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: Turbocharged BMW-powered Yugo highboy has us reconsidering the GV]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/17/video-turbocharged-bmw-powered-yugo-highboy-has-us-reconsiderin/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/17/video-turbocharged-bmw-powered-yugo-highboy-has-us-reconsiderin/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/17/video-turbocharged-bmw-powered-yugo-highboy-has-us-reconsiderin/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Vprache BMW six-cylinder turbo Yugo in hoon mode - Click above to watch video

In the beginning, there was a yellow Yugo GV. And when the folks at Vprache Racing cast their eyes over it, they thought it was missing something. So they gave it an 3.5-liter BMW inline six-cylinder transplant and added a turbo besides. And an intercooler mounted on the grille. And a high-rise lift job. Then they took it hooning. And that was the end of the first day.

When that wasn't enough, they added another turbo and fashioned arches to cover the exposed rubber. And then they took it drag racing. And that was the end of the second day. You can check out videos of the car in both iterations after the jump. It's fast. And in a yellow Yugo, you'd want to be.

[Sources: Tampa Sports Car Examiner; YouTube]

Continue reading VIDEO: Turbocharged BMW-powered Yugo highboy has us reconsidering the GV

VIDEO: Turbocharged BMW-powered Yugo highboy has us reconsidering the GV originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 17 Dec 2009 16:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BMWbmw engineBmwEnginedrag racingDragRacingdriftinghoonhooningI6in-line-sixinline-6inline-sixvideoVpracheVprache racingVpracheRacingyugoYugo GVYugoGvzastavaThu, 17 Dec 2009 16:55:00 EST<![CDATA[VIDEO: Lamborghini's Valentino Balboni drifting a Lamborghini Valentino Balboni]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/17/video-lamborghinis-valentino-balboni-drifting-a-lamborghini-va/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/17/video-lamborghinis-valentino-balboni-drifting-a-lamborghini-va/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/17/video-lamborghinis-valentino-balboni-drifting-a-lamborghini-va/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

All hail the drift king, Valentino Balboni - Click above to view the video after the jump

Fate is a funny thing. It was our destiny to get a ride with Valentino Balboni in a Lamborghini LP550-2 Valentino Balboni during rush hour traffic in Los Angeles. Lucky? Absolutely, though we may have crested 50 mph once... maybe. Would we have preferred to have been in the passenger seat of this here limeade green Valentino Balboni as Lamborghini's legendary test driver literally hoons the rear tires off the car? Dear God, yes!!

The following video is actually a pretty good demonstration of the difference between RWD and AWD vehicles. You'll see the Mr. Balboni flinging the LP550-2 around a corner, the rear sliding out a touch before he applies just a dab of oppo' to get the V10-powered, rear-wheel drive mini-monster back in line. This is followed by an AWD LP560-4 which simply can't break traction and sort of gracelessly shunts and shutters its way around the corner. Faster, no doubt -- but not nearly as fun to watch. And then there are sparks and smoke and trust us you'll love this. Watch the video, after the jump.

[Source: YouTube via Jalopnik]

Continue reading VIDEO: Lamborghini's Valentino Balboni drifting a Lamborghini Valentino Balboni

VIDEO: Lamborghini's Valentino Balboni drifting a Lamborghini Valentino Balboni originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 17 Dec 2009 10:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>DriftDriftingLamborghiniLamborghini GallardoLamborghini Gallardo LP550-2 Valentino BalboniLamborghini Gallardo LP560-4Lamborghini LP550-2Lamborghini LP550-2 Valentino BalboniLamborghini LP560-4Lamborghini Valentino BalboniLamborghiniGallardoLamborghiniGallardoLp550-2ValentinoBalboniLamborghiniGallardoLp560-4LamborghiniLp550-2LamborghiniLp550-2ValentinoBalboniLamborghiniLp560-4LamborghiniValentinoBalboniLP550-2LP560-4Valentino BalboniValentinoBalboniThu, 17 Dec 2009 10:40:00 EST<![CDATA[VIDEO: Yes, the 2010 Audi S4 can drift]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/19/video-yes-the-2010-audi-s4-can-drift/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/19/video-yes-the-2010-audi-s4-can-drift/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/19/video-yes-the-2010-audi-s4-can-drift/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Click above to view the video after the jump

When we drove the 2010 Audi S4, we praised the sedan's trick electronic rear differential for its ability to shuffle torque between the rear wheels to give the sensation, if not the exact effect, of oversteer. Unfortunately, our track time was spent in an e-diffless model, so we didn't get to fully exploit its potential around Infineon. However, hot-shoe Ignacio Perez did just that at Spain's Jarama circuit.

