Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com/media/feedlogo.gif Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com en-us Copyright 2008 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Scooter-geek's dream ride: Yamaha Vino scooter, fully farkled]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/05/08/scooter-geeks-dream-ride-yamaha-vino-scooter-fully-farkled/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/05/08/scooter-geeks-dream-ride-yamaha-vino-scooter-fully-farkled/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/05/08/scooter-geeks-dream-ride-yamaha-vino-scooter-fully-farkled/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,


Though it's usually the adventure touring crowd that excels at turning their motorcycles into rolling technology test-beds, we've recently run across a Yamaha Vino scooter that has been fully farkled. Featuring an on-board computer based around a VIA mini ITX form factor motherboard that's cleverly been hidden under the stock Vino's seat, this rolling geek-mobile packs in WiFi, Bluetooth, USB, GPS, FM radio, a TV tuner and a front-mounted camera in its diminutive frame. With the full-spec computer, pretty much anything should be possible right from the road using this scooter. While this is certainly a cool project, we have a few questions regarding its durability. How long will the acrylic plate that makes the structure for the computer hold up? Perhaps most importantly, how long will the scooter's battery be able to power all this technology? In the name of science, of course, we graciously offer our services for a road trip on the machine to find the answer to these all-important questions. Thanks for the tip, jared!

[Source: Thought Lab]

 

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]]>farklefarkledgeek scootergeek-scooterGeekScooteryamaha vinoyamaha-vinoYamahaVino2008-05-08T19:00:00+00:00<![CDATA[AC Schnitzer does the 1-series cabrio]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/05/07/ac-schnitzer-does-the-1-series-cabrio/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/05/07/ac-schnitzer-does-the-1-series-cabrio/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/05/07/ac-schnitzer-does-the-1-series-cabrio/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Click above for a high-res gallery of the ACS1 Cabrio.

In typical AC Schnitzer fashion, the German tuner wasted no time getting to work on the new BMW 1-series cabrio. Then again, it didn't take much effort to port over the work AC did for the standard 1-series coupe to its softer, drop-top sibling.

The ACS1 Cabrio package includes all the Schitzerfied exterior elements (new front bumper, rear bumper with diffuser and side skirts) and interior bits (silver carbon fiber trim, aluminum pedal and shifter, etc.) you'd expect. More importantly, AC is offering tuning packages for every model in the 1-series lineup, including the 135i, 120d and 123d. The two diesel mills get a bump in power to 200 hp and 240 hp respectively, with the 135i outputting 360 hp through the use of a revised exhaust and some ECU tweaks. Naturally, AC is offering up a plethora of wheel options, sized from 17- to 19-inches.

Gallery: AC Schnitzer ACS1 BMW 1-series cabrio


[Source: AC Schnitzer]

 

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]]>ac schnitzeracs1 cabrioAcs1CabrioAcSchnitzerbmw 1-series convertibleBmw1-seriesConvertible2008-05-07T19:43:00+00:00<![CDATA[BRABUS tunes new Mercedes-Benz SL to reliably insane levels]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/05/07/brabus-tunes-new-mercedes-benz-sl-to-reliably-insane-levels/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/05/07/brabus-tunes-new-mercedes-benz-sl-to-reliably-insane-levels/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/05/07/brabus-tunes-new-mercedes-benz-sl-to-reliably-insane-levels/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


Click above for a high-res gallery of the BRABUS SL

"BRABUS" might as well be German for, "Hey, why not?" This would seem to be the question its engineers ask themselves before they stuff ludicrous amounts of power under the hoods of Mercedes-Benz cars and trucks. This behavior is well-documented, and it continues unabated with the arrival of MB's new SL. Full wheel/tire, interior, and styling packages are a given. Backing up those enhanced looks is an assortment of tuning packages capable of providing more power than even Montgomery Scott could ever plead for.

