Porsche video: Tradition obliges

Part of the fun with Porsche is the history. This filmclip illustrates my point.

Porsche video: Official Boxster Spyder trailer

Nice drumming, nice car and nice trailer. Just how Porsches are.

Dont belive the hype?

First he supposedly were The Stig (ehhhh) and now he is supposed to be the crazy tunneldriver? Naaaahhh. Dont think so.

Check the end of the clip, anybody could have driven the car.

SLS: The game is on!

From the beginning of February MB will launch an iPod/iPhone-application. It seems like its going to be possible to play games with the SLS... Hmmm.

Screensaver of the week: Techart Street GT RS

Based on the GT2, pumping out 700 HP and 860 Nm of torque.

Video: The unseen Audi R8 V10 teaser

I just didn´t know about this teaser for Audis most marvelous car. Never to late...

BMW M Power Meter

Sometimes you just need to know. This is how.

Ken Blocks new whip

He is back. With a new car. Be aware.

Brabus GL 63 Biturbo

Brabus has made a very convincing turboconversion to the hi-revving V8 from MB. (Click on the pics for hi-res)

Here is the press release:

BRABUS GL 63 Biturbo Luxury SUV with 650 hp / 478 kW and WIDESTAR Version
The 4x4 SUV is powered by a BRABUS B63 Biturbo 6.3-liter V8 engine with 650 hp (641 bhp) / 478 kW and reaches a top speed of 300 km/h (186 mph). Visually the SUV sets itself apart with the stunningly styled BRABUS WIDESTAR version and forged 23-inch wheels. Also part of the standard equipment of the BRABUS GL63 Biturbo is an exclusive interior with leather and Alcantara. The GL 63 Biturbo is built in small- series production and starts at 368,000 Euros MSRP.
BRABUS fits the high-speed eight-cylinder four-valve engine from the ML63 AMG with a twin turbo system and implants it into the largest Mercedes SUV. By doing so the luxury manufacturer from Bottrop elevates the GL 63 to a new performance dimension.
The twin turbo system is yet another high-tech development so typical for BRABUS. The BRABUS engineers have developed special cast exhaust manifolds with integrated turbine housings and bypass valves for the V8 engine. For faster response the turbochargers were sized relatively small and both manifolds were designed to only use the exhaust gases from three of the four cylinders on each side for driving the turbochargers.
The turbochargers themselves are also a custom BRABUS development. Normally V-type engines are fitted with two right-turning chargers. That results in a slower response on the right side of the engine because the intake on the right side of the turbine housing necessitates a more complicated exhaust routing than on the left side of the engine. To solve this problem the BRABUS engineers designed a left-turning turbocharger for the right cylinder bank of the engine and thus achieved perfect exhaust-gas dynamics.



The twin turbo system also includes a generously dimensioned water-to-air intercooler as well as a dual intake manifold with cast-in BRABUS Biturbo logos and sport air filters. High- performance catalysts behind the turbochargers reduce back pressure and further lower exhaust emissions.
The inner workings of the engine are adapted to turbocharging with BRABUS forged pistons that reduce the compression ratio to 9.0:1. Newly programmed engine electronics with custom mapping for ignition and injection adapted to the turbo technology and an electronic boost pressure management system play a key role.

This engine establishes the BRABUS GL 63 Biturbo among the world’s most powerful SUVs. The engine has a rated power output of 650 hp (641 bhp) / 478 kW at a low 6,200 rpm. The maximum torque of 850 Nm (626 lb-ft) is available on a plateau between 3,000 and 5,500 rpm.
In combination with a modified SPEEDSHIFT 7G-TRONIC seven-speed automatic transmission and permanent four-wheel drive this engine delivers performance previously unimaginable for a vehicle of this type: The BRABUS GL63 Biturbo accelerates from rest to 100 km/h (62 mph) in just 4.7 seconds and reaches an electronically limited top speed of 300 km/h (186 mph).
Naturally the vehicle’s aerodynamic properties, tires, suspension and brakes are all adapted to this enormous performance potential.




The BRABUS WIDESTAR version with its elegantly contoured fender flares adds six centimeters (2.4 inches) to the width of the GL 63 Biturbo. The WIDESTAR front apron was shaped in the wind tunnel to reduce aerodynamic lift on the front axle thus maximizing directional stability at high speed. Generously sized air inlets provide the engine and the front brakes with as much cooling air as possible. For further increased active safety the BRABUS front features LED daytime running lights and four auxiliary headlamps.
BRABUS rocker panels create an aerodynamically smooth transition between the fender flares on front and rear axle. Integrated entrance lights facilitate entering and exiting the vehicle in the dark.
The vehicle’s aerodynamics are further optimized by a roof spoiler and the BRABUS rear apron with integrated diffuser. The apron is custom-tailored to fit the wider fenders and in addition to cutouts for the tailpipes of the BRABUS stainless-steel quad sport exhaust system features integrated underfloor lights.
The large wheel houses offer plenty of room for three-piece BRABUS Monoblock E PLATINUM EDITION 11Jx23 wheels. These nine-spoke wheels have a forged and high- gloss-polished drop center and can be fitted with Pirelli or YOKOHAMA high-performance tires up to size 305/30 R 23.