After the jump you can watch Perez putting the new S4 into full-on drifts around the track with one nervous front seat passenger and his camera-wielding companion in tow. Although getting the S4 sideways isn't too difficult (we did it a few times in the standard model), you can see in the video that speed drops off precipitously at corner the exit. Regardless, modern-day Audis are no longer relentlessly pushing, nose-heavy beasts and, what's more, Perez was wagging his tail in an S4 Avant, the five-door version we can't get in the States... dammit.


Gallery: Review: 2010 Audi S4


[Source: Fourtitude]

Continue reading VIDEO: Yes, the 2010 Audi S4 can drift

VIDEO: Yes, the 2010 Audi S4 can drift originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 19 Nov 2009 14:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>20102010 audi s42010 audi s4 avant2010 audi s4 wagon2010AudiS42010AudiS4Avant2010AudiS4WagonaudiavantdriftingIgnacio PerezIgnacioPerezs4videowagonThu, 19 Nov 2009 14:57:00 EST<![CDATA[VIDEO: Jeremy Clarkson drifts a Jaguar XKR Convertible... in flippers]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/16/video-jeremy-clarkson-drifts-a-jaguar-xkr-convertible-in-fli/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/16/video-jeremy-clarkson-drifts-a-jaguar-xkr-convertible-in-fli/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/16/video-jeremy-clarkson-drifts-a-jaguar-xkr-convertible-in-fli/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Jeremy Clarkson, flippers and a Jaguar XKR Convertible - Click above to watch the video

We missed the first part of this skit, as the video you're about to watch isn't from Top Gear, but rather from JC's newest DVD Dual Duel. Still, it does feature the Stig. And some ridiculous-yet-somehow-jealousy-inducing car-antics. Apparently, Jezza bragged that the Jag is such an easy to handle drifter all-star, that he could smash an apple... while wearing flippers.

But he's not the only one wearing ridiculous shoes while hammering a big powerful car around a track. The Stig attempts to smash apples in a pair of wellingtons. The results, while absurd, juvenile and predictable (guess who has the easier time making applesauce), are still must-watch gearhead television. So without further ado, make the jump and watch the video.

[Source: YouTube via Axis of Oversteer]

Continue reading VIDEO: Jeremy Clarkson drifts a Jaguar XKR Convertible... in flippers

VIDEO: Jeremy Clarkson drifts a Jaguar XKR Convertible... in flippers originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 16 Nov 2009 14:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>DriftDriftingJaguarJaguar XKRJaguar XKR ConvertibleJaguarXkrJaguarXkrConvertibleJeremy ClarksonJeremyClarksonStigThe StigTheStigTop GearTopGearXKR ConvertibleXkrConvertibleMon, 16 Nov 2009 14:58:00 EST<![CDATA[VIDEO: Best Drift Ever? Reverse-entry slide has JDM judges all aflutter]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/26/video-best-drift-ever-reverse-entry-slide-has-jdm-judges-all-a/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/26/video-best-drift-ever-reverse-entry-slide-has-jdm-judges-all-a/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/26/video-best-drift-ever-reverse-entry-slide-has-jdm-judges-all-a/#commentsFiled under: ,

Reverse entry drift -- Click above to view the video after the jump

You know the famous soccer announcer (football to you internationals), Andrés Cantor, who screams "Goooooaaaallllll" after a score? A bit of performance genius has had some Japanese drift announcers overcome in similar ecstasy. When M. Kawabata launched his Nissan S13 (a 240 SX to us Yanks) into the corner, he threw the car around so quickly the rear end enters the turn first -- and then he kept it under control. It's being called "drifting history" and "the perfect drift" and "the best drift ever." Make the jump to see the vid and judge for yourself.

[Source: Tampa Sports Car Examiner via Car Domain]

Continue reading VIDEO: Best Drift Ever? Reverse-entry slide has JDM judges all aflutter

VIDEO: Best Drift Ever? Reverse-entry slide has JDM judges all aflutter originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 26 Oct 2009 11:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>d1driftingmotorsportsMon, 26 Oct 2009 11:28:00 EST<![CDATA[Formula Drift 2009 season wraps up in Irwindale, California]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/19/formula-drift-2009-season-wraps-up-in-irwindale-california/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/19/formula-drift-2009-season-wraps-up-in-irwindale-california/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/19/formula-drift-2009-season-wraps-up-in-irwindale-california/#commentsFiled under:

2009 Formula Drift Championship Round - Click above for high-res image gallery

The sixth season of the Formula Drift series wound to a close in Irwindale, California this weekend, and the finale certainly lived up to the host venue's 'House of Drift' reputation. The high speeds and excessive angle required to navigate the speedway's bank required a "go big or go home" attitude in order for drivers to move through the rounds, and there was no playing it safe for seasoned veterans.

