Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com Autoblog http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.autoblog.com/media/feedlogo.gif Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com en-us Copyright 2009 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Formula Le Mans joins the big boys in the Le Mans Series]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/19/formula-le-mans-join-the-big-boys-in-the-le-mans-series/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/19/formula-le-mans-join-the-big-boys-in-the-le-mans-series/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/19/formula-le-mans-join-the-big-boys-in-the-le-mans-series/#comments
Formula Le Mans Oreca FLM09 - Click above for image gallery
Most major racing disciplines around the world have a clear and comprehensive framework to allow aspiring drivers to learn the ropes. Pretty much everyone starts in karting, but from there F1 hopefuls go on to Formula Renault and other open-wheeled series; NASCAR aspirants to ARCA and the Nationwide Series; rally prodigees to local championships; and so on and so forth. But teams fielding Le Mans prototypes had to recruit from other disciplines. That is, until now.

Earlier this year, the Automobile Club de l'Ouest - the organization behind Le Mans and its associated series - launched Formula Le Mans, known in America as the Le Mans Prototype Challenge. The idea was simple: everybody driving the same cars, designed on the same model as LMP1 and LMP2 racers, in support races to existing LMS events. French racing team (and, since acquiring Courage Competition, chassis constructor) Oreca was contracted to design and build the cars and help organize the series.

The purpose-built chassis known as the FLM09 packs a Chevy LS3 tuned to 430 horsepower with Magneti Marelli engine management, driving an Xtrac six-speed sequential gearbox to Michelin slicks housing Brembo carbon-ceramic brakes. Eight teams participated in the inaugural season this year, fielding some 50 drivers at races at Spa-Francorchamps, La Sarthe, Algarve, the Nurburgring, Silverstone and Magny-Cours.

The opening season was a success, prompting ACO and Oreca to launch a winter series, currently under way. But for next year's series, Formula Le Mans will be fully integrated into the Le Mans Series as another category, much as they've been run in the American Le Mans Series since their inception. In order to separate the FLM cars from the higher-level LMP2 and keep them running for the full race distance, however, the Oreca FLM09s be equipped with restrictor plates. The integration of FLM into the full series ought to make for some interesting racing and a more hands-on training ground for aspiring drivers when they join the grid next year, but for now you can read the full press release after the jump and browse the mega gallery by hitting the thumbnails below.


Gallery: Formula Le Mans Oreca FLM09


[Source: Formula Le Mans]

Continue reading Formula Le Mans joins the big boys in the Le Mans Series

Formula Le Mans joins the big boys in the Le Mans Series originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 19 Nov 2009 18:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>acoautomobile club de louestAutomobileClubDeLouestflmflm09formula le mansFormulaLeMansle mansle mans seriesLeMansLeMansSerieslmplmp1lmp2lmsorecaoreca flm09OrecaFlm09Thu, 19 Nov 2009 18:27:00 EST<![CDATA[REPORT: Nissan GT-R, Maserati MC12 heading to Le Mans]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/05/report-nissan-gt-r-maserati-mc12-heading-to-le-mans/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/05/report-nissan-gt-r-maserati-mc12-heading-to-le-mans/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/05/report-nissan-gt-r-maserati-mc12-heading-to-le-mans/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Nissan GT-R and Maserati MC12 at 2009 FIA GT test session - Click either image for high-res gallery

If you think you've seen schisms in motorsports by following the on-again, off-again rifts in F1, Indy racing and rallying, those are nothing compared to the fisticuffs endured in sportscar racing over the past few decades. In addition to the Rolex Daytona series and the IMSA, to name just two, the FIA and ACO have been running separate series with separate rules for years. But as the former realigns its sportscar series and the latter further branches out from the Le Mans venue itself to series around the world, the two France-based governing bodies have been getting their ducks in a row. And new coordination between the organizations could lead to some cars which had been relegated to one over the other to bridge the gap and compete for top honors in both.

Among those potential series crossovers are the racing-spec Nissan GT-R and the Maserati MC12, both of which comply with the new FIA GT regulations which ACO is now ready to adopt. Based on the Japanese Super GT-spec GT-R racer and with input from Nismo, British racing team Gigawave Motorsports fielded a GT-R in four races of the 2009 FIA GT Championship in preparation for a full-scale assault on the reformed GT1 World Championship next year.

Meanwhile, the Maserati MC12 has been dominating the GT1 category in the FIA GT Championship for the past five years running, winning back-to-back titles, but had remained outside the Le Mans rules as the ACO refused to homologate the Enzo-based racer. With the door to Le Mans now opened - and the corresponding series in Europe, America and Asia potentially along with it - the teams fielding both cars are reportedly enthusiastic to meet the ACO's requirements with backing from their respective factories.


