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[Choices: Nissan GT-R or Ford Mustang GT500?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/19/choices-nissan-gt-r-or-ford-mustang-gt500/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/19/choices-nissan-gt-r-or-ford-mustang-gt500/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/19/choices-nissan-gt-r-or-ford-mustang-gt500/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Click above to read the rest of the post and vote in our poll

A few months back we were lucky enough to roll around in a 2010 Nissan GT-R. On our way up to a pre-burnt Angeles Crest Highway for the now infamous flip-flop-gate photoshoot, yours truly began explaining to our intrepid photographer Drew Phillips just exactly how Nissan's latest and greatest is faster than a speeding Gallardo, more powerful than a F430 and able to leap tall canyon roads without breaking a sweat. And on and on and on. When I finally shut up, Drew asked me, "Would you take a GT-R over a GT500?" Whoa...

Read the rest of the post and vote in our poll after the jump.


Gallery: Review: 2010 Nissan GT-R


Gallery: 2010 Ford Shelby GT500 Mustang

Continue reading Choices: Nissan GT-R or Ford Mustang GT500?

Choices: Nissan GT-R or Ford Mustang GT500? originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 19 Nov 2009 11:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 Nissan GT-R2010 Shelby GT5002010NissanGt-r2010ShelbyGt500FordFord MustangFord Shelby Gt500FordMustangFordShelbyGt500GT-RGT500NissanNissan GT-RNissanGt-rShelbyShelby GT500ShelbyGt500Thu, 19 Nov 2009 11:55:00 EST<![CDATA[REPORT: Nissan GT-R, Maserati MC12 heading to Le Mans]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/05/report-nissan-gt-r-maserati-mc12-heading-to-le-mans/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/05/report-nissan-gt-r-maserati-mc12-heading-to-le-mans/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/05/report-nissan-gt-r-maserati-mc12-heading-to-le-mans/#commentsFiled under: , ,


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

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

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

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


Gallery: 2009 FIA GT Test Days


[Source: Autosport]

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

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>acofia gt championshipfia gt1 world championshipFIA GT3 European ChampionshipFiaGt1WorldChampionshipFiaGt3EuropeanChampionshipFiaGtChampionshipgt-rgtrle mansle mans seriesLeMansLeMansSeriesmaseratimaserati mc12MaseratiMc12mc12nissan gt-rnissan gt-r fia gtnissan gt-r fia gt1nissan gtrNissanGt-rNissanGt-rFiaGtNissanGt-rFiaGt1NissanGtrThu, 05 Nov 2009 17:21:00 EST<![CDATA[Tokyo 2009: Godzilla Refined - Nissan shows revised GT-R]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/21/2010-Nissan-GT-R-Tokyo-2009-Godzilla-refined/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/21/2010-Nissan-GT-R-Tokyo-2009-Godzilla-refined/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/21/2010-Nissan-GT-R-Tokyo-2009-Godzilla-refined/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


2010 Nissan GT-R - Click above for high-res image gallery

Without much fanfare (okay - zero fanfare), Nissan has rolled a tweaked version of its home-market GT-R onto the show floor here at the Tokyo Motor Show.

While you're not likely to notice any exterior differences, JDM buyers should appreciate that Nissan has fettled the suspension, fitted higher-flow cats to the exhaust system for improved low- and mid-range response (as if this were a problem before), and they've also added a next-generation hard-drive based navi system that includes iPod connectivity.

On the suspension end of things, the rear suspension radius rod bushings have come in for a stiffening, and the front shocks and springs have been tweaked for increased "accuracy" (no, we're not entirely sure what that means either).

Perhaps the only modification that will be visible to passers-by is the inclusion of rear diffuser cooling ducts across the range - previously these were only fitted to the SpecV model.

Speaking of SpecV, the higher-performance model also gets new rear shock settings and standard Dunlop tires - Bridgestone loyalists, fear not - those shoes are also still available by request.

The updated GT-R hits JDM dealers on December 7, but Godzilla-crazed performance fans in the rest of the world will have to wait until spring to get one of their very own. Check out our galleries below and the official press release after the jump.


Gallery: Tokyo 2009: 2010 Nissan GT-R


Gallery: Nissan GT-R "New Spec"


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

Continue reading Tokyo 2009: Godzilla Refined - Nissan shows revised GT-R

Tokyo 2009: Godzilla Refined - Nissan shows revised GT-R originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 21 Oct 2009 01:04:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 GT-R2010 nissan gt-r2010Gt-r2010NissanGt-rgodzillaGT-RGTRJDMJDM GT-RJdmGt-rNissan GT-RNissanGt-rSkylineTokyoTokyo 2009Tokyo Auto ShowTokyo Motor ShowTokyo2009TokyoAutoShowTokyoMotorShowWed, 21 Oct 2009 01:04:00 EST<![CDATA[Improvements to 2010 Porsche 997 Turbo slash ten seconds from 'Ring time]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/14/improvements-to-2010-porsche-997-turbo-slash-ten-seconds-from-r/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/14/improvements-to-2010-porsche-997-turbo-slash-ten-seconds-from-r/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/14/improvements-to-2010-porsche-997-turbo-slash-ten-seconds-from-r/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


