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[eBay Find of the Day: Chevrolet C5 Corvette-based Saleen S7 replica roadster]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/27/ebay-find-of-the-day-chevrolet-c5-corvette-based-saleen-s7-repl/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/27/ebay-find-of-the-day-chevrolet-c5-corvette-based-saleen-s7-repl/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/27/ebay-find-of-the-day-chevrolet-c5-corvette-based-saleen-s7-repl/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

C5 Corvette based Saleen S7 replica - click above image for hi-res gallery

Steve Saleen's Saleen S7 is a totally bespoke, hand built superduper hypercar that in twin-turbo, 750 horsepower, 700 pound-feet of torque form could go about 250 mph. And it was capable of generating enough downforce to (theoretically) drive upside down. In competition, the S7R has been one of the most dominant vehicles ever fielded, having been "raced in over 264 events, with 218 Top Tens, 166 Podiums, 105 Wins, 86 Poles, 78 Fastest Laps and 9 GT Championships." Price when new was about $600,000, give or take.

Which makes the above car all the more special. Sayeth the seller, "We thought long and hard as to what chassis we would use for our replica. First of all we knew the 80's [sic] Fiero was not an option. its [sic] too old, underpowered, and not a safe frame." Oh man - the replica world has really changed if a Pontiac Fiero chassis is not good enough. But the auctioneer does inadvertently raise a good point, as the S7 is in fact a mid-engined car, and you just got to have that if you're building a replica, don't you? Apparently not.

"So we went with a C5 Corvette chassis. It offers all the driving comforts, with great brakes, Power, and a super strong frame. and we could retail the car for a reasonable price." But not only is it Chevrolet Corvette based, they made it a roadster! See, all those boring old S7s were stuffy mid-engined hardtops - this is the world's first and only front-engined roadster S7. Replica. We've got to say we're a little amazed there are only two bids.

Oh wait, no - we said that wrong. What we meant is that we're a little amazed there are two bids. Currently, the "replica" is sitting at $20,100 and humorously oddly, the reserve has not been met. Did we mention that it's an automatic? Also, dude, your check engine light is on. Videos after the jump. Happy bidding!


Gallery: C5 Corvette based Saleen S7 replica


[Source: eBay Motors]

Continue reading eBay Find of the Day: Chevrolet C5 Corvette-based Saleen S7 replica roadster

eBay Find of the Day: Chevrolet C5 Corvette-based Saleen S7 replica roadster originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 27 Oct 2009 14:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>C5C5 CorvetteC5CorvetteCorvetteexotic carExoticCarkit carKitCarreplicareplicarS7S7 ReplicaS7 Replica RoadsterS7 RoadsterS7RS7ReplicaS7ReplicaRoadsterS7RoadsterSaleenSaleen S7Saleen S7 ReplicaSaleen S7 Replica RoadsterSaleenS7SaleenS7ReplicaSaleenS7ReplicaRoadstersteve saleenSteveSaleensupercarTue, 27 Oct 2009 14:29:00 EST<![CDATA[VIDEO: Super Replicas' Lamborghini Reventon clone isn't fooling anyone]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/04/26/video-super-replicas-lamborghini-reventon-clone-isnt-fooling/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/04/26/video-super-replicas-lamborghini-reventon-clone-isnt-fooling/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/04/26/video-super-replicas-lamborghini-reventon-clone-isnt-fooling/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Follow the jump to see footage of the Super Replica Lamborghini Reventon

Dictionary.com has two definitions for "replica": 1. a copy or reproduction of a work of art produced by the maker of the original or under his or her supervision; 2. any close or exact copy or reproduction. The work of Super Replicas barely falls under the second definition, and even then it helps if you're standing far away or -- better yet -- you've never seen the original in the first place.

While Super Replicas' Lamborghini Reventon won't fool anyone, in the company's defense (if that's possible), they only charge about $20,000 for their rides -- $1.58 million less than the real deal -- and they provide three-year, 75,000-mile warranties. Follow the jump to see the video (whose quality rivals the replica itself) and decide if that's close enough to a Reventon for your liking.