Gallery: 2009 FIA GT Test Days


[Source: Autosport]

REPORT: Nissan GT-R, Maserati MC12 heading to Le Mans originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 05 Nov 2009 17:21:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>acofia gt championshipfia gt1 world championshipFIA GT3 European ChampionshipFiaGt1WorldChampionshipFiaGt3EuropeanChampionshipFiaGtChampionshipgt-rgtrle mansle mans seriesLeMansLeMansSeriesmaseratimaserati mc12MaseratiMc12mc12nissan gt-rnissan gt-r fia gtnissan gt-r fia gt1nissan gtrNissanGt-rNissanGt-rFiaGtNissanGt-rFiaGt1NissanGtrThu, 05 Nov 2009 17:21:00 EST<![CDATA[Rendered Speculation: <i>Top Gear</i> cooks up a Bugatti Galibier LM]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/20/rendered-speculation-top-gear-cooks-up-a-bugatti-galibie/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/20/rendered-speculation-top-gear-cooks-up-a-bugatti-galibie/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/20/rendered-speculation-top-gear-cooks-up-a-bugatti-galibie/#commentsFiled under: , ,

As much as it dominated pre-war grand prix racing, Bugatti's is a heritage forged at Le Mans. Both the original concept and the subsequent production car which Bugatti built under its current ownership were named after Louis Chiron and Pierre Veyron, two of the most famous drivers from the marque's racing history. But it's been 70 years since Bugatti raced at Le Mans. The company's previous Italian owners took a race-prepped EB110 to Daytona, but that was about the extent of Bugatti's racing program in the modern era. But a few simple facts aren't about to stop the dreamers.

Over at Top Gear they've cooked up what a racing version of the new Galibier concept car would look like. Envisioned as some sort of touring car on speed and prepped for Le Mans, the Galibier LM features a massive front splitter and side skirts to match a giant rear wing and an exposed engine cover that displays the quad-turbo W16 like in the Veyron. Speaking of which, if Bugatti was going to return to racing, the outgoing super-coupe would have clearly been the better platform. But after seventy years of absence, we're not going to start splitting hairs... just imaginary lap times.

[Source: Top Gear]

Rendered Speculation: Top Gear cooks up a Bugatti Galibier LM originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 20 Oct 2009 18:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bugattibugatti galibierbugatti le mansBugattiGalibierBugattiLeMansle mansLeMansrenderedrendered speculationRenderedSpeculationtop gearTopGearTue, 20 Oct 2009 18:01:00 EST<![CDATA[REPORT: Aston Martin to develop all-new LMP1 car for 2011]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/25/report-aston-martin-to-develop-all-new-lmp1-car-for-2011/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/25/report-aston-martin-to-develop-all-new-lmp1-car-for-2011/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/25/report-aston-martin-to-develop-all-new-lmp1-car-for-2011/#commentsFiled under: ,

Lola-Aston Martin LMP1 - click above for high-res image gallery

For its current Le Mans prototype racing program, Aston Martin has teamed up with veteran chassis builder Lola to create a car powered by a race-ready version of its production V12. But the current 6.0-liter twelve-cylinder won't be allowed under the new Automobile Club de l'Ouest prototype rules that go into effect for 2011, so a new powerplant will be required.

To that end, AutoWeek is reporting that Aston Martin chairman Dave Richards has revealed that the British firm has begun work on a successor - and this time, the work is being done in-house, with the new car slated to be powered by an all-new bespoke race engine. Details are slim, however, with Richards only confirming that the engine will be powered by gasoline.

Work on the new car has been ongoing for more than two months. However, the team opted not to run the new chassis in 2010 because the gas-diesel equivalency rules are still unfavorable. Richards has also confirmed that financing for the new car has already been lined up.


Gallery: Lola-Aston-Martin LMP1


[Source: AutoWeek]

REPORT: Aston Martin to develop all-new LMP1 car for 2011 originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 25 Sep 2009 09:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>astonaston martinaston martin lmp1AstonMartinAstonMartinLmp1dave richardsDaveRichardsfalsele mansle mans prototypeLeMansLeMansPrototypelmp1lolalola aston martinlola aston martin lmp1LolaAstonMartinLolaAstonMartinLmp1Fri, 25 Sep 2009 09:58:00 EST<![CDATA[Asian Le Mans Series attracts 23 entries for opening race at Okayama]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/04/asian-le-mans-series-attracts-23-entries-for-opening-race-at-oka/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/04/asian-le-mans-series-attracts-23-entries-for-opening-race-at-oka/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/04/asian-le-mans-series-attracts-23-entries-for-opening-race-at-oka/#commentsFiled under: ,

Remember when Le Mans was the name of a town in France and the race that took place there? International endurance racing has come a long way since then - the headline race has branched out into the European Le Mans Series (LMS) and the American Le Mans Series (ALMS), and race organizers ACO are now preparing for the start of the inaugural Asian Le Mans Series.

Like the European series - but unlike ALMS which is supervised by IMSA - the Asian LMS is being operated directly by the Automobile Club de L'Ouest (ACO), the century-old group responsible for the 24 Hours of Le Mans since its inception. Taking the place of the defunct Japan Le Mans Challenge, the Asian Le Mans Series is set to kick off at the end of October with the 1000km of Okayama at the circuit that hosted the Pacific Grand Prix in 1994 and 1995.

