Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com Autoblog http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.autoblog.com/media/feedlogo.gif Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com en-us Copyright 2013 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Watch Carrera Cup driver Connor de Phillippi's first lap of the Nürburgring]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/23/watch-carrera-cup-driver-connor-de-phillippis-first-lap-of-the/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/23/watch-carrera-cup-driver-connor-de-phillippis-first-lap-of-the/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/23/watch-carrera-cup-driver-connor-de-phillippis-first-lap-of-the/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Connor de Phillippi drives the 'Ring in his Porsche 911 racecar - video screencap

American race driver Connor de Phillippi was recently added to the roster of Porsche Juniors, the arm of Porsche's factory racing program that develops new talent. The 20-year-old is contesting the Porsche Carrera Cup Deutschland series with FÖRCH Racing by Lukas Motorsport, and last weekend, he raced the series round at the Nürburgring. Starting 15th on the grid, de Phillippi would cross the line in ninth out of 32 finishers.

Courtesy of his in-car camera, you can watch his entire first lap in the video below - there's no music added, just engine whine during nine minutes of crests, turns, bumpy straights and that wicked Carousel. Enjoy.

Continue reading Watch Carrera Cup driver Connor de Phillippi's first lap of the Nürburgring

Watch Carrera Cup driver Connor de Phillippi's first lap of the Nürburgring originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 23 May 2013 12:46:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>carrera cupconnor de phillippimotorsportsnürburgringporscheporsche 911porsche carrera cupporsche juniorsvideoThu, 23 May 2013 12:46:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20581073/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/23/watch-carrera-cup-driver-connor-de-phillippis-first-lap-of-the/20581073/article-detail.xml 20581073 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/connor-di-phillippi-gt3-ring_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/connor-di-phillippi-gt3-ring.jpg <![CDATA[Malaise Era All-Stars]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/17/malaise-era-all-stars-porsche-audi-corvette-/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/17/malaise-era-all-stars-porsche-audi-corvette-/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/17/malaise-era-all-stars-porsche-audi-corvette-/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

1976-1979 Porsche 930 - front three-quarter view, blue

A few weeks ago, we bid a fond happy 40th anniversary to the automotive dark ages of 1973-84 that have come to be known as "The Malaise Era" - the performance ice-age when 160 horsepower was a lot and a 0-60 time of under 10 seconds was remarkable. Like music in the 1980s, everything in automobiledom didn't suck, however. There were a few bright spots. Here are five of our favorites:

1976-79 Porsche 930, aka 911 Turbo Carrera (above)
Photo Credit: Dorotheum

While Chevrolet beat them by a decade with the turbocharged Corvair Corsa, the Germans more fully developed turbocharging through racing where General Motors couldn't. Early Porsche 930s (known technically as 911 Turbo Carreras) were a bit crude, with turbo lag that could be measured with an egg timer. They lacked an intercooler as well as brakes that were up to the task, but performance was sensational, with the buff books reporting 0-60 times of anywhere from 4.9 to 5.8 seconds and quarter-mile times of under 14 seconds. This was '60s muscle car performance at the height of the Malaise Era. Sadly, the 930 cost about six times as much as your average muscle car did.

Rob Sass is the Publisher of Hagerty Classic Cars magazine. He is a regular contributor to the automotive section of the New York Times and is the author of "Ran When Parked, Advice and Adventures from the Affordable Underbelly of Car Collecting."

Continue reading Malaise Era All-Stars

Malaise Era All-Stars originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 17 May 2013 16:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>audiaudi quattroaudi ur-quattrocar collectorchevychevy corvettecollector carsdatsundatsun 280zxmalaise eramercedesporscheporsche 930Fri, 17 May 2013 16:28:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20569813/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/17/malaise-era-all-stars-porsche-audi-corvette-/20569813/article-detail.xml 20569813 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/1979-porsche-911-turbo_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/1979-porsche-911-turbo.jpg <![CDATA[Porsche again staring down another $1.8B in hedge fund lawsuits]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/15/porsche-again-staring-down-another-1-8b-in-hedge-fund-lawsuits/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/15/porsche-again-staring-down-another-1-8b-in-hedge-fund-lawsuits/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/15/porsche-again-staring-down-another-1-8b-in-hedge-fund-lawsuits/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Volkswagen and Porsche emblems overlayed

The sequence of events from 2007 that began with Porsche's secret attempt to take over Volkswagen, and instead lead to Porsche being taken over by VW, continues to instigate lawsuits against the Stuttgart sports car manufacturer. A group of hedge funds that suffered over $1 billion in losses sued the car company in New York. Porsche had publicly stated it wasn't trying to buy VW, the hedge funds in question were shorting VW stock, and when Porsche's actual intentions were revealed, the stock shot up and the hedge funds took a beating.