2010 Porsche 911 Turbo - Click above for high-res image gallery

With its new-for-2010 direct-injected, 3.8-liter turbocharged flat-six, the upgraded 2010 Porsche 911 Turbo has fired a shot across the bow of the world's supercar armada. Promising better performance, better fuel economy and better emissions, this tweaked 997 should hold the fort until the 998 appears in a couple of years.

With 20 extra horsepower motivating the lightened (by 55 pounds) all-wheel drive coupe, it should be noticeably quicker than its 2009 counterpart. How much quicker? Autocar is reporting that it's a full ten seconds faster around the Nurburgring Nordschleife than a 2009 Porsche 911 Turbo. That means the new Turbo just breaks into the 7:30s at 7m 39sec.

That still puts it behind the rival Nissan GT-R at 7:28 after former Formula One driver, Toshio Suzuki, went out and shaved more than a second off the car's previous best. Of course, Porsche still has a possible Turbo S model in the works and already produces a wicked 911 GT3 RS that can probably close the official gap between them and Godzilla.


Gallery: 2010 Porsche 911 Turbo


[Source: Autocar]

Improvements to 2010 Porsche 997 Turbo slash ten seconds from 'Ring time originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 14 Oct 2009 16:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 9972010 Porsche2010 Porsche 911 Turbo2010 Porsche 9972010 Porsche 997 Turbo2010 Porsche Turbo20109972010Porsche2010Porsche911Turbo2010Porsche9972010Porsche997Turbo2010PorscheTurbo911911 turbo911Turbo997 turbo997TurboGT-Rgtrnissan gt rnissan gt-rnissan gtrNissanGt-rNissanGtrNordschleifeNurburgringPorschePorsche 911 TurboPorsche TurboPorsche911TurboPorscheTurboTurboWed, 14 Oct 2009 16:01:00 EST<![CDATA[REPORT: Next-gen Nissan GT-R in the works for 2013]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/04/report-next-gen-nissan-gt-r-in-the-works-for-2013/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/04/report-next-gen-nissan-gt-r-in-the-works-for-2013/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/04/report-next-gen-nissan-gt-r-in-the-works-for-2013/#commentsFiled under: ,

2010 Nissan GT-R - Click above for high-res image gallery

Hot on the heels of reports, brought to you by British car site PistonHeads upon their visit to the Nissan's Ring-side test facility, of updates planned for the current R35-generation Nissan GT-R comes another report detailing the Japanese automaker's plans for the next-generation R36 model.

With competitors lining up to challenge the current GT-R's performance benchmark, Nissan's senior veep for global product planning, Andy Palmer, confirmed that plans are underway to succeed Godzilla with a next-generation model. The R36 will, according to the report, carry over the current model's twin-turbo V6, but with enough modifications to keep it ahead of the pack. The new GT-R is expected to hit the road by 2013 at the latest. Beyond that, Palmer didn't disclose many details, except to say that Nissan is committed to the GT-R program and won't be letting the Porsche 911 GT2 alone without a fight.


Gallery: Review: 2010 Nissan GT-R


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

[Source: PistonHeads]

REPORT: Next-gen Nissan GT-R in the works for 2013 originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 04 Oct 2009 16:07:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 nissan gt-r2013NissanGt-rAndy PalmerAndyPalmergt-rgtrnissannissan gt-rnissan gtrNissanGt-rNissanGtrnurburgringr35r36Sun, 04 Oct 2009 16:07:00 EST<![CDATA[Nissan GT-R reportedly set to receive suspension and aero upgrades, SpecM confirmed]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/01/nissan-gt-r-reported-to-receive-suspension-and-aero-upgrades-sp/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/01/nissan-gt-r-reported-to-receive-suspension-and-aero-upgrades-sp/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/01/nissan-gt-r-reported-to-receive-suspension-and-aero-upgrades-sp/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2010 Nissan GT-R - Click above for high-res image gallery
The GT-R is already one of the most devastatingly fast cars on the market, but the speed-hungry record-breakers at Nissan aren't about to rest on their finely calibrated laurels. According to a report from British car site PistonHeads, upon their visit to the Japanese automaker's testing facility at the Nürburgring, they learned that yet another batch of updates are planned for Godzilla in a bid to keep it even further ahead of the competition.