The ride height of the high performance car is lowered by some 30 millimeters (1.2 inches) with the BRABUS suspension tuning module for the AIRMATIC air suspension. This measure not only benefits the looks of the GL. The lowered center of gravity also results in even sportier and safer on-road handling.

To further optimize active safety the SUV is equipped with a BRABUS high-performance brake system. The version for the GL 63 Biturbo features 12-piston aluminum fixed calipers and vented and cross-drilled 380 x 36 millimeter (15.0 x 1.4 inches) discs on the front axle. The rear axle stops on 355 x 28 mm (14.0 x 1.1 inches) brake discs and six-piston fixed calipers.

The luxury equipment of the BRABUS GL 63 Biturbo also includes a premium interior. The interior is custom-tailored to customer specifications from a combination of especially soft and breathable Mastik leather and Alcantara.
BRABUS precious-wood and carbon-fiber inlays are available in a variety of versions and are color-coordinated with the leather. The sporty character of the vehicle is reflected by the speedometer with 320-km/h (200-mph) scale, aluminum components such as pedals and door-lock pins and an ergonomically shaped sport steering wheel.
Special consoles for the backs of the front seats each have an integrated seven-inch LCD screen, a DVD player and a folding table. They transform the rear passenger compartment into a multimedia studio. The entertainment equipment can be further expanded into a fully functional office on wheels with state-of-the-art communication and computer technology.

Video: new MB ML in weird rescueaction

This is an amuzing video. In order to get an MB out of a snowy ditch, two MBs have to pull. The personnel is trying to keep the upcoming ML hidden beneath its cover. Ahhh, look for your self.

Top Gear: Ford GT40

Great car which Jeremy has bought himself. But James and Richard are also giving him a hard time in part two.



Part two

Video: Red Bull formula car on ice

Here Sebastien Buemi takes a ride on the frozen waters of Olympic Basin in Canada.

Video: MINI Countryman

Here you go. Even more doors and offroad with the MINI.

Having a couple of days off in Geneva, Switzerland

Beside a long time passion for cars, I really enjoy watches. I deliver stuff like this to one of my clients, the reason for attending SIHH in Geneva until Thursday.

Here is one the breaking news we have seen today, a Panerai Radiomir Skeleton.

Screensaver of the week: Rolls-Royce Phantom drifting on snow

Click on the pic for hi-res.

One of the pics I got of Jo´s Phantom drifting on the snow last week. You can watch the first Phantom in the world drifting on snow at youtube here.

Russian Marussia: Great after all?

I have to say, the cars in this video is a blast. Very stealthy, and probably some of the most aggressive lines I have seen in ages. Its possible to hear the engine screaming from revs between the awful music. Enjoy!

Those were the days

A true Opel classic, the Kadett B Coupé in rallye-trim vs the new specialedition of the Corsa, the Color Race.

New commercial: The MB of my choice

This new and amazing commercial certainly doesnt help. I now want the SLS more than ever.

Think its closed...

A shot from the webcam at the Nordschliefe today. Think its closed...

Gemballa MIG-U1

Gemballa has released all the details and new photos of their Enzo-based MIG-U1.

From the press release:
In the last 27 years, Uwe Gemballa has achieved the best world-wide reputation for refining Porsche cars. Now, the company manager from Leonberg near Stuttgart takes on a new challenge. The automobile manufacturer turns the most potent super sports car from Maranello, the Ferrari Enzo, into the GEMBALLA MIG-U1 – an individually produced edition, limited to only 25 cars.

The core part of the overall makeover is the entirely re-engineered aerodynamics concept by GEMBALLA. Without any exception, the manufacturer produces all components in real carbon in order to combine lowest weight with highest material strength.




Active aerodynamics for the maximum driving experience
Owing to the active aerodynamics conception, the front spoiler lip generates an additional downthrust of up to 35 kilograms at the front axle, according to the individual position. Analogically, the flap on the newly designed rear spoiler generates even up to 85 kilograms more downthrust on the rear wheels. For optimal handling results, the flap lowers, as soon as the car reaches a speed of 120 km/h. In this way, the GEMBALLA-aerodynamics concept adjusts to the outer conditions and always ensures perfect road holding characteristics. All components of the aerodynamics kit attribute to this: starting from the new front skirt with spoiler lip, over the door extensions to the diffuser and rear spoiler.



The air duct system of the GEMBALLA MIG-U1 does not only help bringing the power of the twelve-cylinder car onto the road. At the same time, the engineers from Leonberg (Baden-Württemberg) develop an extensive ventilation- and cooling concept. Here, both the front and the back wheel-houses are supplied with cooling air and this guarantees an optimal use of the high performance braking system. The outlets behind the wheels ensure that the heated air does not pile up. Moreover, the air inlets behind the doors and on the roof supply fresh air into engine compartment behind the passenger cabin. The newly designed air exhaust ducts end in and on top of the rear skirt. Their dimensions also allow the supply of an additional radiator.



