Autoblog Aftermarket http://www.autoblog.com Autoblog Aftermarket http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.autoblog.com/media/favicon-v5.png Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com en-us Copyright 2012 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/ Chris Shunk, Dan Roth, Zach Bowman and Chris PaukertThe podcast by the people who obsessively cover the auto industry. <![CDATA[eGarage interviews Akira Nakai of RWB in latest video]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/21/egarage-interviews-akira-nakai-of-rwb-in-latest-video/ http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/21/egarage-interviews-akira-nakai-of-rwb-in-latest-video/ http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/21/egarage-interviews-akira-nakai-of-rwb-in-latest-video/#comments Filed under: , , , , , ,



Akira Nakai is the man behind the tuner RWB - Rauh-Welt Begriff, which is loosely translated as "Rough World Concept," and he doesn't often climb out from under one of the 930 or 964 Porsches he's working on. His original shop in Japan is now 20 years old and he still works in the same building, even though his tuning ethos has caught on hot enough to provide other shops around the world.

He's a car nut, simply, and he makes nutty - in a good way - cars. The guys at eGarage got him away from a project long enough to say a few words about what he does, what he thinks, and what he'll be doing until he dies. Even though he speaks a different language, he sums all of us up nicely. Check him out in the video premiering exclusively on Autoblog after the jump.

Continue reading eGarage interviews Akira Nakai of RWB in latest video

eGarage interviews Akira Nakai of RWB in latest video originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 21 Feb 2012 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> akira nakaiegarageRAUH-Welt BEGRIFFrauh-welt porscherwbrwb porschetuner Tue, 21 Feb 2012 13:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20174940/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20174940/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/02/21/egarage-interviews-akira-nakai-of-rwb-in-latest-video/20174940/article-detail.xml 20174940 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/rwb-egarage-2_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/rwb-egarage-2.jpg <![CDATA[The List #0777: Attend SEMA]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/21/the-list-0777-attend-sema/ http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/21/the-list-0777-attend-sema/ http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/21/the-list-0777-attend-sema/#comments Filed under: , , ,

Patrick McIntyre and Jessi Combs of The List at SEMA

Every year in November, the Specialty Equipment Market Association hosts a trade show out in the desert. You know it as the SEMA Show in Las Vegas.

Held in the sprawling square footage of the Las Vegas Convention Center, the SEMA Show is where just about every automotive aftermarket company and supplier comes to share its wares. About 1,500 new products debut there each year, and even automakers brave the crowds to show off their most wild and custom concept and performance vehicles.

Despite being a trade-only event and technically not open to the public, we've included it on The List because so many enthusiasts have told us they want to attend and, based on our experience, many of them find a way in. We got Jessi and Patrick passes for this past year's SEMA Show to experience the chaos, and they filed this report.

Follow the jump to watch them check off "Attend SEMA" from The List.
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  • You can also click here to learn more about our hosts, Jessi and Patrick.

Continue reading The List #0777: Attend SEMA

The List #0777: Attend SEMA originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 21 Feb 2012 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2011 semajessi combspatrick mcintyresemaspecialty equipment market associationthe-listvideo Tue, 21 Feb 2012 12:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20176012/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20176012/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/02/21/the-list-0777-attend-sema/20176012/article-detail.xml 20176012 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/the-list-sema-0777_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/the-list-sema-0777.jpg <![CDATA[Prindiville smooths out the Land Rover Defender's rough edges]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/18/prindiville-smooths-out-the-land-rover-defenders-rough-edges/ http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/18/prindiville-smooths-out-the-land-rover-defenders-rough-edges/ http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/18/prindiville-smooths-out-the-land-rover-defenders-rough-edges/#comments Filed under: , , , ,

Land Rover Defender Limited Edition by Prindiville Design

Among the most capable SUVs, some are luxurious and some are decidedly spartan. The Land Rover Defender stands firmly in the latter category, but that won't stop some tuners from sprucing it up.

Prindiville Design, based near Silverstone, recently unveiled its own take on the Lamborghini Aventador, and has now turned its attention to the Defender.

Teaming up with specialist Alive Tuning, output from the 2.4-liter turbodiesel has increased from 122 horsepower to 190 and from 265 lb-ft of torque to 339 for a 10-second sprint to 60. 18-inch five-spoke alloys and upgraded six-pot brakes are complemented by a selection of matte or metallic paint finishes, titanium exhaust, the usual assortment of trim enhancements, plus parking sensors and cameras fore and aft.

The interior, meanwhile, gets upgraded Italian leather, Cobra buckets, Alcantara carpeting, a new entertainment system, and a custom center console, all made to the buyer's specifications. 25 examples will be offered at $81,500 apiece. Scope out the press release after the jump for the full skinny.