The SV12 S Biturbo engine swap appears to have been created by someone with a severe, pathological hatred for tires. This is the same engine used in the Brabus Bullit, and it dishes out a predictably ridiculous 720 horsepower and 973 lb-ft of torque. The latter number is electronically restrained to a mere 811 lb-ft., and a top speed of well over 200 mph comes with the territory. Not interested in the full swap? No worries, BRABUS has your back. SL 65 AMG drivers can opt for the T 65 S package, which bumps the stock V12 Biturbo to 705 hp/811 lb-ft. There's a solution for the all-motor SL 63 AMG as well that packs on an additional 40 horses over stock. This pattern continues right on down the line -- even the "lowly" V6-powered cars can be tuned to deliver 327 hp/ 310 lb-ft. Bonkers. Er, BRABUS, rather.

Gallery: 2009 BRABUS SL


[Source: BRABUS]

Continue reading BRABUS tunes new Mercedes-Benz SL to reliably insane levels

 

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]]>brabus slBrabusSlmercedes-benz slMercedes-benzSlsl 280sl 500sl 550sl 600sl 63 amgsl 65 amgSl280sl350Sl500Sl550Sl600Sl63AmgSl65AmgSV12 SSv12S2008-05-07T14:57:00+00:00<![CDATA[Covertech car cover does the rolling for you]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/05/05/covertech-car-cover-does-the-rolling-for-you/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/05/05/covertech-car-cover-does-the-rolling-for-you/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/05/05/covertech-car-cover-does-the-rolling-for-you/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

The Covertech Automotive Car Cover protects your car from every element, even -- according to its maker -- "malicious intent." When you're ready to take the cover off, apparently all you need to do is stand back and watch. The cover retracts automatically into a "briefcase-sized" enclosure in a trunk or hatchback. There's even one for motorcycles that fits in a "Kleenex-sized" box.

The creator envisions carmakers eventually integrating the automatic car cover into the design of their cars. Sounds neat, but when you want to cover your car up again, you'll need good old manual labor for that. Personally, we can't see needing to cover and uncover your car often enough in one day to make such a device necessary, but perhaps there are folks with the need for easy incognito. But while it's hard to tell from the video, the answer is yes, it probably will make your bumper look big.

Thanks for the tip, Yash!

[Source: The Earth Times]

 

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]]>car coverscar protectionCarCoversCarProtectioncovertechgadgetstech2008-05-05T18:28:00+00:00<![CDATA[Apocalypse Preparation: Geiger Ford F650]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/05/02/apocalypse-preperation-geiger-ford-f650/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/05/02/apocalypse-preperation-geiger-ford-f650/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/05/02/apocalypse-preperation-geiger-ford-f650/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Click above for a high-res gallery of the Geiger Ford F650.

When the fit hits the shan, we've got two phone calls to make: our Cayman Islands-based banker and Geiger cars. For 99,000 euro we can protect our loved ones while punching through some of the most wicked terrain this side of Dakar in the robust luxury of the German tuner's interpretation of the Ford F-650. Weighing in at 5.2-tons and stretching over 21-feet long, the Geigerfied uber-truck finds motivation from a tweaked 6.7-liter Cummins turbodiesel putting out 320 hp and 738 lb.-ft. of torque. Grunt is shoveled to a six-speed Allison 3000 automatic gearbox and on down to a biggie-sized driveshaft that powers the four, 22-inch rear wheels. Both the suspension and brakes are air-powered, and if we're willing to shell out a bit more cash, we can get chrome fuel tanks, leather, navigation and, surprisingly, gull-wing doors. We think this would compliment our imaginary post-apocalyptic stable that also includes our all-time favorite RV, the Wothahellizat.

Gallery: Geiger Ford F650


[Source: Tuning News]

 

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]]>carsf-650ford f-650ford f650FordF-650FordF650geigergeiger carsgeiger cars ford f650GeigerCarsGeigerCarsFordF6502008-05-02T14:57:00+00:00<![CDATA[Obsidian SG1: 800 hp, twin-supercharged uber-Stang]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/05/01/obsidian-sg1-800-hp-twin-supercharged-uber-stang/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/05/01/obsidian-sg1-800-hp-twin-supercharged-uber-stang/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/05/01/obsidian-sg1-800-hp-twin-supercharged-uber-stang/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Click above for high-res gallery of the Obsidian SG1

We first saw this insane Mustang at SEMA in 2006 where it stood out among the hundreds of other customized cars. It was recently highlighted in the March issue of DuPont Registry as the Publisher's Choice, and we now have the full specs on the car as well as some gorgeous high resolution studio shots in our gallery below. There's too many details to list, but highlights include a twin-supercharged and intercooled 392ci V8 producing 800+ horsepower on pump gas, as well as fully custom bodywork, a 5-speed manual transmission with paddle shifters, hidden roll cage, and a 3000-watt sound system. Apparently the car is for sale, and since only one will ever be built we're guessing the asking price is pretty hefty. Visit the the Obsidian SG1's website for more information and complete specs on the car as well as photos of the build process, videos, and you can even make an offer on the car.

