Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com Autoblog http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.autoblog.com/media/feedlogo.gif Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com en-us Copyright 2013 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Pininfarina to build handful of Sergio Roadster models?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/18/pininfarina-to-build-handful-of-sergio-roadster-models/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/18/pininfarina-to-build-handful-of-sergio-roadster-models/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/18/pininfarina-to-build-handful-of-sergio-roadster-models/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Pininfarina Sergio Roadster concept - live at Geneva Motor Show unveiling - front three-quarter view

At just about any other auto show, Pininfarina's Sergio Roadster would've been the uncontested showstopper - but at the Geneva Motor Show, where supercar reveals stack up like cordwood and there are plenty of coachbuilt classics-to-be, the Sergio was merely stunning.

But its beauty shouldn't be overlooked, and apparently it hasn't been - Pininfarina is seriously considering a very limited run of the roofless, windshield-free sports car. With just five or six examples in the possible production run, the Ferrari 458 Spider-based barchetta could fetch some three million euros. That's according to CEO Silvio Angori, who spoke with Automotive News Europe. At the time the Sergio was introduced, we had heard that Pininfarina was mulling production, but this is the first time we've had even rough numbers assigned to the car.

The Sergio's aesthetic success hinges quite a bit on the roll bar element, which also serves as a rear spoiler, and it's quite low, which could pose production challenges. If sold as designed, European law would mandate that helmets be worn whenever it's driven on public roads. Apparently, Pininfarina is aware that plutocrats tend to not want "helmet hair" when popping down to the shops or going out for dinner, so a small windshield could be added to make the car more palatable for actual road use.

Pininfarina to build handful of Sergio Roadster models? originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 18 Mar 2013 17:44:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>458 italiaconcept carferrariferrari 458 italiaferrari 458 spidergenevageneva 2013geneva motor showpininfarinasergiosergio conceptMon, 18 Mar 2013 17:44:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20507785/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/03/18/pininfarina-to-build-handful-of-sergio-roadster-models/20507785/article-detail.xml 20507785 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/03/pininfarina-sergio-concept-geneva_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/03/pininfarina-sergio-concept-geneva.jpg <![CDATA[Ferrari teases more specs on its Enzo successor]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/24/ferrari-teases-more-specs-on-its-enzo-successor/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/24/ferrari-teases-more-specs-on-its-enzo-successor/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/24/ferrari-teases-more-specs-on-its-enzo-successor/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,



On its web site, Ferrari has divulged a little more info about the supercar that will succeed the Ferrari Enzo. The Ferrari magazine reported that everything the Scuderia has learned in Formula One has gone into its soon-to-be-revealed animal, and this latest disclosure shows just how much that's true. We don't know its length or width, but Ferrari says one of the targets for the car was "a reduction in height and wheelbase to match that of the 458 Italia."

Rory Byrne, the Ferrari F1 designer that's been involved in 11 world championships for the team, has spent three years contributing to chassis development. That chassis will be laid up by hand in the company's F1 composites department, each chassis composed of different kinds of carbon fiber and cured in an autoclave, F1 monocoque-style. That's part of where the lighter weight and vastly heightened torsional and beam rigidity versus the Enzo comes from. Just behind the tub - and behind the driver's back - will be the batteries and fuel tank, again, just as on an F1 car.

The cockpit will be personalized to the driver in a way that is rare among road cars, with each seat made-to-measure for the driver and then set in a fixed position in the cabin. The steering wheel and pedal box will move to accommodate pilots. What's more, we're told that "the occupant's feet are at the same level as the driving position." That, and the angle of the seatback, will provide "an extraordinarily racy feeling."

An evolution of the 740-horsepower, 6.3-litre V12 currently found in the F12 Berlinetta will work with the latest HY-KERS and a double-clutch transmission. Ferrari says the powertrain makes the car quicker from 0-to-120 miles per hour, reduces emissions by 40 percent, and improves features like torque vectoring and brake force distribution.

Still no word on what it will be called, but specs like these, by any name, would be just as sweet.

Ferrari teases more specs on its Enzo successor originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 24 Dec 2012 12:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>458 italiaenzoenzo successorf12 berlinettaf70ferrariferrari f150ferrari f70Mon, 24 Dec 2012 12:58:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20410096/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/12/24/ferrari-teases-more-specs-on-its-enzo-successor/20410096/article-detail.xml 20410096 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/12/f150specstease_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/12/f150specstease.jpg <![CDATA[NYC cop whose foot was run over by Ferrari driver reportedly filing $10M lawsuit [w/video]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/08/22/nyc-cop-whose-foot-was-run-over-by-ferrari-driver-reportedly-fil/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/08/22/nyc-cop-whose-foot-was-run-over-by-ferrari-driver-reportedly-fil/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/08/22/nyc-cop-whose-foot-was-run-over-by-ferrari-driver-reportedly-fil/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



Remember the genius who tried to run over an NYPD officer that was writing ticket for said genius' illegally parked Ferrari? Said genius is being sued by said cop for $10 million.

