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[VIDEO: Hear the angels sing: revving the Aston Martin One-77]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/23/video-hear-the-angels-sing-revving-the-aston-martin-one-77/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/23/video-hear-the-angels-sing-revving-the-aston-martin-one-77/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/23/video-hear-the-angels-sing-revving-the-aston-martin-one-77/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Aston Martin One-77 - Click above image to hear the video

On Friday we brought you our gushing reaction to the $1.8 million Aston Martin One-77. We were able to stick our snouts over, under and inside the vehicle and it's simply bonkers. Bonkers in the very best way possible. Just a reminder -- the carbon fiber frame also doubles as a feeder for the intake plenums. Ridiculous. Almost as cool: the way the 7.3-liter V12 rockets up its rev range. It's something you simply have to hear to understand. Luckily, we found some video of the reveal party that includes the sound and the fury. After the jump, fast forward to about the 5:00 mark. trust us, you won't believe your ears. There's also a second video, so you can check out some more 360-degree shots of the ultimate Aston.


Gallery: Aston Martin One-77 at Galpin Motors


[Source: Motorator.com]

Continue reading VIDEO: Hear the angels sing: revving the Aston Martin One-77

VIDEO: Hear the angels sing: revving the Aston Martin One-77 originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 23 Aug 2009 20:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Aston MartinAston Martin One-77AstonMartinAstonMartinOne-77One-77V12Sun, 23 Aug 2009 20:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Aston Martin taking on the Nürburgring 24-Hour enduro in V12 Vantage]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/04/24/aston-martin-taking-on-the-nurburgring-24-hour-enduro-in-v12-van/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/04/24/aston-martin-taking-on-the-nurburgring-24-hour-enduro-in-v12-van/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/04/24/aston-martin-taking-on-the-nurburgring-24-hour-enduro-in-v12-van/#commentsFiled under: ,


Aston Martin V12 Vantage - Click above for a high-res image

Aston Martin is returning to the grid for the 37th ADAC Nürburgring 24-hour race, and joining "Rose" - the yellow V8 Vantage that's clocked over 20,000 miles on the track and campaigned in every enduro since 2006 - will be Aston's latest model, the V12 Vantage.

According to Aston, the Nordschleife-bound V12 didn't need much in the way of modifications to make it ready for race day. The Vantage underwent a weight reduction program primarily comprised of ditching its luxurious interior in favor of a full roll cage and the required safety equipment, along with a re-tuned suspension and Pirelli P Zero Circuit Racing slicks. Otherwise, the 510-hp V12 powerplant remains unchanged and the bodywork is the same as the production model due to go on sale later this year.

This will be AM's fourth consecutive campaign at the Nürburgring, and joining some of the company's engineering team behind the wheel will be Aston Martin's CEO Dr. Ulrich Bez. The race gets underway on May 23, and if you want more information about the race, you can check out the ADAC website and Aston's press release below the fold.

Continue reading Aston Martin taking on the Nürburgring 24-Hour enduro in V12 Vantage

Aston Martin taking on the Nürburgring 24-Hour enduro in V12 Vantage originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 24 Apr 2009 16:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>24 hour24-hour24Hour37th ADAC Nurburgring 24-hour race37thAdacNurburgring24-hourRaceaston martinaston martin v12 vantageAstonMartinAstonMartinV12Vantagenurburgringv12v12 vantageV12VantagevantageFri, 24 Apr 2009 16:28:00 EST<![CDATA[Geneva Preview: Aston Martin V12 Vantage revealed]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/02/03/geneva-preview-aston-martin-v12-vantage-revealed/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/02/03/geneva-preview-aston-martin-v12-vantage-revealed/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/02/03/geneva-preview-aston-martin-v12-vantage-revealed/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Click above for a high-res gallery of the Aston Martin V12 Vantage

The Aston Martin V12 Vantage has arrived and yes, you want one. Evolving the styling and engineering exercise Aston unveiled in 2007 and set for a Geneva Motor Show debut, the blokes Gaydon claim the V12 Vantage is the most driver-focused sports car the automaker has ever produced.

Power is provided by a 6.0-liter V12 putting out 510 hp at 6,500 rpm and 420 lb.-ft. of torque at 5,750 rpm. The Vantage's new-found grunt is sent through a carbon fiber driveshaft to a rear-mounted six-speed manual gearbox. The transmission benefits from an oil cooler and a new rear diffuser helps cool the standard limited slip differential. Aston claims a 0-60 time of 4.1 seconds and top speed of 190 mph.