Continue reading Prindiville smooths out the Land Rover Defender's rough edges

Prindiville smooths out the Land Rover Defender's rough edges originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 18 Feb 2012 09:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> alive tuningdefenderland roverland rover defenderland rover defender limited editionprindivilleprindiville design Sat, 18 Feb 2012 09:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20172632/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20172632/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/02/18/prindiville-smooths-out-the-land-rover-defenders-rough-edges/20172632/article-detail.xml 20172632 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/150212prind_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/150212prind.jpg <![CDATA[Pogea Corvette modernizes an American classic]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/16/pogea-corvette-modernizes-an-american-classic/ http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/16/pogea-corvette-modernizes-an-american-classic/ http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/16/pogea-corvette-modernizes-an-american-classic/#comments Filed under: , , , ,

Pogea Corvette

Some will invariably debate their authenticity, but as far as we're concerned, there's no arguing with the quickening of our pulse when we gaze at such examples of retrofitted classics as the Eagle E-Type Speedster or the Singer 911. But if you've been wondering why European sportscars have been getting all the old-meets-new attention, wonder no more, and feast your eyes on the Pogea Corvette.

German tuning house Pogea Racing - whose customized Abarth 500 we reported on back on 2010 - has taken an original '59 Corvette roadster and given it a thoroughly modern makeover. Starting with the chassis itself, Pogea went back to the drawing board and built a new tube frame to which it has mounted a new suspension, brakes and powertrain.

The latter comes courtesy of a modern 6.2-liter Corvette LS3 V8 engine, upgraded with new injectors, camshaft, intake and exhaust to drive 485 horsepower and 431 pound-feet of torque through a five-speed manual with ceramic clutch to a Dana 44 differential. Modern Corvette-sourced ventilated brakes with six-piston calipers up front and four-pots in the rear were fitted to keep the power in check, mounted behind 19-inch modular wheels on low-profile Bridgestone Potenza rubber.

Pogea also widened the track, fitted LED tail lights in the shape of the originals, and refurbished the interior with fresh leather and carpeting, Cobra buckets, Vallelunga wheel, Alpine stereo with sat-nav and upgraded electronics. The result is a stunning package that has all the charm of the original (minus, perhaps, the rear quarter vents...), but with a 3.9-second run to 62 and a 179 mph top end. Check it out in the high-res image gallery and press release after the jump.

Continue reading Pogea Corvette modernizes an American classic

Pogea Corvette modernizes an American classic originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 16 Feb 2012 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 1959 chevrolet corvettechevrolet corvettecorvettepogeapogea corvettepogea racingpogea racing 1959 chevrolet corvettepogea racing corvette Thu, 16 Feb 2012 15:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20172941/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20172941/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/02/16/pogea-corvette-modernizes-an-american-classic/20172941/article-detail.xml 20172941 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/pogea-corvette_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/pogea-corvette.jpg <![CDATA[Jeep Wrangler Red Jacket rumbles up to Jay Leno's Garage]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/15/jeep-wrangler-red-jacket-rumbles-up-to-jay-lenos-garage/ http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/15/jeep-wrangler-red-jacket-rumbles-up-to-jay-lenos-garage/ http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/15/jeep-wrangler-red-jacket-rumbles-up-to-jay-lenos-garage/#comments Filed under: , , , ,

2012 Jeep Wrangler Red Jacket Edition

Oh how we love the Jeep CJ-8. Of all the classic CJ's, the "Scrambler" was one of the coolest. It was certainly one of the shortest-lived, with less than 30,000 produced during the five years between 1981-86. So we probably don't need to explain why we love the "Red Jacket Edition" Jeep Wrangler that recently showed up on Jay Leno's Garage.

A product of VWerks of Adrian, Michigan, the candy apple red Jeep was shown at SEMA last year. The Red Jacket Jeep uses Mopar's JK-8 pickup conversion kit to turn a Wrangler Unlimited into one bad off-roader. VWerks developed the aftermarket kit, which they've installed on the Red Jacket, but that's just the beginning. They've also fitted the Wrangler with a four-inch suspension lift, a one-inch body lift, new rock-crawling bumpers and some monster 40-inch tires.

Click past the jump to watch the video.

Continue reading Jeep Wrangler Red Jacket rumbles up to Jay Leno's Garage

Jeep Wrangler Red Jacket rumbles up to Jay Leno's Garage originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 15 Feb 2012 12:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2012 jeep wranglerjay lenojay lenos garagejeepjeep wrangler red jacket editionjk-8mopar jk-8 truck kitred jacketwrangler Wed, 15 Feb 2012 12:32:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20171885/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20171885/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/02/15/jeep-wrangler-red-jacket-rumbles-up-to-jay-lenos-garage/20171885/article-detail.xml 20171885 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/jeep-red-jacket-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/jeep-red-jacket-opt.jpg <![CDATA[2012 Mopar 300 dialed M for Murdered Out]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/08/2012-mopar-300-chicago-2012/ http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/08/2012-mopar-300-chicago-2012/ http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/08/2012-mopar-300-chicago-2012/#comments Filed under: , , , , ,

2012 Mopar Chrysler 300

Our first face-to-face look at the murdered-out Mopar 300 occurred at the Chicago Auto Show today. Peel away the black hood and you will find the the company's familiar 5.7-liter V8 as standard equipment. Output remains at 363 horsepower, but a new final-drive ratio of 3.91:1 working in conjunction with its five-speed W5A580 automatic transmission should drop 0-60 times into the low five-second range.