The 2009 Formula Drift season began with the debut of a slew of radical new platforms. It was anyone's guess as to what methodology would win out come October. Driver Chris Forsberg proved that the tried and true ride, with a few years of service under its belt, was the key to securing a championship. Forsberg powered his V8-equipped Nissan 350Z to the top 16, earning him enough points to take the 2009 Formula Drift Championship title. Nipping right at Forsberg's heals in the point race was fellow Drift Alliance member, Ryan Tuerck. Tuerck showed that Pontiac is still well and alive by sliding his Solstice GXP to the top of the event podium. Hit the jump to get all the results and a rundown on the season finale.


Gallery: 2009 Formula Drift Championship at Irwindale Speedway

Continue reading Formula Drift 2009 season wraps up in Irwindale, California

Formula Drift 2009 season wraps up in Irwindale, California originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 19 Oct 2009 16:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>driftingFormula DFormula DriftFormulaDFormulaDriftIrwindale SpeedwayIrwindaleSpeedwayMon, 19 Oct 2009 16:58:00 EST<![CDATA[VIDEO: Smart car drifting not only possible, but fun to watch]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/16/video-smart-car-drifting-not-only-possible-but-fun-to-watch/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/16/video-smart-car-drifting-not-only-possible-but-fun-to-watch/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/16/video-smart-car-drifting-not-only-possible-but-fun-to-watch/#commentsFiled under: ,


Drifting Smart fortwo - Click above to watch the video after the jump

There are some images that don't fit into Newton's laws of physics. In nature, flying pigs and twinkle-toed Grizzly Bears come to mind. On the track, we can't think of many things more odd-looking than a drifting Smart ForTwo. After all, it's about as tall as it is long, and it's awfully narrow, too. It's like drifting a postal truck... only smaller... and less agile... and more prone to flipping on its side.

That didn't stop one pioneering tuner from turning the ForTwo into the ultimate lunchbox drifter. The white Smart looks to be modded to the hilt with an overhauled powertrain ('Busa, anyone?), exhaust and larger wheels and tires. Those wheels are also pushed out by several inches as evidenced by the bulging wheel arches. Hit the jump to watch the video shot in Japan. The drifting of this one-of-a-kind Smart car won't make anyone think about Ken Block or Rhys Millen, but this little two seater can sure get around the track, spitting flames in the process.

[Source: Wrecked Magazine]

Continue reading VIDEO: Smart car drifting not only possible, but fun to watch

VIDEO: Smart car drifting not only possible, but fun to watch originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 16 Oct 2009 12:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>driftingdrifting videoDriftingVideojapan driftingJapanDriftingsmart for two tuningsmart fortwosmart modSmartFortwoSmartForTwoTuningSmartModtunerFri, 16 Oct 2009 12:33:00 EST<![CDATA[Autoblog goes drifting with Tanner Foust in NASCAR-powered Scion tC!]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/12/autoblog-goes-drifting-with-tanner-foust/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/12/autoblog-goes-drifting-with-tanner-foust/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/12/autoblog-goes-drifting-with-tanner-foust/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Autoblog goes drifting with Tanner Foust - Click above for high-res image gallery

"It feels like I'm down on power!" yells Tanner Foust in the general direction of the gathered throngs containing both his crew and assorted media. Tanner and myself are currently five-point bolted into his new stock car-engined Formula D Scion tC. We've just exited an aborted lap around the Toyota Speedway at Irwindale because something - so says Foust - is amiss with the car.

Rockstar Energy Drink Drift captain Stephan Papadakis comes charging towards the Scion and begins earnestly, if not frantically, checking the car's vitals through the steering wheel's digital readout. Steph floors the motor a few times, checks the numbers and exasperatedly tells Foust that everything looks fine. "Oh," says Tanner, patting me on my beer belly. "Must be him." Very funny, jerk.


Gallery: Autoblog Goes Drifting with Tanner Foust


Photos copyright (C)2009 Drew Phillips / Weblogs, Inc.

