Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com Autoblog http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.autoblog.com/media/feedlogo.gif Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com en-us Copyright 2009 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Formula Drift 2009 season wraps up in Irwindale, California]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/19/formula-drift-2009-season-wraps-up-in-irwindale-california/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/19/formula-drift-2009-season-wraps-up-in-irwindale-california/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/19/formula-drift-2009-season-wraps-up-in-irwindale-california/#commentsFiled under:

2009 Formula Drift Championship Round - Click above for high-res image gallery

The sixth season of the Formula Drift series wound to a close in Irwindale, California this weekend, and the finale certainly lived up to the host venue's 'House of Drift' reputation. The high speeds and excessive angle required to navigate the speedway's bank required a "go big or go home" attitude in order for drivers to move through the rounds, and there was no playing it safe for seasoned veterans.

The 2009 Formula Drift season began with the debut of a slew of radical new platforms. It was anyone's guess as to what methodology would win out come October. Driver Chris Forsberg proved that the tried and true ride, with a few years of service under its belt, was the key to securing a championship. Forsberg powered his V8-equipped Nissan 350Z to the top 16, earning him enough points to take the 2009 Formula Drift Championship title. Nipping right at Forsberg's heals in the point race was fellow Drift Alliance member, Ryan Tuerck. Tuerck showed that Pontiac is still well and alive by sliding his Solstice GXP to the top of the event podium. Hit the jump to get all the results and a rundown on the season finale.


Gallery: 2009 Formula Drift Championship at Irwindale Speedway

Continue reading Formula Drift 2009 season wraps up in Irwindale, California

Formula Drift 2009 season wraps up in Irwindale, California originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 19 Oct 2009 16:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>driftingFormula DFormula DriftFormulaDFormulaDriftIrwindale SpeedwayIrwindaleSpeedwayMon, 19 Oct 2009 16:58:00 EST<![CDATA[Racecar fabricator and NuFormz owner Shaun Carlson dead at 35]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/06/racecar-fabricator-and-nuformz-owner-shaun-carlson-dead-at-35/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/06/racecar-fabricator-and-nuformz-owner-shaun-carlson-dead-at-35/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/06/racecar-fabricator-and-nuformz-owner-shaun-carlson-dead-at-35/#commentsFiled under:


In the late hours of October 4th 2009, the world lost an innovator in sport compact racing, Shaun Carlson. The NuFormz owner and fabricator extraordinaire had a genetic heart condition - however, it is unknown if the defect contributed to his death.

In more recent years, Carlson, 35, had been known for his lead on the Team MOPAR drift team, but his roots go all the way back to Truckin' and Turbo Magazine. Although he could shoot cars with the best of them, his talent in building them won out in the end. Carlson knocked the socks off the sport compact industry with the Honda CRX he created in collaboration with Jason Whitfield, but he really blew everyone away when he unveiled the world's first tube frame front-wheel drive Honda Civic. Driven by Stephan Papadakis, the car made the industry stand up and take notice that sport compact drag racing was a force to be reckoned with. Following his Civic's success, Carlson created the spectacular web of steel tubing, carbon fiber and titanium that is known as the Meguiar's Ford Focus. His ability to turn the unfortunate into amazing even transferred over from drag racing and into drifting. This is shown by the Dodge Charger and Challenger he built for two time Formula D champion Samuel Hubinette.

It is an understatement to say that Shaun Carlson will be missed. His influence has been far reaching and he undoubtedly had many more groundbreaking builds ahead of him. On a personal note,I will never forget the guidance and knowledge that he gave me as I was starting to get my feet wet in the automotive industry. I first met Shaun when he brought Stephan's yellow Civic to run on the East Coast. As I stared at the car in wonderment, he went out of his way to tell me all about it. After that, whenever I ran into Shaun at a race, he let me hang around his pit. He never dismissed my probing questions about his mechanical troubles either. He could see I wasn't just a female trying to hang around, but a student with a thirst for knowledge and someone looking for direction. I eventually found that direction with a degree in mechanical engineering. Now, in my work, I think back to design tips I learned from master fabricator Shaun Carlson.

Everyone at Autoblog extends their thoughts to all of Shaun Carlson's loved ones.