The case was thrown out over the issue of jurisdiction, then appealed, only to see another suit filed on top of that. After that, most of the hedge funds withdrew their claims in New York and Porsche offered a 90-day window to refile in Germany where it is already fighting a number of other suits over the same issue. The hedge funds accepted the offer, refiling in Stuttgart for $1.8 billion in damages. According to Bloomberg, Porsche hasn't commented on the refiling, but as the same plaintiffs are involved, it's safe to assume that the carmaker still feels the case is "unsubstantiated and without merit." It has fared alright so far even in German courts, with two lesser cases against it thrown out last year.

Porsche again staring down another $1.8B in hedge fund lawsuits originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 15 May 2013 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>derivativesgermanyhedge fundslawsuitporscheporsche lawsuitporsche volkswagenporsche vwstock marketstuttgartvolkswagenvwWed, 15 May 2013 11:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20569429/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/15/porsche-again-staring-down-another-1-8b-in-hedge-fund-lawsuits/20569429/article-detail.xml 20569429 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/vw-porsche-crests_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/vw-porsche-crests.jpg <![CDATA[Supercar parade entering highway is mesmerizing]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/09/supercar-parade-entering-highway-is-mesmerizing/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/09/supercar-parade-entering-highway-is-mesmerizing/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/09/supercar-parade-entering-highway-is-mesmerizing/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , ,



In what must have looked and sounded to motorists on the M6 like an invasion of The Swarm, a parade of 50 enthusiast gems leaving a charity event were caught shooting down the on-ramp and merging into traffic. There were plenty of Porsches joining the 959 and Ducktail above, Aston Martins going back to the badboy V8 of the last millennium, a Ferrari Testarossa, a TVR and numerous other Easter eggs.

There were not, however, plenty of turn signals, with someone counting just five among the fifty engaging in proper use of the blinker. One reason put forth for that is the same reason we're posting this video, which is from last Summer, below: "because supercar." Enjoy.

Continue reading Supercar parade entering highway is mesmerizing

Supercar parade entering highway is mesmerizing originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 09 May 2013 12:43:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aston martinferrarilamborghinim6nissan gt-rporscheporsche 911ukvideoThu, 09 May 2013 12:43:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20562691/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/09/supercar-parade-entering-highway-is-mesmerizing/20562691/article-detail.xml 20562691 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/supercar-parade-m6_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/supercar-parade-m6.jpg <![CDATA[See what the Chevy C7 ZR1 may be benchmarked against]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/07/see-what-the-chevy-c7-zr1-may-be-benchmarked-against/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/07/see-what-the-chevy-c7-zr1-may-be-benchmarked-against/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/07/see-what-the-chevy-c7-zr1-may-be-benchmarked-against/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,



One of the greatest things every Corvette has had going for it, and also one of the most re-used arguments against it, is its price-to-performance equation - long before the Nissan GT-R became the de facto Porsche 911 comparator the Corvette spent decades as Exhibit A. Depending on which side of the argument you stressed, supporters crowed about how much performance you got for how (comparatively) little, detractors carped on how little you got everywhere else in the bargain.

It appears Chevrolet is working as hard as ever to render the argument meaningless. Spy shooters at KGP captured a convocation of European birds of prey leaving the General Motors test center, and aimed at benchmarking the C7 Corvette ZR1. The road train comprised of two C7 Corvette Stingrays, a 2013 Corvette ZR1, McLaren MP4-12C, Ferrari 458 Italia, Audi R8 V10 Spyder and Porsche 911 Carrera S and it was last seen heading down the same kinked-up back roads used to hone the Corvette Stingray.

The C7-series ZR1 and its possible 700 horsepower are still a ways off. If it really is being positioned to compete with the celestial exotica in the testing group, could it be the first Corvette to regularly be the first answer to the question "Cost no object, which would would you rather have?"

See what the Chevy C7 ZR1 may be benchmarked against originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 07 May 2013 11:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>audi r8 v10 spyderc7 corvettechevy corvettechevy corvette zr1corvette zr1ferrariferrari 458 italiamclarenmclaren mp4-12cporscheporsche 911spy shotsTue, 07 May 2013 11:27:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20559599/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/07/see-what-the-chevy-c7-zr1-may-be-benchmarked-against/20559599/article-detail.xml 20559599 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/c7-corvette-zr1-benchmark-spies_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/c7-corvette-zr1-benchmark-spies.jpg <![CDATA['Born of a Blue Sky' brings the Amelia Island Concours to you]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/03/born-of-a-blue-sky-brings-the-amelia-island-concours-to-you/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/03/born-of-a-blue-sky-brings-the-amelia-island-concours-to-you/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/03/born-of-a-blue-sky-brings-the-amelia-island-concours-to-you/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,



The Amelia Island Concours d'Elegance has more clout every year and is getting a reputation as Pebble Beach minus the madness. Held in March this year, it celebrated Ducati and the 50-year anniversaries of Lamborghini, the Corvette Sting Ray, Porsche 911 and the Ford GT40.