Among those updates reportedly revealed by GT-R project chief Kazutoshi Mizuno are an upgraded suspension, rear diffuser and air intakes. The suspension tweaks promise to be mild, with slightly stiffer dampers and springs at the front and stiffer counterparts at the rear. A pair of NACA ducts, like those on the hood, will reportedly be placed on the car's flanks, while the rear diffuser from the exclusive SpecV model is to be adopted to the standard version as well. Finally, NISMO will be offering a new data system with a PC interface.

A few more details on the rumored SpecM model also came out: while the luxurious GT-R won't be in Tokyo, according to Mizuno, when it does show up some time next year, it will feature extra equipment for a more exclusive feeling and not, as some suggested, dilute any of the supercar's capabilities.

[Source: PistonHeads]

Nissan GT-R reportedly set to receive suspension and aero upgrades, SpecM confirmed originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 01 Oct 2009 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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The development of an Infiniti version of the Nissan GT-R has been more on-again, off-again than couple on an NBC sitcom. But while the jury deliberates over that project, fresh rumors from Japan once again suggest that Nissan is planning to unveil a more luxury-oriented version of the existing GT-R at the upcoming Tokyo show.

Reportedly called the SpecM, the exclusive GT-R is tipped to pack the same aero kit and rims as the ultimate SpecV, but with a softer suspension and further customization options for discerning customers. Unfortunately, that's all we've got right now, together with the rendering above, so we'll just have to wait another couple of weeks until the curtain raises in Tokyo for more. Stay tuned.


Gallery: Nissan GT-R SpecV


[Source: Carmode via CarScoop]

Rumormill: Nissan to debut exclusive luxury-oriented GT-R SpecM in Tokyo? originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 29 Sep 2009 14:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2009 tokyo motor show2009TokyoMotorShowfalsegt-rgt-r spec mGt-rSpecMgtrnissannissan gt-rnissan gt-r spec mnissan gtrNissanGt-rNissanGt-rSpecMNissanGtrtokyotokyo motor showTokyoMotorShowTue, 29 Sep 2009 14:29:00 EST<![CDATA[REPORT: Corvette ZR1 matches Nissan GT-R around Nürburgring in <i>Sport Auto</i> test]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/23/report-corvette-zr1-matches-nissan-gt-r-around-nurburgring-in/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/23/report-corvette-zr1-matches-nissan-gt-r-around-nurburgring-in/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/23/report-corvette-zr1-matches-nissan-gt-r-around-nurburgring-in/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Chevrolet Corvette ZR1 - click above image for hi-res gallery

Ah... what's it been, three weeks since we mentioned a Nürburgring "record?" Well, rest easy friends, as this post has nothing to do with a "record." Instead, it's all about the time laid down at the 'Ring by Horst von Saurma, editor of Germany's Auto Sport. Herr von Saurma lends an air of credibility to these tests, as not only did he briefly race professionally, but his 'Ring results are generally taken seriously. For instance, his 7:32 in a Porsche Carrera GT was considered the production record until recently when Nissan and General Motors started bringing in factory hot shoes.

Anyhow, here's what Horst found: The Chevrolet Corvette ZR1 goes around the Nurburgring in 7:38 - the exact same amount of time it took him to hoof the Nissan GT-R around the circuit. Odd, you think? For the Nissan weighs almost 500 pounds more and gives up at least 100 horsepower to the Chevy. Not to mention around 165 lb-ft of torque. Yes, well, the 'Ring ain't a drag strip. And while big power helps, it's not the be-all and end-all. Both cars handle extremely well, but we're going to chock up the GT-R's impressive tie to an X factor. Namely, the twin-turbo Nissan is easier to flog at or around the limit than the supercharged Corvette - all-wheel drive helps in the dry, too, see?

And what about the issue that both manufacturers laid down 'Ring times in the 7:25 range? Well, it's within the margin of error you'd expect for a track as long as the Nürburgring, especially when the cars are driven on different days by different drivers. One more thing: Horst von Saurma laid down the Nissan's time in a 2009 model, and not in the new 2010 which features more power, better suspension and better brakes. Nor, for that matter, is it the Spec-V model. Just sayin'. Thanks to Wags for the tip!


Gallery: Review: 2009 Chevrolet Corvette ZR1


Gallery: Review: 2010 Nissan GT-R


[Source: GTRblog]

REPORT: Corvette ZR1 matches Nissan GT-R around Nürburgring in Sport Auto test originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 23 Sep 2009 13:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 Nissan GT-R2010NissanGt-rChevroletChevrolet Corvette ZR1ChevroletCorvetteZr1CorvetteCorvette ZR1CorvetteZr1GT-RGT-R Spec-VGt-rSpec-vHorst von SaurmaHorstVonSaurmaNissanNissan GT-RNissanGt-rZR1Wed, 23 Sep 2009 13:29:00 EST<![CDATA[Autoblog Podcast #146 - WSG Corvette racer Johnny O'Connell!]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/22/autoblog-podcast-146/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/22/autoblog-podcast-146/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/22/autoblog-podcast-146/#commentsFiled under:


Click above for the Autoblog Podcast in iTunes, RSS or listen now!