[Source: NHRA]

Racecar fabricator and NuFormz owner Shaun Carlson dead at 35 originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 06 Oct 2009 09:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Drag RacingDragRacingDriftingFabricatorFormula DFormula DriftFormulaDFormulaDriftMOPARNHRANuFormzSamuel HubinetteSamuelHubinetteShaun CarlsonShaunCarlsonSport CompactSportCompactTue, 06 Oct 2009 09:28:00 EST<![CDATA[Nissan Skyline GT-Rs seized in California over possible illegal importation]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/03/nissan-skyline-gt-rs-seized-in-california-over-possible-illegal/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/03/nissan-skyline-gt-rs-seized-in-california-over-possible-illegal/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/03/nissan-skyline-gt-rs-seized-in-california-over-possible-illegal/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



The importation of the Nissan Skyline GT-R to the United States has been a Hollywood-sized epic spanning ten years. For a while, the only game in town was to go through Motorex for a crash-tested, USDOT and EPA-approved Godzilla. Unfortunately, the company owner let his fondness of Japanese hostess clubs take precedence over delivering cars. Since Motorex shut its doors in 2005, enthusiasts have been scouring each and every loophole in US Customs laws to keep the supplies flowing. In 2006 ,a company called Kaizo began taking orders. Their model, vastly different from Motorex's expensive methods, involved the importation of specialty-constructed Nissan Skyline GT-R bodies from Japan to be mated with customer-supplied powertrains upon delivery to the United States, thus creating a kit car (to put it simply).

Following the tradition that is the GT-R saga, Kaizo's actions have recently been called into question by pretty much every acronymed authority -- DOT, EPA, ICE, CARB, DOJ and FBI. Charges against Kaizo have yet to be filed, but along with a raid on company headquarters, various customers have been delivered letters suggesting exportation and some have even lost their rides. To date, five R34s and one R32 GT-R have been seized by kevlar-clad armed officers. Exasperated customers have banded together in an attempt to find some salvation in this mess, and it isn't only hardcore enthusiasts left out in the cold by the scandal either. Recently, rather high-profile operation utilized Kaizo resources to create a valuable franchise, and if the drama keeps up at this rate, perhaps the Nissan Skyline GT-R story could be their next project.

[Source: GTR USA Blog]

Nissan Skyline GT-Rs seized in California over possible illegal importation originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 03 Oct 2009 19:06:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Illegal ImportationIllegalImportationimportKaizoMotorexnissan skylineNissan Skyline GT-Rnissan skyline r32Nissan Skyline R34NissanSkylineNissanSkylineGt-rNissanSkylineR32NissanSkylineR34r32r34Sat, 03 Oct 2009 19:06:00 EST<![CDATA[Daytona Speedway turned into lake by torrential rains]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/05/22/daytona-speedway-turned-into-lake-by-torrential-rains/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/05/22/daytona-speedway-turned-into-lake-by-torrential-rains/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/05/22/daytona-speedway-turned-into-lake-by-torrential-rains/#commentsFiled under: ,


Lake Daytona International Speedway - Click above for high-res image gallery

As far as we know, NASCAR has no plans to expand into the aquatic arena, but the current situation at Daytona International Speedway might lead one to a different conclusion. Over the past few days, massive storms have drenched the Florida coast leaving behind over 17 inches of rain in Daytona Beach.

The bowl-shaped race track has become a vessel of sorts, trapping water up to the midway point of the SAFER barriers in some sections. Reports indicate that the transporter tunnel alone is filled up to about 10 feet. Track officials aren't expecting to face too much damage once things dry up though. With just over a month to go, they believe the course should be operative for the July 4th Sprint Cup event. However, if the weather doesn't let up soon, NASCAR teams might want to get started on building some speedboats.


Gallery: Daytona International Speedway Flooding


[Source: ESPN.com; Image: Kaye Fairer]

Daytona Speedway turned into lake by torrential rains originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 22 May 2009 16:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Daytona Interational SpeedwayDaytona SpeedwayDaytonaInterationalSpeedwayDaytonaSpeedwayNASCARrainstormFri, 22 May 2009 16:55:00 EST<![CDATA[Virtual Insanity - Jay Kay's Ferrari Enzo damaged by vandal]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/03/06/virtual-insanity-jay-kays-ferrari-enzo-damaged-by-vandal/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/03/06/virtual-insanity-jay-kays-ferrari-enzo-damaged-by-vandal/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/03/06/virtual-insanity-jay-kays-ferrari-enzo-damaged-by-vandal/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



Jamiroquai frontman Jay Kay has learned that when you are the owner of a famous automobile collection, you best be careful about who you offend since they will know how to hit you where it hurts.