Justin Lapriore was there, and seemingly everywhere, getting footage of the various wares on display on the lawns and the sand and the runway. The resulting video, Born of a Blue Sky, is a 16-minute survey of some of the finer sights and plenty of engine sounds. Check it out below.

Continue reading 'Born of a Blue Sky' brings the Amelia Island Concours to you

'Born of a Blue Sky' brings the Amelia Island Concours to you originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 03 May 2013 12:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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The Turbo S will dispatch the Nürburgring in "well under seven and a half minutes."

Porsche is celebrating the 40th anniversary of its 911 Turbo in the best possible way: by announcing the next-generation of the rear-engined beast. The 2014 Porsche 911 Turbo and Turbo S are here, and man oh man, do they seem like the business.

At the heart of the new Turbo is a rear-mounted, turbocharged, 3.8-liter flat-six engine, making use of twin, variable-turbine-geometry turbos. For the standard Turbo, the result is 520 horsepower, a 0-60 miles per hour sprint of 3.2 seconds and a top speed of 196 mph. Not quick enough you say? Well, Porsche will also happily sell you a Turbo S with 560 horsepower, 0-60 mph in just 2.9 seconds and a top speed of 198 mph. Impressively, Porsche also notes that the Turbo S will dispatch the Nürburgring Nordschleife in "well under 7 and a half minutes - with standard production tires." Church.

All that engine power is managed by Porsche's seven-speed PDK dual-clutch gearbox, which would seem to be the only available transmission for the Turbo. The PDK transmission and turbo engine make use of a new thermal management system that, in concert with an auto stop/start system, are expected to make this 911 Turbo more fuel-efficient than ever. Expect EPA ratings closer to the car's on-sale date at the end of 2013.

Continue reading 2014 Porsche 911 Turbo and Turbo S debut [w/video]

2014 Porsche 911 Turbo and Turbo S debut [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 03 May 2013 09:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2014 porsche 911 turbo2014 porsche 911 turbo sporscheporsche 911 turboporsche 911 turbo sFri, 03 May 2013 09:15:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20557246/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/03/2014-porsche-911-turbo-and-turbo-s-debut/20557246/article-detail.xml 20557246 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/2014-porsche-911-turbo-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/2014-porsche-911-turbo-628.jpg <![CDATA[China bans military license plates on luxury autos]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/01/china-bans-military-license-plates-on-luxury-autos/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/01/china-bans-military-license-plates-on-luxury-autos/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/01/china-bans-military-license-plates-on-luxury-autos/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Porsche Cayenne GTS with two Chinese models at Beijing Motor Show

Driving a vehicle with a military license plate in China provides many privileges. Legally reserved for official vehicles only, the designation apparently allows drivers to enjoy special liberties on the roads, including breaking traffic laws, filling up with free fuel and receiving light-and-siren escorts through congested cities. So attractive are the benefits that there is a secondary market for used legal and counterfeit plates - especially among those wealthy enough to afford luxury cars. But all of that is reportedly coming to an end, as President Xi Jinping, chairman of the Central Military Commission, is on a mission to fight corruption in his country.

A new license plate system goes into effect today, and it is designed to "maintain social harmony, stability and the reputation of the military," says the PLA Daily, the armed forces' official newspaper. While the abuse has been going on for many years, the internet has put the spotlight on the bad behavior, and the negative press does not represent the morals and true colors of the armed forces, say officials.

While military-plated Porsche drivers have been singled out as offenders, Bloomberg notes that all vehicles with engine displacements above 3.0 liters and with a sticker price in excess of about $73,000, will be banned from receiving military plates. This includes vehicles from Audi, Cadillac, BMW, Mercedes-Benz, Jaguar, Land Rover, Lincoln and the Volkswagen Phaeton. Even if drivers are savvy enough to circumvent the new issuing system, the military has put technology at toll gates to catch users of counterfeit plates. There has been no word on the punishment if caught.

China bans military license plates on luxury autos originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 01 May 2013 11:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chinachina militarychina military plateschinese militarylicense platesmilitary license plateporscheWed, 01 May 2013 11:31:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20552127/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/01/china-bans-military-license-plates-on-luxury-autos/20552127/article-detail.xml 20552127 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/porsche-cayenne-gts-at-beijing-motor-show_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/porsche-cayenne-gts-at-beijing-motor-show.jpg <![CDATA[Proof the world revolves around the Porsche Cayman]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/27/proof-the-world-revolves-around-the-porsche-cayman/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/27/proof-the-world-revolves-around-the-porsche-cayman/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/27/proof-the-world-revolves-around-the-porsche-cayman/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,



Or at least the world revolves underneath the Porsche Cayman, in the latest video showing off Stuttgart's mid-engine coupe. Porsche put an Easter egg in the world that spins triple-time, a "famous relative" of the Cayman hidden somewhere on the marble planet, and gave a Porsche Martini bag to one of the first 50 people who could point it out.