The 458 Spider owner has a name; Julien Chabbot. According to the New York Post, the 28-year-old Internet entrepreneur is being sued by officer Felix Recio, who claims Chabbot intentionally tried to run him over when he was attempting to write a ticket. Recio has reportedly retained lawyer Sal Strazzullo, who has motioned to increase the criminal charges from felony assault to first-degree assault with a deadly weapon. "Chabbott clearly had no regard for Officer Recio's life," said Strazzullo, "hitting him with his Ferrari could have caused serious injured or even death.

According to the report, the August 4 SoHo incident left the 34-year-old officer with "a swollen foot and bruising." Recio continued, "I believe he deliberately drove towards me with an intent to hurt me." Recio is suing for personal injury and says he has not been able to work since the incident.

Meanwhile, Chabbott's attorney, Ben Brafman, denies the upped charges, stating: "We are not aware of any civil lawsuit... I would be shocked if a $10 million lawsuit is in fact being contemplated given the fact that we have developed information to the effect that the officer in question appears to have suffered no injury whatsoever."

We'll see how this sordid legal affair plays out. In the meantime, click below to watch the caught-on-video incident.

Continue reading NYC cop whose foot was run over by Ferrari driver reportedly filing $10M lawsuit [w/video]

NYC cop whose foot was run over by Ferrari driver reportedly filing $10M lawsuit [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 22 Aug 2012 13:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>458 italia458 spiderfelix recioferrariferrari 458 italiaferrari copferrari runs over copjulien chabbotnypdparking ticketsal strazzulloWed, 22 Aug 2012 13:02:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20306681/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/08/22/nyc-cop-whose-foot-was-run-over-by-ferrari-driver-reportedly-fil/20306681/article-detail.xml 20306681 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/08/nyc458cop_thumbnail.jpeg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/08/nyc458cop.jpeg <![CDATA[<i>C/D</i> flogs Ferrari 458 Italia Spider on Stelvio Pass]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/08/08/c-d-flogs-ferrari-458-italia-spider-on-stelvio-pass/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/08/08/c-d-flogs-ferrari-458-italia-spider-on-stelvio-pass/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/08/08/c-d-flogs-ferrari-458-italia-spider-on-stelvio-pass/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,



Seems that Jethro Bovington, who we recently spent time with while he reviewed the Ferrari F12 Berlinetta for EVO, wasn't finished with prancing horses after he turned in those keys. Putting on his Car and Driver hat, he took a 458 Spider for a spin up and down Italy's 180-year-old Stelvio Pass.

The combination Bovington set out to examine was perhaps the world's best mid-engined convertible supercar on perhaps the world's greatest driving road. Giving the grunt is a 4.5-liter V8 with 562 horsepower, and while there's a mere 110-pound penalty over the coupe, the open-air reverberations of that exhaust are indeed worth it, especially set to the scene of 60 hairpin turns and long, narrow straights over 9,045 feet of elevation and every kind of weather. So yeah: nobody loses. Scroll down to watch.

Continue reading C/D flogs Ferrari 458 Italia Spider on Stelvio Pass

C/D flogs Ferrari 458 Italia Spider on Stelvio Pass originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 08 Aug 2012 14:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>458458 italia458 spidercar and driverferraristelvio passvideoWed, 08 Aug 2012 14:59:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20295951/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/08/08/c-d-flogs-ferrari-458-italia-spider-on-stelvio-pass/20295951/article-detail.xml 20295951 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/08/jethro458stelvio_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/08/jethro458stelvio.jpg <![CDATA[Ferrari 458 driver runs over cop's foot, jailarity ensues]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/08/06/ferrari-458-driver-runs-over-cops-foot-jailarity-ensues/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/08/06/ferrari-458-driver-runs-over-cops-foot-jailarity-ensues/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/08/06/ferrari-458-driver-runs-over-cops-foot-jailarity-ensues/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Ferrari driver getting ticket from NYC cop

If you've been part of the Autoblog family for any amount of time, you'll know we post some videos showcasing outrageous behavior. Still, it's been a while since we came across actions as willfully brainless as those in this video.

A man parks his Ferrari 458 Italia on a street in New York City. A police officer arrives to issue a ticket, during which time the man returns. The man doesn't appear to say a word, just gets in and starts the car. The policeman moves to the front corner of the 458, standing up against quarter panel to make sure the owner doesn't drive away. The man then proceeds to, albeit very slowly, drive away - until he starts to drive over the cop's foot, at which point the pounding and yelling begin and the driver gets yanked from the car and introduced to the gritty taste of NYC pavement. And handcuffs. And gawkers with video cameras. Neither the man nor the Ferrari came out of it unscathed - the now-impounded 458 Italia was scratched in several places.