Episode #146 of the Autoblog Podcast puts Chris, Sam, and Dan in fast company, talking to Corvette racer Johnny O'Connell. Johnny's heading out to run the Petit LeMans, but he took some time to chat with us first. Once the crew settles down about apexes and back straights, we head off into a couple of topical discussions. Jay Leno's two-lap challenge starts us off, and GM's new "May the Best Car Win" ads get our attention next, and then we move on to Nissan's settling of the class-action lawsuit over GT-R transmissions. Some questions finish us off near the hour and a half mark. Thanks for listening, and if you like what we're doing, be sure to let us know in our survey or by leaving reviews in iTunes. Our friends over at Engadget and Joystiq do great podcasts as well, in case you need a fix before we circle around again next week.

Continue reading Autoblog Podcast #146 - WSG Corvette racer Johnny O'Connell!

Autoblog Podcast #146 - WSG Corvette racer Johnny O'Connell! originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 22 Sep 2009 16:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>autoblog podcastAutoblogPodcastcorvette c6corvette c6-rcorvette c6.rcorvette c6rcorvette c6r gt2corvette c6rsCorvetteC6CorvetteC6-rCorvetteC6.rCorvetteC6rCorvetteC6rGt2CorvetteC6rsdrew barrymore ford focusDrewBarrymoreFordFocusfalsefeaturedgm advertisinggm commercialgm may the best car wingm spotsGmAdvertisingGmCommercialGmMayTheBestCarWinGmSpotsjay lenoJayLenojohnny oconnellJohnnyOconnellleno evleno ford focusLenoEvLenoFordFocusmay the best car winMayTheBestCarWinnissan class actionnissan gt-rnissan gtrnissan gtr transmissionnissan transmissionNissanClassActionNissanGt-rNissanGtrNissanGtrTransmissionNissanTransmissionpodcastpodcastsTue, 22 Sep 2009 16:45:00 ESTAutoblog Podcast #146Autoblog01:36:20autoblog podcast;podcast146;johnny oconnell; gm ads;may the best car win; nissan gtr transmission; nissan transmission<![CDATA[VIDEO: Movie cars are strange - VW Bug-powered R34 Skyline from F&F]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/21/video-movie-cars-are-strange-vw-bug-powered-r34-skyline-from/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/21/video-movie-cars-are-strange-vw-bug-powered-r34-skyline-from/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/21/video-movie-cars-are-strange-vw-bug-powered-r34-skyline-from/#commentsFiled under: , ,

GTR-bodied buggy from Fast & Furious -- Click above to watch video

Among the numerous cobbled-together blue GT-Rs used in Fast & Furious for Paul Walker's character, the strangest one in real life could be this one: a tube-framed buggy with a VW engine. So instead of an RB engine up front, it's got an empty engine bay and a People's Wagon lump in the back, under the trunklid. It was used for jumping and driving down a flight of steps, and it sounds like it's headed to Baja. Not quite life, not quite art, follow the jump to see video.

[Source: GTR USA Blog via Just Driven]

Continue reading VIDEO: Movie cars are strange - VW Bug-powered R34 Skyline from F&F

VIDEO: Movie cars are strange - VW Bug-powered R34 Skyline from F&F originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 21 Sep 2009 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>falsefast and furiousFastAndFuriousfilmgt-rmovie carmovie carsMovieCarMovieCarsmoviesnissannissan gt-rnissan gt-r r34NissanGt-rNissanGt-rR34r34videoMon, 21 Sep 2009 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[REPORT: Nissan GT-R class action suit over transmission failures settled]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/20/report-nissan-gt-r-class-action-suit-over-transmission-failures/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/20/report-nissan-gt-r-class-action-suit-over-transmission-failures/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/20/report-nissan-gt-r-class-action-suit-over-transmission-failures/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



It was nearly a year ago when we reported on a NAGTROC forum user getting hit with a $20,000 bill to replace his toasted transmission after using Launch Control (LC1) on his GT-R. In time for the second model year of the car, Nissan first dropped Launch Control, then they decided to include it, but with safeguards (LC2). In the meantime, a growing number of owners of the initial batch got together and filed a class action suit against Nissan in the hopes of receiving some compensation for their transmissions.

That suit was settled last weekend in California. The verdict: any owners with LC1 will have their warranties reset for 5 years/60,000 miles once they upgrade to LC2, and the LC2 transmission and internals -- including VDC -- will be fully covered by Nissan. If you use the LC2 with VDC on and something breaks, everything's covered. If you turn the VDC off and use LC2 and something breaks, you're in the poo.