Gallery: Obsidian SG One Mustang

 

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]]>1967 Ford Mustang1967FordMustangObsidian MustangObsidian SG OneObsidian SG One MustangObsidianMustangObsidianSgOneObsidianSgOneMustang2008-05-01T15:30:00+00:00<![CDATA[Loder1899 builds off Jaguar XF's strong points]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/05/01/loder1899-builds-off-jaguar-xfs-strong-points/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/05/01/loder1899-builds-off-jaguar-xfs-strong-points/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/05/01/loder1899-builds-off-jaguar-xfs-strong-points/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Click above for a gallery of the Loder1899 Jaguar XF.

Unlikely the atrocity that Galpin performed on the new Jaguar XF, the German tuners at Loder1899 recognized the cat's strong points and built a set of tasteful mods around it. The package from Loder comes equipped with a new front bumper, rear diffuser and trunk lid wing, a suspension setup that lowers the XF by 35mm and a choice of either 20- or 21-inch rollers. Across the pond, buyers can opt for the 2.7-liter V6 diesel, so Loder has employed a few tweaks on the oilburner to increase output to 249 hp (from 207) and torque to 385 lb.-ft. All that kit will cost you a cool 8,000 euro in Germany, not including assembly and painting. Hit the jump for the full press release.

Gallery: Loder1899 Jaguar XF


[Source: Loder1899 via WCF]

Continue reading Loder1899 builds off Jaguar XF's strong points

 

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]]>jaguarjaguar xfJaguarXfloder1899xf2008-05-01T08:57:00+00:00<![CDATA[Prodrive tuning the Alfa Romeo Brera S in June]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/04/30/prodrive-tuning-the-alfa-romeo-brera-s-in-june/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/04/30/prodrive-tuning-the-alfa-romeo-brera-s-in-june/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/04/30/prodrive-tuning-the-alfa-romeo-brera-s-in-june/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Click above for a high-res gallery of the Alfa Romeo Brera.

Prodrive is in the process of developing a performance package for the Alfa Romeo Brera S, the first collaboration between the two since Prodrive campaigned a pair of factory-built Alfa 155s in the British Touring Car Championship in 1995. Based off the 2.2 JTS and 3.2 V6 models, between 250 and 300 special edition models will be released. The majority of the focus will be spent on the suspension, aero enhancements and (thankfully) some weight savings. 19-inch rollers are expected to fill the wheel wells, while a handful of driver-oriented improvements, along with some S-badging, will find its way inside. Beyond that, details are scarce, but anytime you mix one-part unobtainable Italian with another part British racing legends, good things are on the way.

Gallery: Geneva 2008: Alfa Romeo Brera


[Source: Italiaspeed]

 

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]]>alfa romeoalfa romeo brera prodriveAlfaRomeoAlfaRomeoBreraProdrivebreraprodrive2008-04-30T10:24:00+00:00<![CDATA[Cadillac CTS convertible: American coachbuilding at its finest]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/04/29/cadillac-cts-convertible-american-coachbuilding-at-its-finest/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/04/29/cadillac-cts-convertible-american-coachbuilding-at-its-finest/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/04/29/cadillac-cts-convertible-american-coachbuilding-at-its-finest/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



While Cadillac busies itself with a 2-door version of the new CTS sedan, the folks over at Coach Builders, Ltd have been busy taking their tops off. The boulevardier CTS gets an insulated, hydraulically-powered roof fitted with a heated glass rear window and cloth headliner. The top also comes in several colors. Judging by this pic, it also looks like a fair bit of work has gone into making the car look good with the top down. No word on what happens to trunk space, however.