According to the New York Post, the Ferrari driver in question is 28 year-old Julien Chabbott, an internet entrepreneur. The Ferrari was cited for parking in a no-parking zone, along with failure to display an NYC inspection sticker in its front window and failing to have a registration. The unidentified police officer reportedly sustained injuries to his left hand and right foot in the altercation.

Before you cue up the video below, a warning: While there's less foul language than we'd expect in light of the events, there is some. And if you're wondering who the blond hovering around the back of the car is, that's said to be Stephanie Pratt, erstwhile cast member of the MTV show The Hills. We aren't sure what her relationship is to the driver, it's just part of the 2:47 craziness in the video below.

Continue reading Ferrari 458 driver runs over cop's foot, jailarity ensues

Ferrari 458 driver runs over cop's foot, jailarity ensues originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 06 Aug 2012 12:44:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 ferrari 458 italia458 italiaarrestcitationferrariferrari runs over copnew yorknew york citynycnypdparking ticketpolicevideoMon, 06 Aug 2012 12:44:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20294080/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/08/06/ferrari-458-driver-runs-over-cops-foot-jailarity-ensues/20294080/article-detail.xml 20294080 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/08/nyc458cop_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/08/nyc458cop.jpg <![CDATA[A 458 Italia-powered Fiat 500 is not a good idea, it's the best idea]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/22/a-458-italia-powered-fiat-500-is-not-a-good-idea-its-the-best/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/22/a-458-italia-powered-fiat-500-is-not-a-good-idea-its-the-best/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/22/a-458-italia-powered-fiat-500-is-not-a-good-idea-its-the-best/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Lazzarini Design Fiat 550 Italia

We're pretty sweet on the resurrected Fiat 500. The quirky little hatch is an engaging driver with adorable looks. It is not what we'd call fast, however - even the Fiat 500 Abarth just barely lands itself in "quick" territory.

Fortunately, there are hard-working souls out there willing to remedy the machine's acceleration deficit. Lazzarini Design has done some measuring and discovered that, with a little body work, the 500 can play host to much more formidable powerplant. How formidable? The crew wants to yank the beating heart from the Ferrari 458 Italia and plop the 4.5-liter V8 behind the seats of cinquecento. You know, where the car gods intended the engine in the 500 to be.

These are clearly our kind of people.

But they aren't entirely off their medication. The engine has been detuned from 570 horsepower to a more reasonable 550 hp. Lazzarini says the project actually stretches the 500 wheelbase by almost a foot in order to fit the engine and transmission safely aboard. The whole machine weighs in at 2,200 pounds, even with ballast on both front corners to keep the car planted. If you like what you see, the studio says it is currently looking for an investor to help build the machine. Lazzarini Design estimates the project will cost around $550,000. Check it out over at the Lazzarini site.

A 458 Italia-powered Fiat 500 is not a good idea, it's the best idea originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 22 Jun 2012 13:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>458 italia550 italiaferrari 458 italiafiatfiat 500fiat 550 italialazzarini designFri, 22 Jun 2012 13:28:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20264168/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/06/22/a-458-italia-powered-fiat-500-is-not-a-good-idea-its-the-best/20264168/article-detail.xml 20264168 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/06/01-lazzarini-design-fiat-550-italia-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/06/01-lazzarini-design-fiat-550-italia-628.jpg <![CDATA[Filly on Ferrari violence as angry horse kicks Prancing Horse]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/05/filly-on-ferrari-violence-as-angry-horse-kicks-prancing-horse/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/05/filly-on-ferrari-violence-as-angry-horse-kicks-prancing-horse/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/05/filly-on-ferrari-violence-as-angry-horse-kicks-prancing-horse/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Ferrari Vs Horse

There's a reason mankind began measuring work in horsepower. Horses are incredibly strong animals capable of impressive feats of industry and speed. They can also be plenty destructive. By some estimates, an average, full-grown horse can generate over 7,300 pound-feet of force in a single kick. That's more than enough to break bone, bend metal and shatter composites. Just ask one Ferrari 458 Italia owner in China. The driver came upon a horseriding club in stop-and-go traffic and commenced blowing his horn. Alarmed at the commotion, one horse did what horses do best and gave the Italian supercar a swift kick in the front fender.

Surprisingly enough, the Ferrari took the wallop without suffering too much damage, though the owner had a few choice words for horse and rider. According to reports, the Ferrari driver decided against calling the police. Check out the riding horse on Prancing Horse violence for yourself by scrolling below.