Other upgrades include firmer suspension tuning (42 percent stiffer front and 23 percent stiffer rear spring rates compared to the Chrysler 300 models with touring-tuned suspension), stickier rubber (245/45R20 Goodyear Eagle F1 three-season tires) and high-performance brake pads in the dual-piston front and single-piston rear calipers.

You won't be able to miss the Mopar Chrysler 300 (except at night) thanks to its Gloss Black paint, Gloss Black 20-inch wheels and numerous other blacked-out appointments both inside and out. The many "Mopar" badges on the fenders and deck lid only serve to reinforce its evilness.

Being the third turn-key Mopar product after the '10 Mopar Challenger and '11 Mopar Charger, the '12 Mopar 300 will be available for purchase this summer for $49,700 (including destination charges), though production is limited to just 500 units.

Continue reading 2012 Mopar 300 dialed M for Murdered Out

2012 Mopar 300 dialed M for Murdered Out originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 08 Feb 2012 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2012 mopar 300300chicagochicago 2012chicago auto showchryslermoparmopar 300 Wed, 08 Feb 2012 17:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20167380/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20167380/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/02/08/2012-mopar-300-chicago-2012/20167380/article-detail.xml 20167380 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/2012-chrysler-mopar-300-chicago-1328725426_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/2012-chrysler-mopar-300-chicago-1328725426.jpg <![CDATA[BMW Z8 freshened courtesy of Senner Tuning]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/31/bmw-z8-freshened-courtesy-of-senner-tuning/ http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/31/bmw-z8-freshened-courtesy-of-senner-tuning/ http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/31/bmw-z8-freshened-courtesy-of-senner-tuning/#comments Filed under: , , , , , , , ,

Senner Tuning BMW Z8

The 2001-2003 Z8 is one of the more graceful designs to slip from the BMW design studios in recent memory. With the droptop's classic roadster lines and plenty of performance on tap, the Z8 may not have sold like gangbusters when it was in production, but its slow-burn appeal has ensured that it has plenty of fans and impressive resale value. Despite a very limited production run of just 5,703 units, Senner Tuning has belatedly turned its attention toward modifying this convertible, which is quickly becoming a classic.

The company's engineers got started with a new sports air filter and easy breathing exhaust, including low-restriction catalytic converters. Throw in a mild ECU reflash and the vehicle is good for 450 horsepower and 394 pound-feet of torque. Senner Tuning says those figures should be good enough to get the Zed to around 186 mph.

Thankfully, the folks at Senner haven't messed with the Z8's aesthetics too much. A set of slick 19x9-inch Work Schwert SC1 wheels ride up front while 19x10-inch rollers out back take care of putting power to the pavement. Senner also spent some time with the vehicle's suspension. A new coilover suspension with adjustable rebound, new strut bar and reinforced shock mount are all part of the package. If you like the sound of this recipe, Senner Tuning will rework your Z8 for the princely sum of just under $25,000 at current conversion rates. Hit the jump for the full press release.

Continue reading BMW Z8 freshened courtesy of Senner Tuning

BMW Z8 freshened courtesy of Senner Tuning originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 31 Jan 2012 19:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2001 bmw z82002 bmw z82003 bmw z8bmwbmw z8sennersenner tuningsenner tuning bmw z8z8 Tue, 31 Jan 2012 19:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20160053/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20160053/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/01/31/bmw-z8-freshened-courtesy-of-senner-tuning/20160053/article-detail.xml 20160053 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/01-senner-tuning-bmw-z8-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/01-senner-tuning-bmw-z8-628.jpg <![CDATA[MOMO founder Gianpiero Moretti dead at 71]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/31/momo-founder-gianpiero-moretti-dead-at-71/ http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/31/momo-founder-gianpiero-moretti-dead-at-71/ http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/31/momo-founder-gianpiero-moretti-dead-at-71/#comments Filed under: , , , ,

Gianpiero Moretti tribute on race car


Gianpiero Moretti, driver and founder of race equipment manufacturer MOMO, passed away in his home in Milan this month after a lengthy illness. The 71-year-old began making steering wheels in his 20s, eventually translating his business into international success after Ferrari factory driver John Surtees adopted a MOMO wheel in his 158 F1 racing car in 1964. That car went on to carry Surtees to his only Formula One title, but Moretti's success blossomed. He opened a factory in Verona in 1966 and ran MOMO for three decades before selling it to a larger supplier.

In the interim, Moretti tried his hand at both the 24 Hours of Le Mans and the Daytona 24 Hours, campaigning multiple Ferrari and Porsche models but only managing to take the checkered flag once. In 1996, he came within a minute of victory at Daytona, but lost to the Riley & Scott team. Moretti returned in 1998 to seal the deal on his 15th attempt.