It'll cost you more than a few quarters -- $19,000 gets the job done in eight weeks -- but that's the price of exclusivity, right? It's also employs a manual release, but these things happen when you're a style pioneer. We'd like to see pics of the car with the top up, because we wonder if this could be the first cloth-topped Caddy truly fit for the younger set.

[Source: Inside Line]

 

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]]>cadillaccadillac ctscadillac cts-vCadillacCtsCadillacCts-vcoach builders ltdcoachbuildcoachbuildercoachbuildersCoachBuildersLtdcoachbuildingcoachbuiltconvertibleconvertibles2008-04-29T10:28:00+00:00<![CDATA[Five-Oh fanatics: Saleen now offering 302 crate engines]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/04/29/five-oh-fanatics-saleen-now-offering-302-crate-engines/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/04/29/five-oh-fanatics-saleen-now-offering-302-crate-engines/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/04/29/five-oh-fanatics-saleen-now-offering-302-crate-engines/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


Click on the image to enlarge

We're rather pleased that Saleen has seen fit to offer their excellent 302 cubic inch V8 as a crate engine. Having driven several Mustangs equipped with the powerplant , we feel qualified to say that this is an engine more than worthy of carrying on the 5.0 legacy. If you want take-no-prisoners style horsepower, consider opting for the supercharged model, which we found almost too powerful for every day use in the Saleen S302E Mustang. Perhaps a more streetable choice would be the naturally-aspirated version that we sampled in the Saleen/Parnelli Jones Limited Edition Mustang.

Regardless of your choice of induction, the base engine will have started life as one of Ford's 4.6 liter modular blocks. After being bored and stroked to the requisite five liters, the block receives bigger injectors, ported aluminum heads, performance camshafts, forged-aluminum pistons, forged-steel connecting rods and a forged-steel crank. Power levels range from 390 to 580 horsepower, depending on your choice of options. You can peruse the complete press release after the break.

[Source: Saleen]

Continue reading Five-Oh fanatics: Saleen now offering 302 crate engines

 

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]]>5.05.0 mustang5.0 mustang gt5.0 mustang v85.0-mustang5.0-v85.0liter5.0mustang5.0MustangGt5.0MustangV8parnelli jonesparnelli jones mustangparnelli-jones-mustangparnellijonesParnelliJonesMustangsaleensaleen 302saleen 5.0saleen cratesaleen mustangsaleen s302 extremesaleen-302saleen-5.0saleen-crateSaleen302Saleen5.0SaleenCrateSaleenMustangSaleenS302Extreme2008-04-29T09:58:00+00:00<![CDATA[GT-R tuning update: Amuse breaks 600 hp, tranny woes at MCR]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/04/28/gt-r-tuning-update-amuse-breaks-600-hp-tranny-woes-at-mcr/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/04/28/gt-r-tuning-update-amuse-breaks-600-hp-tranny-woes-at-mcr/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/04/28/gt-r-tuning-update-amuse-breaks-600-hp-tranny-woes-at-mcr/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



With all the news surrounding the Nissan GT-R V-Spec, the progress on the Godzilla tuning front has been largely overlooked. According to a recent article in Japan's BestCar magazine, the Amuse team has broken the 600 hp mark (at the crank) with a combination of a high-flow exhaust and a tweaked ECU. There were no details on how the GT-R's computer was hacked, but Amuse was able to up the boost to 18 psi, resulting in an increase in output to 602.73 hp and 576.95 lb.-ft. of torque.

However, tuners are beginning to question how the stock gearbox will hold up under the strain of additional output. MCR, which brought out its GT-R for filming of Hot Version 93, has been exacting its own brand of punishment on its tuned GT-R and is worried how long the transmission will last. It's not clear if the tranny woes are due to the clutch plates or something else, but it's been all but confirmed that dual-clutch gearboxes have an issue with additional torque since the friction surface is much smaller than on a stock (read: single plate) clutch. MCR's best guesstimate is that the stock 'box might only be able to hold up to the additional power for 12 months before problems begin arise. Now, we're particularly interested in how Nissan is beefing up the tranny on the V-Spec to handle its rumored 600 hp.