Continue reading Filly on Ferrari violence as angry horse kicks Prancing Horse

Filly on Ferrari violence as angry horse kicks Prancing Horse originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 05 Jun 2012 16:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>458458 italiaferrariferrari 458ferrari 458 italiaferrari failferrari kicked by horsehorsehorse kicks ferrarivideoTue, 05 Jun 2012 16:58:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20251078/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/06/05/filly-on-ferrari-violence-as-angry-horse-kicks-prancing-horse/20251078/article-detail.xml 20251078 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/06/ferrari-vs-horse-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/06/ferrari-vs-horse-628.jpg <![CDATA[Ferrari recalling 200 cars worldwide]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/10/ferrari-recalling-200-cars-worldwide/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/10/ferrari-recalling-200-cars-worldwide/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/10/ferrari-recalling-200-cars-worldwide/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



Ferrari is recalling certain 458 Italia and California models around the world due to a problem with the crankshaft. Roughly 13,000 examples of these cars are currently roaming the streets, and 206 are affected by this problem.

According to Autocar, the recall has been issued due to an incorrect finish on the vehicles' crankshafts. The British magazine states that the problem "causes unwanted vibrations which can damage the engine if it is not changed."

"We are writing to all clients affected now, asking them to return the car to a dealer for the work to be done," a Ferrari spokesperson told Autocar.

In the United States, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has yet to issue a formal recall notice about the affected vehicles.

Ferrari recalling 200 cars worldwide originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 10 May 2012 08:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>458 italiacaliforniaferrarirecallThu, 10 May 2012 08:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20233934/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/05/10/ferrari-recalling-200-cars-worldwide/20233934/article-detail.xml 20233934 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/458-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/458-628.jpg <![CDATA[Ferrari dealership in trouble for burning rubber on the Great Wall of China]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/09/ferrari-dealership-in-trouble-for-burning-rubber-on-the-great-wa/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/09/ferrari-dealership-in-trouble-for-burning-rubber-on-the-great-wa/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/09/ferrari-dealership-in-trouble-for-burning-rubber-on-the-great-wa/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Ferrari 458 on Great Wall

Ferrari is not an outfit that would miss out on the enormous opportunity presented by the Chinese market. Having won the grand prix there three times out of the first four it was held, the Prancing Horse marque launched a special-edition 599 there in 2009, followed by an even more exclusive porcelain-finish one-off.

For 2012, Ferrari created a special-edition 458 Italia to mark the year of the dragon, and to launch it, the local dealership in Nanjing rented out a section of the Great Wall. It's what they did with it, however, that has local authorities seeing red in more ways than one.

Apparently at some point during or after the demonstration, an employee of the dealership got behind the wheel of the limited-edition V8 supercar and pulled some smokey donuts. The problem is that the stunt left tire marks burnt into the ancient surface, leaving authorities understandably upset. What repercussions will ensue remains to be seen, but we certainly wouldn't want to be ticking off China's notoriously strict government.

Scroll down below for the video report.

Continue reading Ferrari dealership in trouble for burning rubber on the Great Wall of China

Ferrari dealership in trouble for burning rubber on the Great Wall of China originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 09 May 2012 16:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>458458 italiaburnoutchinadonutsferrariferrari 458 italia china editionferrari 458 italia china limited editionferrari 458 italia special editiongreat wallgreat wall of chinavideoWed, 09 May 2012 16:57:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20234730/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/05/09/ferrari-dealership-in-trouble-for-burning-rubber-on-the-great-wa/20234730/article-detail.xml 20234730 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/ferrari-great-wall-burnout_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/ferrari-great-wall-burnout.jpg <![CDATA[Ferrari celebrates 8 million Facebook fans by taking 458 Italia for a spin]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/02/ferrari-celebrates-8-million-facebook-fans-by-taking-458-italia/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/02/ferrari-celebrates-8-million-facebook-fans-by-taking-458-italia/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/02/ferrari-celebrates-8-million-facebook-fans-by-taking-458-italia/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

ferrari 458 doing donuts

Facebook is a big deal, even if you're an exotic car maker with one of the world's most powerful brands. In this case we're talking about Ferrari, which recently hit eight million followers on the social networking site.

How does an automaker with such a rich history celebrate a 21st century milestone? Scroll down to watch the good folks in Maranello, Italy throw down after gaining 8,000,000 followers. Hint: it involves a predictably red 458 Italia, plenty of open pavement and a knack for drifting and donuts. Of course, Ferrari would like us to believe that they wrote out "8,000,000" in rubber, but we're more interested in watching the 458 do its thing.