During a recent hotel stay, the Top Gear regular said something to rile up the joint's pastry chef while they were downing some drinks at the bar. Normally, such a quarrel would not amount to much attention, but if reality television has taught us anything, it is that English chefs have hot tempers and they like to hurl things in a fit of rage. In this instance, the young chef decided to release his anger by chucking stones at the singer's black Ferrari Enzo. The target practice amounted to about $40,000 worth of damage to the car's front windshield and driver's side window. While the repairs get underway, it looks like Jay Kay might have to make due by driving around in his Aston Martin DB5, Lamborghini Miura SV or even his Mercedes 300SL Roadster instead. Oh, the humanity. Thanks for the tips, everyone!

[Source: The Sun]

Virtual Insanity - Jay Kay's Ferrari Enzo damaged by vandal originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 06 Mar 2009 10:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>FerrariFerrari EnzoFerrariEnzoJamiroquaiJay KayJayKayFri, 06 Mar 2009 10:58:00 EST<![CDATA[Watkins Glen International plans opening weekend tribute to Mark Donohue]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/02/07/watkins-glen-international-to-hold-opening-weekend-tribute-to-ma/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/02/07/watkins-glen-international-to-hold-opening-weekend-tribute-to-ma/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/02/07/watkins-glen-international-to-hold-opening-weekend-tribute-to-ma/#commentsFiled under: ,


By now, racing fans should be aware that when David Donohue grabbed the checkered flag at the 2009 Rolex 24 Hours of Daytona his win came on the 40th anniversary of his father's 1969 victory. The Daytona outcome won't be the last tribute to Mark Donohue in 2009, either. Watkins Glen International is planning a weekend of Donohue festivities for their season-opener in April. The event will be a celebration to compliment the official release of a new Mark Donohue biography, which is something that fans of the The Unfair Advantage will surely want to add to their reading lists. The book's author and Watkins Glen founder's son, Michael Argetsinger, will be on hand for autographs and conversation. The ultimate American racing history lesson will also take place as the track opens for tribute laps by many vintage race cars once piloted by Mark Donohue. If you happen to be in the upstate New York area, mark the calendars for April 25th and 26th. Thanks for the tip Jon!

[Source: RacingArchives.org]

Continue reading Watkins Glen International plans opening weekend tribute to Mark Donohue

Watkins Glen International plans opening weekend tribute to Mark Donohue originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 07 Feb 2009 09:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>David DonohueDavidDonohueMark DonohueMarkDonohueWatkins GlenWatkins Glen InternationalWatkinsGlenWatkinsGlenInternationalSat, 07 Feb 2009 09:01:00 EST<![CDATA[SSC Ultimate Aero EV claims 200 mile-range, 10 minute recharging]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/01/22/shelby-supercars-reveals-new-plans-for-ultimate-aero-ev-that-inc/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/01/22/shelby-supercars-reveals-new-plans-for-ultimate-aero-ev-that-inc/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/01/22/shelby-supercars-reveals-new-plans-for-ultimate-aero-ev-that-inc/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,



The unique curves of a supercar tend to attract a lot of attention. But these days, some people are likely to turn away from a sleek and powerful automobile once they learn it guzzles more gasoline than a Hummer. Thankfully, those people are usually the type that can't afford them in the first place. In any case, the real spotlight getters now come with fuel saving efficient power plants. The guys from Silicon Valley kicked off a new trend with the creation of Tesla. Following in the Roadster's footsteps we first saw Ronn Motor Company announce their hydrogen supplemented 40 miles-per-gallon Scorpion HX, and now Shelby Supercars has thrown their hat into the ring. We were first teased with a few specs on an Ultimate EV last July, and now a few more details of the system have been put into words.

The Ultimate Aero EV will feature SSC's newly developed package called the All-Electric Scalable Powertrain (AESP). The system utilizes a lithium battery pack with the ability to charge via a 110-volt outlet in only 10 minutes. The pack, SSC maintains, provides a 150-200 mile range. The Ultimate Aero EV will combine this juice storage with a pair of 500 horsepower electric motors to achieve these claims. It all certainly comes off as a hard pill to swallow, especially since the current necessary to charge a large battery pack at 110-volt in 10 minutes would be massive, to say nothng of dealing with the high heat generated as a result. Perhaps though, the 200 mile range claim comes when the power output is kept at a continually scaled down value. In any case, while the claims sound fantastical, we've had our doubts about SSC before, only to be proven wrong. So here's hoping. View the full press release after the jump.

