Autoblog

Viper-engined Jensen Interceptor homage edges closer to completion

Aaron Richardson — Sat, 04 Jun 2011 16:07:00 EST

Filed under: Concept Cars, Coupe, Performance, Europe, Videos, Specialty, Luxury

Jensen Interceptor "Viperceptor" - Click above to view video after the jump

Brook Anderson's modernization of the legendary Jensen Interceptor appears to be progressing nicely, as a video showing the car in near-finished trim has made its way online. As previously reported, Anderson is stuffing an 8.3-liter Dodge Viper V10 under his Jensen's bonnet to supply power (a natural evolution, if you ask us, given the Chrysler V8s used in the production Interceptors).

A four-speed automatic and commensurate suspension and brake upgrades will help the super-restomod harness the monster power underhood. The video description pegs the car's completion for July. Unfortunately, that's about it for details thus far, but we'll keep you updated as more info comes to light. In the meantime, hop the jump to check out new video of the in-progress Viperceptor.

Continue reading Viper-engined Jensen Interceptor homage edges closer to completion

Viper-engined Jensen Interceptor homage edges closer to completion originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 04 Jun 2011 16:07:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Koenigsegg Agera R heads to Geneva packing up to 1,115 hp... and a ski box

Alex Nunez — Sat, 26 Feb 2011 13:04:00 EST

Filed under: Coupe, Performance, Geneva Motor Show, Koenigsegg

Koenigsegg Agera R - Click above for high-res image gallery

When the Geneva Motor Show kicks off this week, the Lamborghini Aventador won't be the only exotic sucking in journos like a tractor beam. The Koenigsegg Agera R is also making its global debut, wearing in a Speed Racer-inspired paint scheme (per the owner's request) and packing so much power that you'd think an R2 unit would be a better co-pilot than, say, Chim-Chim.

Now, about that power - the Agera R's 5.0-liter twin-turbo V8 makes a ridiculous 1,115 horsepower and 885 lb-ft of torque on E85. Fill the tank with 95-octane gasoline instead of the biofuel, and figure on "only" around 940 horses and 811 lb-ft. The V8's connected to a 7-speed dual-clutch gearbox. The driver harnesses that power from a lavishly appointed cockpit that meets all the hypercar techno-fantasy criteria.

The Agera R's body panels are draped over a carbon fiber monocoque whose rigidity is such that a roof is not required. Hence, it's a removable panel that can be stowed inside the car. The owner of the example being displayed in Geneva is a skier, so the car is outfitted with a custom carbon fiber roof box developed in conjunction with Thule. It's a single-piece system that replaces the Agera R's standard roof entirely; when you get to the mountain, you simply swap the ski-box roof for the standard roof (which is tucked away in the cargo compartment).

Other highlights of the Koenigsegg Agera R include Vortex Generating Rim (VGR) wheels whose spokes act as turbine vanes that help maximize downforce. They're wrapped in Michelin rubber developed specifically for the Agera. Said tires are rated up to 260 mph, making them the highest-speed-rated tires in the world, according to Koenigsegg. As always, we'll have a full team in Geneva next week to bring you full details and a live look at the Agera R. In the meantime, check out the high-res image gallery below.

Gallery: Koenigsegg Agera R

[Source: Koenigsegg]

Koenigsegg Agera R heads to Geneva packing up to 1,115 hp... and a ski box originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 26 Feb 2011 13:04:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Geneva Preview: Porsche 911 GT3 R Hybrid

Damon Lavrinc — Wed, 10 Feb 2010 21:38:00 EST

Filed under: Motorsports, Coupe, Geneva Motor Show, Porsche, Racing

Porsche 911 GT3 R Hybrid - Click above for high-res image gallery

In an interesting about-face, Porsche has revealed the first images and details on its new racer, the 911 GT3 R Hybrid.

Based on the rear-drive 911 GT3 R that's set to take to the track in privateer hands later this year, the GT3 R Hybrid utilizes a rear-mounted, 480-hp 4.0-liter flat-six in conjunction with two electric motors that drive the front wheels. Residing in the space normally reserved for the passenger seat sits a flywheel, which harnesses kinetic energy under braking and can spin upwards of 40,000 rpm. Once enough energy is stored, the system lets loose up to 120 kilowatts - approximately 160 horsepower - to the front wheels in six to eight second bursts that are controlled by a steering wheel-mounted button.