Continue reading Ferrari celebrates 8 million Facebook fans by taking 458 Italia for a spin

Ferrari celebrates 8 million Facebook fans by taking 458 Italia for a spin originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 02 May 2012 14:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>458 italia8 milliondonutsfacebookfacebook followersferrarimaranellovideoWed, 02 May 2012 14:58:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20228752/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/05/02/ferrari-celebrates-8-million-facebook-fans-by-taking-458-italia/20228752/article-detail.xml 20228752 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/458-donut_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/458-donut.jpg <![CDATA[The List #0200: Drive 200 MPH]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/01/the-list-0200-drive-200-mph/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/01/the-list-0200-drive-200-mph/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/01/the-list-0200-drive-200-mph/#commentsFiled under: ,



We keep track of every idea that you submit for The List. Of the hundreds we get after each episode airs, one is without question at the top of everyone's list: drive 200 miles per hour.

Despite the first production car eclipsing 200 mph back in the mid-'80s, we thankfully aren't yet jaded by the feat. Unlike back then, however, more than a handful of today's cars can beat two bills if given enough runway.

That's exactly where Jessi and Patrick found themselves on the day we asked them to do the deed: the runways of the Mojave Air & Space Port near Mojave, CA. Eagle-eyed Autoblog readers will remember that this is one of the locations used by World Class Driving to conduct their 200MPH Challenge Experience. We should know; we've gone after the elusive two hundred twice now, falling short the first time but succeeding the second at this very location (check out the gallery from that experience below).

We enrolled Jessi and Patrick for a day's worth of double-hundy attempts in vehicles like the Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren and new Ferrari 458 Italia. Each took their own shot at 200-mph glory, and one even discovered that reaching 200 mph is the easy part.

Click here to watch The List #0200: Drive 200 MPH.



Have an RSS feed? Click here to add The List.

Click here to learn more about our hosts, Jessi and Patrick.

Continue reading The List #0200: Drive 200 MPH

The List #0200: Drive 200 MPH originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 01 May 2012 11:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>200 miles per hour200 mph458 italiadrive 200featuredferrari 458 italiajessi combsmercedes-benz mclaren slrpatrick mcintyreslrthe listthe-listvideoworld class drivingTue, 01 May 2012 11:57:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20227424/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/05/01/the-list-0200-drive-200-mph/20227424/article-detail.xml 20227424 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/the-list-200-mph_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/the-list-200-mph.jpg <![CDATA[Exotic car rental company owner uses GPS to thwart international auto theft ring]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/26/exotic-car-rental-company-owner-uses-gps-to-thwart-international/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/26/exotic-car-rental-company-owner-uses-gps-to-thwart-international/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/26/exotic-car-rental-company-owner-uses-gps-to-thwart-international/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Exotic car rental company owner uses GPS to thwart international auto theft ring

Watching television news can be depressing. Between the political rancor of election season and the "if it bleeds, it leads" mentality of most news directors, positive stories are scarce. But here's one that should make any lover of fine automobiles pleased.

The story, as reported by CBS This Morning, starts when the owner of a Los Angeles-based rental car company that specializes in exotics and luxury cars noticed that one of his vehicles was uncharacteristically sitting still for a few days after being rented. The $2,000-per-day 2010 Ferrari 458 Italia was equipped with a GPS tracking system, and the Italian Stallion's lack of use made Eric Blumberg suspicious. So he notified the police, who eventually found the car - in Hong Kong. It had been shipped through the Port of Los Angeles, labeled as "used fitness equipment," according to the Los Angeles Times.

It seems that the would-be joyrider who had "rented" the Ferrari was part of an international crime syndicate worthy of a screenplay, according to the CBS report. When the police investigated further, they found between 15 and 20 other vehicles that were being loaded into shipping containers and exported to Asia, a total of $1.5 million worth of four-wheeled loot.

The investigators told CBS that the vehicles can command up to twice their value overseas. While no arrests have yet been made in the case, at least these cars now have a chance of being returned to their rightful owners.

Scroll down to watch the full report.

Continue reading Exotic car rental company owner uses GPS to thwart international auto theft ring

Exotic car rental company owner uses GPS to thwart international auto theft ring originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 26 Apr 2012 16:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 ferrari 458 italia458 Italiaauto theftauto theft ringcar rentalcar theftexotic car rentalferrarigpstheft ringvideoThu, 26 Apr 2012 16:57:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20225125/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/04/26/exotic-car-rental-company-owner-uses-gps-to-thwart-international/20225125/article-detail.xml 20225125 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/smuggling-ring-opt-1335467205_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/smuggling-ring-opt-1335467205.jpg <![CDATA[Translogic celebrates 100 episodes, goes to Disney World]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/26/translogic-celebrates-100-episodes-goes-to-disney-world/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/26/translogic-celebrates-100-episodes-goes-to-disney-world/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/26/translogic-celebrates-100-episodes-goes-to-disney-world/#commentsFiled under: ,

Translogic drives the Lamborghini Gallardo

So, we think the crew at our sister site Translogic have lost their minds. Either that or they're trying to steal our jobs.