Continue reading SSC Ultimate Aero EV claims 200 mile-range, 10 minute recharging

SSC Ultimate Aero EV claims 200 mile-range, 10 minute recharging originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 22 Jan 2009 10:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Shelby SupercarsShelbySupercarsSSC Ultimate Aero EVSscUltimateAeroEvUltimate Aero EvUltimateAeroEvThu, 22 Jan 2009 10:59:00 EST<![CDATA[Will VW join Honda as an IRL engine supplier?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/01/18/will-vw-join-honda-as-an-irl-engine-supplier/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/01/18/will-vw-join-honda-as-an-irl-engine-supplier/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/01/18/will-vw-join-honda-as-an-irl-engine-supplier/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



For the past few years, the IRL has kept things simple, using just one engine supplier. Toyota, Chevrolet and Nissan (under the Infiniti moniker) bowed out of the engine game to give Honda its exclusivity in 2006. The single powerplant was supposed to make the series more of a driver's competition, and one could argue that the engine limitations did even playing field somewhat. At the same time, however, they also made the series significantly more boring.

Now with the defection of Champ Car and stubborn leadership in F1, IRL is looking to increase its relevance in open wheel racing. IRL's contract with Honda ends after 2010, and rumors indicate that the party most interested in getting a foot in the door for 2011 is the Volkswagen Group. The draw for them is the rumored return to the use of turbochargers, as well as heads-up competition between a variety of cylinder configurations. The Volkswagen group is looking to use the series to market high performance low-displacement forced induction engines that are currently under development. Since Audi gets its racing due at LeMans, perhaps any deal with the IRL will look towards increasing VW's performance stock.

[Source: Epoch Times]

Will VW join Honda as an IRL engine supplier? originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 18 Jan 2009 17:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Indy Racing LeagueIndyRacingLeagueIRLVolkswagenVolkswagen GroupVolkswagenGroupVWSun, 18 Jan 2009 17:02:00 EST<![CDATA[GM Performance Parts to offer new Camaro body in white]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/12/20/gm-performance-parts-to-offer-new-camaro-body-in-white/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/12/20/gm-performance-parts-to-offer-new-camaro-body-in-white/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/12/20/gm-performance-parts-to-offer-new-camaro-body-in-white/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Since automotive sales are in the toilet and the sour taste of high gas prices still lingers, the unfortunate timing of General Motors' long-awaited Chevy Camaro has the armchair quarterbacks fervently debating its long-term viability. This, despite the fact that upon its release the Camaro will offer a little something for almost everyone throughout its various trim levels, a courageous attempt by GM to boost the iconic car's sales. However, many devoted Camaro enthusiasts will still be left out in the cold. This in part due to the vehicle's starting price as well as the many additional luxuries that drag down the Camaro's power-to-weight ratio. No one wants to pay MSRP for a vehicle they intend to strip. That's why GM Performance Parts will be offering a 2010 Chevrolet Camaro body in white. As a result, budget Camaro racers won't have to wait 10 years for a discounted used chassis and large race teams won't necessarily break the bank building a replacement when the driver inevitably stuffs the wall.

The Camaro BIW package will be a full body assembly structure available through GM Peformance Parts for $7,000 beginning in the first quarter of 2009. The chassis will not contain a VIN number, so there will be no means for street registration, as the body in white is reserved for race teams only. An application must be submitted to GM Performance Parts for approval before any transaction occurs. Follow the jump to see the press release in full.

Gallery: 2010 Chevrolet Camaro


Continue reading GM Performance Parts to offer new Camaro body in white

GM Performance Parts to offer new Camaro body in white originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 20 Dec 2008 13:51:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 Camaro2010 chevy camaro2010Camaro2010ChevyCamaroBIWBody in whiteBodyInWhiteCamaroCamaro body in whiteCamaroBodyInWhiteChevrolet CamaroChevroletCamaroGMGM Performance PartsGmPerformancePartsmuscle carMuscleCarSat, 20 Dec 2008 13:51:00 EST<![CDATA[F1 driver Mark Webber seriously injured in bike race]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/11/24/f1-driver-mark-webber-seriously-injured-in-bike-race/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/11/24/f1-driver-mark-webber-seriously-injured-in-bike-race/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/11/24/f1-driver-mark-webber-seriously-injured-in-bike-race/#commentsFiled under: ,



Many Formula 1 drivers maintain their endurance and competitive spirit in the off season through the sport of cycling. Australian F1 driver Mark Webber is one of those individuals and he lends his name to the Mark Webber Pure Tasmania Challenge, a five-day multidisciplinary event held annually on the island. Unfortunately, news has just come out that Webber has been seriously injured on the cycling portion of this year's event. Current details state that he has been airlifted to the hospital and a broken leg appears to be the worst of his injuries.