[Sources: GTRBlog, NissanGTRProto]

 

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]]>amuseamuse GT-Ramuse gtrAmuseGt-rAmuseGtrgt-rgtrmcrmcr gt-rmcr gtrMcrGt-rMcrGtrnissannissan gt-rnissan gtrNissanGt-rNissanGtrtuning2008-04-28T18:29:00+00:00<![CDATA[Hyundai i10 Ice Cream van hits sweet spot]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/04/28/hyundai-i10-ice-cream-van-hits-sweet-spot/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/04/28/hyundai-i10-ice-cream-van-hits-sweet-spot/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/04/28/hyundai-i10-ice-cream-van-hits-sweet-spot/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,


Click to view more of the Hyundai i10 ice cream van

We can come up with all manner of criteria for evaluating a car at any level: design, performance, spec sheet, ride, features, technology, value... but the one factor that trumps all others, what it all really comes down to, is how it appeals to our inner child. At the heart of it, that's why we love Lamborghinis and HUMMERs and Mustangs... and this particular Hyundai i10. It's just a treat.

The ice-cream van conversion wasn't made for Good Humor, although it certainly put us in that state of mind. It was created as a promotional tool for the British launch of the i10 by auto innovator Andy Saunders, the same guy who gave us the neo-Picasso Citroen 2CV and the ground-hugging Fiat 126, among others. While the Poole, England-based customizer has come up with many creative designs before, we doubt any of them would get children running after it down the street like the Pied Piper. Have a look at the images in the gallery below and pick out something delicious on us.

Gallery: Hyundai i10 ice cream van


[Source: theCarfanatic.com and AutoTrader.co.uk]

 

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]]>good humorGoodHumorhyundai i10hyundai i10 ice cream truckhyundai i10 ice cream vanhyundai ice cream vanHyundaiI10HyundaiI10IceCreamTruckHyundaiI10IceCreamVanHyundaiIceCreamVanice cream truckice cream vanIceCreamTruckIceCreamVan2008-04-28T15:26:00+00:00<![CDATA[Hennessey preparing first production Dodge Viper ACR for One Lap]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/04/24/hennessey-preparing-first-production-dodge-viper-acr-for-one-lap/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/04/24/hennessey-preparing-first-production-dodge-viper-acr-for-one-lap/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/04/24/hennessey-preparing-first-production-dodge-viper-acr-for-one-lap/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


Click above to view Hennessey's Viper ACR upon delivery

Gearheads across the country are crossing off days on the calendar until May 2 when One Lap of America returns. The annual event, for those unfamiliar, takes participants across the country on a Cannonball-style rally competing on racetracks and road courses scattered along the way. Dodge always makes a strong showing at One Lap, and the team at the company's SRT workshop planned on entering two vehicles this year: a Challenger and a Viper. Time and resources being limited however, Dodge SRT turned to noted Viper tuner John Hennessey to help prepare a brand spankin' new Viper ACR - unveiled just this past November in LA - for the event. To that end, Dodge sent the first Viper ACR off the assembly line to Hennessey, who is now undertaking the task of preparing the car for the race next week. With SRT chief Erich Heuschle driving the Challenger, multiple SCCA national champion and SRT engineer Chris Winkler will be piloting the Viper. Considering that, as John H. points out, Hennessey Vipers came in second place the past two years running, the new ACR promises to put up a good snake fight for the honors this time around.

Gallery: Hennessey Viper ACR - One Lap of America

Gallery: 2008 Dodge Viper SRT10 ACR

[Source: Viper Alley]

 

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]]>dodge srt one lapdodge viper acrDodgeSrtOneLapDodgeViperAcrhennesseyhennessey one lapHennesseyOneLapone lap of americaOneLapOfAmericaviper acr hennesseyViperAcrHennessey2008-04-24T08:58:00+00:00<![CDATA[Skirts & Spoilers: Sharp gets sharper with D3 Cadillac CTS]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/04/23/skirts-and-spoilers-sharp-gets-sharper-with-d3-cadillac-cts/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/04/23/skirts-and-spoilers-sharp-gets-sharper-with-d3-cadillac-cts/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/04/23/skirts-and-spoilers-sharp-gets-sharper-with-d3-cadillac-cts/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Click above to view the D3 Cadillac CTS in hi-res

Push comes to shove, the Cadillac CTS is one of the sharpest-looking sports sedans on the market. But that doesn't mean that room for improvement is missing... subjective though that may be. D3 Cadillac definitely sees it that way, and to that end has come out with a full aero kit for the crisp Caddy.