The GEMBALLA car body components therefore guarantee the functionality of the new super sports car and provide the car with a unique look at the same time. Following the design of Formula-1 racing cars, the GEMBALLA MIG-U1 has an extended front and an edged rear spoiler. Formerly rounded edges were replaced in order to provide the car with an aggressive look with greedy air inlets and outlets.

Even the rear lights do not remain openly on the back, but are cased and equipped with air ducts. The MIG-U1 grows broader by 80 millimetres at the front- and 100 millimetres at the back axle.




For everyday use, the optional electro-hydraulic height-adjustment (HLS) is extremely innovative and enormously helpful. By pushing a button in the passenger compartment, it is possible to lift the body by 45 millimetres at the front- and rear axle and therefore allows driving over obstacles such as underground car park entrances and traffic ramps. Also by pushing a button or by reaching 80 km/h, the MIG-U1 lowers itself to its original level. Additionally, the multiple adjustable sports suspension which is equipped with ball bearing bushes significantly improves the handling and driving comfort of the MIG-U1.



The forged wheels GEMBALLA GTR RACING forged by our development partner “Advanced Structural Alloys” contribute both to the appearance and the performance of the car. The wheels which are made from a massive light alloy block combined highest stability with an extremely light weight. The elaborate forging process reduces the unsprung masses of one wheel set by 16 kilograms. Therefore, the wheels respond in an even more agile way and precisely follow every steering command even under highest strains. At the front, the 10x19 inch rims hold high-performance wheels in the dimension 265/35, while the back axle transfers the power of the engine through 13x20 inch rims with 335/30 wheels.



The twelve cylinder engine of the GEMBALLA MIG-U1 works with an optimised motor management and an especially adjusted exhaust system. This combination allows a performance output of 700 hp (515 kW). The four-pipe system with pneumatic flap control is added to the sports catalyser. The end-pipes are equipped with the typical GEMBALLA heat shield and share the exit into the rear skirt with the exhaust ducts of the rear wheel houses.



High-End for the interior
In the interior, GEMBALLA devises a control centre which perfectly combines functionality and comfort. The especially for the GEMBALLA MIG-U1 designed seats, the custom-made centre console and the sports steering wheel with its leather-ultra suede combination guarantee full control over the car. At the same time, the interior of this super sports car reflects pure luxury. All interior components are lined with leather and ultra suede. The integrated high-end multimedia system offers a seven-inch touch screen, navigation, DVD changer and an iPod connection. The 950-Watt amplifier operates the high frequency ranges in the cockpit front, the 165 millimetre large membrane on the door linings and the subwoofer between the seats. GEMBALLA-logos on the seats, the floor mats and the safety belts perfect the refinement.





With the GEMBALLA MIG-U1, the automobile manufacturer once again proves that its know-how is not only limited to Porsche cars. On the basis of the already exhilarating Ferrari Enzo, the engineers developed a unique car. But even the limited edition with only 25 cars is not exclusive enough for GEMBALLA. Therefore, every single GEMBALLA MIG-U1 is individually adjusted. This ensures that there will not be any identical cars. Therefore, the specialist with its reputation for unique high-end refinement once again meets the requirements for highest individuality.

Missing the fun

From last Thursday when I participated in snowracing with my 996 Turbo. Really want to go back for more action. Sigh.
For winterly occasions I have equipped the car with original wheels from the 993 w/widebody, dimensions are 7,5 inch (front) and 10x18 (rear) with an offset that works very well with 5mm spacers. The tyres were just fantastic, they are the new Hakka 7 with studs in the dim 225/40 and 255/35. A perfect fit regarding rolling circumference. (Thanks to Jan Erik at the Norwegian Nokian dealership/Egil and Steffen at Auto9 for wheels and Lars Johnsen/SportAuto for the picture)

Before Jeremy became a TV-star...

Video: BBC TopGear tests the Lexus LFA

Hammond is playing around in the RX450h before he lets the LFA animal loose. Niiiice.

Video: MINI Beachcomber

Since I am old enough to remember the original MINI Moke as shown in the video, its safe to say that time has passed on.

Video: Audi suicide commercial

Not sure if this is bad taste or fun. What do you think?

Thursday at the office: Leisure, winter and supercars in Norway

This is what I have been doing today. Kjetil has the Panamera Turbo, Jo has got the RR Phantom and Ole has the Cayenne Turbo S. My car is the red 996T.
Needless to say this was a great day out of office :-)





Thanks to Kjetil for the clips.

Porsche video: Racing. Not posing.

This video clearly shows what Porsche is about.

Embarrassing moments

Hopefully these moments are done for the rest of 2010, with this fun clip from Top Gear.

Preview: Audi A7

Hmmm. This is probably not the production version, regarding details like the front and rear. Judge yourself.

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.