Mark Webber's injuries were sustained in a head on collision with a Nissan X-Trail SUV. The race runs on public roads, and there were apparently no provisions to separate the racers from traffic on this particular stage. The course also consisted of narrow, winding roads, which potentially caused interference with the extended vision of both parties involved. We wish him the best of luck in his recovery and hope he can work back to racing shape, for both open wheel and mountain bike events in the near future. Thanks for the tip Jack and Sammy.

[Source: ABC News Au | Photo: Mark Thompson/Getty]

F1 driver Mark Webber seriously injured in bike race originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 24 Nov 2008 07:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>F1Formula OneFormulaOneInjuryMark WebberMarkWebberRed Bull RacingRedBullRacingMon, 24 Nov 2008 07:57:00 EST<![CDATA[LA 2008: Braille Battery Nissan Altima Hybrid time attack hot rod]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/11/21/la-2008-braille-battery-nissan-altima-hybrid-time-attack-hot-ro/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/11/21/la-2008-braille-battery-nissan-altima-hybrid-time-attack-hot-ro/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/11/21/la-2008-braille-battery-nissan-altima-hybrid-time-attack-hot-ro/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Click above for high-res image gallery of the Braille Battery Nissan Altima Hybrid

On display at this year's LA Auto Show is a Nissan Altima Hybrid racecar aimed at pleasing the eco-radicals of California, and the folks over at Autoblog Green. The car was first released at the SEMA Show in Las Vegas, but the LA crowd is really more up its alley. This Altima is a direct result of the team at Braille Battery pairing up with Nissan North America and Universal Technical Institute. The "Hot Rod Hybrid," as it's called, is a construction aimed at competing in the new hybrid/electric class of the Redline Time Attack series. There are also plans to give it a run in the 2009 Cannonball Run/One Lap of America event. We know the car will be in good hands, too. Driver Blake Fuller is experienced with both front- and rear-wheel-drive vehicles, as exemplified by his finishes in the Pike's Peak hill climb and Formula D drifting events.

The Braille Battery Nissan Altima Hybrid is constructed with great attention to detail. The green eco-friendly DuPont paint initially catches your eye, but the best part can be found once the car passes by you. The exhaust outlets are formed out of leaf silhouettes. No environmentally conscious element on this vehicle is left unturned, even the race seats are a new product from Sparco containing recycled materials. The roof is also topped with battery recharging solar cells. To help the car be competitive on the racetrack, the internal combustion engine is tuned to run on E85 ethanol while being boosted by a Vortech electric supercharger. All in all, it is an intriguing experiment. We look forward to seeing how the car fairs under the wear and tear of many Time Attack battles. More details can be found in the press release after the jump. Also be sure to take a gander at the gallery below for SEMA shots provided by Braille Battery, along with those we captured in LA.

Gallery: Braille Battery Nissan Altima Hybrid

Continue reading LA 2008: Braille Battery Nissan Altima Hybrid time attack hot rod

LA 2008: Braille Battery Nissan Altima Hybrid time attack hot rod originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 21 Nov 2008 09:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Braille BatteryBrailleBatteryLos Angeles Auto ShowLosAngelesAutoShowNissan Altima HybridNissanAltimaHybridRedline Time AttackRedlineTimeAttackFri, 21 Nov 2008 09:29:00 EST<![CDATA[VIDEO: RMR Genesis Coupe runs, turns and poses for pictures]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/11/17/video-rmr-genesis-coupe-runs-turns-and-poses-for-pictures/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/11/17/video-rmr-genesis-coupe-runs-turns-and-poses-for-pictures/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/11/17/video-rmr-genesis-coupe-runs-turns-and-poses-for-pictures/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Click above for a high-res gallery of the RMR Genesis Coupe

Rhys Millen Racing's Hyundai Genesis Coupe enjoyed some time in the spotlight at SEMA, but it's hard to see the potential of the new coupe sitting stationary on the show stand. So RMR brought out the Genesis Coupe to take up space in their pit during the Red Bull Drifting World Championship and the crew at Streetfire.net captured some video of the Genesis running around, posing or pics. In the clip, the pilot of the coupe never put his boot down, but it still sounded mean with a deep gurgle and the Turbonetics turbocharger whirring at low rpms. In person, the build also came across as very well constructed with a lot of attention to detail. Regardless of the advertised build time, it was carefully pieced together by a knowledgeable bunch.