With more than 300 views there's no chance you'll win the bag, but you can still go on the treasure hunt in the video below.

Continue reading Proof the world revolves around the Porsche Cayman

Proof the world revolves around the Porsche Cayman originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 27 Apr 2013 19:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>martiniporscheporsche caymanvideoyoutubeSat, 27 Apr 2013 19:02:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20550179/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/04/27/proof-the-world-revolves-around-the-porsche-cayman/20550179/article-detail.xml 20550179 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/porsche-cayman-video_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/porsche-cayman-video.jpg <![CDATA[VW confirms development of 10-speed dual clutch, 134-hp/liter diesel]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/26/volkswagen-confirms-development-of-10-speed-dual-clutch-134-hp/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/26/volkswagen-confirms-development-of-10-speed-dual-clutch-134-hp/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/26/volkswagen-confirms-development-of-10-speed-dual-clutch-134-hp/#commentsFiled under: , ,



Each year, the Vienna International Motor Symposium showcases some of the up-and-coming technologies automakers are engineering for the use in passenger cars, and Volkswagen AG CEO Martin Winterkorn revealed some big developments VW is working on for its future products. Winterkorn discussed a multi-faceted approach that VW is looking to reduce its fleet fuel consumption and exhaust emissions.

Some of the bigger news he discussed included a "high-performance" diesel engine that will produce 134 horsepower per liter and a 10-speed DSG automatic transmission. While no specific applications were mentioned, we can only hope this is for the Audi R4 we keep hearing about.

Another topic he touched on that caused us to perk up our ears was had to do with VW's plug-in hybrid technology. While we know the PHEV versions of the Audi A3 and Porsche Panamera are on the way, Winterkorn also said that these two models will be followed up by Golf, Passat, Audi A6 and Porsche Cayenne plug-in models. Scroll down for a press release highlighting the automaker's future fuel-saving initiatives.

Continue reading VW confirms development of 10-speed dual clutch, 134-hp/liter diesel

VW confirms development of 10-speed dual clutch, 134-hp/liter diesel originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 26 Apr 2013 17:43:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>10-speed transmissionaudiaudi 16audi a6audi a6 plug-in hybriddieseldsgmartin winterkornporscheporsche cayenneporsche cayenne plug-in hybridvienna international motor symposiumvolkswagenvolkswagen agvolkswagen passatvolkswagen passat plug-in hybridFri, 26 Apr 2013 17:43:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20549903/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/04/26/volkswagen-confirms-development-of-10-speed-dual-clutch-134-hp/20549903/article-detail.xml 20549903 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/11/martin-winterkorn-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/11/martin-winterkorn-628.jpg <![CDATA[Jaguar F-Type pitted against Porsche 911 Cabriolet by Tiff Needell]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/24/jaguar-f-type-pitted-against-porsche-911-cabriolet-by-tiff-neede/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/24/jaguar-f-type-pitted-against-porsche-911-cabriolet-by-tiff-neede/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/24/jaguar-f-type-pitted-against-porsche-911-cabriolet-by-tiff-neede/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,



You knew it wouldn't take long and it looks like EVO is first onto YouTube with a battle between the 2014 Jaguar F-Type and the 2013 Porsche 911. Tiff Needell spends a few laps warming up the tires (read: drifting like mad) in each droptop before getting in a timed run to see who's champion and who's second best.

Before the bell rings, its the Porsche that's got everything to lose, the 50-year-old era-defining sportscar getting on with a 3.4-liter flat-six, 350 horsepower, a seven-speed manual and a 3,197-pound curb weight. Other sportscars, like the F-Type, continue to eye the 911 like a flag atop Everest that they plan to first touch, and then rip from its socket. The mid-trim Jaguar rolls into the contest with a 3.0-liter supercharged V6 with 380 hp, an eight-speed automatic with paddle shifters and a curb weight of 3,521 pounds.

The video below shows you what happens when you let all those numbers fight it out on the same stretch of curvy track. Check it out.

Continue reading Jaguar F-Type pitted against Porsche 911 Cabriolet by Tiff Needell

Jaguar F-Type pitted against Porsche 911 Cabriolet by Tiff Needell originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 24 Apr 2013 14:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 porsche 911 cabriolet2014 jaguar f-typeevojaguarjaguar f-typeporscheporsche 911tiff needellvideoWed, 24 Apr 2013 14:58:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20548354/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/04/24/jaguar-f-type-pitted-against-porsche-911-cabriolet-by-tiff-neede/20548354/article-detail.xml 20548354 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/evo-f-type-911_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/evo-f-type-911.jpg <![CDATA[Porsche picks Maria Sharapova as brand ambassador]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/23/porsche-picks-maria-sharapova-as-brand-ambassador/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/23/porsche-picks-maria-sharapova-as-brand-ambassador/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/23/porsche-picks-maria-sharapova-as-brand-ambassador/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Tennis superstar Maria Sharapova with Porsche 911 Cabriolet

Russian-born tennis superstar Maria Sharapova has just inked a three-year deal with Porsche to be its brand ambassador, a position that will put her on a global campaign for the German automaker. The 26-year-old athlete isn't new to the role - she previously signed a similar three-year deal with Land Rover in 2006.