Porsche apparently hasn't released official performance specs, but the GT3 R Hybrid's world debut will take place at the Geneva Motor Show before it hits the track for its motorsports debut at the Nürburgring 24 Hours on May 15. Devised as a rolling "racing laboratory," after the Hybrid takes to the Green Hell this year, Porsche plans to assault the 24 Hours of LeMans in a refined version in 2012, just as the sanctioning body begins to favor hybrids. Now about that "no hybrids" thing...

Gallery: Porsche 911 GT3 R Hybrid

Continue reading Geneva Preview: Porsche 911 GT3 R Hybrid

Geneva Preview: Porsche 911 GT3 R Hybrid originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 10 Feb 2010 21:38:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Pics Aplenty: 265-hp 2011 Volkswagen Golf R plays in the snow

Damon Lavrinc — Mon, 25 Jan 2010 14:58:00 EST

Filed under: Performance, Europe, Hatchback, Volkswagen

2011 Volkswagen Golf R - Click above for high-res image gallery

Yes, we're still bitter about the Scirocco not making it to the States, but some manner of consolation may be on the way in the form of the 2011 Volkswagen Golf R.

Although VW has yet to confirm that the fastest ever Golf is headed to the U.S., the word on the street is that the 265-hp, all-wheel drive hatch is on its way to the Colonies later this year, with a choice of either a six-speed manual or dual-clutch gearbox.

The turbocharged 2.0-liter TSI four-cylinder's performance stats are almost enough to make us forget about the Scirocco, if just for a moment, with a 155 mph top speed and a 5.5-second run to 60 mph (5.7 seconds with the manual gearbox). While it's hardly a lightweight hatch (coming in at around 3,400 pounds with the DSG), the massive brakes, bi-xenon headlamps, 18- or 19-inch wheels and beautifully bolstered thrones have us champing at the bit for some seat time. Here's hoping VW sees fit to send over a few examples after the R20's launch in Ellmau, Austria.

Gallery: Volkswagen Golf R

Pics Aplenty: 265-hp 2011 Volkswagen Golf R plays in the snow originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 25 Jan 2010 14:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Officially Official: Volkswagen Scirocco R

Alex Nunez — Wed, 20 May 2009 11:02:00 EST

Filed under: Performance, Europe, Hatchback, Volkswagen

Click above for a high-res gallery of the VW Scirocco R

Okay, so we were wrong about the venue. This weekend, against the backdrop of the Nürburgring 24, Volkswagen will unveil the 265-horsepower Scirocco R to the public. The specs are unchanged from what we reported last night. The Scirocco shares its 265-horsepower/350 Nm (258 lb-ft) 2.0L turbo four with the Audi S3, but unlike the latter, the VW is a front-driver. Drivers pick gears via either a 6-speed stick or DSG, and the VW Scirocco R gets the XDS electronic differential featured in the new GTI. On the tarmac, the Scirocco R makes the run from zero to 62 mph (100 km/h) in 6.5 seconds with the manual gearbox. (Shave off another tenth with the DSG.) Outside, the bodywork apes that of the Scirocco GT24 racer, five of which will be competing in the 24-hour enduro at the Nordschleife. A meaner face, larger roof spoiler, dual exhaust outlets, 18-inch "Talladega" wheels, and the requisite badging visually separate the Scirocco R from its more sedate-looking siblings. Have a closer look in the hi-res gallery below.

Gallery: 2009 Volkswagen Scirocco R

[Source: Volkswagen]

Continue reading Officially Official: Volkswagen Scirocco R

Officially Official: Volkswagen Scirocco R originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 20 May 2009 11:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Revealed! 720hp, twin-turbocharged V12 Tramontana R

Damon Lavrinc — Tue, 24 Feb 2009 20:02:00 EST

Filed under: Europe, Supercars

Click above for a high-res gallery of the Tramontana R

Two years ago, we tracked down a small, independent automaker on the floor of the Geneva Motor Show that promised to deliver a segment-busting supercar to those bored with Lamborghinis and Ferraris. Fast-forward to today and the Tramontana Group seems to have made good on its promise with the unveiling of the Tramontana R Edition.