Be sure and check out the galleries below for the whole collection of RMR Genesis Coupe images and hit the jump to check out the video.

Gallery: RMR Hyundai Genesis Coupe


Gallery: SEMA 2008: Rhys Millen Hyundai Genesis Coupe


Gallery: RMR Hyundai Genesis Coupe

Continue reading VIDEO: RMR Genesis Coupe runs, turns and poses for pictures

VIDEO: RMR Genesis Coupe runs, turns and poses for pictures originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 17 Nov 2008 09:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>coupegenesisgenesis coupeGenesisCoupehyundai genesis coupeHyundaiGenesisCouperhys millenrhys millen racingRhysMillenRhysMillenRacingrmr genesis coupeRmrGenesisCoupeMon, 17 Nov 2008 09:01:00 EST<![CDATA[2009 Nissan 370Z rolls out early in So. Cal]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/11/16/2009-nissan-370z-rolls-out-early-in-so-cal/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/11/16/2009-nissan-370z-rolls-out-early-in-so-cal/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/11/16/2009-nissan-370z-rolls-out-early-in-so-cal/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Click above for high-res gallery of the 2009 Nissan 370Z live

As a rain of ash fell on most of Southern California the crew from Inside Line set out to introduce enthusiasts to Nissan's new sports coupe, the 2009 Nissan 370Z. The gathering took place at the advertising offices of Chiat/Day, which supplied a striking background for the next generation Z model. First impressions of the 370Z in person were no different than those formed after viewing the initial images. The design intentions, to blend between the outgoing 350Z and stylings pulled from the Z cars of yesteryear, was especially apparent. However, it was certainly strengthened when the new model was parked in close proximity to examples of both the Z33 and its forebears vehicles. Getting a real life view of the new Z was nice, but a vehicle is best defined by the ease of human/machine interaction. The 370Z meet and greet offered the first opportunity to poke around in the coupe. Unfortunately, this blogger did not get a chance to peek inside the vehicle before the Inside Line crew put her on the spot for an opinion. The end result of the interrogation can now be seen on Inside Line's preview video.

After breaking away from the Inside Line crew I eventually secured a spot behind the steering wheel of the Z34. I was most curious about the side view offered by the larger rear fender and C-pillar combination, and as I suspected, the view was non-existent. The rear hatch also angled more sharply than the 350Z, which combined with the 370Z's smaller physical dimensions, meant less space for piling up junk in the trunk. The trunk held other surprise: an on-off switch for a rear differential cooler pump was hiding underneath the mat. The cooler addition is a typical Japanese trick for protecting sporty vehicles from abusive drivers, also known as members of the press. A shiny anodized fitting for an oil cooler was also spotted in the Z's front fender well. The extra hardware prompted rumors and questions about NISMO upgrades, but currently there are no answers on that front. One question that did receive attention was aimed at hashing out more details on the downshift rev-match option. According to those on hand, it will be a feature available on sport models and will operate through feedback on clutch engagement, brake pedal position, rpm, throttle position and gear selection.

Check the galleries below for everything we've amassed in the lead-up to the new 2009 Nissan 370Z's introduction, which should tied you over until the official unveiling at next week's LA Auto Show.

Gallery: 2009 Nissan 370Z - Early Reveal


Gallery: 2010 Nissan 370Z


[Source: Inside Line]

Continue reading 2009 Nissan 370Z rolls out early in So. Cal

2009 Nissan 370Z rolls out early in So. Cal originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 16 Nov 2008 02:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Images of the all new 2009 Nissan 370Z have been trickling out of Nissan for the past few weeks as a lead up to the car's official unveiling at the 2008 LA Auto Show. Details have been mostly speculation thus far, but now some of the rumors can be laid to rest, thanks to information in a photo caption from the LA Auto Show's website. The new Z will reverse the recent automotive trend of bloated model redesigns by featuring a reduced wheelbase and more lightweight body pieces. We also now know that its VQ37 engine will put down exactly 332 horsepower. That is a couple more ponies than are currently produced by the same engine inside the Infiniti G37. For those who like to rest their left foot while driving, a 7-speed automatic transmission will also finally be offered. And for those who enjoy some fancy footwork, but don't have a perfectly calibrated heel-toe, a rev-matching downshift system will be available for the 6-speed manual. Thanks for the tip, RDS!