[Source: YouTube]

Continue reading VIDEO: Super Replicas' Lamborghini Reventon clone isn't fooling anyone

VIDEO: Super Replicas' Lamborghini Reventon clone isn't fooling anyone originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 26 Apr 2009 12:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cloneetckit carKitCarlamborghinilamborghini reventonLamborghiniReventonreplicareventonsuper replicaSuperReplicavideoSun, 26 Apr 2009 12:03:00 EST<![CDATA[Retroforza gives Mazda Miata a Ferrari complex]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/02/23/retroforza-gives-mazda-miata-a-ferrari-complex/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/02/23/retroforza-gives-mazda-miata-a-ferrari-complex/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/02/23/retroforza-gives-mazda-miata-a-ferrari-complex/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Click above for a gallery of the RetroForza Italia

If you've got an obsession with boomer culture, but don't have the budget to spring for a period-specific Ferrari, never fear, RetroForza makes it possible to be a nostalgic poseur. Sporting lines reminiscent of Ferrari's 275, RetroForza is claiming that its Italia bodywork kit for the Mazda MX-5 takes inspiration from vintage Lotus, Alfa, Jaguar and Cobra models. While It's not horrible, the proportions don't exactly work. There's too much front overhang, leading to a fierce underbite, but it avoids looking as stubby as it might on the MX-5's short wheelbase. The Mazda mechanicals mean that it'll be reliable and fun to drive, and with a coupe version supposedly available, there are worse ways to rebody your Miata.

Gallery: RetroForza Italia


[Source: RetroForza]

Retroforza gives Mazda Miata a Ferrari complex originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 23 Feb 2009 19:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ferrari kitFerrariKitkit carKitCarmiata ferrariMiataFerrarimx-5mx5mx5 ferrarimx5 kitMx5FerrariMx5Kitretroforzaretroforza italiaRetroforzaItaliaMon, 23 Feb 2009 19:27:00 EST<![CDATA[Update: Bailey Blade hit hard in bad economy, adds green options]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/11/24/update-bailey-blade-hit-hard-in-bad-economy-adds-green-options/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/11/24/update-bailey-blade-hit-hard-in-bad-economy-adds-green-options/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/11/24/update-bailey-blade-hit-hard-in-bad-economy-adds-green-options/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Click above for a high-res gallery of the Bailey Blade

For all of you who have kept up with Neal Bailey's quest to build his dream car, the man with the big plans has hit a snag. The very same snag that's hit the world's established automakers, along with the rest of us. The economy has tanked, and funding has dried up.

But anyone crazy enough to build their very own supercar better have the tenacity to stick with it through even the worst of times. And it seems Neal has just what it takes. Instead of throwing in the shop towel, Neal is innovating. And no, that doesn't mean he flew his corporate jet to DC for a government handout. Instead, he's asking for donations to keep the dream alive, as well as taking the project in some new, greener directions.

Visitors to the Bailey Blade website can keep help Neal with a little cash while reading about the newest trim levels of the exotic Blade. If all goes as planned, Neal hopes to not only offer the Blade XTR, a 750 hp, 5.4L, Roush-powered supercar, but also the Blade EVR and Blade HDR.

The EVR is an all-electric version of the Blade with dual electric motors feeding off lithium ion phosphate batteries. Neal claims "big block performance but all electric." The HDR would be a 600 hp Roush supercharged V8 with an on-demand hydrogen system. Theoretically, owners would see a 20% fuel-savings over a gasoline-only engine.

Donors to the Blade project will get their names posted on the Baily Blade Web site, as well as on displays accompanying the car at shows. They'll also be added to a newsletter list to get the latest news on the project's progress.