Race organizers have done their best to attract both local entries as well as established teams from the American and European championships, and they have brought in some big guns: Aston Martin will be there in the top LMP1 category along with a pair of private entry Audi R10s and a few privateer Orecas and Judds. A few Porsches, Astons, Lambos, Saleens and Ferraris are set to round out the lower classes, including Rahal Letterman's BMW M3 GT2, fresh from their double class victory at Road Atlanta. All in all, 23 entries have been confirmed for the inaugural event, which will include two races in support of the World Touring Car Championship round the same weekend.

So far, the Okayama event is the only race on the calendar, but winners from each of the four categories will qualify for automatic entry at the title event in France next year. Follow the jump for more information in the press release.

[Source: Asian Le Mans Series]

Continue reading Asian Le Mans Series attracts 23 entries for opening race at Okayama

Asian Le Mans Series attracts 23 entries for opening race at Okayama originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 04 Sep 2009 08:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>asianasian le mansasian le mans seriesasian lmsAsianLeMansAsianLeMansSeriesAsianLmsle mansle mans seriesLeMansLeMansSerieslms asiaLmsAsiaokayamaFri, 04 Sep 2009 08:29:00 EST<![CDATA[American Le Mans Series consolidates racing classes for 2010]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/17/american-le-mans-series-changes-up-racing-classes-for-2010/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/17/american-le-mans-series-changes-up-racing-classes-for-2010/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/17/american-le-mans-series-changes-up-racing-classes-for-2010/#commentsFiled under:

2009 ALMS at Long Beach - Click above for high-res image gallery

The American Le Mans Series is responding to economic conditions and the decline in the diversity of racing machinery on the grid by changing up the racing classes in its ranks for next season. Rather than imposing spending caps that would be tough to enforce, the series is adding new classes that are closer to production machinery.

Starting in 2010, the two-tier LMP1 and LMP2 categories will be merged into one LMP class, while a new LMP Challenge class will be added starting with the inclusion of Oreca's lower powered Formula Le Mans cars. However, the old system will remain in place for the Sebring 12 Hours and Petit Le Mans races so as to allow European teams to compete in the series' premier American races.

In the GT categories, GT2 class will be remade as GT in the wake of GT1's decline, with a new GT Challenge mirroring the LMP Challenge class for Porsche 911 GT3s. ALMS CEO Scott Atherton has left the door open to other GT3 competitors if they are interested, so hopefully we'll soon see the Audi R8 GT4 get the necessary mods to run in the GTC class.

The revised classifications should amount to more direct competition between challengers - provided the standings don't get too convoluted by the premier event exceptions.


Gallery: American Le Mans Series Mid-Ohio 2009


[Source: American Le Mans Series]

Continue reading American Le Mans Series consolidates racing classes for 2010

American Le Mans Series consolidates racing classes for 2010 originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 17 Aug 2009 10:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>almsamerican le mans seriesAmericanLeMansSeriesgt challengegt1gt2GtChallengele mansle mans seriesLeMansLeMansSerieslmplmp challengelmp1lmp2LmpChallengeMon, 17 Aug 2009 10:01:00 EST<![CDATA[VIDEO: McLaren at Le Mans: Pursuit of Perfection]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/13/video-mclaren-at-le-mans-pursuit-of-perfection/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/13/video-mclaren-at-le-mans-pursuit-of-perfection/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/13/video-mclaren-at-le-mans-pursuit-of-perfection/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

McLaren F1 LM - click image above for high-res gallery

You know, we could have titled this one "Car Porn" and it would make as much sense. After the jump you'll find a few videos documenting the more than legendary McLaren F1's inaugural 1995 Le Mans effort. And while the car is without question beyond cool, you may not have actually lived until you watch Andy Wallace talk you through an entire qualifying lap of Le Mans, including Mulsanne's Corner. Which, as Andy explains, simply ain't what it used to be -- nowadays you take it at 180 mph, not 250 mph. And it gets better from there. Block out about forty minutes and just sit mouth agape and watch. Thank us later. Also -- Gordon Murray's hair totally rules. Four videos, after the jump.


Gallery: McLaren F1 LM


[Source: Cold Track Days]

Continue reading VIDEO: McLaren at Le Mans: Pursuit of Perfection

VIDEO: McLaren at Le Mans: Pursuit of Perfection originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 13 Aug 2009 10:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>24 Hours of LeMans24HoursOfLemansGordon MurrayGordonMurrayLe MansLeMansMcLarenMcLaren F1McLaren F1 LMMclarenF1MclarenF1LmThu, 13 Aug 2009 10:28:00 EST<![CDATA[Bentleys Galore: Bentley Drivers Club 60th Anniversary Meeting]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/10/bentleys-galore-bentley-drivers-club-60th-anniversary-meeting/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/10/bentleys-galore-bentley-drivers-club-60th-anniversary-meeting/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/10/bentleys-galore-bentley-drivers-club-60th-anniversary-meeting/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Bentley Drivers Club 60th Anniversary Meeting - click image above for high-res gallery

It's hard to argue against Bentley. From the marque's start as high speed play things for Europe's Jazz Age, monied neerdowell/rapscallion set to an impressive string of Le Mans victories at the hands of ubermenschen like Woolf "Babe" Barnato to all the Bond Villianesque Coupes of the 1950s to the torque-master turbo yachts of the 1980s and 90s all the way up to today's steriodal VW-platformed Continentals, the brand's got that little sumpin' sumpin'.