Gallery: 2010 Nissan 370Z


Gallery: 2010 Nissan 370Z uncloaked


[Source: LA Auto Show]

Nissan 370Z officially rated at 332 HP originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 11 Nov 2008 09:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Driving around the streets of Los Angeles, it is easy to spot a plethora of Honda Civics attempting to achieve the appearance of the world's fastest economy car. Huge shopping cart wings, monster tachometers and racing stripes often highlight the package. Legitimate world record speed isn't achieved on any city street, however, and not with any aerodynamic packages reminiscent of shopping. It is achieved on the Bonneville Salt Flats in northwestern Utah. The latest records indicate that there is only one car with the claim to the title of World's Fastest Honda Civic. That car happens to belong to automotive writer Richard Holdener and it is currently available for sale on eBay.

Richard's Lucas Oil sponsored 1999 Honda Civic Si ran a top speed of 227.7 mph back in August of this year. Despite the Civic's ability to produce 728 hp at 29 psi of boost, the record was achieved with only 15.2 psi. Inherently weak stock Honda CV joints were apparently the hold-up in laying down the full power band. It certainly wasn't due to any failure of the engine components, since the parts list reads like a roll call of some of the best names in the American Honda tuning game. Any small-displacement four cylinder engine tuned to output in excess of 700 ponies has to be stocked to the gills with improvements. The cost to own this piece of history, and the potential to make some of your own, starts at $21,777.77. The car's located in Las Vegas, Nevada, so those must be some lucky 7's in the price.

Thanks for the tip Srihari!

Gallery: World's Fastest Civic


[Source: eBay Motors]

eBay Find of the Day: World's fastest Honda Civic originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 08 Nov 2008 09:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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The first issue hit newsstands in June 1985, and after 23 years in the game, Turbo & High-Tech Performance Magazine is rumored to be at the end of its rope. In its late 90's heyday, Turbo Magazine boasted over 150 content-filled pages in each issue during the the import drag racing boom. And the small displacement engines of Japanese sports and compact cars provided the perfect platform to show off turbocharging technology. The complexities of a turbocharged vehicle used to intimidate many consumers and engine builders, but the vision of Turbo Magazine founder Kipp Kington brought the technology within reach of the average enthusiast.

But in recent years, the pages of the magazine have dwindled significantly. Even with an increased demand for smaller displacement, forced induction engines, Turbo has been left behind for shark bait. Its widespread distribution has been reduced to a trickle and finding an issue of Turbo on the rack became as rare as spotting Sasquatch. If the rumor holds true, we will be sorry to see it go, but its place in automotive history will not be forgotten.

Rumormill: Turbo & High-Tech Performance Magazine gets the axe originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 31 Oct 2008 07:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Source InterlinkSourceInterlinkTurbo High-Tech Performance MagazineTurbo MagazineTurboHigh-techPerformanceMagazineTurboMagazineFri, 31 Oct 2008 07:58:00 EST<![CDATA[Rahal Letterman BMW ALMS GT2 program gets new shoes from Rays]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/10/24/rahal-letterman-bmw-alms-gt2-program-gets-new-shoes-from-rays/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/10/24/rahal-letterman-bmw-alms-gt2-program-gets-new-shoes-from-rays/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/10/24/rahal-letterman-bmw-alms-gt2-program-gets-new-shoes-from-rays/#commentsFiled under: , ,



Earlier this year Rahal Letterman Racing announced its partnership with BMW to bring M3s back to ALMS GT2 in 2009. The Rahal Letterman deal is a new venture for BMW, putting its ALMS race operations in the hands of an unfamiliar crew. While Rahal Letterman is a proven open wheel race team, they are not one of the existing ALMS teams with prior BMW sports car racing experience. It is an interesting match-up that will be exciting to watch next year.

To keep in step with this fresh-faced approach, Rahal Letterman Racing has now also announced a partnership with Rays Engineering, which will supply wheels to the RLR ALMS program. Widespread use of Rays' wheels has yet to take hold throughout the world amongst the professional ranks, but they have been tried and tested for years in every type of event found in Japan. Rays Engineering is best known for their Volk Racing wheel line and the lightweight TE37 model in particular. They have established a reputation for classic design, combined with a high strength, in featherlight package. Demand for their designs has also garnered them the opportunity to supply the stock wheels for the new Nissan GT-R.