Continue reading Autoblog goes drifting with Tanner Foust in NASCAR-powered Scion tC!

Autoblog goes drifting with Tanner Foust in NASCAR-powered Scion tC! originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 12 Oct 2009 14:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>driftdrift sciondriftingDriftScionfeaturedformula dformula driftFormulaDFormulaDriftfoustirwindalenascar scionNascarScionpapadakisrockstarrockstar energy drinkRockstarEnergyDrinkscion driftScionDrifttanner foustTannerFousttoyota speedwayToyotaSpeedwayMon, 12 Oct 2009 14:56:00 EST<![CDATA[Racecar fabricator and NuFormz owner Shaun Carlson dead at 35]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/06/racecar-fabricator-and-nuformz-owner-shaun-carlson-dead-at-35/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/06/racecar-fabricator-and-nuformz-owner-shaun-carlson-dead-at-35/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/06/racecar-fabricator-and-nuformz-owner-shaun-carlson-dead-at-35/#commentsFiled under:


In the late hours of October 4th 2009, the world lost an innovator in sport compact racing, Shaun Carlson. The NuFormz owner and fabricator extraordinaire had a genetic heart condition - however, it is unknown if the defect contributed to his death.

In more recent years, Carlson, 35, had been known for his lead on the Team MOPAR drift team, but his roots go all the way back to Truckin' and Turbo Magazine. Although he could shoot cars with the best of them, his talent in building them won out in the end. Carlson knocked the socks off the sport compact industry with the Honda CRX he created in collaboration with Jason Whitfield, but he really blew everyone away when he unveiled the world's first tube frame front-wheel drive Honda Civic. Driven by Stephan Papadakis, the car made the industry stand up and take notice that sport compact drag racing was a force to be reckoned with. Following his Civic's success, Carlson created the spectacular web of steel tubing, carbon fiber and titanium that is known as the Meguiar's Ford Focus. His ability to turn the unfortunate into amazing even transferred over from drag racing and into drifting. This is shown by the Dodge Charger and Challenger he built for two time Formula D champion Samuel Hubinette.

It is an understatement to say that Shaun Carlson will be missed. His influence has been far reaching and he undoubtedly had many more groundbreaking builds ahead of him. On a personal note,I will never forget the guidance and knowledge that he gave me as I was starting to get my feet wet in the automotive industry. I first met Shaun when he brought Stephan's yellow Civic to run on the East Coast. As I stared at the car in wonderment, he went out of his way to tell me all about it. After that, whenever I ran into Shaun at a race, he let me hang around his pit. He never dismissed my probing questions about his mechanical troubles either. He could see I wasn't just a female trying to hang around, but a student with a thirst for knowledge and someone looking for direction. I eventually found that direction with a degree in mechanical engineering. Now, in my work, I think back to design tips I learned from master fabricator Shaun Carlson.

Everyone at Autoblog extends their thoughts to all of Shaun Carlson's loved ones.

[Source: NHRA]

Racecar fabricator and NuFormz owner Shaun Carlson dead at 35 originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 06 Oct 2009 09:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Drag RacingDragRacingDriftingFabricatorFormula DFormula DriftFormulaDFormulaDriftMOPARNHRANuFormzSamuel HubinetteSamuelHubinetteShaun CarlsonShaunCarlsonSport CompactSportCompactTue, 06 Oct 2009 09:28:00 EST<![CDATA[2010 Chevrolet Camaro SS comes to Formula D]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/21/2010-chevrolet-camaro-ss-comes-to-formula-d/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/21/2010-chevrolet-camaro-ss-comes-to-formula-d/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/21/2010-chevrolet-camaro-ss-comes-to-formula-d/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Conrad Grunewald's Hankook Chevrolet Camaro SS Drift Car - Click above for image gallery

One thing we've always loved about drifting in general -- and Formula D in particular -- is the mix of cars. Where else can you see a Dodge Viper going head to head with a Toyota AE86 Corolla? What about a Ford Mustang taking on an R33 Skyline? A Pontiac Solstice against a RX-7? A NASCAR engined Scion (no, really)? But what high horsepower, high torque RWD potential dorifto all-star is missing from Formula D's line up?

Pat yourself you know where if you answered Chevy Camaro SS. In fact, BR Racing is building a 2010 Camaro drift machine (above) for Conrad Grunewald to race. As many of you know, the SS comes to the dance packing 426 hp and 420 lb-ft of torque. But for Formula D, that's not nearly enough. BR Racing is therefor stuffing in a tuned LSA mill (same as a Cadillac CTS-V) but turning the pressure (meaning boost) up. How up? More than 600 horsepower at the wheels, which probably means right around 700 crank hp. Sounds like an adequate amount that should have no trouble turning the Hankook Ventus R-S3 tires into molten clouds of stinky smoke. Full press release after the jump.