However, if you turn the VDC off and use LC2, then turn VDC back on and everything is fine, then you drive for a while and then a few weeks later something breaks, Nissan will have to prove that turning the VDC off weeks earlier is what caused the breakage. Previously the burden of proof was on the owner; now it's on Nissan. Owners of 2009 cars will also get a $75 coupon for service at a GT-R-approved dealership. Owners will receive notices in the mail with the details. Whew. Glad that's over. Now can we get back to enjoying one of the finest cars on the roads today? Hat tip to Matt

[Source: NAGTROC]

REPORT: Nissan GT-R class action suit over transmission failures settled originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 20 Sep 2009 18:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2009 gt-r2009 gtr2009 nissan2009 nissan gt-r2009Gt-r2009Gtr2009Nissan2009NissanGt-rfalsegt-rgt-r launch controlGt-rLaunchControlgtrlaunch controlLaunchControlnissannissan gt-rNissanGt-rnissangtrrecalltransmissionSun, 20 Sep 2009 18:03:00 EST<![CDATA[First official screenshots of Gran Turismo 5 released to giddy masses]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/03/first-official-screenshots-of-gran-turismo-5-released-to-giddy-m/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/03/first-official-screenshots-of-gran-turismo-5-released-to-giddy-m/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/03/first-official-screenshots-of-gran-turismo-5-released-to-giddy-m/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Gran Turismo 5 screen shots - Click above for high-resolution image gallery

Psst...PlayStation fans: Bet you've been getting a little irked about all these screen shots and details about Forza 3 for the xBox 360, haven't you? Well we've got something for you: the first batch of screen shots of the new Gran Turismo 5 for PS3. So far, it's just five shots of the Japanese Super GT-spec Nismo GT-R, but it looks good.

The long awaited and highly anticipated fifth installment from the iconic racing simulator franchise packs some 1000 different vehicles to choose from - according to Sony, more than twice as many as its "closest racing competitor" (wonder who they're talking about) - brought to life in unprecedented quality with state-of-the-art damage rendering, rollover crashes and the whole nine yards. There's even a sweet little feature worked in to allow gamers to export their favorite replay footage straight to YouTube. Alright, enough hype. Check out the screen shots in the high-resolution image gallery below.


Gallery: Gran Turismo 5 screen shots

top002top004top001top005top003

[Source: Sony]

First official screenshots of Gran Turismo 5 released to giddy masses originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 03 Sep 2009 11:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Stillen Nissan GT-R Targa Race Car - Click above to watch the video after the jump

It's been more than six months since Stillen started working on their Nissan GT-R race car and we're happy to report it's finished and already on its way to Eastern Canada where it will compete in the Targa Newfoundland in a few weeks. Before the hopped-up GT-R was loaded on the trailer, Steve Millen and his crew took the car out to the El Toro Marine base for a few shakedown runs. Road and Track tagged along to record some performance numbers that, as you might expect, are nothing short of impressive.

Thanks to a huge list of performance parts, the Stillenized GT-R produces 620 horsepower at 15psi from its dual turbochargers. Perhaps more importantly, several hundred pounds have been removed thanks to a stripped interior, lots of carbon fiber body components and lightweight racing seats. The extra power and weight savings results in a 0-60 mph time of just 2.9 seconds and a 1/4 mile pass in a mere 11.0 seconds at 127.9 mph. Lateral grip is a gut-clenching 1.1g. You can see the Stillen GT-R in action in the video after the jump or browse through the high-res gallery below.


Gallery: Stillen GT-R Targa Race Car



[Source: Stillen]

Continue reading Stillen Nissan GT-R: 620 horsepower, 0-60 mph in 2.9 seconds (w/ video)

Stillen Nissan GT-R: 620 horsepower, 0-60 mph in 2.9 seconds (w/ video) originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 28 Aug 2009 19:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2009 Nissan GT-R2009 Targa Newfoundland2009NissanGt-r2009TargaNewfoundlandGT-RNissanNissan GT-RNissanGt-rSteve MillenSteveMillenStillenStillen GT-RStillen Nissan GT-RStillen Nissan GT-R Targa Race CarStillenGt-rStillenNissanGt-rStillenNissanGt-rTargaRaceCarTarga NewfoundlandTargaNewfoundlandvideoFri, 28 Aug 2009 19:57:00 EST<![CDATA[Texas tuner developing turbocharged V6 Camaro to take on GT-R's 'Ring record]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/07/texas-tuner-developing-turbocharged-v6-camaro-to-take-on-gt-rs/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/07/texas-tuner-developing-turbocharged-v6-camaro-to-take-on-gt-rs/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/07/texas-tuner-developing-turbocharged-v6-camaro-to-take-on-gt-rs/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2010 Chevrolet Camaro RS -- click above image for high-res gallery

Must. Beat. Godzilla. For some reason. Here's the skinny. A tuner company called East Texas Muscle Cars is fitting a couple of turbos to a 2010 V6 Camaro in order to "beat" the 'Ring time laid down by none other than the Nissan GT-R. That leaves us with two questions then: how and why?