Independent double wishbones are mounted fore and aft, while six-piston calipers squeeze 398mm (15.67-inch) carbon ceramic discs in front and four-piston units clamp down on 360 mm (14.17-inch) ceramic rotors in the rear. The front wheels measure 19x9-inches and the rears 19x11-inches, each wrapped in Pirelli P Zero Corsa rubber sized 255/35 and 295/30, respectively.

Inside, carbon fiber door pulls join a host of standard features, while lightweight, carbon-kevlar seats, personalized sill plates and a premium audio system are optional.

The V12 Vantage features spring rates 80% stiffer in front and 45% stiffer in the rear, allowing the coupe to hit up to 1.3 lateral gs. The V12 mill weighs almost 200 pounds more than the V8, but after the Aston got done tweaking the Vantage, the overall increase was a paltry 110 pounds. Pricing hasn't been announced, but expect each of the 1,000 V12 Vantages Aston plans to produce to fetch a princely sum. All the details are available in the press release below the fold.

Gallery: Aston Martin V12 Vantage

Continue reading Geneva Preview: Aston Martin V12 Vantage revealed

Geneva Preview: Aston Martin V12 Vantage revealed originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 03 Feb 2009 20:17:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>astonaston martinaston martin v12 vantageAstonMartinAstonMartinV12Vantagebreakinggenevageneva 2009geneva motor showGeneva2009GenevaMotorShowmartinv12vantageTue, 03 Feb 2009 20:17:00 EST<![CDATA[Pics Aplenty: Audi Q7 V12 TDI]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/09/13/pics-aplenty-audi-q7-v12-tdi/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/09/13/pics-aplenty-audi-q7-v12-tdi/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/09/13/pics-aplenty-audi-q7-v12-tdi/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Click above for a hi-res gallery of the Audi Q7 V12 TDI

The Audi Q7 V12 TDI is set to launch (but not here in the U.S.), and it's just the thing to give that annoying neighbor with his fancy VW Touareg V10 TDI a debilitating inferiority complex. 500 horsepower and approximately enough torque to counter-rotate the Earth (758 lb-ft) come standard on Audi's diesel monster. 21-inch wheels mask carbon ceramic brakes, LED running lamps help light the way, and the interior is a festival of dead cow, TV screens, and Alcantara, all trimmed neatly in aluminum and carbon fiber. If we were, say, Russian gangsters, we'd totally be driving one of these. (Except Neff, who would undoubtedly, stubbornly continue rolling in the Alero.) In conjunction with the launch, Audi dumped a slew of new pictures on its media site, so here they are. Click away.

Gallery: Audi Q7 V12 TDI


[Source: Audi]

Continue reading Pics Aplenty: Audi Q7 V12 TDI

Pics Aplenty: Audi Q7 V12 TDI originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 13 Sep 2008 12:37:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>500 hp500Hp757 lb ft757LbFtaudidieseleuroq7tdiv12Sat, 13 Sep 2008 12:37:00 EST<![CDATA[BMW slashes V8 engine production in favor of fours]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/09/02/bmw-slashes-v8-engine-production-in-favor-of-fours/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/09/02/bmw-slashes-v8-engine-production-in-favor-of-fours/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/09/02/bmw-slashes-v8-engine-production-in-favor-of-fours/#commentsFiled under: , ,

The new BMW 7-Series has just stepped out from behind the curtain, and it's taken the stage to a house only half full. Demand for BMW's big engines has dropped so low that the house of the roundel says it can make enough 8-bangers to satisfy the world's demand using just one shift for four days.

A member of BMW's supervisory board put it plainly: "We are producing the wrong engines here." Even the sixes, the center of BMW's engine constellation, are being taken out of production in Munich to be replaced by those with two fewer cylinders in 2011. When the phase-out is complete, the company will be able to build 560,000 4-cylinders per annum. Care for a BMW 716i, anyone?