Gallery: Formula Drift Chevrolet Camaro SS



[Source: Motor Mavens]

Continue reading 2010 Chevrolet Camaro SS comes to Formula D

2010 Chevrolet Camaro SS comes to Formula D originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 21 Sep 2009 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 Chevrolet Camaro SS2010ChevroletCamaroSsBR RacingBrRacingCamaroChevrolet CamaroChevrolet Camaro SSChevroletCamaroChevroletCamaroSsChevy CamaroChevyCamaroConrad GrunewaldConradGrunewaldDrift CamaroDriftCamaroDriftingFormula DFormula D CamaroFormula DriftFormulaDFormulaDCamaroFormulaDriftMon, 21 Sep 2009 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[VIDEO: Gymkhana 2.1 - Electric Boogaloo: Block vs. Dyrdek]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/04/video-gymkhana-2-1-electric-boogaloo-block-vs-dyrdek/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/04/video-gymkhana-2-1-electric-boogaloo-block-vs-dyrdek/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/04/video-gymkhana-2-1-electric-boogaloo-block-vs-dyrdek/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,


Gymkhana 2.1 - Block vs. Dyrdek - Click above to watch the video after the jump

Driftmeister Extraordinaire Ken Block is at it again, only this time, with a bit more of a sense of humor on display. The tire-immolating Subaru WRX STI rally driver has teamed up with pro skateboarder Rob Dyrdek for a "Me and My Shadow" video extravaganza dubbed Gymkhana 2.1.

While we have to admit that the finished product isn't filled with as many jaw-slackeningly awesome moments as the pair of videos that proceeded it, it's an amusing coquet while we wait for Gymkhana 3.0, a film that will presumably involve a borrowed space shuttle, a runway full of banana peels, and at least one octogenarian goat herder. The 3:49 production is worth watching just for Dyrdek's custom "Mini Me" go-kart, which we want parked in our lawnmower shed yesterday. Enjoy watching the video after the jump, and be sure to check out the slightly less-than high-res images in the gallery below. Hat tips to Adam and Christian!


Gallery: Gymkhana 2.1 - Block vs. Dyrdek


[Source: DC Shoes]

Continue reading VIDEO: Gymkhana 2.1 - Electric Boogaloo: Block vs. Dyrdek

VIDEO: Gymkhana 2.1 - Electric Boogaloo: Block vs. Dyrdek originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 04 Sep 2009 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>D.C. ShoesD.c.ShoesDC ShoesDcShoesdriftingKen BlockKenBlockrallyRob DyrdekRobDyrdekSTISubaru STISubaru WRXSubaru WRX STISubaruStiSubaruWrxSubaruWrxStiWRX STIWrxStiFri, 04 Sep 2009 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Formula Drift, Las Vegas: A sideways primer]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/22/formula-drift-las-vegas-a-sideways-primer/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/22/formula-drift-las-vegas-a-sideways-primer/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/22/formula-drift-las-vegas-a-sideways-primer/#commentsFiled under: ,


Formula Drift, Las Vegas - Click above for high-res image gallery

There needs to be a good reason for us to stand in 117-degree heat ingesting particulate rubber and inhaling the tangy stench of tire smoke. An invite to the Las Vegas round of Formula Drift didn't appear to be reason enough, until we realized we didn't have the faintest clue what drifting is really all about. So, with education as our aim we headed into the heat of ten thousands suns to learn what the high-powered slip-n-slide entails. We came away with two findings: one, drifting takes enormous skill; two, drifting isn't a motorsport - it's figure skating. Follow the jump for the story.


Gallery: Formula Drift, Las Vegas: A sideways primer


Photos Copyright (C)2009 Jonathon R. Ramsey / Weblogs, Inc.