Lots of folks are going to buy V6 Camaros, grok the 304 hp V6, scratch their heads and say, "More power." In other words, there's a market. ETMC will rip the guts come out of the 3.6-liter LLT and throw in forged rods, crank and pistons. And then, of course, you get the two Squires Turbo Systems turbos. These are remote-mounted turbos that bolt up under the car near the exhaust. With such a system, you're basically trading a bit of lag for increased cooling and no need to mess around with new headers. East Texas thinks they can wring 500 horses out of the system no problem.

Then there's the matter of dealing with the stock Camaro's "tremendous understeer and cradle walk." That's pretty necessary if you want to do battle with a R35, which neither understeers nor cradle walks nor really does anything bad or sloppy. East Texas Muscle Cars will be addressing those issues via harder bushings and Pedders coil-overs, along with a Baer big brake kit and lightweight forged 20-inch wheels.

Then there's the question: Why? Why go after Godzilla, such a high profile target? Unless you're building Clubber Lang, why call out Rocky? Publicity, obviously. Would we even be writing about a bolt-on turbo kit for a V6 Camaro unless they publicly challenged one of the production car 'Ring masters? Probably not. But there is one part of their scheme that we do like. Once the Camaro is finished, ETMC will be flying it and a friend's stock GT-R out to Germany to run 'em both simultaneously. Since that's the case, no need to even mention the inherent fallacy of Nurburgring lap records. Good luck boys.


Gallery: 2010 Chevy Camaro


[Source: Inside Line]


Texas tuner developing turbocharged V6 Camaro to take on GT-R's 'Ring record originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 07 Aug 2009 19:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>CamaroCamaro V6CamaroV6East Texas Motor SportsEastTexasMotorSportsGodzillaGT-RNissanNissan GT-RNissanGt-rNurburgringNurburgring RecordNurburgringRecordR35R35 SkylineR35SkylineSkylineV6 CamaroV6CamaroFri, 07 Aug 2009 19:58:00 EST<![CDATA[Nürburgring Rapid Response Nissan GT-R: World's fastest fire engine]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/03/nurburgring-rapid-response-nissan-gt-r-worlds-fastest-fire-eng/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/03/nurburgring-rapid-response-nissan-gt-r-worlds-fastest-fire-eng/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/03/nurburgring-rapid-response-nissan-gt-r-worlds-fastest-fire-eng/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Nürburgring Rapid Response Nissan GT-R - click above for high-res gallery

If there's one performance metric that's pure marketing hype, it has to be a vehicle's Nürburgring time. Our good pal Jack Baruth brilliantly debunked this ever-growing myth. In case you missed Jack's article, here's the gist:
"Sorry. There's no "Nürburgring lap time record" for a simple reason: Real lap time records are set by real race cars, using real timing and scoring equipment, during actual competition or sanctioned practice sessions. They aren't "self-reported" for the same reason the World's Strongest Man Contest isn't held by having everyone mail in their "results" because people can, and do, lie and cheat."
All that truth spoken to power, it's still accurate to say that certain cars generally tend to get around Green Hell faster than others. The big players lately have been the Chevrolet Corvette ZR1, Dodge Viper ACR, Porsche GT2 and Godzilla, better known as the Nissan GT-R. All four of these cars can scoot around the Nürburgring in 7:30, maybe a squidge faster. Again - it really doesn't matter. But one of the reasons why automakers play up these 'Ring times so much is that the Nürburgring is regarded as one of the most difficult and challenging strips of macadam anywhere - for both car and driver. To rephrase that, there are lots of accidents.

Meet the Nürburgring Rapid Response GT-R. The back seat has been removed to make way for a tank full of fire-retarding foam. The firehose itself is in the trunk, along with other flame-fightin' gear. And because the Rapid Response GT-R will be hustling round the 'Ring nearly as fast as Toshio Suzuki would flog it, there's a roll cage and carbon fiber Recaro race seats. Almost makes us wish we were German firemen. Almost.


Gallery: Nurburgring Rapid Response GT-R


[Source: Nissan Sportz via GT-R Blog]




Nürburgring Rapid Response Nissan GT-R: World's fastest fire engine originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 03 Aug 2009 19:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>GodzillaGT-RNissanNissan GT-RNissanGt-rNordschleifeNrburgringNurburgringNurburgring Rapid Response GT-RNurburgringRapidResponseGt-rR35R35 skylineR35SkylineRapid Response GT-RRapidResponseGt-rSkylineMon, 03 Aug 2009 19:59:00 EST<![CDATA[Nissan studying turbochargers for future vehicles?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/03/nissan-studying-turbochargers-for-future-vehicles/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/03/nissan-studying-turbochargers-for-future-vehicles/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/03/nissan-studying-turbochargers-for-future-vehicles/#commentsFiled under: , ,

2009 Nissan 370Z - Click above for high-res gallery

As much as we've grown to love Nissan's award-winning line of VQ six-cylinder powerplants, reality dictates that time marches on and a replacement will soon be needed. According to Tetsuya Takahashi, a manager at Nissan's Powertrain Engineering Division, a switch to smaller displacements may be in the offing along with a return to forced induction - much like what Ford has done with its EcoBoost series of engines.