Moretti has left behind an indelible mark on the motorsports industry. His humble steering wheel operation grew into a mammoth race supply operation with everything from racing suits to shift knobs and the MOMO brand is synonymous with quality and style even now.

MOMO founder Gianpiero Moretti dead at 71 originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 31 Jan 2012 18:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 24 hours of le mansdaytona 24 hoursferrarigianpiero morettimomomomo wheelmorettiporsche Tue, 31 Jan 2012 18:02:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20161240/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20161240/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/01/31/momo-founder-gianpiero-moretti-dead-at-71/20161240/article-detail.xml 20161240 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/gianpiero-moretti-on-racer_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/gianpiero-moretti-on-racer.jpg <![CDATA[Hennessey dreams of tuning McLaren MP4-12C into twin-turbo HPE800]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/31/hennessey-dreams-of-tuning-mclaren-mp4-12c-into-twin-turbo-hpe80/ http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/31/hennessey-dreams-of-tuning-mclaren-mp4-12c-into-twin-turbo-hpe80/ http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/31/hennessey-dreams-of-tuning-mclaren-mp4-12c-into-twin-turbo-hpe80/#comments Filed under: , , ,

Hennessey McLaren MP4-12C HPE800 Twin Turbo

When McLaren released the MP4-12C, there were some questions about the distinctiveness of its styling, but not about whether the engineers at Woking had extracted every bit of performance they could from its 3.8-liter twin-turbo V8 engine. John Hennessey and company, however, think they can do better. That's why Hennessey Performance Engineering has targeted the 12C for its latest tuning package.

Traditionally, Hennessey usually starts by bolting on a pair of turbos to whatever car it can get its hands on. But McLaren has already done that, so Hennessey has fitted new ones, and along with it, upgraded the intercooler, intake, exhaust, electronic control modules and transmission. It's also fitted a CarbonAero body kit, new wheels with Michelin Pilot Super Sport rubber and a redone interior swathed in carbon, leather and Alcantara.

The result is 800 horsepower, up from 592 stock. What Hennessey hasn't touched, however, are the MP4-12C's suspension and brakes, which the Texas-based tuner didn't feel it could improve upon. Whether the rest is advisable is up for debate, but that's never stopped the Texas tuner before, so check out the details in the press release after the jump and the renderings for a closer look at what to expect should any McLaren owners inexplicably feel their 12C is just too slow.

Continue reading Hennessey dreams of tuning McLaren MP4-12C into twin-turbo HPE800

Hennessey dreams of tuning McLaren MP4-12C into twin-turbo HPE800 originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 31 Jan 2012 14:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> hennesseyhpe800mclarenmclaren mp4-12Cmp4-12c Tue, 31 Jan 2012 14:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20161065/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20161065/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/01/31/hennessey-dreams-of-tuning-mclaren-mp4-12c-into-twin-turbo-hpe80/20161065/article-detail.xml 20161065 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/hennessey-12c-frontweb_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/hennessey-12c-frontweb.jpg <![CDATA[Mopar celebrates 75 years with bunch of Chicago-bound special editions]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/31/mopar-celebrates-75-years-with-bunch-of-chicago-bound-special-ed/ http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/31/mopar-celebrates-75-years-with-bunch-of-chicago-bound-special-ed/ http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/31/mopar-celebrates-75-years-with-bunch-of-chicago-bound-special-ed/#comments Filed under: , , ,



This year Mopar is celebrating 75 years since its name - a combination of MOtor and PARts - was first trademarked. During that time, Mopar has evolved to become synonymous with performance parts for Chrysler and Dodge vehicles, as well as amp'd-up specialty package vehicles, vehicle service and maintenance, and add Fiat to the long list of Chrysler Group brands it supports since the Italian automaker took part ownership in the smallest of Detroit's Big 3.

Anniversaries usually come with presents, and Mopar is bring four to show and share at the Chicago Auto Show next month. The first, and only one that will be sold turn-key, is the '12 Mopar 300, which becomes the brand's third factory-built model for modern times following the '10 Mopar Challenger and '11 Mopar Charger. While offering no more power than a standard 5.7-liter V8-equipped 300, the '12 Mopar does benefit from a new final-drive ratio of 3.91:1 that drops its 0-60 time in the low five-second range, as well as a significantly stiffer suspension, grippier tires and brake system upgrades.

Then there's the exterior. If the plague's preferred method of transmission were by car, this would be its ride. It is the Black Death on wheels, which themselves are 20-inch, 8-spoke forged aluminum rollers painted Gloss Black with Mopar center caps. We especially like the tasteful blue striping that appears across the '12 Mopar's sides and around its rims. While we've yet to see it, Mopar says the interior is equally void of light save for accents of Mopar Blue.

Only 500 of these '12 Mopar 300 models will be built and sold this summer for the price of $49,700, which includes destination charges. Each one will also come with a special box of goodies that includes Mopar-branded key fobs and merch; proof of the vehicle's exact manufacture date and number built; and a sketch of the car signed by its designer.

Follow the jump for three more anniversary models from Mopar.