While nominally a show and blog about mobility, most weeks Translogic is discovering all manner of geeky automotive technology, while driving alternative-fuel vehicles powered by electricity, the sun, wood, or whatever crap they can find. This week, however, for the 100th show, they straight-up went to the track to drive supercars. At Disney World. Speedway.

Take that, greenies and transportation wonks. Everyone loves to flog roadgoing sex from Lamborghini and Ferrari, even - make that especially - Translogic host Bradley Hasemeyer.

Scroll down to watch the excitement.

Continue reading Translogic celebrates 100 episodes, goes to Disney World

Translogic celebrates 100 episodes, goes to Disney World originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 26 Apr 2012 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>458 italiabradley hasemeyerdisneyferrarigallardolamborghinilamborghini gallardor8superleggeratranslogicThu, 26 Apr 2012 12:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20224291/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/04/26/translogic-celebrates-100-episodes-goes-to-disney-world/20224291/article-detail.xml 20224291 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/translogic-100-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/translogic-100-opt.jpg <![CDATA[Ferrari uses new color, dragons on special edition 458 Italia for China]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/10/ferrari-uses-new-color-dragons-on-special-edition-458-italia-fo/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/10/ferrari-uses-new-color-dragons-on-special-edition-458-italia-fo/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/10/ferrari-uses-new-color-dragons-on-special-edition-458-italia-fo/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Ferrari 458 Special Edition

Buyers in China have been snapping up Ferrari models for 20 years now, and the Italian automaker is marking the anniversary with the introduction of a special-edition 458 Italia. Dipped in a new Marco Polo red and swaddled in a "dragon-horse" livery with gold imagery and black stripes, the vehicle is supposed to pay homage to Chinese culture. Buyers will also enjoy unique gold wheels and a cabin fitted with gold embroidery to match. A start button with 20 stars and a unique dash plaque are also part of the package. So far, there's no word on how much the machine will cost.

The company plans to build just 20 examples, the first of which will be unveiled at the debut of the first "permanent" brand exhibition outside of Maranello. Ferrari will set claim to nearly 3,000 square feet at the Shanghai World Expo Park, where the exhibition will remain for three years. Examples from the Maranello Museum will be arrayed in order of topic, from green technology to product, design and racing as well as Ferrari in China. Hit the jump for the full press release.

Continue reading Ferrari uses new color, dragons on special edition 458 Italia for China

Ferrari uses new color, dragons on special edition 458 Italia for China originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 10 Apr 2012 14:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>458 italia458 italia special edition458 itlaia chinachinaferrariferrari 458 italiaferrari 458 italia special editionferrari chinaTue, 10 Apr 2012 14:29:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20212393/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/04/10/ferrari-uses-new-color-dragons-on-special-edition-458-italia-fo/20212393/article-detail.xml 20212393 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/02-ferrari-458-italia-china-special-edition-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/02-ferrari-458-italia-china-special-edition-628.jpg <![CDATA[Daily dose of sexy brought to you by HRE Wheels, Ferrari 458 Italia [w/video]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/29/daily-dose-of-sexy-brought-to-you-by-hre-wheels-ferrari-458-ita/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/29/daily-dose-of-sexy-brought-to-you-by-hre-wheels-ferrari-458-ita/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/29/daily-dose-of-sexy-brought-to-you-by-hre-wheels-ferrari-458-ita/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Ferrari 458 Italia with HRE 505 Vintage Series Wheels

We've spilled equal parts ink and drool over the new Vintage Series wheels from HRE. The pieces invoke all sorts of bedroom poster memories from our misspent youth, and seeing them bolted to some of our favorite modern supercars is enough to invoke a guaranteed smile.

The guys at StanceWorks have featured a particularly moving combination. One Ferrari 458 Italia owner opted for a set of 505s in matte bronze as an homage to the legendary P4/5. The combination Ferrari red and those fat five spokes is absolutely sublime.

If you're rolling your eyes at the thought of yet another garage queen getting a new set of shoes, take heart in the knowledge that this particular 458 is owned by a gentleman who isn't afraid to put miles on the clock. In just three months, the owner has rolled the odometer up to 6,000 miles, which means this car has had the opportunity to stretch its legs on more than one occasion. Perfection.

Scroll down for a quick video of the car by our friends at eGarage, and be sure to crank the volume toward the end.