August 8 and 9 marked the 60th anniversary meeting of the Bentley's Drivers Club at England's famed Silverstone track and what better way to celebrate than with lots of racing? Says the club's Competitions Captain Sebastian Welch, "Our aim was to celebrate 60 years of BDC racing at Silverstone with two days of 'proper' club racing, from highly competitive dicing on track to a non-stop slideshow of archive pictures in the pit garage and family picnics on the grass at Copse." We so wish we were rich.

Perhaps equal to our raging jealousy is our fascination at the lineup of cars on hand for the 60th meet up. A few favorites: 1928 Speed Six, 1933 Napier-Railton (with a 24-liter, 550 hp W12 -- no front-wheel brakes, either), 1949 MkVI Special, 1990 Turbo R and the Le Mans winning, 600 hp, 217 mph 2003 Speed 8. If none of those float your boat, check your pulse concentrate on the fact that one of the scratch races saw 25 Bentleys of all vintages going wheel to wheel with Michael Higginbotham's MkVI Special coming out on top. Be sure to peruse the gallery as these are some mightily beautiful pictures.


Gallery: Bentley Driver's Club 60th Anniversary Meeting


[Image Source: Peter de Rousset-Hall]


Bentleys Galore: Bentley Drivers Club 60th Anniversary Meeting originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 10 Aug 2009 18:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1928 Bentley Speed Six1928BentleySpeedSix1949 Bentley MkVI Special1949 MkVI Special1949BentleyMkviSpecial1949MkviSpecialBabe BarnatoBabeBarnatoBentleyBentley Drivers ClubBentley Speed 6Bentley Speed 8Bentley Turbo RBentleyDriversClubBentleySpeed6BentleySpeed8BentleyTurboRLe MansLeMansNapier-RailtonSilverstoneSpeed SixSpeedSixWoolf BarnatoWoolfBarnatoMon, 10 Aug 2009 18:28:00 EST<![CDATA[Derek Bell runs the Bentley Continental Supersports at Goodwood [w/VIDEO]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/15/derek-bell-runs-the-bentley-continental-supersports-at-goodwood/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/15/derek-bell-runs-the-bentley-continental-supersports-at-goodwood/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/15/derek-bell-runs-the-bentley-continental-supersports-at-goodwood/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


Bentley Continental Supersports - click above for high-res image gallery

At the Geneva Motor Show in March, Bentley unveiled its fastest most powerful road car in its 90 year history in the form of the Continental Supersports. Besides significantly reducing the weight of the existing Continental GT, the Supersports marked the first step of Bentley's move reduce its carbon dioxide emissions, in this case through the use of ethanol as a fuel for the 6.0-liter twelve-cylinder engine.

The Supersports is the first flex-fuel vehicle from the British luxury marque. At this month's Goodwood Festival of Speed, Bentley asked repeat Le Mans winner Derek Bell to spend the weekend ferrying lucky passengers up the hillclimb course in a prototype at elevated speeds. While we couldn't be there to experience the ride for ourselves, Bentley has just released the next best thing - a gallery of high-res images and a video that you can check out after the jump.


Gallery: Goodwood 2009: Bentley Continental Supersports


[Source: Bentley]

Continue reading Derek Bell runs the Bentley Continental Supersports at Goodwood [w/VIDEO]

Derek Bell runs the Bentley Continental Supersports at Goodwood [w/VIDEO] originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 15 Jul 2009 14:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bentleybentley continentalbentley continental supersportsBentleyContinentalBentleyContinentalSupersportsderek bellDerekBellgoodwoodgoodwood festival of speedgoodwood festival of...GoodwoodFestivalOf...GoodwoodFestivalOfSpeedLe MansLeManssupersportsWed, 15 Jul 2009 14:59:00 EST<![CDATA[Spy Shots: First-ever in-the-fiber shots of Devon GTX supercar emerge]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/04/spy-shots-first-ever-in-the-fiber-shots-of-devon-gtx-supercar-e/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/04/spy-shots-first-ever-in-the-fiber-shots-of-devon-gtx-supercar-e/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/04/spy-shots-first-ever-in-the-fiber-shots-of-devon-gtx-supercar-e/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Brenda Priddy's long-lens outfit has captured the first shots off the Devon Motor Works GTX supercar during aerodynamics testing.

The butterfly-doored coupe looks very promising in bare carbon fiber, as is word that the prototype was spotted at Willow Springs raceway with British Le Mans champion Justin Bell behind the wheel for testing duties.

This GTX mule certainly has some interesting details to it, including the aforementioned up-and-forward doors, as well as a U-shaped vented hood, center-exit exhaust, a big (and likely temporary) adjustable wing, and funky contrasting fender treatments which may or may not see production.