Continue reading Mopar celebrates 75 years with bunch of Chicago-bound special editions

Mopar celebrates 75 years with bunch of Chicago-bound special editions originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 31 Jan 2012 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 12 mopar 3002012 chicago300500500 stingerchicagochicago auto showchryslercompasscompass true northdartdart gts 210 tributedodgefiatjeepmopar Tue, 31 Jan 2012 10:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20160463/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20160463/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/01/31/mopar-celebrates-75-years-with-bunch-of-chicago-bound-special-ed/20160463/article-detail.xml 20160463 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/12-mopar-300-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/12-mopar-300-opt.jpg <![CDATA[Vaughn Gittin Jr. almost out-drifted by RC car]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/30/vaughn-gittin-jr-almost-out-drifted-by-rc-car/ http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/30/vaughn-gittin-jr-almost-out-drifted-by-rc-car/ http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/30/vaughn-gittin-jr-almost-out-drifted-by-rc-car/#comments Filed under: , , , , , , , , ,

Vaughn Gittin Jr. RC Car Video

We've finally come to accept the fact that we'll never be Vaughn Gittin Jr. There can be only one one pure-bred drift hooligan of his caliber on this planet and truth be told, our sideways skills are paltry at best. That doesn't mean we can't pretend, though. Gittin Jr. has teamed up with a smattering of companies to give away five very limited-edition RC cars made up in the image of his sinister Ford Mustang GT drift machine. Only 5,000 of the HPI RC Ford Mustang cars will be produced in total, and Gittin Jr. is giving five of them away to Facebook fans.

To get the word out, Gittin Jr., K&N, Monster Energy and Falken Tire crafted a video demonstrating just what happens when the drifter can't get his hands on the scale Mustang. An epic chase ensues, with the RC car taking a little "How it's Made" tour of the K&N factory. The clip also features a few outtakes worth watching, as well. We won't spoil it for you, but we will say more than one RC car gave its life in the making of the film. Hit the jump to check out the video for yourself. If you want to enter the sweepstakes, head over to the K&N Facebook page for more information.

Continue reading Vaughn Gittin Jr. almost out-drifted by RC car

Vaughn Gittin Jr. almost out-drifted by RC car originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 30 Jan 2012 20:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> driftford mustanghpircrc carremote controlledvaughn gittin jrvideo Mon, 30 Jan 2012 20:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20160191/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20160191/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/01/30/vaughn-gittin-jr-almost-out-drifted-by-rc-car/20160191/article-detail.xml 20160191 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/vaughn-gittin-jr-rc-car-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/vaughn-gittin-jr-rc-car-628.jpg <![CDATA[Blaser outfits special edition Land Rover Defender for hunting]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/27/blaser-outfits-special-edition-land-rover-defender-for-hunting/ http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/27/blaser-outfits-special-edition-land-rover-defender-for-hunting/ http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/27/blaser-outfits-special-edition-land-rover-defender-for-hunting/#comments Filed under: , , ,

Blaser Land Rover Defender

The Land Rover Defender may be nearing the end of its line, but over the course of its lifetime it has become the go-to vehicle for any number of off-road applications. They're used on safaris and expeditions, by military forces and humanitarian organizations. And yes, they're used by hunters. That's why German firearms manufacturer Blaser has outfitted this special edition Defender for just such a market.

The Blaser edition Defender includes roof rack, underbody skid plates, trailer hitch, power winch, spotlight, snorkel intake, custom-embroidered leather seats and more. It's decked out in what's called Keswich Green, but to us looks more like Panzer green, and packs a 2.2-liter turbodiesel four with 122 horsepower and 266 pound-feet of torque on tap. But the party piece is the custom armory built into the back that can carry as many as five hunting rifles plus ammunition. Only 60 examples will be made available exclusively in Germany, each carrying a €49,500 ($64,400) price tag.

Blaser outfits special edition Land Rover Defender for hunting originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 27 Jan 2012 08:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> blaserdefenderland roverland rover defenderland rover defender blaser edition Fri, 27 Jan 2012 08:59:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20155544/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20155544/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/01/27/blaser-outfits-special-edition-land-rover-defender-for-hunting/20155544/article-detail.xml 20155544 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/defender-blaser-edition-1_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/defender-blaser-edition-1.jpg <![CDATA[Scosche debuts accessory that blocks all cell phone use in cars]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/22/scosche-debuts-accessory-that-blocks-all-cell-phone-use-in-cars/ http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/22/scosche-debuts-accessory-that-blocks-all-cell-phone-use-in-cars/ http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/22/scosche-debuts-accessory-that-blocks-all-cell-phone-use-in-cars/#comments Filed under: , , ,

Scosche cellCONTROL

Scosche has created a new device designed to disable cell phones while driving. The cellCONTROL uses Bluetooth to block calls the instant a vehicle begins moving. According to the company, users activate the system online, download an application onto their mobile phone and plug a trigger unit directly into the vehicle's OBD-II port. Once installed, the cellCONTROL automatically blocks telephone functions, from ingoing and outgoing calls to SMS, MMS, and internet connectivity. The device isn't a blanket block, however. According to Scosche, the device lets the phone to work as intended once a hands-free headset is detected.