Continue reading Daily dose of sexy brought to you by HRE Wheels, Ferrari 458 Italia [w/video]

Daily dose of sexy brought to you by HRE Wheels, Ferrari 458 Italia [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 29 Mar 2012 12:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>458 italia458 italia videoferrariferrari 458 italiaferrari 458 italia videohrehre 505hre vintage series wheelsvideovintage seriesThu, 29 Mar 2012 12:29:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20203189/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/03/29/daily-dose-of-sexy-brought-to-you-by-hre-wheels-ferrari-458-ita/20203189/article-detail.xml 20203189 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/01-458-italia-with-hre-505-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/01-458-italia-with-hre-505-628.jpg <![CDATA[Footage shows Eric Clapton's bespoke Ferrari leaving London dealership]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/26/footage-shows-eric-claptons-bespoke-ferrari-leaving-london-deal/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/26/footage-shows-eric-claptons-bespoke-ferrari-leaving-london-deal/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/26/footage-shows-eric-claptons-bespoke-ferrari-leaving-london-deal/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Ferrari SP12 EPC

Back in the summer of 2010, Eric Clapton stopped by the Ferrari factory in Maranello, Italy, with one request: could they build him a 458 Italia with a V12? Nearly two years later, this is what resulted.

Reportedly called the SP12 EPC (bearing the initials of the famous rock guitarist), the one-off product of the Ferrari Special Projects division first surfaced with a few photos the other day, but now we've got video footage of the car moving under its own power away from a London dealership - presumably en route for delivery at the multiple Grammy Award winner's home.

With styling cues borrowed from the 512 BB - an early mid-engined Ferrari that was never officially homologated for sale in the United States - the SP12 EPC is said to be based on the 458 Italia. Which isn't a bad place to start. The big question on everyone's mind, however, is what resides under the hood? Did Ferrari manage to shoehorn in the twelve-pot as hoped, or did it stick with the 4.5-liter V8 in the donor car? Hard to say, but sources point towards the latter.

Follow the jump to watch the blurry, shaky footage and listen to the custom creation rumbling, and share your thoughts - eight cylinders or twelve - in the Comments section below.

Continue reading Footage shows Eric Clapton's bespoke Ferrari leaving London dealership

Footage shows Eric Clapton's bespoke Ferrari leaving London dealership originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 26 Mar 2012 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>458458 italiaclaptonepceric claptoneric p claptoneric patrick claptonferrariferrari sp12ferrari sp12 epcferrari special projectsslow handvideoMon, 26 Mar 2012 15:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20200527/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/03/26/footage-shows-eric-claptons-bespoke-ferrari-leaving-london-deal/20200527/article-detail.xml 20200527 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/sp12-epc-vidcap_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/sp12-epc-vidcap.jpg <![CDATA[Did Ferrari build Eric Clapton a one-off 458 Italia?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/21/did-ferrari-build-eric-clapton-a-one-off-458-italia/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/21/did-ferrari-build-eric-clapton-a-one-off-458-italia/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/21/did-ferrari-build-eric-clapton-a-one-off-458-italia/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Eric Clapton's one-off Ferrari 458 Italia

Ferrari has been known to produce one-off vehicles for customers, most notably the F430-based SP1 created for a wealthy Japanese collector in 2008 as well as the P540 Superfast Aperta created on the 599 FTB Fiorano platform in 2009.

Now, if the Ferrari afficianados over on FerrariChat.com are correct, Ferrari Special Projects program has built a third vehicle, this time for musician Eric Clapton, who is known to be a passionate Ferrari collector.

The car looks to be based on the 458 Italia and has distinct styling references to the 12-cylinder Ferrari 512 BB built in the late 1970s and early 1980s with a large lower grille, hood slats and flying buttresses at the rear. Judging from the photos, the interior appears to be relatively unchanged from the 458 Italia, and the mid-mounted 4.5-liter V8 is likely still in place as well.

We will try and find out more details about this special Ferrari, but until then, check out the photos of the car in the gallery above.

Did Ferrari build Eric Clapton a one-off 458 Italia? originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 21 Mar 2012 19:23:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>458 italiaeric claptoneric clapton ferrari 458 italiaferrariferrari 458 italiaWed, 21 Mar 2012 19:23:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20198426/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/03/21/did-ferrari-build-eric-clapton-a-one-off-458-italia/20198426/article-detail.xml 20198426 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/eric-clapton-ferrari-458_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/eric-clapton-ferrari-458.jpg <![CDATA[<i>Motor Trend</i> picks their Best Driver's Car of 2011]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/24/motor-trend-picks-their-best-drivers-car-of-2011/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/24/motor-trend-picks-their-best-drivers-car-of-2011/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/24/motor-trend-picks-their-best-drivers-car-of-2011/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Motor Trend 2011 Best Driver's Car

It's been a long while since the guys at Motor Trend went through the trouble of picking the best driver's car, and for good reason. In order to pull off an actual test with any merit, the publication would need to wrangle some of the most impressive pieces of automotive engineering together on the same track on the same day. When we're talking about vehicles like the Lexus LFA, Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG, Lotus Evora, Ferrari 458 Italia and the like, that can be a daunting feat, even for a rag of MT's swagger.