It isn't altogether clear what engine will be powering this beastie, but Priddy's people reportedly overheard the engineers talking of extracting 650 horsepower out of the drivetrain. California-based Devon, you may recall, was the sole bidder Chrysler reported for its Viper franchise, and it's certainly conceivable that despite the failed bid attempt, the car seen here would still feature a certain 8.4-liter V10 underhood. Indeed, given that Devon continues to tout its creation as "America's next great supercar," that scenario seems rather likely.

The GTX is slated to make its first appearance at next month's Pebble Beach Concours D'Elegance (we'll be sure to grab some live photos), and the coupe is tipped to go on sale in the U.S. first in 2010, with other markets to follow. Check out the gallery of renderings below as well as a video of the teasers after the jump.


Gallery: Devon Motor Works GTX renderings


[Source: The Detroit Bureau]

Continue reading Spy Shots: First-ever in-the-fiber shots of Devon GTX supercar emerge

Spy Shots: First-ever in-the-fiber shots of Devon GTX supercar emerge originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 04 Jul 2009 13:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Brenda PriddyBrendaPriddyDevonDevon GTXDevon Motor WorksDevonGtxDevonMotorWorksGTXJustin BellJustinBellLe MansLeMansPebble BeachPebble Beach ConcoursPebbleBeachPebbleBeachConcoursspy shotspy shotsSpyShotSpyShotsWillow springsWillowSpringsSat, 04 Jul 2009 13:40:00 EST<![CDATA[Spyker preparing to enter GT1 with competition-spec C8 Aileron?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/03/spyker-preparing-to-enter-gt1-with-competition-spec-c8-aileron/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/03/spyker-preparing-to-enter-gt1-with-competition-spec-c8-aileron/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/03/spyker-preparing-to-enter-gt1-with-competition-spec-c8-aileron/#commentsFiled under: ,

Spyker C8 Laviolette GT2-R - Click above for high-res image gallery

Spyker may have dropped out of Formula One, but they haven't lost that competitive spirit. Even before selling its F1 team to Kingfisher's Vijay Mallya, who rechristened the squad as Force India, Spyker was fielding the race-prepped sports cars in the GT2 category, The C8 Laviolette GT2-R (pictured above) has been their weapon of choice, in turn yielding the road-worthy LM85 which debuted at last year's Los Angeles show. But the niche Dutch automaker is reportedly preparing to step into the big leagues.

According to the latest reports from across the pond, Spyker's new GT1 racer will be based on the latest C8 Aileron, complete with aluminum body and chassis and powered by a race-tuned Audi V8. Fielding the GT2 car will fall to privateer teams while the Spyker Squadron focuses on GT1. Of course the Dutch team will have to step up its game if it's going to dice it with the big boys next season, and we'll enjoy watching them go at it.


Gallery: Geneva 2009: 2009 Spyker C8 Aileron


Gallery: Spyker C8 Laviolette GT2-R


[Source: motorsportblog.it]

Spyker preparing to enter GT1 with competition-spec C8 Aileron? originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 03 Jul 2009 08:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>gt1gt2le mansLeManslm gt1lm gt2LmGt1LmGt2spykerspyker c8spyker c8 aileronspyker c8 gt1spyker c8 gt2spyker c8 gt2-rspyker c8 laviolettespyker c8 laviolette gt2-rspyker c8 laviolette lm85spyker c8 lm85spyker gt1spyker gt2-rSpykerC8SpykerC8AileronSpykerC8Gt1SpykerC8Gt2SpykerC8Gt2-rSpykerC8LavioletteSpykerC8LavioletteGt2-rSpykerC8LavioletteLm85SpykerC8Lm85SpykerGt1SpykerGt2-rFri, 03 Jul 2009 08:28:00 EST<![CDATA[Montezemolo rules out Ferrari factory Le Mans effort... for now]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/01/montezemolo-rules-out-ferrari-factory-le-mans-effort-for-now/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/01/montezemolo-rules-out-ferrari-factory-le-mans-effort-for-now/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/01/montezemolo-rules-out-ferrari-factory-le-mans-effort-for-now/#commentsFiled under: ,



As temperatures rose between Ferrari and its fellow constructors in the Formula One Teams Association, Le Mans class endurance racing provided a convenient alternative for Ferrari and FOTA chairman Luca di Montezemolo to wield against his adversaries. He was even invited to ceremonially start the race this year, celebrating the 60th anniversary of the marque's first win there while hinting that the Maranello squad had alternatives at its disposal. But now that the war appears to have come to an end (notwithstanding Max Mosley's infamous intransigence), Montezemolo has stated that Ferrari won't be returning in full force to Le Mans just yet.

Ferrari's president said that his company couldn't shoulder the enormous parallel burdens of racing in both F1 and Le Mans, though he did admit that the prospect of returning to Le Mans with a full factory racing effort was tempting, saying "sooner or later we will want to go back with an official car." In the meantime, privateer teams like GT2 champions Risi Competizione will continue to field race-prepped customer F430s, but we'll have to wait a little while longer for Ferrari to take on the likes of Audi and Peugeot with a full-on LMP1 works effort.

