POWER counts on balance and uses 315/25 ZR 23 high performance tyres by its development partner Michelin for optimal traction and dynamic handling which are further enhanced by the G-POWER sports spring set and a lowering by additional 30 mm.

The BMW X5 M and X6 M are both perfected by the G-POWER full carbon diffuser which elegantly emphasises the 4 x 100 mm end pipes with G-POWER logos. Optionally, also a G-POWER full stainless steel end muffler is available. It enhances the 4 x 100 mm end pipes also with the patented DEEPTONE sound which is so typical for G-POWER. Exclusively for the BMW X6 M, a rear spoiler made of full carbon which additionally reduces the downforce at the rear axle can be optionally ordered with the rear diffuser.

But the appearance of the BMW X5 M and X6 M is not only visually improved by the G-POWER TYPHOON S aerodynamics pack. Due to the enlarged air inlets at the front skirt and the exit air outlets at the bonnet, more cold air reaches the water coolers and oil coolers at the car front. Therefore, the cooling performance improves by 15 percent. This is the basis for a thermally healthy performance enhancement by an electronic optimisation developed by G-POWER which is based on changing the engine characteristics and removing the V-max limitation. Therefore, an additional 45 hp are generated and the overall performance rises to mighty 600 hp at 6,000 r.p.m and 700 Nm torque from 2,000 r.p.m.
The enormous performance potential of the BMW V8 BI-Turbo engines modified by G-POWER empower the two “Off-road cars“ with driving performances catapulting them into the top group of their vehicle class: the acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h only takes 4.5 seconds. After 16.2 seconds, already 200 km/h are achieved. The maximum speed is more than 300 km/h.

Worlds fastest SUV, MB Brabus GLK V12

One of the most crazy cars, oooops, sorry. SUVs this year? Think so....

A shortened version of the press release:

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Dubai, December 11th, 2009
With a top speed of 322.3 km/h (200.3 mph) the BRABUS GLK V12 has set a new speed record for street-legal SUVs on the Italian high-speed test track on October 19th, 2009. The exclusive special model, powered by a twelve-cylinder twin turbo engine with 750 hp (740 bhp) / 552 kW, celebrates its world debut at the DUBAI INTERNATIONAL MOTOR SHOW. The BRABUS GLK V12 starts at 397,000 Euros MSRP.

The new BRABUS SV12 R Biturbo 750 engine was implanted in the small engine bay of the GLK with meticulous precision. The engineers and technicians drew upon their experience and know-how gathered from the development and production of the special model BRABUS BULLIT, based on the latest Mercedes C-Class.
The motor delivers 750 hp (740 bhp) / 552 kW at 5,500 rpm and produces a peak torque of 1,350 Nm (995 lb-ft) at 2,100 rpm, limited in the car electronically to 1,100 Nm (811 lb-ft).
To achieve this kind of performance, the engine –based on the latest Mercedes 600 twelve- cylinder engine – was completely re-engineered in the BRABUS engine department. Displacement is increased from 5.5 to 6.3 liters with the help of a special crankshaft, larger cylinder bore, special pistons and piston rods. In addition the three-valve heads are precision-machined and fitted with special camshafts.
For maximum power yield the BRABUS engineers have developed a special twin turbo system with two larger turbochargers and more efficient intercoolers. Free-flow metal catalysts and a fully stainless-steel high-performance exhaust system custom-tailored to the GLK body let the BRABUS SV12 R 750 Biturbo engine breathe more freely.
Custom-programmed engine electronics ensure an optimal symbiosis of power yield, running smoothness and especially eco-friendly exhaust emissions.
The enormous 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.

Together these measures make the BRABUS GLK V12 the fastest street-legal SUV in the world. But it is not just the incredible top speed of 322.3 km/h (211 mph) that are the basis for its fascination. With an acceleration time from rest to 100 km/h (62 mph) of just 4.2 seconds and 12.8 seconds to 200 km/h (124 mph) the five-door sets new standards for its kind.
BRABUS manages this extraordinary SUV performance with custom modifications to aerodynamics, suspension and brakes.
The front apron of the BRABUS WIDESTAR version was developed in the wind tunnel. Its large air dams provide radiators and front brakes with ample cooling air. In combination with a carbon-fiber spoiler lip the front apron also minimizes aerodynamic lift on the front axle –a prerequisite for directional stability beyond 300 km/h (186 mph).