The application will automatically alert an administrator via text or email should the cellCONTROL be deactivated, removed or otherwise tampered with. Scosche says the device is compatible with more than 1,200 devices and any vehicle sold in the U.S. after 1996. Prices start at $129.95. Seems like small price to pay to drive cell-free. Click past the break for the full press release.

Continue reading Scosche debuts accessory that blocks all cell phone use in cars

Scosche debuts accessory that blocks all cell phone use in cars originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 22 Jan 2012 16:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> cell phone disablercell phonescellcontrolscoschescosche cellcontrol Sun, 22 Jan 2012 16:33:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20153888/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20153888/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/01/22/scosche-debuts-accessory-that-blocks-all-cell-phone-use-in-cars/20153888/article-detail.xml 20153888 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/scosche-cellcontrol-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/scosche-cellcontrol-628.jpg <![CDATA[Venchurs Vehicle Systems shows off Xplore truck line]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/22/venchurs-vehicle-systems-shows-off-xplore-truck-line/ http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/22/venchurs-vehicle-systems-shows-off-xplore-truck-line/ http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/22/venchurs-vehicle-systems-shows-off-xplore-truck-line/#comments Filed under: , , , ,

Xplore Dodge Ram

Venchurs Vehicle Systems has turned its attention toward the full-size truck market. As you may recall, the company produces expedition-ready versions of SUVs like the Toyota FJ Cruiser, Jeep Grand Cherokee and Wrangler, and now truck owners can have their beasts turned into similarly capable Xplore machines. While Venchurs plans to expand to trucks like the Chevrolet Silverado and Ford F-Series in the near future, the company only offers the Xplore Ram for now. Buyers can choose from three stages of off-road prowess depending on their needs.

Stage one starts with custom Katzkin leather seats and a variety of dealer-installed Mopar accessories, while stage two throws in black aluminum wheels wrapped in meaty BF Goodrich tires, adjustable Bilstein 5100 series shocks and a stainless steel cat-back exhaust. Hardier floor mats and smattering of Xplore aluminum badges are also part of the mix.

Stage three lets owners choose from a variety of ARB goodies, including special racks, tent systems and recovery hardware should they find themselves mired. Stage four vehicles are custom built at the Venchurs facility in California, and include special matte-finish paints alongside AMP tricks like power retractable running boards and bed sliders. If you're ready to weather the apocalypse, hit the jump for the full press release.

Continue reading Venchurs Vehicle Systems shows off Xplore truck line

Venchurs Vehicle Systems shows off Xplore truck line originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 22 Jan 2012 13:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> venchursvenchurs vehicle systemsxplorexplore dodge ramxplore ramxplore ram 4x4 Sun, 22 Jan 2012 13:33:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20151993/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20151993/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/01/22/venchurs-vehicle-systems-shows-off-xplore-truck-line/20151993/article-detail.xml 20151993 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/xplore-ram-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/xplore-ram-628.jpg <![CDATA[Barrett-Jackson 2012: Galpin Widebody Mustang nets $160,000 for charity]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/20/barrett-jackson-2012-galpin-widebody-mustang-nets-160-000-for/ http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/20/barrett-jackson-2012-galpin-widebody-mustang-nets-160-000-for/ http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/20/barrett-jackson-2012-galpin-widebody-mustang-nets-160-000-for/#comments Filed under: , , , ,

Galpin/SPX Widebody Mustang

The time has come for the custom widebody Mustang from Galpin Auto Sports to find a new owner. Built by Galpin for industrial company SPX, this specially built Mustang features a hand-built body that widens the car by an incredible nine inches highlighted by PPG Candy Apple Red paint. Under the hood is a supercharged 5.0-liter V8 producing over 700 horsepower, and it has also been fitted with forged three-piece wheels, a custom suede interior, upgraded exhaust system and more.

Whether it was the look and sound of the car or whether bidders were simply feeling generous, this attention-grabbing pony car nabbed a final bid of $160,000, all of which will be donated to benefit the St. Jude Children's Research Hospital. You can see our live photos above, or hit the jump to watch a video of the car being auctioned off in case you missed it on SPEED.

Continue reading Barrett-Jackson 2012: Galpin Widebody Mustang nets $160,000 for charity

Barrett-Jackson 2012: Galpin Widebody Mustang nets $160,000 for charity originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 20 Jan 2012 22:43:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> barrett-jacksonbarrett-jackson 2012fordgalpin auto sportsgalpin widebody mustangmustang Fri, 20 Jan 2012 22:43:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20153563/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20153563/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/01/20/barrett-jackson-2012-galpin-widebody-mustang-nets-160-000-for/20153563/article-detail.xml 20153563 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/galpin-spx-mustang.jpg_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/galpin-spx-mustang.jpg.jpg <![CDATA[SMS Supercars unveils 620 Camaro, auctions first example for charity at Barrett-Jackson]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/20/sms-supercars-unveils-620-camaro-auctions-off-first-example-for/ http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/20/sms-supercars-unveils-620-camaro-auctions-off-first-example-for/ http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/20/sms-supercars-unveils-620-camaro-auctions-off-first-example-for/#comments Filed under: , , , , , ,



When Steve Saleen launched his new company, SMS Supercars, back in 2008, he announced that he would be expanding his portfolio of vehicles to include the muscle car offerings from Chevrolet and Dodge. First up was the 570 and 570X Challenger, followed soon after by the 302 Mustang.