The R is an evolved version of the standard open-wheel two-seater, packing a Mercedes-sourced 5.5-liter V12 available in either naturally aspirated, 550 hp guise or a twin-turbocharged 760 hp version that dolls out an astonishing 811 lb-ft of torque. The Group claims a 0-100 kph time of 3.6 seconds and a 10.15-second run to 200 kph.

The wheelbase has been shortened by 50mm to improve handling and aerodynamics, and weight is down by 202 pounds to just 2,777 pounds. The R stretches 192 inches from nose to tail, is 82 inches wide and 51 inches tall, and weight distribution is a perfect 50:50 left to right and 42:58 front to rear. Tramontana fitted 20-inch carbon fiber and magnesium wheels at each corner, along with high-performance summer rubber sized 245/40 in front and 335/30 in the rear. 380mm, six-piston Brembos handle stopping duties, while a custom Ohlins suspension allows the R's ride-height to be adjusted between 85 and 135 mm.

The body speaks for itself, as does the exposed carbon fiber interior, which features a chop-top steering wheel, an LCD instrument panel and the controls to the six-speed sequential gearbox. Production will be limited to 12 units per year with a price tag of €385,000 ($495,000), but unfortunately, we won't be seeing it in Geneva next month - the Tramontana R will make its official debut at the Top Marques Monaco show at the end of March.

Thanks to Autoblog Spanish, we've got live shots from the Tramontana's unveiling earlier today. Check the images in the galleries below and read their detailed (and Google-translated) synopsis here.

Gallery: Tramontana R

Gallery: Tramontana R Live

Continue reading Revealed! 720hp, twin-turbocharged V12 Tramontana R

Revealed! 720hp, twin-turbocharged V12 Tramontana R originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 24 Feb 2009 20:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Pagani Zonda R officially unveiled in Vienna

Damon Lavrinc — Thu, 15 Jan 2009 15:24:00 EST

Filed under: Supercars

Click above for a high-res gallery of the Pagani Zonda R

The Pagani Zonda did something incredible. It proved that the supercar world did not revolve around Ferrari and Lamborghini. So to commemorate Horacio Pagani's achievement, the hypercarmaker has created one last version of the Zonda before its replacement arrives next year.

After 24 months of development, and at the urging of an unnamed Italo-American customer that already owns three Zondas, the Pagani Zonda R was created as a lightweight, track-only variant of the iconic coupe. Production is limited to ten examples with a price tag of 1.4-million euro.

Although the carbon fiber exterior is deceiving, the Pagani Zonda R only carries over 10% of its structure from its predecessors. The wheelbase has grown by 47mm, the overall length is 394mm longer and the track has been widened by 50mm. An all-new carbon fiber monocoque resides underneath the wind-tunnel tested body, along with a forged aluminum suspension, new six-speed sequential gearbox and four aero-spec fuel pumps that feed a Mercedes-Benz AMG-sourced 6.0-liter V12. Pagani claims the new heart - nestled into the 2,425-pound R - will produce 750 hp at 8,000 rpm and 524 lb-ft of torque, for a 0-60 time of 3.2 seconds and a top speed of 248.54 mph. Air is fed into the bent-twelve through a carbon fiber air intake system, while an Inconel manifold and "F1-style" exhaust releases spent hydrocarbons and keeps engine temps in check.

Pagani makes it clear that the Zonda R is a not street legal, and one owner is taking that to the illogical extreme. One of the first Zonda Rs to be delivered will be installed in the customer's living room and fitted with a bespoke stereo system to play the R's swan song as it rips around the Nurburgring and LeMans. Hit the jump for the press release.

Gallery: Pagani Zonda R

[Source: Pagani | Image: Argentina Auto Blog]

Continue reading Pagani Zonda R officially unveiled in Vienna

Pagani Zonda R officially unveiled in Vienna originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 15 Jan 2009 15:24:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Pagani releases more renderings of the Zonda R

Damon Lavrinc — Thu, 23 Oct 2008 15:58:00 EST

Filed under: Geneva Motor Show, Supercars, Specialty

Click above for a high-res gallery of the Pagani Zonda R

The Pagani Zonda is on its way to supercar heaven, due to be replaced by Horacio Pagani's next masterpiece, currently code-named the C9. To send off the current Zonda in style, Pagani is working on the Zonda R, limiting production to ten examples with a price tag of €2,000,000.