Favorable aerodynamic properties were also a top priority for the design of the BRABUS WIDESTAR fender flares on front and rear axle.
The larger wheel houses of the record car provide space for BRABUS Monoblock wheels up to king-size wheels with a diameter of 22 inches. The size 10Jx22 wheels come in five different designs: GLK V12 customers can choose from the new BRABUS Monoblock G five- spoke forged wheels, three-piece Monoblock VI alloy wheels and one-piece Monoblock E, Q
and S wheels. High-performance tires from BRABUS technology partners Pirelli and YOKOHAMA can be mounted up to size 285/25 ZR 22.

The BRABUS coilover sport suspension was developed specifically for the twelve-cylinder SUV. It is height-adjustable on front and rear axle and features ten selectable settings each for bound and rebound.
To handle the extreme performance the brakes were upgraded as well and trimmed for maximum stopping power and endurance. The BRABUS high-performance brakes system features 12-piston aluminum fixed calipers and vented and grooved steel discs measuring 380 x 37 millimeters (15 x 1.5 inches) on the front axle. The rear axle stops on six-piston aluminum fixed calipers and vented and grooved 360 x 28 millimeter (14.2 x 1.1 inches) discs.

Video: Porsche 60 years

Nice video showing some real highlights from Porsche.

Screensaver of the week: 9ff GT9R

With "only" 1.120 HP, 414 km/h topspeed and 20 built cars, this should be the thing to look for.

Novitec Rosso Ferrari California

Novitec Rosso launched their California today, and this is what the press-release says: (pics in hi-res by clicking)


Tasteful refinements with aerodynamic benefits characterize the NOVITEC ROSSO design program for the sports car from Maranello. All aerodynamic-enhancement components are made from especially lightweight yet high-strength clear-coated carbon fiber.

The NOVITEC ROSSO front spoiler attaches to the production bumper and lends the sports car an even more striking face. Its sophisticated shape further reduces lift on the front axle for even better directional stability at high speeds.

The sides are upgraded with striking NOVITEC ROSSO rocker panel moldings for an even more clearly defined racing look. Black side markers add further individual highlights.

To reduce lift on the rear axle and thus achieve an optimal aerodynamic balance NOVITEC ROSSO equips the California with a newly designed diffuser for the rear apron and a spoiler lip on the trunk lid.

Three-piece NOVITEC ROSSO NF3 wheels also play a major role in the even more stunning appearance of the refined Ferrari. By choosing a staggered combination of size 9Jx21 wheels in front and size 11.5Jx22 on the rear axle NOVITEC ROSSO further emphasizes the wedge shape of the car. Technology partner Pirelli supplies high-performance tires custom-tailored to this Ferrari. The front axle features tires in size 255/30 ZR 21. In the rear tires in size 315/25 ZR 22 provide optimal traction.

NOVITEC ROSSO sport springs are custom-calibrated to match these ultra-low-profile tires, and lower the ride height by some 35 millimeters. At the same time the NOVITEC ROSSO specialists have developed an additional feature to further improve the everyday utility of the Ferrari California. The NOVITEC ROSSO hydraulic front lift system raises the front of the car by some 40 millimeters at the push of a button in the interior. That allows drivers to safely navigate parking garage ramps or speed bumps. At a second push of the button or automatically when reaching a speed of 80 km/h the front reverts to its original position.

Even faster throttle response and more power characterize the first NOVITEC ROSSO tuning stage for the Ferrari California, which increases power output of the 4.3-liter V8 engine by 40 hp / 29.4 kW to 500 hp / 368 kW. Simultaneously peak torque grows from 485 to 518 Nm at 5,300 rpm.

This injection of extra power comprises on the one hand a newly calibrated engine management system with custom mapping for injection and ignition, including a new higher redline speed of 8,300 rpm. The tuning package also includes the NOVITEC ROSSO stainless-steel high-performance exhaust system with metal catalysts and a flap actuator operated from the Manettino switch on the steering wheel.

NOVITEC ROSSO fulfills customer demands for interior customization with perfectly finished leather and Alcantara interiors. The choice of available colors and meticulously sewn upholstery designs is virtually unlimited.

The Top Gear guys, a V8, a TV-set and old ladies....

New speed record? Bloodhound SSC Project

Ladies and gentlemen: The goal is 1.609 km/h in 2011.

Garmin Christmas-ad

Screensaver of the week: Porsche 997 RSR

Video: Official Porsche Boxster Spyder video for LA Auto Show premiere

Very nice clip of a special car that will find its fans.

Fighting the Porsches

A nice clip from the inside of a BMW M3 V8, thats working its way thru a bunch of Porsches at Nordschleife.