Gallery: Update: Baileyspeed Blade redesign


Gallery: Original Baileyspeed Blade

Update: Bailey Blade hit hard in bad economy, adds green options originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 24 Nov 2008 18:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>baileybailey bladeBaileyBladekit carKitCarneal baileyNealBaileyMon, 24 Nov 2008 18:33:00 EST<![CDATA[Factory Five modernizes the '33 Coupe]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/09/12/factory-five-modernizes-the-33-coupe/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/09/12/factory-five-modernizes-the-33-coupe/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/09/12/factory-five-modernizes-the-33-coupe/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Click above for more shots of the '33 Hot Rod from Factory Five Racing

Factory Five currently sells the most popular Shelby Cobra kit by far. One of the reasons that more people build the FFR Cobra than all other Shelby kits combined is that it's the easiest one to finish, as it comes with everything needed minus a donor Mustang. That same philosophy is behind the new '33 Hot Rod kit from FFR. Any small block Ford V8 engine will fit, along with the buyers choice of transmission and a Ford rear end. The benefits to starting with a completely new foundation rather than an existing Ford product from the '30s are apparent when you take a look at that triangulated tube chassis and its in-board coil-over front suspension. Plus, with just 2110 pounds. to push around with its fiberglass body, this is one '33 that will have no problem getting out of its own way.

Want one? The kits are currently priced at just under $20K and are shipping now. A short wait 'till December will ensure that no parts are on back-order. That should give you plenty of time to source an appropriate engine, transmission and rear axle and rolling stock. Now, all you need to do is pick a color.

Gallery: Factory Five '33 Hot Rod


[Source: Factory Five Racing via NextAutos]

Factory Five modernizes the '33 Coupe originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 12 Sep 2008 09:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1933 ford coupe1933FordCoupe33 ford coupe33FordCoupefactory fivefactory five 33 hot rodfactory five hot rodfactory five hotrodfactory five kit carfactory five racingFactoryFiveFactoryFive33HotRodFactoryFiveHotRodFactoryFiveKitCarFactoryFiveRacingkit carKitCarFri, 12 Sep 2008 09:31:00 EST<![CDATA[eBay Find of the Day: 1996 Porsche 959 Speedster]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/08/15/ebay-find-of-the-day-1996-porsche-959-speedster/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/08/15/ebay-find-of-the-day-1996-porsche-959-speedster/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/08/15/ebay-find-of-the-day-1996-porsche-959-speedster/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Click above to view more of the Porsche 959 Speedster

Not all German supercars are the same. For instance, not every Teutonic exotic bred the plethora of derivatives that the Mercedes SLR McLaren has. Case in point, the Porsche 959. There was no 722 version, no roadster and certainly no chop-top speedster. But that's where the aftermarket comes into the picture. Well, sorta.

What you see here is not a 959 supercar with the roof hacked off. Nor is it an original 356, either. All it appears to be is a kit car combining the retro styling of the original Porsche with the front and rear ends of the 959. The hybrid concoction may have filled a niche for a modern throwback to the original 356 just as the first-generation Boxster was coming to market, but where that leaves this creation now is up to debate. While we can't say that the end result is a work of art, it certainly is... original.

Follow the link for the auction page, where the 959 Speedster is under reserve at $5,700 with a buy-it-now price a hair under $11k.

Gallery: Porsche 959 Speedster


[Source: eBay via PistonHeads]

eBay Find of the Day: 1996 Porsche 959 Speedster originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 15 Aug 2008 09:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>auctionebaykit carKitCarporscheporsche 959porsche 959 speedsterporsche kit carporsche speedsterPorsche959Porsche959SpeedsterPorscheKitCarPorscheSpeedsterFri, 15 Aug 2008 09:59:00 EST<![CDATA[Update: Baileyspeed Blade gets makeover, pricing]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/03/03/update-baileyspeed-blade-gets-makeover-pricing/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/03/03/update-baileyspeed-blade-gets-makeover-pricing/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/03/03/update-baileyspeed-blade-gets-makeover-pricing/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



Back in November, we brought you the story of a real-life dream-to-reality car story. It was the tale of Neal Bailey, who was taking the best details of the cars he loved and creating his dream car.