[Source: Automotive News - sub. req'd]

BMW slashes V8 engine production in favor of fours originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 02 Sep 2008 09:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>4-cylinder4-cylinder engines4-cylinderEnginesbmwbmw 8-cylinderbmw enginesbmw manufacturingbmw productionBmw8-cylinderBmwEnginesBmwManufacturingBmwProductionengine manufacturingEngineManufacturingv10v12v6v8 engineV8EngineTue, 02 Sep 2008 09:01:00 EST<![CDATA[VIDEO: Mustang gets Aston Martin Vanquish V12]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/04/15/video-mustang-gets-aston-martin-vanquish-v12/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/04/15/video-mustang-gets-aston-martin-vanquish-v12/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/04/15/video-mustang-gets-aston-martin-vanquish-v12/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Click above to view video after jump

For decades, the Ford Mustang has been a symbol of affordable performance. While the average GT will still run you less than $30,000, for many that is merely the starting point. Next is the booming Ford Mustang aftermarket business, where you can beef up every square inch of your ponycar. One item not commonly found in a Ford Racing catalog is an Aston Martin Vanquish V12 engine, but after hearing one in the engine bay of a beautiful blue stallion, we think that problem should be corrected.

Hit the jump to view video of a very well-modified Mustang that has the face of a GT500, the butt of a Saleen, and the heart of an Aston. If you thought the throaty V8 of a stock GT was music to your ears, the silky smooth symphony coming from the Vanquish V12 is better than Bach. The best part of the video comes about a minute in when the snugly-packed V12 reveals itself for the first time. Is it just us or is a real Mustang with an Aston motor a hundred times better than a 'Stang with a Vanquish body?

UPDATE: Video after the jump fixed.

[Source: Streetfire]

Continue reading VIDEO: Mustang gets Aston Martin Vanquish V12

VIDEO: Mustang gets Aston Martin Vanquish V12 originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 15 Apr 2008 12:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Aston MartinAstonMartinFord MustangFordMustangSaleenShelbyV12VanquishTue, 15 Apr 2008 12:29:00 EST<![CDATA[Top Secret's V12 Supra heading to Nardo for top speed run]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/02/15/top-secrets-v12-supra-heading-to-nardo-for-top-speed-run/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/02/15/top-secrets-v12-supra-heading-to-nardo-for-top-speed-run/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/02/15/top-secrets-v12-supra-heading-to-nardo-for-top-speed-run/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,



There have been a fair number of tuners that have made the trek to the Nardo test track in Italy to see if their modified rides could break an illustrious top speed. The MTM Bimoto TT comes to mind, as does AC Schnitzer's GP3.10 3-series, Edo Competition's Lamborghini LP640 and 9ff's insane GT9. Another contender has been added to the list and it's just as impressive as the rest.

Top Secret has been making the show rounds with its twin-turbo'd V12 Supra for the past year, but it's finally putting its money where its mouth is and going for a top speed of 400 km/h (248 mph) later this year in Italy. Breaching 200 km/h hasn't been an issue since the boosted 6.0-liter V12 is supposedly pushing out over 1,000 hp.

You can read up on Kazuhiko "Smoky" Nagata's golden boy here and check a Japanese-language video of the Supra after the jump.

[Source: Kulitivate, Photo by Bulletproof Automotive]

Continue reading Top Secret's V12 Supra heading to Nardo for top speed run

Top Secret's V12 Supra heading to Nardo for top speed run originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 15 Feb 2008 18:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>supratop secrettop secret v12 supraTopSecretTopSecretV12Supratoyotav12Fri, 15 Feb 2008 18:57:00 EST<![CDATA[AutoWeek picks Best of Show and honors others from Detroit]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/01/18/autoweek-picks-best-of-show-and-honors-others-from-detroit/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/01/18/autoweek-picks-best-of-show-and-honors-others-from-detroit/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/01/18/autoweek-picks-best-of-show-and-honors-others-from-detroit/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

Here's a way to create content long after an auto show has ended, dream up a list of editorial favorite picks. Well, what the hell, we might as well be meta and report on the anti-news. Here we go blithely. AutoWeek handed out its Editors' Choice awards for the North American International Auto Show at its Design Forum on Wednesday. We can debate the relevance, but we'd rather just talk about the cars. The four vehicles that AutoWeek thought were the bee's knees are as follows:

As Linda Richman would say: discuss.