The stars aligned, however, and the crew managed to collect the hardware above as well as heathens like the Nissan GT-R, Porsche 911 GT3 RS, Porsche Cayman R, Audi R8 GT, Chevrolet Corvette Z06 Z07 and the Ford Mustang Boss 302 Laguna Seca. All told, the collection was worth more than $1.5 million, and Motor Trend took the time to put them all through a battery of grueling performance tests before handing over the keys to a pro driver for a few quick laps at Laguna Seca. Rough times, guys.

The decision-making process has been split into three parts, and Part 1 is after the jump. Enjoy.

Continue reading Motor Trend picks their Best Driver's Car of 2011

Motor Trend picks their Best Driver's Car of 2011 originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 24 Feb 2012 14:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>458 italia911911 gt3 rsbest drivers carcaymancorvettedrivers carevoragt-rlaguna secalfamotor trendmotor trend 2011 best drivers carmustang boss 302r8videoz06Fri, 24 Feb 2012 14:58:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20178893/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/02/24/motor-trend-picks-their-best-drivers-car-of-2011/20178893/article-detail.xml 20178893 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/motor-trend-drivers-car-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/motor-trend-drivers-car-628.jpg <![CDATA[Ferrari 458 joining the grid in FIA GT1 World Championship]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/12/ferrari-458-joining-the-grid-in-fia-gt1-world-championship/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/12/ferrari-458-joining-the-grid-in-fia-gt1-world-championship/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/12/ferrari-458-joining-the-grid-in-fia-gt1-world-championship/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Ferrari 458 GTC and Audi R8 LMS

Competition versions of the Ferrari 458 have already been prepared for the Ferrari Challenge, Grand Am, and the GT3 and GT2 classes at Le Mans and its various associated series around the world. Now you can add one more to the roster: the FIA GT1 World Championship.

Ferrari had previously left GT1 racing to the Maserati MC12, but Vitaphone Racing is switching from the Maser to an upgraded version off the BMW Z4 GT3. No announcement has been made identifying which team will field the GT1-spec 458, but whoever takes up the mantle faces a tough field tough field that includes the new McLaren MP4-12C GT3, Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG GT3, Audi R8 LMS Ultra and Nissan GT-R. The Ford GT, Lamborghini Murcielago and Aston Martin DBR9 all follow the MC12 out of the series this season.

Series organizer SRO also announced that it has struck a deal with Pirelli to provide all the rubber for both the GT1 and GT3 series. Follow the jump for the official statement.

Continue reading Ferrari 458 joining the grid in FIA GT1 World Championship

Ferrari 458 joining the grid in FIA GT1 World Championship originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 12 Feb 2012 16:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>458458 italiaferrariferrari 458ferrari 458 gt1ferrari 458 italiaferrari 458 italia gt1fia gt1 world championshipgt1gt1 world championshippirellisroSun, 12 Feb 2012 16:33:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20169955/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/02/12/ferrari-458-joining-the-grid-in-fia-gt1-world-championship/20169955/article-detail.xml 20169955 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/458-r8_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/458-r8.jpg <![CDATA[Nissan releases official footage of Juke-R supercar street race in Dubai]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/31/nissan-releases-official-footage-of-juke-r-supercar-street-race/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/31/nissan-releases-official-footage-of-juke-r-supercar-street-race/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/31/nissan-releases-official-footage-of-juke-r-supercar-street-race/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Juke-R vs Supercar Challenge

When is a Nissan Juke not a Nissan Juke? When it's the 480-horsepower, Godzilla-powered Juke-R, that's when. Then it's a supercar-beater. And to prove the point, Nissan UK took its one-off super-crossover down to Dubai for a little street racing action.

So what did Nissan pit its Juke-R against? No, not other crossovers, but a pack of the leanest, meanest supercars on the market: the Ferrari 458 Italia, Lamborghini Gallardo and Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG. We first saw video footage shot from the sidelines a couple of weeks ago, but since the publicity stunt proved so popular, Nissan responded by releasing an official, high-quality version, complete with in-car footage and plenty of tire squealing. Follow the jump to check it out.

Continue reading Nissan releases official footage of Juke-R supercar street race in Dubai

Nissan releases official footage of Juke-R supercar street race in Dubai originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 31 Jan 2012 12:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>458 italiadubaiferrari 458 italiagallardojukejuke-rjuke-r vs supercar challengelamborghinilamborghini gallardomercedes-benzmercedes-benz sls amgnissannissan jukenissan juke-rsls amgstreet racevideoTue, 31 Jan 2012 12:32:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20160833/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/01/31/nissan-releases-official-footage-of-juke-r-supercar-street-race/20160833/article-detail.xml 20160833 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/juke-rvsupercars_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/juke-rvsupercars.jpg -1 2