[Source: Autosport]

Montezemolo rules out Ferrari factory Le Mans effort... for now originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 01 Jul 2009 08:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>di montezemoloDiMontezemoloferrariferrari almsferrari le mansferrari lmsFerrariAlmsFerrariLeMansFerrariLmsle mansle mans ferrariLeMansLeMansFerrariluca di montezemoloLucaDiMontezemolomontezemoloWed, 01 Jul 2009 08:29:00 EST<![CDATA[1997 McLaren F1 GTR race car for sale in Japan]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/29/1997-mclaren-f1-gtr-race-car-for-sale-in-japan/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/29/1997-mclaren-f1-gtr-race-car-for-sale-in-japan/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/29/1997-mclaren-f1-gtr-race-car-for-sale-in-japan/#commentsFiled under: ,


1997 McLaren F1 GTR "Long-Tail" - click above for a high res image gallery

For those whose cash reserves have not been completely depleted by the current global recession, a very special car is currently up for sale in Japan via Wintel. This racer is one of ten long-tail McLaren F1 GTRs built especially for the 1997 FIA GT season.

The F1 GTR first hit the track in 1995 when a model barely removed from the roadgoing version raced to victory at Le Mans. By 1997, Mercedes-Benz and Porsche had seen the writing on the wall, and combined with the series' updated rules, had created their own competitors, including the CLK-GTR and the 911 GT1. McLaren's 97 F1 GTR had all-new bodywork with a longer nose and tail that reduced drag and dramatically increased downforce. By this time, the new purpose-built Mercedes and Porsche cars were regularly outrunning the McLaren, although the latter did manage 197 mph on the Mulsanne straight at Le Mans. There is no indication of a price tag, although if you have to ask...

Gallery: McLaren F1 GTR - Gulf Davidoff


[Source: Wintel.co.jp]

1997 McLaren F1 GTR race car for sale in Japan originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 29 Jun 2009 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>FIA GTFiaGtLe MansLeMansmac f1MacF1mclarenmclaren f1mclaren f1 gtrmclarenf1MclarenF1GtrMon, 29 Jun 2009 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Virtual Le Mans Is On: Forza Motorsport 3 confirms Circuit De La Sarthe]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/16/virtual-le-mans-is-on-forza-motorsport-3-confirms-circuit-de-la/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/16/virtual-le-mans-is-on-forza-motorsport-3-confirms-circuit-de-la/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/16/virtual-le-mans-is-on-forza-motorsport-3-confirms-circuit-de-la/#commentsFiled under: ,


Circuit De La Sarthe in Forza Motorsport 3 - Click above for high-res image gallery

The real 24 Hours of Le Mans just ended, but thanks to the upcoming release of Forza Motorsport 3, you'll be able to recreate the battle between Audi and Peugeot any time you want. Turn 10, the developers of FM3, have confirmed the game's inclusion of Circuit De La Sarthe, including every famous turn and that most monster of straights, the Mulsanne. We're told that the entire 8.5-mile course and its 21 famously named turns have been painstakingly recreated - even the shorter Bugatti circuit will be playable.

La Sarthe is no stranger to being virtually recreated in video games. Most recently, the extremely addicting racer GRiD offered up Le Mans in between seasons while playing in career mode. The third installment of Forza, however, will be the most detailed recreation yet.

Turn 10 has also announced a partial list of race cars with which you'll be able to tackle the 24 Hours of Le Mans in your living room. In addition to this year's Le Mans-winning Peugeot 908, Audi's R8 and diesel-powered R10 will be available. There's no mention of the newer R15, but we expect Turn 10 to complete the roster of Audi LMP1 cars with some downloadable content later on.

Check out the gallery below to view the rest of the recently announced Le Mans racers and see how well Turn 10 recreated La Sarthe.


Gallery: Circuit De La Sarthe in Forza Motorsport 3


[Source: ForzaMotorsport.net via Jalopnik]

Virtual Le Mans Is On: Forza Motorsport 3 confirms Circuit De La Sarthe originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 16 Jun 2009 19:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>24 hours of le mans24HoursOfLeManscircuit de la sartheCircuitDeLaSartheforzaforza 3forza motorsportforza motorsport 3Forza3ForzaMotorsportForzaMotorsport3la sartheLaSarthele mansLeMansTue, 16 Jun 2009 19:29:00 EST<![CDATA[Le Mans courting disgruntled F1 teams]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/14/le-mans-courting-disgruntled-f1-teams/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/14/le-mans-courting-disgruntled-f1-teams/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/14/le-mans-courting-disgruntled-f1-teams/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,



Every F1 fan knows that while these might not be the darkest days for F1, they are certainly distracting and annoying. Max Mosley's years of unilaterally implementing rules might finally break up the F1 band, sending eight current teams into a breakaway F1 series or a different series entirely. If that happens, the people behind Le Mans have thrown open their doors to those poor, huddled masses.

Remy Brouard said that not only would Le Mans organizers welcome former F1 entrants, it would give them a voice in drafting regulations. "If they want to make proposals," he said, "we will listen." Among the possible breakaway teams, Ferrari, Renault, BMW, McLaren and Toyota all have experience in F1, and the first four have won the race. As much as we don't want our F1 to burst, a 2010 Le Mans grid with those five entrants plus Audi, Peugeot, and Aston Martin would be nothing short of outstanding.