[Source: AutoWeek]

AutoWeek picks Best of Show and honors others from Detroit originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 18 Jan 2008 16:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2009audiautoauto showAutoShowautoweekawardscadillacchevroletchevycorvettecoupectscts coupeCtsCoupedetroitf150fordnaiasnorth american international auto showNorthAmericanInternationalAutoShowr8showtdiv12zr-1zr1Fri, 18 Jan 2008 16:56:00 EST<![CDATA[Detroit R8: Deciphering the Audi V12 TDI]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/01/15/detroit-r8-deciphering-the-audi-v12-tdi/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/01/15/detroit-r8-deciphering-the-audi-v12-tdi/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/01/15/detroit-r8-deciphering-the-audi-v12-tdi/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,



With Audi's introduction of the Audi R8 V12 TDI, we got to look at the most unique aspect of this supercar - its diesel engine. Compression-ignition motors may be commonplace everywhere else in the transportation world, but they haven't yet infiltrated the supercar segment. This is no accident, as until now, diesels have offered a poor ratio between power output and weight - not a big problem for cruise ships and the like, but definitely an obstacle to recruiting a high-performance customer. So, how did Audi get around this problem? We've got a gallery full of shots showing the naughty details (you can access it by clicking the photo above or the link below), and if you go below the fold, we'll walk you through what we observed of the engine on display.

Gallery: 2008 Detroit: Audi V12 TDI cutaways

Continue reading Detroit R8: Deciphering the Audi V12 TDI

Detroit R8: Deciphering the Audi V12 TDI originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 15 Jan 2008 13:08:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2008AudicutawayDetroit, Auto ShowDetroit,AutoShowdieselTDIV12Tue, 15 Jan 2008 13:08:00 EST<![CDATA[Mustang-based Aston Vanquishes other replicas]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/01/10/mustang-based-aston-vanquishes-other-replicas/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/01/10/mustang-based-aston-vanquishes-other-replicas/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/01/10/mustang-based-aston-vanquishes-other-replicas/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Click on the images to view in high resolution

In our day-to-day, we come across a fair number of replicars. Some are especially convincing, while others are just plain bonkers. Far more so than the Miata-based AMX07 we brought you back in 2006, this Aston Martin V12 Vanquish replica could have had us fooled.

Made by Ontario, Canada-based Exclusive Motor Cars, this Aston replica is based on a previous-gen Ford Mustang. Ten companies are then involved in the transformation -- stretching the wheelbase, widening the track and lowering the ride height with suspension mods; crafting, painting and fitting the 34 composite body panels; custom upholstering the interior and fitting interior trim pieces; and mounting all the extra details from the headlights to the badges.

The end result, at least as far as we can tell from the pictures (you can judge for yourself in the gallery below), would appear to fool anyone but the most trained eye. Exclusive even plans to offer a "spy package" complete with (what we'd hope are fake) grille-mounted rocket launchers and hood-mounted machine guns in an effort to complete the "Die Another Day" 007 package. Although the company's pricing page is currently blank, you can bet it costs a heck of a lot less than the authentic, now-discontinued V12 Vantage itself. You very well might be the only one who would know the difference.

[Source: Exclusive Motor Cars via Carscoop]

Gallery: Exclusive Aston Martin Vanquish replica

Mustang-based Aston Vanquishes other replicas originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 10 Jan 2008 16:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>astoncanadaexclusivekitmartinmotor carsMotorCarsmustangreplicav12vanquishThu, 10 Jan 2008 16:55:00 EST<![CDATA[Teaser: Mercedes releases twin SL AMG roadsters]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/12/30/teaser-mercedes-releases-twin-sl-amg-roadsters/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/12/30/teaser-mercedes-releases-twin-sl-amg-roadsters/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/12/30/teaser-mercedes-releases-twin-sl-amg-roadsters/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

It's been a regular smorgasbord for fans of Mercedes roadsters over here, with this teaser shot of the upcoming facelifted flagship SL hitting the web just a few days after Benz revealed the updated version of the smaller SLK. But while the SLK was revealed first in "ordinary" guise, the image above shows the full-fat, fire-breathing SL 65 AMG version.

We already know that the facelift will feature a heavily revised front end with new headlight treatment, but from the rear three-quarter view Mercedes is enticing us with, all can also see the revised taillights, new diffuser with quad exhausts, and a subtle lip spoiler. The new SL 65 also appears to be riding on AMG's latest 19-inch five-spoke rims, similar in style to those found on Stuttgart's other earth-pounding range-topper, the Porsche 911 Turbo.