Nissan and Renault have well-known plans to share virtually all powerplants from this point forward, and this move would likely allow for both small and fuel efficient powerplants for passenger car duty - which is especially important in Europe - along with somewhat larger and much more powerful engines for high-performance models. Drawbacks include the additional cost of the turbocharging hardware and a more difficult path to emissions approval, so future turbo Nissans are far from a sure thing.

For those old enough to remember Nissan's pre-2002 series of Z cars, which received its first turbocharger way back in 1981 and reached its horsepower apogee in the form of the 300-horsepower 300ZX Turbo in 1990 (not to mention the incredible RB and SR powerplants), this news may be welcomed with open arms. As far as we're concerned, a slightly detuned version of the VR38DETT V6 powering fire-breathing GT-R would look mighty fine under the shapely hood of the next-gen Z.


Gallery: Review: 2009 Nissan 370Z


[Source: Motor Trend]

Nissan studying turbochargers for future vehicles? originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 03 Aug 2009 13:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>falsenissannissan 370znissan gt-rnissan turboNissan370zNissanGt-rnissangtrNissanTurboturbocharged nissanTurbochargedNissanMon, 03 Aug 2009 13:28:00 EST<![CDATA[Meadow Brook Concours 2009: The Supercars]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/03/meadow-brook-concours-2009-the-supercars/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/03/meadow-brook-concours-2009-the-supercars/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/03/meadow-brook-concours-2009-the-supercars/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


Supercars at Concours d'Elegance - click above for high-res image gallery

After about three hours at Meadow Brook, team Autoblog was ready to head out and get writing. The only thing that had us scratching our heads was the lack of modern supercars out on the lawn. On our way out the door, though, one of the gentlemen working the show asked us if we'd seen the exotics, which were hidden at the side of Meadow Brook Hall. Thank you sir.

Once we entered the hidden patio at Meadow Brook, we were greeted with dozens of supercars from Ferrari, Lamborghini, Bugatti and Porsche, along with a smattering of ultra-rare rides, including the Reventon, Veyron, 959 and Spyker C8 Laviolette. Ferrari was well-represented with a 612 Scaglietti, California, a pair of F430s and a 599 and we were also happy to see a V-10 Audi R8, a couple Astons and, perhaps our favorite of all, the absolutely stunning Alfa Romeo 8C.

Click on the gallery below to peruse 112 high-res images of the supercars you've been daydreaming about. Tens of thousands of people paid $25 each to see these them, but you get the Autoblog grand tour free of charge.


Gallery: Meadow Brook Concours 2009: The Supercars


Photos Copyright (C)2009 Chris Shunk / Sam Abuelsamid / Max Abuelsamid / Weblogs, Inc.

Meadow Brook Concours 2009: The Supercars originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 03 Aug 2009 13:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>599612 scaglietti612Scagliettialfa romeo 8cAlfaRomeo8caston martinAstonMartinaudi r8 v10AudiR8V10bugattibugatti veyronBugattiVeyronferrarilamborghinimeadowbrooknissan gt-rNissanGt-rreventonsupercarMon, 03 Aug 2009 13:03:00 EST<![CDATA[VIDEO: 2010 Nissan GT-R makes supercar friends]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/29/video-2010-nissan-gt-r-makes-supercar-friends/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/29/video-2010-nissan-gt-r-makes-supercar-friends/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/29/video-2010-nissan-gt-r-makes-supercar-friends/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Supercar parade - Click above to watch the videos after the jump

It's Godzillapalooza time boys and girls! More precisely, the day before the 2010 Nissan GT-R had to go back, my buddy Steve asked if I could give him a ride in the Skyline. Well, he'd actually been calling since two weeks before the car showed up, but anyhow, Steve is a filmmaker and he showed up camera in hand. Our plan, quite honestly, was just a quick blast across some empty freeways and nothing more. But then we saw the exit for Angeles Crest Highway and even though it was amateur day (Sundays = dozens of motorcycles riding off sheer cliffs in front of cops) we figured Steve should see Godzilla eat a canyon. Plus, after you get a few miles up you can turn left off Angeles Crest onto Angeles Highway, a much less congested (and some would argue better) road.