Neal emailed us last week to say he had done some work on his self-branded supercar, the Bailey Blade, and was getting closer to putting it into limited production. The latest design changes were necessary to meet European headlight-height regulations with Viper-like, fender-hugging lamps in front. Neal took advantage of the required changes to incorporate some other design mods as well, like the slotted front intakes where the old headlights once were and the hood scoops now are covered instead of open. The car is also getting a newly redesigned front and rear independent suspension.

The leg-sizzling chrome sidepipes are, thankfully, still there, as are the Vette-like rear haunches and the 500-hp Roush V8 planned for the prototype.

Neal says he hopes to have a rolling prototype by the middle of this year with sales starting sometime next year, sooner if he can find an investor. As you have probably already guessed, Neal is hoping to sell a few in Europe, and he says he has designed the Blade to be easily constructed as a right-hand drive car.

If you want a Bailey Blade, Neal says plan on spending between $50,000 and $80,000 depending on options like the prototype's Roush 400IR, an $18,000 option.

Gallery: Update: Baileyspeed Blade redesign


Gallery: Original Baileyspeed Blade

Update: Baileyspeed Blade gets makeover, pricing originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 03 Mar 2008 11:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Bailey BladeBaileyBladeBaileyspeed BladeBaileyspeed Blade BaileyBaileyspeedBladeBaileyspeedBladeBaileykit carKitCarNeal BaileyNealBaileyturnkey carTurnkeyCarMon, 03 Mar 2008 11:59:00 EST<![CDATA[eBay Find of the Day: Miata-based BMW Z9]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/05/31/ebay-find-of-the-day-miata-based-bmw-z9/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/05/31/ebay-find-of-the-day-miata-based-bmw-z9/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/05/31/ebay-find-of-the-day-miata-based-bmw-z9/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Click the image above if you really want to see more.

It's obvious that someone was champing at the bit to get a 1-series convertible before it makes its way to the U.S. This Miata-based BMW rip- off might not be a finished replica of the Z9 concept from a few years back, but the progress, is, ummm... progress?

The owner makes it clear that the car is still street legal, with its stock emissions systems left intact. So that side exit exhaust is merely for show, as is the plastic BMW engine cover.

Were you to part with your hard-earned cash for such a misshapen homage to Bavaria, you might be willing to spend some coin on a nice coat of silver metallic or midnight blue paint, and then take to the interior with a hacksaw and some vision.

Good luck, you'll need it.

[eBay via Carscoop]

Gallery: Miata-based BMW Z9 clone

eBay Find of the Day: Miata-based BMW Z9 originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 31 May 2007 15:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>AFTERMARKETBMWBMW 1-SERIESBmw1-seriesCONVERTIBLEKIT CARKitCarMAZDAMIATAThu, 31 May 2007 15:58:00 EST<![CDATA[Kit Carnival: Odd bullet-nose Stude replica in NYC]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/05/09/kit-carnival-odd-bullet-nose-stude-replica-in-nyc/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/05/09/kit-carnival-odd-bullet-nose-stude-replica-in-nyc/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/05/09/kit-carnival-odd-bullet-nose-stude-replica-in-nyc/#commentsFiled under: ,


Click for gallery

So there I was, exiting Madison Square Garden after watching my Rangers have their season ended at the hand of Chris Drury and the Buffalo Sabres. As I walked east on 33rd street, I couldn't help but notice the orange bullet-nosed Studebaker Business Coupe stopped at the corner. Only it wasn't a Studebaker. it was a kit, and from the looks of things, I believe that there might have been an older (Fox body?) Thunderbird somewhere underneath it all. The nose looked fine, but it it kinda became a disaster as you moved aft from there -- the proportions seem totally out of whack. My Google powers have failed me, as I haven't been able to dig up anything on the kit. Now I'm just curious. Feel free to weigh in with your own comments.