With the teaser shot also comes information on the two AMG models in the new SL range: the SL 65 AMG we see here, and the SL 63 AMG. The former packs AMG's twin-turbo V12 pumping out a whopping 612 horsepower, while the latter is driven by Affalterbach's 6.3-liter V8 with 525 horsepower, replacing the outgoing 55 version and in the process distancing it from the smaller SLK 55 AMG revealed previously.

We'll have to wait to see more images of the new AMG roadsters, including those that celebrities will be wrapping around trees.

[Sources: Mercedes-Benz via World Car Fans and Motor Authority]

Teaser: Mercedes releases twin SL AMG roadsters originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 30 Dec 2007 15:11:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>556365amgbenzdebutfaceliftmercedespreviewreviseroadsterslteaserturbounveilupdatev12v8Sun, 30 Dec 2007 15:11:00 EST<![CDATA[VIDEO: Lamborghini Reventon from behind the wheel]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/11/05/video-lamborghini-reventon-from-behind-the-wheel/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/11/05/video-lamborghini-reventon-from-behind-the-wheel/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/11/05/video-lamborghini-reventon-from-behind-the-wheel/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


click above image to view the Lamborghini Reventon in action

The Lamborghini Reventon is among the rarest and most exotic cars on Earth, and it's 650-hp V12 and lightweight components make it one of the best performers, too. Unfortunately, the Italian automaker has decided to produce only 20 examples of the $1 million supercar, and the closest we'll likely ever get to the stealth-inspired rocket is YouTube.

The scholastic studs over at Popular Science got time behind the wheel of the Reventon, and they had their cameras rolling. The sound of the V12 parked in the back of the Italian supercar will never be mistaken for anything built here in the States, as its eager whine sounds more like a crotch rocket than anything powering four wheels. The video can be found after the jump, and though the camera work may not be very good, we imagine it's tough to keep a steady hand in a vehicle that can surpass 200 MPH and hits 60 in just 3.4 seconds.

[Source: Popular Science]

Continue reading VIDEO: Lamborghini Reventon from behind the wheel

VIDEO: Lamborghini Reventon from behind the wheel originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 05 Nov 2007 17:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>650 HP650HpItalian SupercarItalianSupercarLamborghini ReventonLamborghiniReventonV12Mon, 05 Nov 2007 17:56:00 EST<![CDATA[Frankfurt 2007: BRABUS Bullit, live and brutally insane]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/09/12/frankfurt-2007-brabus-bullit-live-and-brutally-insane/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/09/12/frankfurt-2007-brabus-bullit-live-and-brutally-insane/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/09/12/frankfurt-2007-brabus-bullit-live-and-brutally-insane/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


Click the pic above for more high-res shots of the BRABUS Bullit.

The term "sleeper" isn't quite accurate when referring to the BRABUS Bullit. It has presence, with an air of understated brutality. The aero mods speak volumes about its predilection for sinister speed, and the V12 emblems flanking the sides only tell half the story. Housed within the engine bay is BRABUS' own SV12 Biturbo mill, producing 720 HP and an electronically governed 811 lb.-ft. of torque (974 lb.-ft. of twist would be available if it wouldn't tear apart the rear diff and liquify the tires). On your way up to the 224 MPH top speed, you'll pass 62 MPH in just under four seconds, and if you want all the details, you can read through our initial post here and check out our high-res pics in the gallery below.

Gallery: BRABUS Bullit Black Arrow - live

Frankfurt 2007: BRABUS Bullit, live and brutally insane originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 12 Sep 2007 08:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>biturbobrabusbrabus bullitBrabusBullitbullitc-classmercedes benzmercedes-benzMercedesBenzv12v12 biturboV12BiturboWed, 12 Sep 2007 08:27:00 EST<![CDATA[Merc SL600 gets evil(er): Kicherer SL K60 EVO Black]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/05/23/merc-sl600-gets-evil-er-kicherer-sl-k60-evo-black/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/05/23/merc-sl600-gets-evil-er-kicherer-sl-k60-evo-black/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/05/23/merc-sl600-gets-evil-er-kicherer-sl-k60-evo-black/#commentsFiled under: ,


Click the image above for a high-res gallery.

The German tuners over at Kicherer have turned their attention towards the SL600, as the firm's previous iterations of the V12-powered coupe have been a popular product. One good turn deserves another, and this time, it gets the Darth Vader treatment.