What happened next is one of the many reasons I'm never leaving Southern California. Stuck behind a pickup truck is a veritable supercar parade. From front to back: Ferrari F355 Spyder, Ferrari F430 Spyder, Mothra BMW M6, Dodge Viper SRT10, Ferrari F430 Spyder. I can't say for certain, but I think Godzilla was smiling. Eventually the truck pulled over and it was on. Well, OK, we got stuck behind the slow Ferrari, but it was still quite fun.

We all stopped for lunch where we asked the drivers if the matching Ferrari shirts add 5 horsepower. Then we hopped back in the cars, but not before I announced that the Nissan would be running mid-pack. The Viper driver yelled, "Try to keep up!" Little did he know I was wearing my high performance flip-flops. Thanks to Steve for filming and cutting the video: follow the jump to watch it.

Continue reading VIDEO: 2010 Nissan GT-R makes supercar friends

VIDEO: 2010 Nissan GT-R makes supercar friends originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 29 Jul 2009 14:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 Nissan GT-R2010 R352010NissanGt-r2010R35BMWBMW M6BmwM6DodgeDodge ViperDodge Viper SRT10DodgeViperDodgeViperSrt10FerrariFerrari F355Ferrari F355 SpyderFerrari F430Ferrari F430 SpyderFerrariF355FerrariF355SpyderFerrariF430FerrariF430SpyderGodzillaGT-RM6NissanNissan GT-RNissanGt-rR35R35 SkylineR35SkylineSkylinevideoViperWed, 29 Jul 2009 14:28:00 EST<![CDATA[Review: 2010 Nissan GT-R - Does Godzilla Have A Soul?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/27/review-2010-nissan-gt-r-does-godzilla-have-a-soul/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/27/review-2010-nissan-gt-r-does-godzilla-have-a-soul/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/27/review-2010-nissan-gt-r-does-godzilla-have-a-soul/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


2010 Nissan GT-R - Click above for high-res image gallery

Being an automotive journalist is like being a male porn star. We're little more than Piloti-shoed buffers between the reader and the objects of their lust, and really, no one cares about us. Still, you only get one chance to make an initial impression, so my first review here on Autoblog had to be big. As luck/fate would have it, I got a phone call a few weeks back that went a little something like this: "How'd you like to drive the first 2010 Nissan GT-R on the West Coast, before the buff books get it?" Needless to say, the answer was obvious. But what to do with the brand-new R35, one of the most heavily and relentlessly covered car-stories of the past year? This takes us right back to that porno metaphor: How do I give the people what they want?


Gallery: Review: 2010 Nissan GT-R


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

Continue reading Review: 2010 Nissan GT-R - Does Godzilla Have A Soul?

Review: 2010 Nissan GT-R - Does Godzilla Have A Soul? originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 27 Jul 2009 11:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 GT-R2010 Nissan GT-R2010 Nissan GT-R Premium2010 R352010 Skyline2010Gt-r2010NissanGt-r2010NissanGt-rPremium2010R352010SkylinefeaturedGodzillaGT-RNissanNissan GT-RNissan R35NissanGt-rNissanR35R35R35 SkylineR35SkylinereviewreviewsSkylineMon, 27 Jul 2009 11:55:00 EST<![CDATA[VIDEO: The Quick and the Dead - Bugatti Veyron vs. Nissan GT-R]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/22/video-the-quick-and-the-dead-bugatti-veyron-vs-nissan-gt-r/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/22/video-the-quick-and-the-dead-bugatti-veyron-vs-nissan-gt-r/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/22/video-the-quick-and-the-dead-bugatti-veyron-vs-nissan-gt-r/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Bugatti Veyron vs Nissan GT-R - Click the image above to view the video after the jump

The Nissan GT-R is a quick car by most standards. In fact, with all-wheel drive and traction control system, it's frighteningly fast. Pull up next to just about any other car at a stoplight and you'll undoubtedly come out ahead. That is, of course, unless you happen upon a Bugatti Veyron. The Bug matches the Nissan's AWD system and doubles the number of turbochargers and horsepower. As our man Jonathon put it in his first drive of the Bugatti Grand Sport, you don't accelerate in this car, you evaporate.

While a heads-up drag race between the GT-R and Veyron is an unlikely occurrence in the real world, Evo Magazine took it upon themselves to pair the two cars on an open airfield. Just how much faster is the Bugatti than the Nissan? Watch for yourself after the jump.

[Source: YouTube]

Continue reading VIDEO: The Quick and the Dead - Bugatti Veyron vs. Nissan GT-R

VIDEO: The Quick and the Dead - Bugatti Veyron vs. Nissan GT-R originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 22 Jul 2009 19:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 Nissan GT-R2010NissanGt-rBugattiBugatti VeyronBugatti Veyron vs Nissan GT-RBugattiVeyronBugattiVeyronVsNissanGt-rGT-RNissanNissan GT-RNissanGt-rvideoWed, 22 Jul 2009 19:57:00 EST