[Source: Autosport via Motor Authority | Photo Credit: Fabrice Pluchet]

Le Mans courting disgruntled F1 teams originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 14 Jun 2009 09:07:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bmwf1ferrarifiaformula 1Formula1le mansLeMansmax moselyMaxMoselymclarenmotorsportsrenaulttoyotaSun, 14 Jun 2009 09:07:00 EST<![CDATA[2009 24 Hours of Le Mans: Late night/early morning]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/14/2009-24-hours-of-le-mans-late-night-early-morning/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/14/2009-24-hours-of-le-mans-late-night-early-morning/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/14/2009-24-hours-of-le-mans-late-night-early-morning/#commentsFiled under:


2009 24 Hours of Le Mans - Click above for a high-res image gallery

We managed to snag just over an hour's worth of sleep underneath the stairs of the Audi Arena after bouncing around the track in the early hours of the morning. Before dawn broke, two massive strings of racers were caught behind the safety cars for over 40 minutes after the No. 17 Pescarolo Peugeot shunted into the wall in one of the most violent crashes in recent Le Mans history. Reports about the driver's condition haven't been forthcoming, with the ACO only saying that he was conscious when the medical crew arrived. We haven't heard anything new, so if you have, let us know in the comments.

The Pescarolo joins 14 other cars that are officially out of the race, including the No. 2 Audi R15 from last night, the LMGT2 Lamborghini and the Flying Lizard Porsche 911 GT3 RSR.

With just under six hours left, the Peugeot Total team is continuing to hold off the Audi R15 currently piloted by Mr. Le Mans, Tom Kristensen, with the 007 Lola Aston Martin coming in six laps behind the R15, followed by the No. 11 Oreca AIM and the No. 14 R10. The two R10s are holding slots in the top ten, further proof that the older TDIs are still competitive in the field. The official timing is available at the Le Mans website, and we've posted another sizable batch of photos from late last night/early this morning. Our apologies for the photo quality (we're getting a bit loopy), but they should give you a feel for what Le Mans is like at night and what the next several hours hold for the competitors. We're off to acquire colossal amounts of carbs and coffee. More to follow.


Gallery: 2009 24 Hours of Le Mans - Night

2009 24 Hours of Le Mans: Late night/early morning originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 14 Jun 2009 03:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Above the Audi pits - Click above for a high-res image gallery

We've been bouncing all over the track since late yesterday morning, but a little after 2 AM we found our new favorite spectator spot - directly above the Audi pits. The speed, skill and - in typical German fashion - efficiency of the Audi crew is unmatched at Le Mans, but lighting quick fuel stops and deft tire swaps are only part of the equation. And Audi is having a difficult time filling in the numbers.

After an achingly long spell in the garage, the No. 3 Audi R15 is 42 laps behind the race leader, placing 44th overall and dashing any hopes of a triumphant comeback. So with the No. 2 Audi out altogether, the No. 1 R15 is the sole Audi fighting it out with the three seemingly (and just recently) unflappable Peugeots for a top spot. McNish might make it to sunrise on his current stint, but the No. 8 Peugeot was breathing down his neck before coming in for a driver change, so there's a distinct possibility that Sarrazin could overtake the Scot for the second spot. If you're getting the impression that Audi may have overestimated its abilities, you're not alone. But we're only at the cusp of the halfway point, and as history shows, Audi shines when the heat is on.

As for the rest of the field, the No. 31 LMP2 Team Essex Porsche Spyder is maintaining a commanding three-lap lead over the No. 5 Navi Team Goh Spyder, while the three C6.R Corvettes maintain a steady pace taking the top three spots in GT1. For the rest of the rankings, check out Le Mans' official time page and if you're following along at home, turn down the volume on SpeedTV and tune into Radio Le Mans for some of the best commentary around. We're off to find a Grand Marnier crepe and see what kind of debauchery is taking place outside the paddocks.


Gallery: Audi Pit

2009 24 Hours of Le Mans: The best (pit) seat in the house originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 13 Jun 2009 20:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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The air is thick and the sun is setting over the Circuit de la Sarthe as the competitors press on deep into their eighth hour of racing. By the time these words hit the screen, the No. 9 Peugeot will have done over 120 laps, with the No. 1 Audi R15 trailing by a full lap. The final five LMP1 slots are filled by the No. 8 Peugeot, No. 17 Peugeot and the 007 Lola Aston Martin. The No. 63 and 67 Corvettes have been running clean and strong all day, each putting down almost 110 laps and keeping a comfortable spread from the rest of the GT1 cars. Too bad this is the C6.R's last Le Mans, but we've been assured - despite GM's current troubles - that the team should be back next year.

Although Saturday's been hot and muggy, the most recent weather reports suggest rain is on the way, with a thunderstorm coming sometime Sunday - here's hoping. Despite being on the ground, we've been listening to the race unfold on Radio Le Mans, which has been broadcasting some stellar coverage of the event. Check it out here and expect more updates as the night wears on. With an espresso machine nearby and a comfortable floor to catch a few winks, we plan on enduring the enduro into the morning. Watch this space - Le Mans is at its best after the sun sets.