BMW Alpina B6 GT3

The car Alpina has been competing with in the 09-season. The guys at Clash Videos have made an fascinating video as always.

Manthey; the place to be

Nice lineup of racing-Porsches going for a track day at the Nordschleife.

Premiere: The new Audi A8

I am a bit uncertain about the design. Its cool enough, but it would not hurt with more punch, boldness and ground breaking lines. After all, it is the top model from Audi.

Video: Manhart Racing M3 T V10 SMG 550 HP

I think the Manhart M3 with the M5/M6 V10-engine and tranny must the ultimate machine to humble people with. Have a look yourself.

Video: The worlds best kept 911 2,7 RS Touring 1973

This is the holy grail, sorry, the most wanted Porsche among many Porsche diehards. This video from Porsche Experience TV with Gordon Robertson gives you a clear clue whats all about.

Icon gone good: Corvette Z06

More or less as I have been suspecting; the new Corvette is a delight. 500 HP in a lightweight car with decent underpinnings makes this a bargain. Just listen to Jeremy.

Sunday: The strange world of freaky machinery...

MINI. Convertible. Carwash. No roof.

Bat-Corvette. LOMA C6.BlackforceOne.

LOMA Performance must be regarded as the company that made the most brutal Corvette in 2009. This is what they tell about the Bat-Corvette with 794 turbo-HPs in their pressrelease.

The name of this vehicle is a show in itself: C6.BlackforceOne. It is clearly reminiscent of the legendary Boeing Air Force One of the United States president - doubtless no accident by tuner LOMA-Performance. Yet when the C6.BlackforceOne available in Stealth matt black, Eurofighter matt grey and White Storm matt white (other colours on request) comes thundering round the corner, it is soon clear that it more than deserves its name - and has far more to offer than just an exciting label...

No less than two metres from outside wheel to outside wheel, the C6.BlackforceOne is based on the "normal" Corvette (original width: 179cm) and not on a Z06 or ZR1 model. This means around ten centimetres more on each side and creates a real masculine feel. LOMA-Performance makes no effort to disguise the source of the additional width - indeed clearly and stylishly displays the carbon fibre wheel arch extensions and carbon fibre side skirts available with or without visible screws: the ultimate racing look. LOMA has installed a carbon fibre front lip and rear diffuser with integrated LED reverse light alongside the extensions, also in carbon fibre. The optional LOMA-Performance rear spoiler with a carbon fibre finish is easy to fit and detach. Circular daytime running lights are an eye-catching feature of the headlights. The front lip, rear diffuser and daytime running lights are incidentally available for all C6 Corvettes, including the Z06 and ZR1.

794 PS with bi-turbo charging
The bi-turbo engine conversion is, however, exclusive to the C6.BlackforceOne and raises an incredible 794 PS from the V8 engine. 675 PS still reach the rear axle after transfer via a LOMA-Performance carbon fibre sports clutch, highly durable carbon fibre drive shafts and an overhauled gear unit; skilled hands are certainly needed at the wheel of the high-speed Corvette. It should hit 100km/h in just 3.4 seconds to furious roars from the LOMA Cup Sport Superlight exhaust unit and reach 330km/h. "Only" 330km/h? Yes, that's right, because LOMA believes in good acceleration in all situations rather final speed as a status-symbol, and has adjusted the C6.BlackforceOne accordingly.
A propos adjustment: coilover suspension is fitted beneath the body to allow separate adjustment of pressure and rebound damping. Even the stabilisers are adjustable. An extra 8 centimetres' tread at the front and all of 14 centimetres at the rear ensure the C6 really hugs the road.
The impression of sheer unlimited curve speed is of course also down to the Michelin Sport Cup high performance tyres in the dimensions 275/30R19 and 335/25R20 mounted on 10 x 19 and 12 x 20-inch shining black OZ Racing Ultraleggera HLT alloy wheels.



Racing technology for the road
LOMA-Performance can install a carbon fibre/ceramic brake unit from Mov'it for brutal deceleration to match the brutal acceleration. This is an impressive 15.5 kilograms lighter on the front axle and 10 kilograms lighter on the rear axle than, say, ZO6 brakes.
In the interior, too, the team headed by Managing Director Mario Radosavljevic have been hard at work creating a great ambience with both technical and luxury features. The door panels, for example, are finished in carbon fibre and sections of the cockpit are covered with Alcantara. C6.BlackforceOne customers can choose from 300 different types of leather. The sports steering wheel - 34 centimetres in diameter with Alcantara - is smoothed off on the underside; the refitted seats with shoulder rests are only half as thick as their series equivalents. Special foam ensures these ultimate sports seats are still comfortable and great for long journeys.
All electrical functions have been retained as has full airbag functionality.