To begin with, the bi-turbo V12 gets a power upgrade to the tune of 605 HP, allowing a run to 62 to be dispatched in 4.3 seconds, continuing on to 200 km/h in 14.2 seconds. Power is fed through the stock transmission and sent to the rear rollers consisting of 20-inch deep-dish wheels with 305mm Continental tires. The revised suspension drops the SL down another 25mm, while the active body control system has been tweaked to keep roll at bay.

The exterior benefits from a carbon fiber bootlid and hood, along with a revised aero kit, that includes a front spoiler and a rear diffuser. On the inside, the stock steering wheel has been replaced with a smaller, F1-style unit, complete with carbon fiber paddles.

Kicherer's press release, outlining all the mods, is posted after the jump and a gallery of images is included below.

Gallery: Kicherer SL K60 EVO Black

Continue reading Merc SL600 gets evil(er): Kicherer SL K60 EVO Black

Merc SL600 gets evil(er): Kicherer SL K60 EVO Black originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 23 May 2007 11:07:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bi turboBiTurbok60kicherermercedesmercedes benzmercedes-benzMercedesBenzsl k 60 evo blacksl600SlK60EvoBlackv12Wed, 23 May 2007 11:07:00 EST<![CDATA[Lutz confirms V12 in development for Cadillac flagship]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/03/21/lutz-confirms-v12-in-development-for-cadillac-flagship/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/03/21/lutz-confirms-v12-in-development-for-cadillac-flagship/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/03/21/lutz-confirms-v12-in-development-for-cadillac-flagship/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Lutz unveiles the Cadillac Sixteen concept at NAIAS 2003 in Detroit

It's official. It's been confirmed: Cadillac is preparing a new V12 flagship. That's straight from the mouth of our favorite man in the business, Bob Lutz. On a recent trip across the pond, GM's venerated product guru confirmed in an interview to the British car magazine AutoWeek that they are indeed working on a twelve-cylinder engine, slated to power a new range-topping, import-beating "Cadillac of Cadillacs," a super-luxury-sedan to rival the likes of the Mercedes S-Class and Lexus LS in the grandest of American style.

The new powerplant is being fabricated from two of GM's 3.6-liter 60-degree V6 engines mounted on a common crankshaft. Far from relying solely on cylinder count, sources speculate the engine will also benefit from such features as direct injection and cylinder deactivation, resulting in a 7.2-liter V12 with somewhere in the neighborhood of 600 horsepower and 540 lb-ft of torque.

And just where is GM testing such a behemoth of an engine? In Australia, of course! As has become de rigeur for American automakers of late, GM is relying on its Australian subsidiary to run the development work on the new flagship engine. Holden is reported to have already begun testing mules, based on a Commodore with a stretched-out engine bay, at its Lang Lang test center near Melbourne. Although the Zeta-based Commodore, (a.k.a. the upcoming Pontiac G8) is being used strictly as a test bed for the time being, it could end up providing the underpinnings for the Cadillac megasedan when the time comes.

Lutz has been pushing for a top-tier Cadillac for years now, and the impetus for its development has apparently come from the feedback received by the Cadillac Sixteen showcar debuted back in 2003. Although the showcase V16 engine was ruled out, apparently the V12 has gotten the green light for development. Shoot for the stars and land on the moon, eh Bob?

Related posts:

[Source: Automotive News - subscription required]

Lutz confirms V12 in development for Cadillac flagship originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 21 Mar 2007 11:07:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>australiabobcadillacdevelopmentflagshipholdenlutzluxurymulesedansixteensupertesttwelveultrav12v16Wed, 21 Mar 2007 11:07:00 EST<![CDATA[VIDEO: Peugeot to Audi: the V12 HDi is coming, prepare for competition]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/03/13/video-peugeot-to-audi-the-v12-hdi-is-coming-prepare-for-compe/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/03/13/video-peugeot-to-audi-the-v12-hdi-is-coming-prepare-for-compe/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/03/13/video-peugeot-to-audi-the-v12-hdi-is-coming-prepare-for-compe/#commentsFiled under: ,


Click the image for our high-res gallery.

A few of us around the Autoblog offices are eagerly anticipating the oil burning fight about to take place at this year's Le Mans. Audi's dominance of the field last year made for some entertaining races, but for 2007, the R10 may finally have some serious competition.