D3's kit places a heavy emphasis on downforce, fitting a front splitter, roof spoiler, deck spoiler and diffuser to be extra sure that the CTS stays planted on the boulevard. The kit also includes a new front end with bigger vents for keeping the engine and front brakes cool, plus side skirts, a shiny new grille and, of course, big ol' rims to cap it all off. A 'Vette-powered CTS-V she ain't, but the D3 kit enhances the CTS' lines and improves airflow for those wanting a sharper Caddy than the ones down at the country club. Check out the info in the press release after the jump and the images in the gallery below for all the angles. We've already asked the models in the shots to move so we could see the car better, but they aren't budging.

Gallery: D3 Cadillac CTS


[Source: D3 Cadillac via Serious Wheels]

Continue reading Skirts & Spoilers: Sharp gets sharper with D3 Cadillac CTS

 

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]]>cadillac ctscadillac cts body kitCadillacCtsCadillacCtsBodyKitd3 cadillac ctsd3 research designD3CadillacCtsD3ResearchDesign2008-04-23T15:58:00+00:00<![CDATA[Scarilicious: Edo Competition <strike>599 Fiorano</strike> 630 Scuderia]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/04/23/scarilicious-edo-competition-strike-599-fiorano-strike-630-s/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/04/23/scarilicious-edo-competition-strike-599-fiorano-strike-630-s/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/04/23/scarilicious-edo-competition-strike-599-fiorano-strike-630-s/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Click to view the Edo 630 Scuderia in hi-res

Say what you will about Edo and the things it does to supercars, but you've got to hand it to them: it takes a lot of nether-regional fortitude to try and improve on the most finely honed and intricately developed performance machines. The latest results of Edo's endeavors is the 630 Scuderia.

Although you wouldn't recognize it from the name, the 630 Scuderia is based on the Ferrari 599 GTB Fiorano. Using Edo's existing 630 GTB - whose engine more closely resembles the high-strung unit from the FXX than the "stock" 599's Enzo-derived powerplant - and upgrades it with a new aerodynamic kit designed to optimize the cooling and airflow around the vehicle. There's a sharply-styled front end with bigger vents that help cool the brakes, with an integrated lip spoiler increasing downforce. Underneath and around back, a new aerodynamic undertray and widened six-blade diffuser help optimize stability, aided by the new side skirts. All the components are made from carbon fiber, cutting curb weight down by 110 lbs.

Check out the images in the gallery below - and the press release after the jump - to make up your own mind: stylish and functional enhancement or sacrilegious defilement?

Gallery: Edo Competition Ferrari 630 Scuderia


[Source: Edo Competition]

Continue reading Scarilicious: Edo Competition 599 Fiorano 630 Scuderia

 

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]]>custom ferrariCustomFerrariedo 630 scuderiaedo competitionedo ferrariedo ferrari 599 gtb fioranoEdo630ScuderiaEdoCompetitionEdoFerrariEdoFerrari599GtbFiorano2008-04-23T11:00:00+00:00<![CDATA[Suzuki SX4t: "t" is for turbo, courtesy of Road Race Motorsports]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/04/22/road-race-motorsports-releasing-turbo-kit-for-suzuki-sx4/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/04/22/road-race-motorsports-releasing-turbo-kit-for-suzuki-sx4/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/04/22/road-race-motorsports-releasing-turbo-kit-for-suzuki-sx4/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Click above for a high-res gallery fo the Suzuki SX4t.

When Suzuki launched the SX4, we couldn't help thinking that the oddly shaped hatch had some aftermarket potential. Suzuki seemed to think the same thing and tapped Road Race Motorsports, the renowned SoCal tuning firm, to create a one-off concept for the Chicago Auto Show. Road Race decided that it could do better than just some wheels, brakes, a body kit and a few engine mods, so its created the SX4t, a turbocharged version of the all-wheel-drive hatch that could mark the beginning of Suzuki's ascendancy into the aftermarket.