Continue reading Formula Drift, Las Vegas: A sideways primer

Formula Drift, Las Vegas: A sideways primer originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 22 Jul 2009 11:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>driftdriftingfeaturedformula driftFormulaDriftlas vegasLasVegassam hubinetteSamHubinetteundefinedWed, 22 Jul 2009 11:55:00 EST<![CDATA[VIDEO: Teaching the kids opposite lock - Big Wheel drifting]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/05/18/video-teaching-the-kids-opposite-lock-big-wheel-drifting/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/05/18/video-teaching-the-kids-opposite-lock-big-wheel-drifting/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/05/18/video-teaching-the-kids-opposite-lock-big-wheel-drifting/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Drifting Big Wheel style: Click above to watch video after the jump

Drifting isn't nearly as easy as it looks. It takes keen hand-eye coordination and an almost spiritual connection with one's vehicle. One payoff for drifting is that it looks really cool, especially when it's seen in a slow motion video.

A bunch of guys with access to some beautiful twisting roads and a few Big Wheels set out to see if drifting looks as cool with a toddler's bike as it does with a Hyundai Genesis Coupe. You know what? It doesn't, but it's still quite entertaining. Hit the jump to see it for yourself. We're pretty sure Rhys Millen shouldn't be worried about this new competition, but we would be surprised if any one of us didn't have an absolute ball trying this ourselves.

[Source: YouTube]

Continue reading VIDEO: Teaching the kids opposite lock - Big Wheel drifting

VIDEO: Teaching the kids opposite lock - Big Wheel drifting originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 18 May 2009 14:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>big wheelbig wheelsBigWheelBigWheelsdriftdriftingdrifting videoDriftingVideorhys millenRhysMillentricycle driftingTricycleDriftingMon, 18 May 2009 14:59:00 EST<![CDATA[First round of 2009 Formula Drift season in the books]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/04/13/first-round-of-2009-formula-drift-season-in-the-books/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/04/13/first-round-of-2009-formula-drift-season-in-the-books/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/04/13/first-round-of-2009-formula-drift-season-in-the-books/#commentsFiled under:


Formula Drift at Long Beach - Click above for high-res image gallery

While many forms of motorsports are cutting back with less sponsorship money and fewer teams, Formula Drift actually grew this year with a bigger list of entrants and plenty of brand new cars. For the opening event in Long Beach, CA, Rhys Millen brought out his Hyundai Genesis Coupe, Tanner Foust traded in his 350Z for a NASCAR-powered Scion tC, and Vaughn Gittin Jr. upgraded his Mustang to a 2010 model. In the end, though, a pair of older cars landed a spot in the finals with Sam Hubinette in his NuFormz Racing / Mopar Dodge Viper SRT10 challenging Ryan Tuerck in his Gardella Racing / Mobil 1 Pontiac Solstice for the top spot. It was Tuerck who was victorious in the drifting duel, who captured his first ever Formula D win and took the initial points lead in the 2009 season. We've put together two high-res galleries, one for practice and qualifying and another for the main day of competition. Hit the jump for more details on the opening race of the 2009 Formula Drift season.


Gallery: 2009 Formula Drift Long Beach Practice and Qualifying


Gallery: 2009 Formula Drift Long Beach Round of 32


Photos copyright (C)2009 Drew Phillips / Weblogs, Inc

Continue reading First round of 2009 Formula Drift season in the books

First round of 2009 Formula Drift season in the books originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 13 Apr 2009 12:34:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2009 Formula Drift2009FormulaDriftdriftingFormula DriftFormula Drift Long BeachFormulaDriftFormulaDriftLongBeachRyan TuerckRyan Tuerck Pontiac SolsticeRyanTuerckRyanTuerckPontiacSolsticeMon, 13 Apr 2009 12:34:00 EST<![CDATA[VIDEO: Drifting on a budget the Chang'an Motors way]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/03/16/video-drifting-on-a-budget-the-changan-motors-way/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/03/16/video-drifting-on-a-budget-the-changan-motors-way/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/03/16/video-drifting-on-a-budget-the-changan-motors-way/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


Click above to watch video after the jump

A few years ago, drifting took the motorsports world by storm... and while its momentum seems to have cooled a bit, virtually everyone can appreciate the knife-edged balance of throttle and steering needed to execute a yawning slide. That appreciation has extended all the way to China, where a young man has converted his knock-kneed, skinny-tired Chang'an delivery truck into a purpose-built machine.

And why not? It's rear-drive, light weight, cheap, and reasonably robust. We dig the owner's enthusiasm, as well as his ingenuity and driving skill on China's slick mountain roads and in-town roundabouts. Check out the video after the jump (complete with a nod to Japan's Initial D anime series in the soundtrack), but remember: Kids, don't try this at home with Dad's new F-150.