"Maria Sharapova is an exceptional athlete. She combines top performance in her sports with elegance and power. These are precisely the qualities that are embroiled in our sports cars," explained Matthias Mueller, CEO of Porsche AG, during the announcement. "Her profile and charisma are an ideal fit for Porsche. She is also highly respected around the world and enjoys an outstanding reputation," he added.

Some consider Porsche's choice of a female tennis player as its ambassador interesting, if not surprising. The automaker has traditionally marketed its vehicles with a masculine edge - Sharapova and the sport of tennis position the brand in a different light - likely an intentional decision. Do you think Porsche's choice was a good one? If not, who would you choose as its global ambassador?

Continue reading Porsche picks Maria Sharapova as brand ambassador

Porsche picks Maria Sharapova as brand ambassador originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 23 Apr 2013 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>brand ambassadormaria sharapovamaria sharapova gallerymaria sharapova picturesporscheporsche maria sharapovasharapovatennisTue, 23 Apr 2013 18:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20547547/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/04/23/porsche-picks-maria-sharapova-as-brand-ambassador/20547547/article-detail.xml 20547547 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/maria-sharapova-porsche-005-1366732520_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/maria-sharapova-porsche-005-1366732520.jpg <![CDATA[2014 Porsche Panamera S E-Hybrid is one mean green machine]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/20/2014-porsche-panamera-s-e-hybrid-shanghai-2013/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/20/2014-porsche-panamera-s-e-hybrid-shanghai-2013/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/20/2014-porsche-panamera-s-e-hybrid-shanghai-2013/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,



The entire Porsche Panamera lineup gets a refresh for the 2014 model year, and new additions to the range include two long-wheelbase models and this E-Hybrid fuel-sipper that makes its debut here at the Shanghai Motor Show. And, well, we say "fuel-sipper" lightly.

Porsche has packed its hybrid Panamera with 416 horsepower and 435 pound-feet of torque, and that certainly makes for one quick sedan-hatchback-thing. Hitting 60 miles per hour will reportedly take just 5.2 seconds, on its way to a top speed of 167 mph. And while Porsche hasn't revealed specific powertrain details, the company says that the S E-Hybrid "improves upon the concept offered by the previous Panamera S Hybrid with a more powerful electric motor," which leads us to believe that the supercharged 3.0-liter V6 engine at the heart of it all still remains intact.

Fuel economy numbers (or estimates) have not been released as of this writing, but we expect to have that information closer to the car's on-sale date later this year. As for the new battery system, Porsche says that when plugged into a 240-volt charging station, it can be fully charged in just two and a half hours. When topped off, the Panamera S E-Hybrid should have an electric driving range of around 20 miles at speeds up to 84 mph, though, obviously, not at the same time.

Have a look at the press release below for more information.

Continue reading 2014 Porsche Panamera S E-Hybrid is one mean green machine

2014 Porsche Panamera S E-Hybrid is one mean green machine originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 20 Apr 2013 11:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 shanghai motor show2014 porsche panamera s e-hybridporscheporsche panameraporsche panamera s e-hybridshanghaishanghai motor showSat, 20 Apr 2013 11:15:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20546176/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/04/20/2014-porsche-panamera-s-e-hybrid-shanghai-2013/20546176/article-detail.xml 20546176 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/2014-porsche-panamera-s-e-hyrbrid-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/2014-porsche-panamera-s-e-hyrbrid-628.jpg <![CDATA[eGarage video features Helmuth Bott's personal Porsche 959 prototype]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/12/egarage-video-features-helmut-botts-personal-porsche-959-protot/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/12/egarage-video-features-helmut-botts-personal-porsche-959-protot/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/12/egarage-video-features-helmut-botts-personal-porsche-959-protot/#commentsFiled under: , ,

silver porsche 959 prototype sitting in the brumos porsche collection


"We thought we were going to build a super-911," said Peter Schutz, former CEO of Porsche AG of the development of the Porsche 959. That was before it started getting expensive. At that point, Helmuth Bott, Porsche R&D director got frightened. Costs ballooned because of the all-wheel drive, sequential turbocharging and other technology Porsche had never even thought about when it set out to build a 911 to compete in Group B. Schutz continued, "The amount of resources we were committing got totally out of hand." Instead of pulling the plug, Bott doubled down and drew on the strength of his brilliant team to build a car whose impact is still echoing aross the industry.