Gallery: Studebaker Bullet-Nose Kit in NYC

Kit Carnival: Odd bullet-nose Stude replica in NYC originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 09 May 2007 17:34:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>buller noseBullerNosebusiness coupeBusinessCoupekit carKitCarstudebakerWed, 09 May 2007 17:34:00 EST<![CDATA[How many special edition Mustangs is too much? Meet the Miastang]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/05/02/how-many-special-edition-mustangs-is-too-much-meet-the-miastang/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/05/02/how-many-special-edition-mustangs-is-too-much-meet-the-miastang/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/05/02/how-many-special-edition-mustangs-is-too-much-meet-the-miastang/#commentsFiled under: , ,


click above for more images of the M1Stang "Miastang"

One could argue that the Mazda Miata has become our generation's Pontiac Fiero. We've seen the Miata become the kit car du jour in the form of a BMW Z3 and Aston Martin, but this conversion may take the cake. Though we have dubbed this car the Miastang, it's real name is the M1Stang. Carscoop reports that the man behind this Miata-based Mustang replica is one Bill Carnes, who will take your Zoom Zoom roadster and approximately $12,999 plus tax in exchange for his strange concoction. Clearly, the entire body of the Miata save the windshield is replaced with all steel body panels that nicely mimic the Mustang of old. Unfortunately, the $13k base price doesn't include painting or updating the decidedly un-Mustang interior, but the conversion can be performed on any Miata from 1990-2005. Some may call it an abomination, but we think it's pretty amusing and actually a fairly faithful recreation.

[Source: M1Stang via Carscoop]

Gallery: M1Stang Miata Mustang conversion

How many special edition Mustangs is too much? Meet the Miastang originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 02 May 2007 18:54:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ford mustangFordMustangkit carKitCarm1stangmazda miataMazdaMiatamiastangreplicaWed, 02 May 2007 18:54:00 EST<![CDATA[Arkansas adopts SEMA custom car title legislation]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/03/31/arkansas-adopts-sema-custom-car-title-legislation/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/03/31/arkansas-adopts-sema-custom-car-title-legislation/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/03/31/arkansas-adopts-sema-custom-car-title-legislation/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

We recently reported how SEMA had helped get new kit and custom car registration legislation passed in Virginia. Well, the razorbacks didn't want their Southern rivals to get too far ahead and recently passed a similar bill of their own. Arkansas made changes to their vehicle titling and registration classifications for street rods and created a new class for custom vehicles too. The bill was recently signed into law by Governor Mike Beebe after being approved by the Arkansas State Legislature. Arkansas now defines a street rod as "an altered vehicle manufactured before 1949" and a custom as "an altered vehicle at least 25 years old and manufactured after 1948." And like the Virginia law, kit cars and replicars will get tagged as being the same model year as the car they aim to replicate. So a freshly built '32 Ford would be a 1932 Ford, and a new Cobra would be a 1960's car on the books.

Arkansas' new law also allows non-original materials to be used, allocates special license plates for this class of vehicles, and lets builders use blue dot taillights. Street rods and customs will also be exempt from many of the standard equipment requirements and emissions controls. Things like catalysts and seatbelts will only have to meet period requirements. As is the case in Virginia as well, the kits and customs that are titled and registered this way will have mileage restrictions, but they tend to be limited use vehicles anyways.

[Source: Auto Spectator]

Arkansas adopts SEMA custom car title legislation originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 31 Mar 2007 07:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ArkansasComponent carComponentCarkit carKitCarMike BeebeMikeBeebereplicarSEMAtunerSat, 31 Mar 2007 07:27:00 EST<![CDATA[Virginia adds replica car category to title process]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/03/22/virginia-adds-replica-car-category-to-title-process/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/03/22/virginia-adds-replica-car-category-to-title-process/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/03/22/virginia-adds-replica-car-category-to-title-process/#commentsFiled under: , ,



Beginning on July 1, kit/replica/component car buyers in Virginia will be able to title their vehicles in a different way. It seems the Virginia General Assembly has approved a new law allowing these vehicles to be registered as whatever model year the replica represents. The big advantage there lies in the fact that owners will be getting around those knuckle- and wallet-busting safety and emissions requirements for newly-built cars. This means Virginia will be joining Washington, Colorado, Hawaii, Illinois, Maine, Missouri, Montana and Rhode Island as states with similar titling laws on the books.