[Chinasmack via China Car Times]

Continue reading VIDEO: Drifting on a budget the Chang'an Motors way

VIDEO: Drifting on a budget the Chang'an Motors way originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 16 Mar 2009 16:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>car controlCarControlchanganChinese carschinese trucksChineseCarsChineseTrucksdriftdriftingMon, 16 Mar 2009 16:58:00 EST<![CDATA[VIDEO: Hyundai Genesis Coupe gets pre-Super Bowl workout]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/01/21/video-hyundai-genesis-coupe-gets-pre-super-bowl-workout/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/01/21/video-hyundai-genesis-coupe-gets-pre-super-bowl-workout/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/01/21/video-hyundai-genesis-coupe-gets-pre-super-bowl-workout/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


Click above to watch behind-the-scenes footage of "Epic Lap"

We love the undulating flume of asphalt that is Road Atlanta, and any excuse to lay rubber on its storied curves is usually good enough for us. But Hyundai is going at least one better with its forthcoming Super Bowl ad featuring the new Genesis Coupe.

The Korean automaker enlisted the help of top drifting, truck almost-flipping, former rallyist Rhys Millen to showcase the rear-drive coupe. The Kiwi ran around Road Atlanta around 50 times with tires blazing to nail down footage for Hyundai's "Epic Lap" spot.

Even more interesting is that Hyundai will make footage clips available to consumers on their website so that they can edit together their own Genesis commercials.

While the final commercial won't be released until February 1 during the big game, the folks at Motor Trend were on hand for a behind-the-scenes sneak peak at the commercial. It's worth a look - and not just because of the comely yellow Hyundais. Watch closely and you'll spot a pair of killer blacked-out camera cars: A Porsche Cayenne and a Mitsubishi Evo. Check out the high-res Hyundai Genesis Coupe gallery below and video footage after the jump.

Gallery: 2010 Hyundai Genesis Coupe


[Source: Motor Trend]

Continue reading VIDEO: Hyundai Genesis Coupe gets pre-Super Bowl workout

VIDEO: Hyundai Genesis Coupe gets pre-Super Bowl workout originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 21 Jan 2009 15:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>DriftDriftingFormula DFormulaDGenesisGenesis CoupeGenesisCoupeHyundaiRhys MillenRhysMillenWed, 21 Jan 2009 15:29:00 EST<![CDATA[Rhys Millen victorious at inaugural Red Bull Drifting World Championship]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/11/17/rhys-millen-victorious-at-inaugural-red-bull-drifting-world-cham/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/11/17/rhys-millen-victorious-at-inaugural-red-bull-drifting-world-cham/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/11/17/rhys-millen-victorious-at-inaugural-red-bull-drifting-world-cham/#commentsFiled under:


Click above for a high-res gallery of the 2008 Red Bull Drifting World Championship

Like Ferrari winning the Italian Grand Prix or a Mazda atop the podium at Laguna Seca, Rhys Millen scored a fitting victory in his Red Bull Pontiac Solstice GXP at the very first Red Bull Drifting World Championship over the weekend. The event featured the top thirty-two drifters from around the world at a purpose-built track at the ports of Long Beach, CA. Formula Drift drivers dominated the event, taking six of the eight spots in the quarter finals and all four places in the semi finals. Millen survived five knockout rounds, defeating the likes of Ken Gushi, Top Gear USA host Tanner Foust and Vaughn Gitten, and eventually beat out teammate Daijiro Yoshihara in the all-Pontiac finals. More details on the event are in the press release following the jump, and we weathered the tire smoke and flying bits of rubber to bring you plenty of fantastic high resolution photos in the gallery below.

Gallery: 2008 Red Bull Drifting World Championship


All photos copyright (C)2008 Drew Phillips / Weblogs, Inc.

Continue reading Rhys Millen victorious at inaugural Red Bull Drifting World Championship

Rhys Millen victorious at inaugural Red Bull Drifting World Championship originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 17 Nov 2008 11:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>DriftingFormula DriftFormulaDriftRed Bull Drifting World ChampionshipRedBullDriftingWorldChampionshiprhys millenRhysMillenMon, 17 Nov 2008 11:27:00 EST<![CDATA[Tanner Foust captures second straight Formula Drift championship]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/10/13/tanner-foust-captures-second-straight-formula-drift-championship/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/10/13/tanner-foust-captures-second-straight-formula-drift-championship/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/10/13/tanner-foust-captures-second-straight-formula-drift-championship/#commentsFiled under:


Click above for high-res gallery of the Formula Drift Series at Irwindale

Our never-ending interest in the upcoming U.S. Top Gear has us usually thinking of Tanner Foust as a television host, so we often forget that he has another day job sliding a Nissan 350Z around racetracks in the Formula Drift series. Tanner came into the final round this weekend at Irwindale Speedway at the top of the points race, and he needed to stay ahead of Sam Hubinette in his Dodge Viper and Rhys Millen in his Pontiac Solstice to capture his second straight championship. He did just that, finishing in second place behind Vaughn Gitten Jr., who captured his first win in the series in his Falken Tire Ford Mustang. The top 16 drivers from the event also qualified for the upcoming Red Bull Drifting World Championship next month in Long Beach. We braved the flying chunks of rubber (no, really - there's a reason Formula Drift has more tire sponsors than any other motorsports series) to bring you a gallery of high resolution photographs from the event, which can be seen in the gallery below. Full details of the event can also be found in the press release after the jump.

Gallery: 2008 Formula Drift at Irwindale Speedway


All photos Copyright (C)2008 Drew Phillips / Weblogs, Inc.

Continue reading Tanner Foust captures second straight Formula Drift championship

Tanner Foust captures second straight Formula Drift championship originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 13 Oct 2008 10:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2008 Formula Drift Irwindale Speedway2008FormulaDriftIrwindaleSpeedwaydriftingFormula DriftFormula Drift Final FightFormula Drift Irwindale SpeedwayFormulaDriftFormulaDriftFinalFightFormulaDriftIrwindaleSpeedwayTanner FoustTannerFousttop geartop gear usaTopGearTopGearUsaMon, 13 Oct 2008 10:57:00 EST<![CDATA[NASCAR Dads? How about Formula-D First Lady?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/09/10/nascar-dads-how-about-formula-d-first-lady/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/09/10/nascar-dads-how-about-formula-d-first-lady/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/09/10/nascar-dads-how-about-formula-d-first-lady/#commentsFiled under: , ,



It won't do anything to bolster her "green" credentials, but the fact that Cindy McCain, wife of Republican presidential candidate John McCain, can hold her 240SX in a glorious sideways slide as long as you please strikes us not only as surprising, but, well, a little off the hook. It seems the McCain clan likes high-horsepower pastimes, be it trains, planes or automobiles, though the trains part might only be for whistlestop campaigns. A few years back, Cindy and son Jack were intrigued by drifting after catching television coverage of the sport. Rather than just look it up on Wikipedia, Cindy McCain -- who is an avowed lifelong gearhead -- headed to Japan, birthplace of drifting, to learn the practice from a sensei.

Mom and son Jack dove wholeheartedly into drifting, building a 240SX drift car and competing as a team in amateur competition. Motorsports and high-performance driving also played a restorative role when McCain was temporarily felled by a stroke. In an odd choice of physical therapy facilities, McCain was at Bob Bondurant's Executive Protection course a mere six weeks after the health event, rebuilding her skill. While the plot sounds like a treatment for "The Drifting Kid" or some other kind of Hollywood dreck, it's exciting to think that a first lady might be able to out-drive her Secret Service detail. Thanks for all the tips!

[Source: ESPN]

NASCAR Dads? How about Formula-D First Lady? originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 10 Sep 2008 12:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cindy mccain driftCindyMccainDriftdriftingformula dFormulaDmccain driftmccain formula dMccainDriftMccainFormulaDWed, 10 Sep 2008 12:58:00 EST<![CDATA[VIDEO: Sam Hubinette cuts it real close]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/08/08/video-sam-hubinette-cuts-it-real-close/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/08/08/video-sam-hubinette-cuts-it-real-close/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/08/08/video-sam-hubinette-cuts-it-real-close/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Click above to witness Hubinette's drifting skills

We know Sam Hubinette has incredible drifting skills. The Crazy Swede is a two-time champion in Formula Drift and makes a living doing stunt driving, but that still doesn't mean we would put our life in his hands. Streetfire.net's Creative Director Alexis Godschalk, however, seems to have more of either faith or bravery than we do. While filming a video intro StreetFire, Hubinette sends his Viper hurtling towards Godschalk and doesn't even flinch. Follow the jump to watch the video and see just how close Hubinette gets. (Hint: very)

[Source: StreetFire.net]

Continue reading VIDEO: Sam Hubinette cuts it real close

VIDEO: Sam Hubinette cuts it real close originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 08 Aug 2008 17:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Dodge ViperDodgeViperdriftingsam hubinetteSamHubinettestreetfirestreetfire.netFri, 08 Aug 2008 17:29:00 EST