"It's probably one of our most prized possessions" says Don Leatherwood, Director of the Brumos collection where Dr. Bott's personal prototype resides, and where Frazer Spowart went to see the car and create a video for eGarage. Check out the sights and sounds of the 959 before it was the 959, and get personal takes on the car from Hurley Haywood, Peter Schutz and Don Leatherwood. Keep reading to see the video.

Continue reading eGarage video features Helmuth Bott's personal Porsche 959 prototype

eGarage video features Helmuth Bott's personal Porsche 959 prototype originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 12 Apr 2013 20:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>brumosegaragehelmut botthelmuth botthurley haywoodporscheporsche 959porsche 959 prototypevideoFri, 12 Apr 2013 20:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20538298/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/04/12/egarage-video-features-helmut-botts-personal-porsche-959-protot/20538298/article-detail.xml 20538298 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/959-proto_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/959-proto.jpg <![CDATA[Porsche reportedly working on new turbocharged flat-four boxer engine?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/10/porsche-reportedly-working-on-new-turbocharged-flat-four-boxe/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/10/porsche-reportedly-working-on-new-turbocharged-flat-four-boxe/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/10/porsche-reportedly-working-on-new-turbocharged-flat-four-boxe/#commentsFiled under: ,



These days, we've seen just about every automaker dropping cylinders in an effort to appease tightening fuel economy and emission standards - and Porsche is no exception. Nearly three years after introducing an all-new V6 powerplant under the front hood of its Panamera sedan (launched with a range of V8 engines) comes word that Porsche is working on an all-new turbocharged flat-four boxer to replace the flat-six engines mid-mounted in its Cayman and Boxster models.

Specifics have yet to be learned, but reports say the engine is a derivative of the current 3.8-liter six (shown above) found under the rear decklid of the Carrera S, yet with two fewer cylinders. Fitted with a turbocharger, direct-injection and the automaker's VarioCam Plus, the new all-aluminum 2.5-liter flat-four will likely develop upwards of 350 horsepower and 360 pound-feet of torque. Redline should be about 7,500 rpm. Initial indications say that Porsche will only offer the new engine with its seven-speed PDK dual-clutch automatic, tuned to take advantage of the low-end torque, but a traditional six-speed manual gearbox has not been ruled out. Despite the loss of two cylinders, enthusiasts will likely embrace the new engine as it promises to be lighter, more fuel efficient and more powerful than the 2.7-liter and 3.4-liter sixes in the Cayman/Boxster today.

Even though Porsche has been using Volkswagen Group engines for years (e.g., Cayenne V6, Cayenne Diesel and upcoming Macan), all indications are that the new flat-four will not be shared. Instead, it will be kept in-house for the automaker's sports cars and possible future fitment in an entry-level 911.

Porsche reportedly working on new turbocharged flat-four boxer engine? originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 10 Apr 2013 11:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>flat-fourporscheporsche engineporsche flat-four boxerporsche new engineturbocharged boxer engineWed, 10 Apr 2013 11:31:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20535394/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/04/10/porsche-reportedly-working-on-new-turbocharged-flat-four-boxe/20535394/article-detail.xml 20535394 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/porsche-3.8-liter-engine_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/porsche-3.8-liter-engine.jpg <![CDATA[Preparing for Le Mans 2014 Porsche remembers 1971 and the 917 [w/video]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/07/preparing-for-le-mans-2014-porsche-remembers-1971-and-the-917-w/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/07/preparing-for-le-mans-2014-porsche-remembers-1971-and-the-917-w/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/07/preparing-for-le-mans-2014-porsche-remembers-1971-and-the-917-w/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,



Porsche has given us another look back at its successes at the 24 Hours of Le Mans. This time it's 1971, the year that its 917 set records that haven't all been eclipsed. It's 45-kilogram magnesium tube frame was the lightest, Jackie Oliver set the fastest in-race lap with a time that still stands, and winning drivers Helmut Marko - the same Helmut Marko currently with Infiniti Red Bull Racing - and Gilles Lethem did so many laps that their distance wasn't exceeded until the Audi R15 TDI did it in 2010.

1971 was also the year of the "Pink Pig." With bodywork created by a French aerodynamics firm, the wider, rounder 917 earned the porcine moniker so Porsche painted it pink and labeled it with the cuts you'd get from a pig. Sponsor Martini was so miffed they demanded all Martini branding be removed. No one can remove the thousands of photographs taken of the car ever since. Enjoy that and more in the video below.