2009 24 Hours of Le Mans: Dusk descends originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 13 Jun 2009 16:44:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>20092009 24 hours of le mans2009 24 hours of lemans200924HoursOfLeMans24 hours of le mans24HoursOfLeMansle mansLeMansSat, 13 Jun 2009 16:44:00 EST<![CDATA[2009 24 Hours of Le Mans: What's on Where]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/13/2009-24-hours-of-le-mans-whats-on-where/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/13/2009-24-hours-of-le-mans-whats-on-where/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/13/2009-24-hours-of-le-mans-whats-on-where/#commentsFiled under:



Good morning everybody. Here's the rundown for you U.S.-based readers on where and when to find Le Mans coverage today. Sadly, the salad days of the old Speedvision are now a distant memory, and live 24-hour TV coverage is not happening for us. Without further ado:

TELEVISION

SPEED TV
  • Saturday 8:30 AM - 12:00 PM Eastern: The start
  • Saturday 4:30 PM - 10:00 PM Eastern - Day into night
  • Sunday 12:00 AM - 6:00 AM Eastern - Night into day
  • Sunday: 6:00 AM - 9:30 AM Eastern - The finish
The gap between Noon Eastern and 4:30 PM is filled with Sprint Cup practice and coverage of the hugely-impactful NASCAR Camping World Truck Series. At least you know you'll have some time to go out and mow the lawn. The 10:00 PM to Midnight block is taken up by AMA Pro Prime Time.

UPDATE: SPEED TV will stream Le Mans on the web during the Noon- 4:30 PM Eastern and 10 PM - 12 AM Eastern television programming gaps. Click here to watch the SPEED TV Le Mans web stream during those hours.


INTERNET

LEMANS.ORG

RADIOLEMANS.COM
  • Complete, excellent 24-hour live streaming audio at http://www.radiolemans.com, the official English-language audio provider of the 24 Hours of Le Mans. Click the Listen Live link in the top left corner of the page.
AUTOBLOG
  • Damon Lavrinc is at Le Mans for Autoblog.com and will have updates.
  • Autoblog UK has a group on the ground at Le Mans and will be posting updates
USTREAM.TV

SATELLITE RADIO

SIRIUS XM
  • SIRIUS 126 will carry the RadioLeMans.com live audio for the duration of the race
  • XM 243 will carry the RadioLeMans.comlive audio for the duration of the race
Now go grab your coffee, a bowl of Fruity Pebbles, and settle in for the race. If you have any other coverage outlets you want to share, fire away in the comment section.

2009 24 Hours of Le Mans: What's on Where originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 13 Jun 2009 08:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>20092009 24 hours of le mans200924HoursOfLeMans24 hours24Hoursbreakingle mansLeMansSat, 13 Jun 2009 08:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Peugeot takes pole at 24 Hours of Le Mans for third straight year]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/12/peugeot-takes-pole-at-24-hours-of-le-mans-for-third-straight-yea/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/12/peugeot-takes-pole-at-24-hours-of-le-mans-for-third-straight-yea/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/12/peugeot-takes-pole-at-24-hours-of-le-mans-for-third-straight-yea/#commentsFiled under: , ,



It's mid-June and that means it's time for the 24 Hours of Le Mans again. If the past decade is anything to go by, the number one contenders will again be the factory Audis, which have won eight of the last nine races (all nine if you count the 2003 as the Audi it truly was). For the past two years, the big battle for overall glory has been between the diesel-powered Audi R10 and Peugeot 908, and this year looks to be no different aside from Audi having an all new car, the R15, still with TDI power.

While the Peugeots have shown superior speed the last two years, the Audis have had better reliability and pit work. This year, the R15s appear to have made up the speed deficit, and the Germans look set for victory again if the crew can keep them running. Unfortunately for Audi, the race won't start with one of its cars in the lead, as Stephane Sarrazin has once again captured the poll in his Peugeot 908 for a record third straight year. Alan McNish managed to qualify one of Audi's three R15s right behind Sarrazin, but the other two cars managed to qualify only sixth and seventh on the starting grid. Three other Peugeot 908s will start from third, fourth and fifth, respectively, which means diesel power penetrates all the way back to the fourth row on this year's starting grid.

For those interested in following Audi's progress this weekend, the automaker is following up up its Sebring Facebook coverage with even more social media stuff this weekend. You can find photos, videos and news at AudiR15TDI.com, Facebook, Twitter, and Youtube. Our own Damon Lavrinc will also be reporting live from Le Mans this year, so keep an eye on Autoblog and make sure to follow our Twitter feed all weekend long.

[Sources: Yahoo Eurosport, Audi, AutoCar | Photo by Ker Robertson/Getty Images]

Peugeot takes pole at 24 Hours of Le Mans for third straight year originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 12 Jun 2009 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>24 hours of le mans24HoursOfLeMansaudi r15audi r15 tdiAudiR15AudiR15Tdidiesel racingDieselRacingle mansLeManslmp1peugeot 908Peugeot908Fri, 12 Jun 2009 08:00:00 EST