The Peugeot 908 HDi was recently unveiled, and apart from looking the biz, the V12 diesel is laying down 850 ft.-lbs. of torque and over 700 HP. The images in our gallery can only begin to do such a beast justice, so Peugeot released a video of the 908 running the Le Castellet circuit in the South of France.

The video is after the jump, and if you haven't had the chance, be sure to check out the pics of Audi's newest rival.

[Source: YouTube via Jalopnik]

Continue reading VIDEO: Peugeot to Audi: the V12 HDi is coming, prepare for competition

VIDEO: Peugeot to Audi: the V12 HDi is coming, prepare for competition originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 13 Mar 2007 08:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>908 HDi908Hdiaudidieselle mansLeManspeugeotr10v12Tue, 13 Mar 2007 08:29:00 EST<![CDATA[Geneva Motor Show: V12 quad-turbo R34 GT-R]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/03/10/geneva-motor-show-digitalchips-v12-quad-turbo-r34-gt-r/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/03/10/geneva-motor-show-digitalchips-v12-quad-turbo-r34-gt-r/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/03/10/geneva-motor-show-digitalchips-v12-quad-turbo-r34-gt-r/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Click the image above for more pics of the DigitalChip R34 Skyline GT-R.

During our time in the grand metropolis of Geneva, we had every intention of spending some quality time at the tuner expo adjacent to the main halls. But with all that was going on, time was limited, and aside from the R8-ified TT and those kick ass chairs that our friend Paukert found, there wasn't too much of interest. Then we came across this.

Luc-Michel Faichaud didn't think that the stock RB in his Skyline R34 GT-R would keep up with the rigors of track duty at the power levels he wanted to produce, so he yanked the stock mill and replaced it with a 6.7L V12. And then - just for kicks - bolted on four turbos. The result: 1000+ HP, 1000 NM of torque, a 0-60 time of 2.9 seconds and a quarter mile trap speed at the low end of nine seconds. Complete with carbon-ceramic brakes (381mm front, 355mm rear), 13x18-inch wheels and weighing a paltry 2,200 pounds, the GTR "Unlimited" can reach a maximum speed of 220 MPH and seems to be the highlight of several shows and tuner magazines abroad.

Unfortunately, we were on our way out the door when we snapped these few pics, so no one was on hand to answer questions or pop the hood. UPDATE: But, Mr. Faichaud did contact us with some additional information about the car, which we've added to the post. We would've given our last franc just to sit in the driver's seat, but alas, time wasn't on our side. Frankfurt's coming up at the end of the year, so maybe we'll have a second chance to see the "Unlimited" up close again.

Gallery: DigitalChip TT V12 Skyline GT-R

Geneva Motor Show: V12 quad-turbo R34 GT-R originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 10 Mar 2007 14:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>digital chipdigitalchipgt-rgtrr34skylinetttwin turbotwin-turboTwinTurbov12Sat, 10 Mar 2007 14:31:00 EST<![CDATA[Geneva Motor Show: Tramontana supercar cometh]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/02/27/geneva-motor-show-tramontana-supercar-cometh/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/02/27/geneva-motor-show-tramontana-supercar-cometh/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/02/27/geneva-motor-show-tramontana-supercar-cometh/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Some would say that the Tramontana supercar looks like a mating experiment between the Plymouth Prowler and the Batmobile. We'll call the looks "unique". Either way, this one-seater will be fast and it will be light. We dig the open wheel look, and the wood accents on the exterior are way sweeter than the Griswald's station wagon, but more than anything else, it's the power that gets our attention. A 12-cylinder twin-turbo engine is sweet in just about any application, but mated to a vehicle with room for one seat and carbon-fiber to reduce weight and you've got a freaking rocket on wheels. You even get to choose your output by switching between 542 and 710 hp.

Love the looks or hate them, the new supercar from Tramontana should be very interesting for whomever is looking out from behind the driver's wheel. The press release is available after the jump.