But lest you think this gives you carte blanche to build your own backyard burner and terrorize the local citizenry, know that there are some restrictions. First of all, the law defines a replica as "a vehicle not fully constructed by a licensed manufacturer but either constructed or assembled from components." Secondly, as a gesture of good will between thankful hobbyists and concerned officials, "replica vehicles titled under this law will be limited to no more than 5,000 miles per year as shown by the vehicle's odometer." So it has to be a true kit car, not a tuner, and you have to keep your driving down to about 100 miles per weekend or 400 miles a month.

In particular this will help manufacturers of cars like the Shelby Cobra kits we see all over the place. In fact, the Cobra clubs in Virginia were instrumental in getting this bill passed. Being heavily involved in the industry, the Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) was also part of the process. SEMA has actually been at the forefront in encouraging states to pass this kind of legislation. They are also working on similar initiatives in Florida, Arkansas, New York, Massachusetts and Nevada.

[Source: SEMA]

Virginia adds replica car category to title process originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 22 Mar 2007 12:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>car titleCarTitleComponent carComponentCarkit carKitCarreplicareplicarSEMAVirginiaThu, 22 Mar 2007 12:33:00 EST<![CDATA[Curses! Avanti's planned comeback may be foiled]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/02/05/curses-avantis-planned-comeback-may-be-foiled/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/02/05/curses-avantis-planned-comeback-may-be-foiled/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/02/05/curses-avantis-planned-comeback-may-be-foiled/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



Avanti, the originators of the "continuation" model concept, are facing a potential setback in their planned re-emergence. There were plans in the works to unveil a car at the Chicago Auto Show, but that's been put on hold. It appears that Avanti CEO Michael Kelly has been charged with being a dastardly gentleman. At issue is Kelly's involvement in a real estate Ponzi scheme. The FBI paid Mr. Kelly a visit two days after Christmas and placed him in custody, where he awaits arraignment on mail fraud.

More after the jump.

[Source: Autoweek]

Continue reading Curses! Avanti's planned comeback may be foiled

Curses! Avanti's planned comeback may be foiled originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 05 Feb 2007 11:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>avantichicago auto showChicagoAutoShowcontinuationkit carKitCarlisterraymond loewyRaymondLoewystudebakerstudebaker avantiStudebakerAvantixuvMon, 05 Feb 2007 11:56:00 EST<![CDATA[Best Halloween costume ever: Have your engine go as a Lambo V12]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2006/10/25/best-halloween-costume-ever-have-your-engine-go-as-a-lambo-v12/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/10/25/best-halloween-costume-ever-have-your-engine-go-as-a-lambo-v12/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/10/25/best-halloween-costume-ever-have-your-engine-go-as-a-lambo-v12/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

You've spent the past couple of years and untold thousands of dollars turning your late-model Corvette into what you REALLY wanted but couldn't quite afford, a Lamborghini. The car has all the outrageously over-the-top styling you could ever hope for with the bulletproof Chevy small block giving more than adequate performance while offering much better reliability and durability. The interior has been customized to match, as much as practical, that of the Italian supercar as well. The one thing you've always dreaded, however, was hearing an admirer ask you to pop the hood.

The dress-up kits that have been offered in the past were either fiberglass or steel, neither of which could match the look of aluminum. Being messy and hard to work with didn't help much either. Well, thanks to Lambostuff, you're one step closer to having a no-excuses authentic-looking Lambo of your very own. They have just released and chronicled the installation of a new dummy engine kit. The kit is made of high-impact plastic, using some of the genuine Lambo molds where possible. A full accessory pack of spark plugs, wires, injectors and hoses are also available to complete the look.

Although none of the kits are a straight bolt-on proposition, the step-by-step photo gallery and instructions found here, should help make it a fairly simple process. The main intake package starts at $595 with everything else optional. Real salvaged Lamborghini parts can be used or you can stick with a partial LS1 stock setup if you don't expect many of the onlookers to actually count the plugs or exhaust pipes. Either way, it sounds like a must-have kit for the person who has already begun the process and a nice way to get your car in on the Halloween holiday.