Road Race fitted a Mitsubishi 16G GT3 turbocharger onto the 2.0-liter four-pot, which delivers seven pounds of boost and increases output to 221 hp and 208 lb.-ft. of torque, a substantial bump over the stock mill's 143 hp and 136 lb.-ft. of torque. According to Suzuki, that should drop 0-60 times to under seven seconds when equipped with the five-speed manual.

More impressive, however, is that Suzuki is giving Road Race its blessing and that could mean that the turbo upgrade, along with plenty of other go-fast bits, could be available from your local Suzuki dealership. The cost of the turbo kit, with all the necessary plumbing, will come in at relatively steep $5,400 when it goes on sale this June. Suzuki estimates that the installation would run between $1,100 and $1,200 at the dealership, but wouldn't say if fitting the kit would affect the seven-year/100,000 factory warranty on the powertrain. While dropping close to $10-grand on an SX4 for wheels, brakes and engine mods might be a tough pill to swallow, it will have to suffice for Suzuki enthusiasts hoping that the automaker would release a rally-inspired SX4.

Hit the jump for the full press release from Suzuki.

Gallery: Suzuki SX4t

Continue reading Suzuki SX4t: "t" is for turbo, courtesy of Road Race Motorsports

 

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]]>road race engineeringroad race motorsportsroad race motorsports sx4tRoadRaceEngineeringRoadRaceMotorsportsRoadRaceMotorsportsSx4tsuzukisuzuki sx4tSuzukiSx4tsx4sx4t2008-04-22T18:57:00+00:00<![CDATA[Villa d'Este 08 Preview: Carrozzeria Touring Maserati Quattroporte Bellagio Fastback]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/04/22/villa-deste-08-preview-carrozzeria-touring-maserati-quattropor/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/04/22/villa-deste-08-preview-carrozzeria-touring-maserati-quattropor/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/04/22/villa-deste-08-preview-carrozzeria-touring-maserati-quattropor/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Click above to enlarge

There are wagons, and then there are wagons. Most five-door family-haulers fall under the former, but once in a while something more shapely comes along and redefines the latter. If this image is something to go on, the Bellagio Fastback is definitely one of those rarities.

Created by the revived Carrozzeria Touring, the Bellagio Fastback is a wagon variant of the Maserati Quattroporte - itself already one of our favorite sedans and a beautiful point of departure. And from the looks of things, Touring has done a far more elegant job than the StudioM Cinqueporte we reported on previously. Carrozzeria Touring will be showcasing the Bellagio alongside its new Superleggera sportscar in a few days at the Concorso d'Eleganza Villa d'Este on the shores of Italy's glamorous Lake Como along with such elegant motors as the Bugatti Veyron Fbg by Hermes, BMW Concept CS, Zagato Bentley Continental GTZ and Cadillac CTS Coupe. Follow the jump for more information on the cars participating in this year's Concorso.

[Source: Carrozzeria Touring and Villa d'Este]

Continue reading Villa d'Este 08 Preview: Carrozzeria Touring Maserati Quattroporte Bellagio Fastback

 

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]]>bellagio fastbackBellagioFastbackcarrozzeria touringcarrozzeria touring maserati quattroporte bellagio fastbackCarrozzeriaTouringCarrozzeriaTouringMaseratiQuattroporteBellagioFastbackquattroporte wagonQuattroporteWagon2008-04-22T09:58:00+00:00<![CDATA[Brabus turns up the heat on the new Mercedes-Benz SLK]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/04/22/brabus-turns-up-the-heat-on-the-new-mercedes-benz-slk/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/04/22/brabus-turns-up-the-heat-on-the-new-mercedes-benz-slk/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/04/22/brabus-turns-up-the-heat-on-the-new-mercedes-benz-slk/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Click above for a high-res gallery of the Brabus-tuned M-B SLK.

Brabus hasn't wasted any time tuning the new Mercedes-Benz SLK, and is bringing its normal blend of aero mods and engine tweaks to those unable to keep their new SLK stock for long. Brabus opted to yank out the SLK 55 AMG's 5.5-liter V8 and fitted its own 6.1-liter mill that cranks out 445 hp and 468 lb.-ft. of torque. Power is routed through a seven-speed automatic gearbox and down to Brabus' own LSD. Zero-to-60 times drop to 4.3-seconds, while six-piston aluminum calipers clamp 355 mm slotted discs up front and four-piston calipers with 300 mm rotors in the rear end the party before things get out of hand.