Continue reading Preparing for Le Mans 2014 Porsche remembers 1971 and the 917 [w/video]

Preparing for Le Mans 2014 Porsche remembers 1971 and the 917 [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 07 Apr 2013 19:05:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>le manspink pigporscheporsche 917Sun, 07 Apr 2013 19:05:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20532425/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/04/07/preparing-for-le-mans-2014-porsche-remembers-1971-and-the-917-w/20532425/article-detail.xml 20532425 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/porsche-917-le-mans_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/porsche-917-le-mans.jpg <![CDATA[2015 Porsche Cayenne spotted with facelift]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/03/2015-porsche-cayenne-spotted-with-facelift/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/03/2015-porsche-cayenne-spotted-with-facelift/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/03/2015-porsche-cayenne-spotted-with-facelift/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



Although it's only been a few years since the current Porsche Cayenne was introduced, Porsche seems to be working on a midcycle update for its big SUV possibly in time to welcome the smaller Macan. As seen in these recent spy shots, it looks like the Cayenne will be getting a minor face- and butt-lift, but it's hard to say what other changes are in store or when the updated model will hit showrooms.

Up front, expect the Cayenne's new face to resemble what was just revealed on the 2014 Panamera, and we could also see this SUV using some of the new engines introduced on the Panamera including the 3.0-liter twin-turbo V6 or maybe even the E-Hybrid model. We're guessing that the new Cayenne could debut sometime next year likely for the 2015 model year. In the meantime, check out the gallery of spy shots above.

2015 Porsche Cayenne spotted with facelift originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 03 Apr 2013 15:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2015 porsche cayenneporscheporsche cayennespy shotsWed, 03 Apr 2013 15:45:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20528364/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/04/03/2015-porsche-cayenne-spotted-with-facelift/20528364/article-detail.xml 20528364 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/2015-porsche-cayenne-spy-shots_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/2015-porsche-cayenne-spy-shots.jpg <![CDATA[Blackprints Kickstarter campaign looks to put profiles on your wall [w/video]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/03/blackprints-kickstarter-campaign-looks-to-put-profiles-on-your-w/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/03/blackprints-kickstarter-campaign-looks-to-put-profiles-on-your-w/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/03/blackprints-kickstarter-campaign-looks-to-put-profiles-on-your-w/#commentsFiled under: , ,



UPDATE: This Kickstarter campaign has been shut down due to copyright disputes over the original images used to create the Blackprints.

We enjoy highlighting artists who turn their brushes, lenses or whatever medium they fancy towards the four-wheeled things in life. San Francisco-based artist Sabrina Chun has done just that with her series called Blackprints: Car Designs Reimagined, which is currently enjoying an overabundance of funding on Kickstarter.

In the series, Chun has taken eight iconic autos and created inverse black-and-white profile views of each. The cars include the Porsche 911, '67 Mustang GT500, Shelby Cobra, Lamborghini Countach, Volkswagen Microbus, Ford Model T and pop culture icons like the Ecto-1 from Ghostbusters and the DeLorean from Back to the Future.

The prints will be available in two sizes, mini (6x9 inches) and jumbo (24x38 inches), and they're printed on 80-pound card stock made of recycled paper using environmentally friendly soybean-based ink and solvent. What's more, this is some very reasonably priced art; a pledge of just $34 or more will get you all eight mini prints, while a pledge of $139 or more scores you all eight jumbos.

If you'll indulge us donning our art critic hats for a moment, what we like about Chun's Blackprints is not only the fact that she's chosen eight excellent cars to feature, but the works will hang equally well on the wall of a garage or living room. They seem so simple, but you'll soon lose track of time staring at features you've never noticed before that only reveal themselves in the light of Chun's negative spaces.

Take a closer look in our gallery above or in the video below.

Continue reading Blackprints Kickstarter campaign looks to put profiles on your wall [w/video]

Blackprints Kickstarter campaign looks to put profiles on your wall [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 03 Apr 2013 14:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>back to the futureblackprintscar designs reimagineddeloreanecto-1fordford model tford shelby gt500ghostbusterslamborghinilamborghini countachporscheporsche 911sabrina chunshelbyshelby cobravideovwvw microbusWed, 03 Apr 2013 14:15:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20528268/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/04/03/blackprints-kickstarter-campaign-looks-to-put-profiles-on-your-w/20528268/article-detail.xml 20528268 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/blackprints-sabrina-chun-001-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/blackprints-sabrina-chun-001-opt.jpg <![CDATA[2014 Porsche Panamera arrives with new E-Hybrid, long-wheelbase models]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/03/2014-porsche-panamera-arrives-with-new-e-hybrid-long-wheelbase/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/03/2014-porsche-panamera-arrives-with-new-e-hybrid-long-wheelbase/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/03/2014-porsche-panamera-arrives-with-new-e-hybrid-long-wheelbase/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

2014 Porsche Panamera

Porsche will officially unveil the refreshed 2014 Panamera at the Shanghai Motor Show later this month, and there's a whole lot in store for the updated model, far beyond the minimal styling tweaks you see here. Sure, there's a new fascia with more prominent LED lighting (including full LED headlamps) and the rump has been tweaked ever so slightly, but the big news for 2014 concerns what's underneath that rakish skin.