Limited Edition
C6.BlackforceOne production is strictly limited to 25 vehicles. All are numbered and come with a full guarantee. LOMA provides an additional 12-month guarantee for the spectacular engine tuning. The prices for a complete vehicle start at 190,000 euros.

Aha. Essen Motor Show

Tomorrow Friday, the German exhibition mostly targeted at tuning opens. Whooooaaaa!

Kicherer SLS 63 CP

Even before the SLS has left the factory, the tuners are all over the supercar. Here is what Kicherer says in their pressrelease:

True to the firm‘s philosophy to only make con- clusive additions to the basic AMG form and to keep the lines of a vehicle an in essence even more sporty version of the wingdoored car was developed. Especially the aerodynamics were able to enjoy a final high class polish. In addition the developers conceived and mounted a front spoiler lip, a roof ..., a rear diffusor and larger air intakes to better cool the 6.3 litre V8 engine. All
new elements developed by KICHERER are, of course, made of high class Carbon.
An immediate eye-catcher on the front of the SLS is the large handcrafted frontgrill made of stainless steel, which is optionally also available in a discreet gold tone. The optics of the vertical struts are meant to remind one of the window grill on the original Pan-American vehicle.
A further highlight on the sportscar are the 3 part 20 inch RS-1 lightweight wheels. The classic double spoke design harmonises perfectly with the equally classic sportscar silhouette of the KI- CHERER SLS 63 CP.
At the rear of the vehicle KICHERER lets the stain- less steel exhaust with four oval endpipes melo- diously release the exhaust gases into the air. An integrated valve control gives the driver - fitting to the occasion - the choice between a sonorous and a discreet tone.
Various performance enhancers for the 575 PS strong aggregate are optionally available but in- itially only on demand.

Auto, Motor und Sport Video: Mustang Shelby GT 500

A yankee that makes a motorhead moan.

Premiere: Launch of the BMW 5-series in Munich

I had the pleasure of being in Munich today to see more of the new 5-series from BMW. Here is BMWs designchief Adrian van Hooydunk before and after the curtain was raised. He is very happy with the design, and told me that BMW is broadening their designexpression to make space for completely new models.
The interview will be printed in Motor-magazine.

Finally: speedART PS9-650

speedART is the first company to show the future of tuned Panameras at the upcoming Essen Motorshow. I think they have done a terrific job, although the interior is not my style. Click on the pics for high res.
Here is the press release:

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Press release 11/09:

speedART PS9 – 650 will be released at Essen Motorshow 2009
(please visit us in hall 11, stand 203 from 27.11. – 6.12.2009)

speedART presents the PS9 – based on the new Porsche Panamera:

Power kits (just for Turbo engine):
Power kits with 520, 550, 600 and 650 hp up to 890 Nm consits of bigger turbo chargers and intercoolers (just 600 + 650 hp), sport exhaust with sound switch, sport catalysts, sport air filter and ECU update. The 650 hp car accelerates in 3.5 seconds from 0 – 62 mph and the top speed is over 200 mph.



Brakes:
Sport brake system with modular 380 mm discs and 6 piston brake calipers

Sound:
-sport exhaust systems; optional with sound switch control
-sport catalyst (OBD2-compliant) for impressive 8 cylinder sound and more power and torque
-different design twin tail pipes, polished or matt black

Aerodynamic:
fully CAD designed body kit consists of:
-front chin spoiler for more downforce with integrated brake cooling system
-engine hood air outlets
-rear diffuser for enhanced down force and a very sportive design
-rear bumper with air outlets on the side to give the back a racy look and to interrupt the big curves of the factory-provided back
-side skirts for a wide body look
-rear spoiler on rear bonnet for optimized downforce and an impressive styling

Wheels:
-speedART designed three-pieces forged wheel in 22” with 23” center star, type „LSC FORGED“ in 9,5 + 11 x 22” with 265/35 and 305/25 ZR22” tyres, many colored versions available

Interior:
-upholstered sport steering wheel with F1-shift paddles (available in 340 mm and 365 mm with aluminium-, wood- or carbon inlays)
-real-carbon body trim in special colours
-colored stiches on door panels and seats (many colors availiable)
-instrument dial plates (many colors availiable)
-design floor mats