Naturally, some new rollers are part of the equation, with optional 17-, 18- or 19-inch wheels tucked into the fenders with a 30 mm drop provided by new Brabus sports springs. The visual mods are wrapped up with a wind tunnel-tested front spoiler, rear apron and trunk lid wing, while four chrome exhaust tips hint at the SLK's new found power.

All the details are available in the press release after the jump.

Gallery: Mercedes-Benz SLK by Brabus

Continue reading Brabus turns up the heat on the new Mercedes-Benz SLK

 

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]]>mercedes benzmercedes benz slk 55 amgmercedes benz slk 55 amg brabusmercedes-benzmercedes-benz slk 55 amg brabusMercedes-benzSlk55AmgBrabusMercedesBenzMercedesBenzSlk55AmgMercedesBenzSlk55AmgBrabusslk 55 amgSlk55Amg2008-04-22T08:30:00+00:00<![CDATA[Premier4509 launches kit for outgoing Lamborghini Gallardo]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/04/21/premier4509-launches-kit-for-outgoing-lamborghini-gallardo/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/04/21/premier4509-launches-kit-for-outgoing-lamborghini-gallardo/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/04/21/premier4509-launches-kit-for-outgoing-lamborghini-gallardo/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Click to view the Premier4509 Gallardo in hi-res

Did you have enough of Premier4509's outlandish tuning after viewing the tuner Continental GT? Judging from the comments left by our readers, you most definitely did, but in case you missed out, the Japanese aftermarket firm has released a similar body kit for the Lamborghini Gallardo.

Set aside the extroverted aero kit for a second and the big question mark follows: why are they just now releasing a kit for a model that's already been replaced? The Gallardo LP560-4 debuted last month in Geneva and effectively replaces the model on which Premier4509 has based this kit. For those with an existing baby Lambo, however, plus a chunk of cash and a taste appetite for the extreme, Premier4509's Gallardo kit consists of a new bumpers front and rear, side skirts, a rear spoiler and optional stainless exhaust tips, plus the same forged rims as seen on the company's Bentley. The front end clearly draws its inspiration from the Lamborghini Reventon. The parts are all made of carbon fiber, which, as Premier4509 points out, has been laboriously hand-stitched together because some panels are actually wider than the sheets in which the material comes. Premier4509 also notes that it is working on new kits for Bentleys, Maseratis and Astons Martin, so better hide your exotic wheels now before it's too late. Click through for more details and high-res images can be viewed in the gallery below.

Gallery: Premier4509 Lamborghini Gallardo


[Source: Premier4509]

Continue reading Premier4509 launches kit for outgoing Lamborghini Gallardo

 

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]]>aftermarket lamborghini gallardoAftermarketLamborghiniGallardolamborghini gallardoLamborghiniGallardooutgoing gallardoOutgoingGallardoPremier4509premier4509 lamborghiniPremier4509Lamborghini2008-04-21T19:29:00+00:00<![CDATA[Kahn and Cosworth to dominate aftermarket tuning together]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/04/18/kahn-and-cosworth-to-dominate-aftermarket-tuning-together/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/04/18/kahn-and-cosworth-to-dominate-aftermarket-tuning-together/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/04/18/kahn-and-cosworth-to-dominate-aftermarket-tuning-together/#commentsFiled under: ,



Project Kahn has had its hands into all kinds of high-dollar, high-horsepower machinery over the last few years. Afzal Kahn has made unobtainable exotics even more incredible with kits for the McMerc SLR and the Aston Martin DB9S, along with providing parts for more subdued offerings, like the LR2 and Audi A8, not to mention the Rolls-Royce Phantom. Now, Kahn is teaming up with Cosworth to blend its extreme aero mods with the legendary engine tuner to create the ultimate in road-going rockets. Fortunately or unfortunately, their first joint endeavor will be a tuned version of the Range Rover Sport, dubbed the Cosworth 300. They've only provided a teaser image (right), but expect all the details to be released later this year.

[Source: Project Kahn via WCF]

 

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]]>cosworthkahn cosworthKahnCosworthproject kahnproject kahn cosworthProjectKahnProjectKahnCosworth2008-04-18T17:28:00+00:00