First up, Porsche will now offer a Panamera S E-Hybrid model - a plug-in hybrid that builds on the technology first introduced in the Panamera S Hybrid that we tested in 2011. For this new application, a more powerful electric motor and higher-performance battery have been fitted (official specs have not been released just yet), and Porsche says the battery can be recharged in just two and a half hours when the car is plugged in to a 240-volt outlet, and the charging (as well as other vehicle data) can be monitored via a new Porsche Car Connect app available for Android and iOS devices.

The E-Hybrid will have an all-electric driving range of "greater than 20 miles" and will be able to travel at speeds up to 84 miles per hour solely on electric power.

As for performance, the E-Hybrid will reportedly have an all-electric driving range of "greater than 20 miles" and will be able to travel at speeds up to 84 miles per hour solely on electric power. And because this is a Porsche, performance has not suffered - the automaker says the Panamera S E-Hybrid will be able to hit 60 mph in 5.2 seconds on its way to a top speed of 167 mph. Total system output for the E-Hybrid is rated at 416 horsepower and 435 pound-feet of torque, and an eight-speed Tiptronic S transmission will be used with this application.

Speaking of performance, Porsche will be offering a new 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged V6 engine in the Panamera, which replaces the naturally aspirated 4.8-liter V8 from the S and 4S models. This new engine is good for a power increase of 20 horsepower and 15 pound-feet over that V8 (bringing the final numbers up to 420 and 383, respectively). While official fuel economy numbers haven't been released just yet, we're told that this new engine, combined with the standard seven-speed dual-clutch transmission and auto start/stop, will offer significant fuel economy improvements.

Lastly, and perhaps most fitting to the car's planned debut in China, Porsche will be offering extended-wheelbase versions of both the Panamera 4S and Turbo. Called the Executive models, these cars offer 5.9 inches of extra length in the wheelbase, and come standard with "an extensive range of standard features," including Porsche's adaptive air suspension with Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM).

The 2014 Panamera will go on sale in the US starting late in 2013, priced from $78,100 for the base model and reaching as high as $161,100 for the Turbo Executive. That nifty new E-Hybrid comes in at $99,000, and other models like the GTS and Turbo are priced from $113,400 and $141,300, respectively. (All prices do not include $975 for destination and handling.) Have a look below at Porsche's press release for the full pricing information, as well as the full smattering of details.

Continue reading 2014 Porsche Panamera arrives with new E-Hybrid, long-wheelbase models

2014 Porsche Panamera arrives with new E-Hybrid, long-wheelbase models originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 03 Apr 2013 10:14:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2014 porsche panamerae-hybridporscheporsche panameraporsche panamera e-hybridWed, 03 Apr 2013 10:14:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20528318/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/04/03/2014-porsche-panamera-arrives-with-new-e-hybrid-long-wheelbase/20528318/article-detail.xml 20528318 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/001-2014-porsche-panamera628opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/001-2014-porsche-panamera628opt.jpg <![CDATA[2013 Porsche 911 RSR makes official debut]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/01/2013-porsche-911-rsr-makes-official-debut/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/01/2013-porsche-911-rsr-makes-official-debut/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/01/2013-porsche-911-rsr-makes-official-debut/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

2013 Porsche 911 RSR race car - studio view

Porsche is ready to go racing in 2013, showing off a new 911 RSR today that is scheduled to compete in several endurance events this year. Based on the current 991 911, the new RSR will compete in the 2013 season of the World Endurance Championship and the 24 Hours of Le Mans. It will not, however, make an appearance in a North American racing series this year.

The 2013 version of the racecar has increased in wheelbase by some four inches, features a new wishbone front suspension in place of the last-generation's McPherson strut setup and boasts a new, lightweight six-speed racing gearbox. The engine, meanwhile, is an "optimized" version of last year's car, a 460-horsepower 4.0-liter boxer six-cylinder. Extensive use of carbon fiber and polycarbonate windows help the RSR shed weight, and Porsche has also balanced the weight more evenly with a lower center of gravity.

Porsche has thoughtfully dedicated some space to celebrate the 911's 50th Anniversary, with the number 50 clearly visible in the top-down view of the RSR, as well as along the doors. Scroll down to read the full Porsche press release, below.

Continue reading 2013 Porsche 911 RSR makes official debut

2013 Porsche 911 RSR makes official debut originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 01 Apr 2013 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 porsche 9112013 porsche 911 rsr24 hours of le mansle mansporscheporsche 911porsche 911 rsrworld endurance championshipMon, 01 Apr 2013 14:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20524839/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/04/01/2013-porsche-911-rsr-makes-official-debut/20524839/article-detail.xml 20524839 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/2013-porsche-911-rsr-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/2013-porsche-911-rsr-628.jpg -1 2