[Source: Kit Car Magazine via Winding Road]

Best Halloween costume ever: Have your engine go as a Lambo V12 originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 25 Oct 2006 12:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Corvettedummy engineDummyEngineengine dress up kitEngineDressUpKitkit carKit Car MagazineKitCarKitCarMagazineLambostuffLS1replicareplicarV12Wed, 25 Oct 2006 12:03:00 EST<![CDATA[Superformance rebuilds the original GT40 to spec]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2006/10/16/superformance-rebuilds-the-original-gt40-to-spec/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/10/16/superformance-rebuilds-the-original-gt40-to-spec/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/10/16/superformance-rebuilds-the-original-gt40-to-spec/#commentsFiled under: ,



Most kit cars we come across are near faithful representations of their muse. Unfortunately, there's always something a little off about the design that doesn't quite match up with the way we remember the original, and nearly always they're only skin deep, offering up merely the appearance of authenticity with the substance of something much lesser. Superformance, the producers of the best Cobra and Cobra Daytona Coupes replicas in the business, builds something a little more than a "kit car". All of its products are complete factory manufactured rollers minus an engine and transmission. This allows the company to bust a fat right around complex emissions and safety regulations by classifying their products as kit cars, though obviously they're so much more.

One of Superformance's current products is its most ambitious ever: a GT40 so realistic and faithful to the original that it's currently being evaluated for historic racing eligibility. What you're looking at is not a modern tube-frame chassis shrink wrapped in a fiberglass body; the Superformance GT40 MkII has a super rigid steel monocoque chassis that's covered in an all-steel body, just like the original MKIIs that made Enzo weep. Nearly everything is just like the original, right down to the "Gurney bump" in the roof. Of course, concessions were made in some areas in the interests of durability, weight savings and safety, but 90% of the parts are interchangeable with the original GT40 MkII, which is amazing. Most notable differences from the source car include the addition of air conditioning and more modern brakes, along with the fact it comes from the factory as LHD instead of RHD. Since it comes without an engine and transmission, you can drop in any engine that fits, but Superformance recommends a ROUSH 427 motor producing 530 horsepower.

The Superformance GT40 MkII looks as good today as it did back then, although it doesn't hurt being photographed by the excellent snapper, Drew Philips, of Fast-Autos.net. Check out the read link to see a full gallery of shots and read Drew's writeup after driving the GT40 MkII on the street.

[Source: Fast-Autos.net]

Superformance rebuilds the original GT40 to spec originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 16 Oct 2006 20:12:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>gt40GT40 mkIIGt40Mkiikit carKitCarsuperformanceMon, 16 Oct 2006 20:12:00 EST<![CDATA[Kit car double-take: Cyclone apes Murcielago]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2006/08/17/kit-car-double-take-cyclone-apes-murcielago/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/08/17/kit-car-double-take-cyclone-apes-murcielago/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/08/17/kit-car-double-take-cyclone-apes-murcielago/#commentsFiled under: , ,



The Cyclone is a full on kit car produced by a German company that is inspired by the Lamborghini Murcielago. Perhaps "inspired" is the wrong word. One has to wonder if Lamborghini and its parent company VW/Audi are drafting a cease and desist letter as we speak. The Cyclone even mimics the Murcielago right down to the extendable air inlets ahead of the rear wheels. The ironic part is that the Cyclone is powered by a trio of Audi engines. The mid-engine German sportscar can be ordered with an Audi 330-hp, 4.2-liter V8; 355-hp, 4.2-liter V8; and 445-hp, 6.0-liter W12. Pricing ranges from €74,800 for the less powerful 4.2-liter V8 version all the way up to €88,800 for the Cyclone W12. Any takers?