Now, Steve Saleen's muscle car trifecta is finally complete, as SMS officially unveiled the 620 Camaro at Barrett-Jackson this week. The car maintains the styling cues featured on both the Challenger and Mustang with an aggressive front splitter, side skirts, rear diffuser, butterfly hood and chrome 20-inch wheels. Inside is a custom leather interior, and under the hood, the 6.2-liter V8 has been supercharged to 620 horsepower and 570 pound-feet torque.

In addition to unveiling the car at Barrett-Jackson this week, SMS actually auctioned off the first production example last night. This particular car was also a special "Bondurant Edition" in honor of Steve Saleen's former racing teammate, Bob Bondurant, and the two decided to donate the proceeds from the sale to two charities: Cox Charities and the Make A Wish Foundation of Arizona.

So, how did the car do? Bidding for the SMS 620 Camaro eventually reached the $100,000 mark, meaning the two charities will be getting a significant donation and the lucky new owner just got a nice tax write-off. Did we mention a Bondurant three-day performance driving school is included with the car?

You can see photos of the 2012 SMS 620 Camaro in the gallery above, and check out a video of the car being auctioned off at Barrett-Jackson in the video after the jump.

Continue reading SMS Supercars unveils 620 Camaro, auctions first example for charity at Barrett-Jackson

SMS Supercars unveils 620 Camaro, auctions first example for charity at Barrett-Jackson originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 20 Jan 2012 17:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> auctionsbarrett-jacksonbarrett-jackson 2012camarochevroletsaleenscottsdalesms supercarssms supercars 620 camarosteve saleen Fri, 20 Jan 2012 17:32:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20152800/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20152800/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/01/20/sms-supercars-unveils-620-camaro-auctions-off-first-example-for/20152800/article-detail.xml 20152800 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/sms-620-camaro-bj_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/sms-620-camaro-bj.jpg <![CDATA[Roush announces new performance product line for the Ford F-150]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/20/roush-announces-new-performance-product-line-for-the-ford-f-150/ http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/20/roush-announces-new-performance-product-line-for-the-ford-f-150/ http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/20/roush-announces-new-performance-product-line-for-the-ford-f-150/#comments Filed under: , , ,

2012 Roush Performance Ford F-150

We normally associate with Roush Performance with the Ford Mustang, as we've tested several examples over the year from the race-ready 427R Trak Pak to the current 540 horsepower RS3. The Michigan tuner is now looking to expand, though, and has recently introduced a new line of performance products aimed at another segment of the Ford product line, the F-150.

The F-150's new powertrains are the main focus of Roush's product blitz, with supercharger systems available for both the 5.0-liter and 6.2-liter V8s. Roush has also developed cold air inductions kits for the entire powertrain lineup with the exception of the 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6. Additionally, Roush is offering a stainless steel cat-back exhaust for most of the F-150 lineup that produces a more aggressive tone than the stock system.

You can read more about the new F-150 products from Roush in the press release after the jump, and you can get a closer glimpse at the supercharger and the exhaust system in the gallery above.

Continue reading Roush announces new performance product line for the Ford F-150

Roush announces new performance product line for the Ford F-150 originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 20 Jan 2012 07:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2012 ford f-150f-150fordford f-150roushroush ford f-150roush performance Fri, 20 Jan 2012 07:58:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20149748/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20149748/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/01/20/roush-announces-new-performance-product-line-for-the-ford-f-150/20149748/article-detail.xml 20149748 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/2012-roush-f-150_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/2012-roush-f-150.jpg <![CDATA[Ferrari FF converted to run on bio-ethanol packs 875 hp]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/19/ferrari-ff-converted-to-run-on-bio-ethanol-packs-875-hp/ http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/19/ferrari-ff-converted-to-run-on-bio-ethanol-packs-875-hp/ http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/19/ferrari-ff-converted-to-run-on-bio-ethanol-packs-875-hp/#comments Filed under: , , ,

Ferrari FF FlexFuel

There are drawbacks to every kind of alternative to burning fossil fuels in our cars. Electric cars don't have enough range.Hybrids are burdened with what essentially boils down to two parallel powertrains. Hydrogen is limited to where it is available. Bio-ethanol has its own drawbacks, but don't tell that to the performance enthusiast. That's because E85 - similar to what IndyCars run on but mixed with 15% pump gasoline - is not only a renewable and cleaner source of energy, it also provides more power.