The complete Rahal Letterman, BMW and Rays Engineering package will no doubt be a dynamic force in the next ALMS season. All three organizations have a lot of respective racing history between them, and they all certainly want to prove their worth in the total equation. They have the knowledge to be competitive from the get-go, so no teeth cutting should be necessary. Thanks for the tip Andy!

[Source: MotorWorldHype]

Rahal Letterman BMW ALMS GT2 program gets new shoes from Rays originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 24 Oct 2008 15:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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This past weekend Grassroots Motorsports welcomed 51 vehicles to Gainsville, FL for their $2008 Challenge. Constrained by the limited vehicle build budget, the entry list was chalked full of the popular weekend racer, the Mazda Miata. A few first generation Mazda RX-7s also filled out the list, most likely due to cheap availability and past Challenge success. The Honda CRX was another popular choice, with its proven reputation as a solid budget racer. While tiny, nimble chassis were the building block of choice, many did not stick with their vehicle's original power plant. A Miata and 240SX came equipped with Japanese and American V8 power respectively. An RX-7 even opted for BMW's inline-six over the original oil smoking rotary. The guys at GRM kept a live blog of the event, so we won't spoil the details. Just follow the read link to find out the results, or wait for the magazine to hit newsstands.

For those on the West Coast itching to get in the game, Grassroots Motorsports has teamed up with SDRev.com to bring a new event series to San Diego in 2009. The San Diego Grand Challenge will be a seven event series of one concourse and three autocross and drag race competitions. It is a concept similar to the annual GRM Challenge, but with a built budget limited to a mere $1000.

[Source: Grassroots Motorsports]

Grassroots Motorsports $2008 Challenge is in the books originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 10 Oct 2008 09:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Click above for high-res gallery

Many people choose their car because it is an extension of themselves, their personality, their style and their passion. These folks tend to forge a deep attachment with their automobile, an inanimate object void of emotion. Despite that fact, a vehicle has wants and needs of its own, and some can be more demanding than a small child. As with any parent, there are curious automobile owners who often wonder, where did my baby come from? Recently 134 Chevrolet Cobalt fans got the chance to find out.

Back on September 27th, GM opened up the Lordstown, OH plant for 85 lucky owners and their guests. It was a rare chance for many to view the inner workings of an automotive assembly line, without a need to join the UAW. Event attendees received a full facility tour, on site lunch meet and greet, and of course freebee swag. Not surprisingly, the majority of the Cobalt fan base stemmed from the website CobaltSS.net.

The SS is about the only Chevy compact that can muster up an emotional following, as evident in the video of John Heinricy tossing the 2008 model around the Nurburgring. The turbocharged ECOtech powered econo car is just one of the models currently produced at the Lordstown plant. The massive facility is also slated to make the Cobalt replacement, the Cruze. Check out the gallery below to view photos from the event.

Gallery: Cobalt owner's visit Lordstown

Continue reading Cobalt owners take their cars home to Lordstown

Cobalt owners take their cars home to Lordstown originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 07 Oct 2008 19:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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In these tight economic times, the project car budget typically gets left on the cutting room floor. Fortunately for addicted enthusiasts there are resources, such as Grassroots Motorsports Magazine, to prove that it is still possible to put together a prize winning ride for only a few bills. Just in time to save the wavering automotive habit of frugal individuals comes the Kumho Tires Grassroots Motorsports $2008 Challenge. For the past nine years, the magazine crew dedicated to amateur motorsports has organized an annual competition of cars built around a budget equal to the current year in dollars. It may sound impossibly restrictive, but some competitors even come in under the cap. The 2007 champion, a Chevrolet Corvette sucker-car, managed to top the field for less than two grand. The monetary limitation forces creative and innovative back-yard engineering amongst the entrants.

The $2008 Challenge will take place October 3 - 4 at Gainesville Raceway in Gainesville, FL. The cars will spend a grueling two days dueling it out on the autocross course, drag strip and even the parking lot for a car show. Competitors should also be brushed up on their accounting skills since they are required to keep an itemized list of all their expenses. This detail keeps the event fair and also offers the magazine's readership inspiration to create their own budget racers. Follow the jump to for the official press release.

[Source: Grassroots Motorsports]

Continue reading Grassroots Motorsports $2008 Challenge headed to Florida

Grassroots Motorsports $2008 Challenge headed to Florida originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 23 Sep 2008 15:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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