[Source: Cyclone via Autoblog.it]

Kit car double-take: Cyclone apes Murcielago originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 17 Aug 2006 11:53:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Cyclonekitkit carkitcarmurcielagoThu, 17 Aug 2006 11:53:00 EST<![CDATA[A Legends racecar for the street]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2006/08/10/a-legends-racecar-for-the-street/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/08/10/a-legends-racecar-for-the-street/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/08/10/a-legends-racecar-for-the-street/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Give Lincoln Brier credit for doing something out of the ordinary when he came upon the idea to convert his used Legends racecar into a single-seat street machine. The task was relatively simple, with the addition of turn signals, lights, a full exhaust system with muffler, and a horn pretty much being the extent of the modifications required to register the pint-sized '34 Ford replica as a homebuilt vehicle. The laws on this vary dramatically by state, so as they say, check with your local authorities before proceeding. To make life a bit more tolerable, Brier also added rear windows and a radio, and swapped out the rear gearing for something a bit taller. Even with the ratio swap, the top speed is a meager 90 MPH, but I'm sure that it's an entertaining experience topping out the miniature car. Oh, and there's no Reverse gear. Would that stop us from having more fun than should (or would) be legal with this thing? Hell no. We'd just choose our parking carefully.

For those not familiar with the Legend circle-track cars, they're pocket-sized tube-framed racers, draped with fiberglass bodies resembling a variety of American classics from the '30s, that are typically powered by Yamaha 1200cc air-cooled motorcycle engines. The majority of the parts are tightly controlled by the rules in an effort to create a level playing field and keep costs relatively low. More info is available from 600 Racing, Legendsforce, and Legends Cars.

[Source: Kneeslider]

A Legends racecar for the street originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 10 Aug 2006 15:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>circle trackcycledirt trackkit carlegendsmotorcycleprojectstreetyamahaThu, 10 Aug 2006 15:28:00 EST<![CDATA[Low-budget Ferrari F40 up for auction]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2006/08/03/low-budget-ferrari-f40-up-for-auction/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/08/03/low-budget-ferrari-f40-up-for-auction/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/08/03/low-budget-ferrari-f40-up-for-auction/#commentsFiled under: ,



This, um, unique Ferrari F40-inspired vehicle is apparently based on a 1980 Suzuki 100gx (with a Ford Escort engine). The mini supercar is currently up for bids on the Dutch auction site Markplaats.nl, where the high bid at this writing is €1,001 ($1,276). Before and after pics follow the jump!

[via autoblog.nl]

Continue reading Low-budget Ferrari F40 up for auction

Low-budget Ferrari F40 up for auction originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 03 Aug 2006 16:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ferrariferrari f40kit carreplicarThu, 03 Aug 2006 16:02:00 EST<![CDATA[A guide to building your own Cobra replica]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2006/06/06/a-guide-to-building-your-own-cobra-replica/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/06/06/a-guide-to-building-your-own-cobra-replica/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/06/06/a-guide-to-building-your-own-cobra-replica/#commentsFiled under: ,

Sure, AC may be bringing a pre-built Cobra to the US, but say the $94K price tag is just too high... or, perhaps you want the full DIY experience. Hot Rod Magazine evidently felt the same way, so it obtained a Factory Five Racing Roadster kit and attacked its 256-page instruction manual, snapping plenty of pictures along the way so that its readers know what's involved in the build.

Being that this is Hot Rod, a stock 5.0L engine and T5 transmission weren't going to cut it. In went a 427-cube small-block Ford from Coast High Performance, and it's backed by a Tremec TKO trans. With 440 horseower at the rear wheels and only 2,200 lbs. of vehicle to motivate, acceleration is downright brisk, with the quarter-mile dispensed with in right around twelve seconds at a trap speed of 123 MPH.

We'd be lying if we said we didn't want one of our own, but we also know that a driver's license stands virtually no chance of surviving more than, oh, 30 seconds in something like this.  

[Source: Hot Rod Magazine]

A guide to building your own Cobra replica originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 06 Jun 2006 08:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>351351WAC CobraAcCobraCobraFactory FiveFactory Five RacingFFRkit carKitCarShelbyShelby Cobraturn keyTurnKeyWindsor 351Windsor351Tue, 06 Jun 2006 08:59:00 EST