[Source: Tramontanagroup.com via Winding Road]

Gallery: Tramontana

Continue reading Geneva Motor Show: Tramontana supercar cometh

Geneva Motor Show: Tramontana supercar cometh originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 27 Feb 2007 08:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BatmobileProwlerTramontanaTwin TurboTwinTurboV12Tue, 27 Feb 2007 08:59:00 EST<![CDATA[Detroit Auto Show: Audi unleashes the beastly Q7 V12 TDI]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/01/07/detroit-auto-show-audi-unleashes-the-beastly-q7-v12-tdi/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/01/07/detroit-auto-show-audi-unleashes-the-beastly-q7-v12-tdi/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/01/07/detroit-auto-show-audi-unleashes-the-beastly-q7-v12-tdi/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


click above image to view 35 high-resolution images

Audi refers to its new V12 TDI turbodiesel as "majestic", but somehow, that word fails to adequately describe the company's latest oilburner. Grammy-winning singer Seal was on hand to belt out his hit "Crazy", and that term more accurately describes a 6L diesel that makes 500 HP and 737 lb-ft of the twisty stuff (that latter number is maintained in the useful range of 1800- 3000 RPM). This is accomplished via a pair of variable-vane turbochargers that apply 1.6 bar (24 PSI) of squeeze to the intercooled intake charge, and a direct injection system which employs piezoelectric injectors to spray fuel - including multiple pre- and post-combustion events - at a mind-boggling 2000 bar (30,000 PSI). A compression ratio of 16:1 and heavy use of exhaust gas circulation also help keep down the emissions, which meet the 2010 Euro-5 standard.

All that power is fed to an all-wheel-drive system that maintains a 40:60 front-rear balance to maintain what Audi refers to as "slightly tail-heavy, sporty handling characteristics. To slow nearly three tons of mass moving at superlegal velocities, a set of monstrous disc brakes are fitted (the diameter is unspecified, but the fronts appear to be somewhere north of 15"). The concept also carries an interior trimmed in impractical white leather and light-colored carbon fiber.

No word as to when it might be produced, which is just as well since we won't be able to afford it.

The press release is posted after the jump, and we've placed photos (live and stock) here.



For our comprehensive listing of everything from Detroit, click here.

Continue reading Detroit Auto Show: Audi unleashes the beastly Q7 V12 TDI

Detroit Auto Show: Audi unleashes the beastly Q7 V12 TDI originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 07 Jan 2007 17:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>audicommon railconceptdieselpiezopiezoelectricq7suvtditurbodieselv12Sun, 07 Jan 2007 17:32:00 EST<![CDATA[Audi may show Q7 V12 TDI concept in Detroit]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/01/05/audi-appears-to-be-preparing-a-q7-v12-tdi-concept/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/01/05/audi-appears-to-be-preparing-a-q7-v12-tdi-concept/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/01/05/audi-appears-to-be-preparing-a-q7-v12-tdi-concept/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


click on above image to view high-resolution gallery

This little number caught us off gaurd when one of our sources directed us to the VWVortex.com forums. Audi already unveiled the Q7 V12 TDI back in September at the Paris Motor Show. We were in awe of the engine that doesn't have to trace its root far back before it runs right into the same V12 diesel that powers the R10 Le Mans racer. This angelic-looking Q7 has the same V12, according to the forum poster, and it produces the same 500 horsepower and 738 ft-lbs. of glorious torque.

Perhaps Audi wanted to dress up the Q7 V12 TDI for its debut in North America, because from what we know this vehicle is Detroit-bound. There are a few changes to the vehicle that set it apart from the one we saw debut in Paris, including a front end with more LEDs around the headlights and a slightly modified lowe air intake. Out back the reverse lights have been relocated from the stop lamps into their own strip along the bumper that was previously housing reflectors. The center stop lamp housed beneath the rear spoiler is now also a string of red LEDs. The faux-diffuser in the lower bumper is slightly different, and finally the pair of exhaust tips embedded in the rear skirt are now ovular. The white paint job is new (and nice), but the wheels, oddly enough, are the same as the one's we saw in Paris.

The interior of this mild concept has also been cleaned up with the creamiest-looking leather applied to every visible surface, new gauges (220 mph!), and a new center information display that now both color and sporting a higher resolution. If you check out our gallery of high-resolution pics, you'll notice the center information display is showing a g-meter.



We have no information on this Q7 V12 TDI concept other than the few words accompanying it in the forum we found it. Audi has said nothing official about it, so its attendance in Detroit is not guaranteed. However, if it were to arrive stateside, its presence at the Detroit show would certainly fuel our hope that Audi's thinking about selling the Q7 V12 TDI here in addition to Europe. We'll find out soon enough.

[Source: VWVortex.com]

Audi may show Q7 V12 TDI concept in Detroit originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 05 Jan 2007 17:37:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dieselLeMansQ7R10TDIV12Fri, 05 Jan 2007 17:37:00 EST