Take the Koenigsegg Agera R, for example. With 927 horsepower on tap from ordinary 95-octane gasoline, the Koenigsegg is already one of the fastest, most powerful cars money can buy. But fill it with E85 and it offers up almost 1,100 hp. Now a Norwegian firm is offering an aftermarket bio-ethanol conversion for the Ferrari FF that provides a similar transformation.

Whereas the stock FF (which could now just as easily stand for Flex Fuel) already drives a prodigious 650 horsepower to all four wheels, the converted version packs a whopping 875 hp for a sub-three-second sprint to sixty, all the while dropping the car's emissions figures by some 80%. The conversion costs just €1500 (less than $2k) - rather insignificant considering the FF's $300k+ sticker price - and has reportedly been fitted yb an authorized Ferrari dealer to at least one customer's car, though that doesn't mean it's covered by (and very well might invalidate) the FF's warranty.

Ferrari FF converted to run on bio-ethanol packs 875 hp originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 19 Jan 2012 09:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> bio ethanolbio-ethanolbioethanole85ethanolferrariferrari ffferrari fourffflex fuelflexfuel Thu, 19 Jan 2012 09:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20151280/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20151280/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/01/19/ferrari-ff-converted-to-run-on-bio-ethanol-packs-875-hp/20151280/article-detail.xml 20151280 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/bioethanolff_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/bioethanolff.jpg <![CDATA[Veilside bets on Black with Mercedes SL body kit]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/19/veilside-bets-on-black-with-mercedes-sl-body-kit/ http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/19/veilside-bets-on-black-with-mercedes-sl-body-kit/ http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/19/veilside-bets-on-black-with-mercedes-sl-body-kit/#comments Filed under: , , , ,

Veilside Mercedes-Benz SL Black Fortune

There are hundreds of aftermarket tuners out there, but few hold the type of street cred that does Veilside. Long known for making Japan's greatest sportscars even greater, Veilside has now turned its attention to the Mercedes-Benz SL.

Not the newest one, mind you, because it's not out yet. Instead, Veilside has taken to the Tokyo Auto Salon to unveil a conversion kit that turns the outgoing SL into something closer to the top-of-the-line SL65 AMG Black Series.

To do so, Veilside fitted the SL with a custom body kit that includes new bumpers front and rear, new hood, fenders, side skirts, and spoiler, all crafted from carbon fiber. The result is called the Black Fortune.

The folding roof mechanism present on the stock SL - but removed on the Black Series model - appears to remain in place, so the Veilside won't encompass the kind of weight savings embodied by the factory special, but with only 300 examples of the kit to be offered at about $30,000 a pop, seeing one on the street should be about as rare a proposition.

Veilside bets on Black with Mercedes SL body kit originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 19 Jan 2012 08:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> mercedes-benzmercedes-benz sl-classslsl-classtokyo auto salonveilsideveilside black fortune Thu, 19 Jan 2012 08:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20149668/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20149668/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/01/19/veilside-bets-on-black-with-mercedes-sl-body-kit/20149668/article-detail.xml 20149668 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/webveilside-black1_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/webveilside-black1.jpg <![CDATA[Ruf stretches Porsche Panamera for China]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/18/ruf-stretches-porsche-panamera-for-china/ http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/18/ruf-stretches-porsche-panamera-for-china/ http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/18/ruf-stretches-porsche-panamera-for-china/#comments Filed under: , , , , ,

Ruf Panamera XL

You think the prom limo market in America has a propensity for stretching anything with wheels? Just look at China. Instead of buying larger sedans there, wealthy Chinese buyers have a taste for stretching smaller ones. So while BMW, for example, already offers a larger 7 Series, they've developed a stretched 5 Series for the Chinese market. We thought that a little strange at first, but this one takes the cake.

Since the Porsche Panamera has one of the nicest interiors on the market, one aftermarket tuner of note has developed a stretched version specifically for China. That tuning firm is no less noteworthy than Ruf, the outfit that has made a name for itself by turning ordinary 911 models into supercar-beating, fire-breathing monsters.

The resulting Ruf Panamera XL is a good 40 centimeters longer than stock, giving it an extra measure of legroom in the back. And while this type of stretch job would normally make an exotic performance automobile like a Porsche look more than a little odd, given the almost universal derision of the Panamera's roofline, we'd venture to say this - to some eyes, anyway - might be considered an improvement. So much so, in fact, that Porsche is rumored to be considering developing one on its own - let's just hope that if Stuttgart tackles one on its own that they do a cleaner job of the resolving the B-pillar.

Ruf stretches Porsche Panamera for China originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 18 Jan 2012 11:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> limousinepanamerapanamera limoporscheporsche limoporsche panamerarufruf panameraruf panamera xlruf xlxl Wed, 18 Jan 2012 11:29:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20148315/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20148315/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/01/18/ruf-stretches-porsche-panamera-for-china/20148315/article-detail.xml 20148315 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/ruf-xl_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/ruf-xl.jpg -1 2