Despite looking very similar to the Zonda F and its predecessors, the R only shares ten percent of the outgoing model's underpinnings, and instead, gets a sleek new shape that's 47mm longer, providing even more downforce through the use of a longer splitter, rear defuser and wing.

Pagani has released four new renderings of its all-carbon fiber coupe, and according to Autoblog.it (no relation), Pagani won't be using the 750-hp, 7.3-liter Mercedes mill, instead opting for the 6.0-liter AMG V12 putting out similar hp and torque. Five road-going versions are planned, while the remaining five will be limited to circuit duty. We're hoping to finally see the Zonda R in person sometime next year, likely at the 2009 Geneva Motor Show.

Gallery: Pagani Zonda R

[Source: Autoblog.it]

Pagani releases more renderings of the Zonda R originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 23 Oct 2008 15:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Next VW GTI puts out 210 hp, R version gets AWD and 270 hp

Damon Lavrinc — Mon, 22 Sep 2008 13:31:00 EST

Filed under: Europe, Paris Motor Show, Hatchback, Volkswagen

Click above for a high-res gallery of the 2009 Volkswagen Golf

Volkswagen's high-performance plans for the new Golf will spawn three new models, beginning with the new 210 hp GTI set to debut in Paris and go on sale in the middle of 2009. According to Automotive News, the Mk. VI GTI will sprint to 60 in a tick above seven seconds and hit a top speed of around 150 mph.

A performance-oriented diesel Golf, dubbed the GTD, will hit the market in April, putting out around 170 hp from its common-rail diesel, while a range-topping R model, available through Volkswagen Individual, will be churn out 270 hp, send power to all four wheels and will be equipped with an aero package that includes a "black gleaming diffuser." Sales of the R version will begin in November of 2009.

Gallery: Volkswagen Golf VI

[Source: Automotive News - Sub. Req.]

Next VW GTI puts out 210 hp, R version gets AWD and 270 hp originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 22 Sep 2008 13:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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King of the 'Ring: Pagani Zonda F sets new Norschleife lap record

Noah Joseph — Fri, 19 Oct 2007 11:28:00 EST

Filed under: Motorsports, Supercars

You can make a car that accelerates. You can make a car that brakes. You can make one that handles. One that corners. One with a high top speed. But to make one that does it all is a different story entirely. That's why automakers go to the Nürburgring. Its northern loop is twenty-two kilometers of twists, turns, dips, straights, chicanes...even a carousel. And it's got a new champion.

The Pagani Zonda F recently lapped the track that claimed Lauda's ears in a scant 7:27:82, edging out the previous ruler, the Porsche Carrera GT (which it also rivals for carbon-fiber content in its construction). The Zonda's hot lap shaved a mere two milliseconds off the Carrera's time, but those are two milliseconds the German supercar evidently couldn't muster on its own home track. How embarrassing, ja?

The specific model that hit the high time was a Clubsport version, which itself will be trumped by the even more extreme Zonda R before designer Horacio Pagani goes back to the drawing board for the Zonda's successor.

[Source: Motor Authority]

Gallery: Pagani Zonda F at Geneva 07

King of the 'Ring: Pagani Zonda F sets new Norschleife lap record originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 19 Oct 2007 11:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Honda puts the kid in the driver's seat

Noah Joseph — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 18:02:00 EST

Filed under: Gadgets, Etc., Japan, Honda

Here at Autoblog our philosophy on early childhood education - yes, we have a philosophy on early childhood education - is that no age is too young to begin teaching the little ones a love for cars. That's why we love featuring kids' toys like Automoblox and slot car racing sets, along with the grown-ups' toys we report on daily, and often behave like little children ourselves. Or at least that's how we justify it to our own kids.

The latest comes courtesy of Honda, who've realized that even the children deserve a shot at getting in on the JDM scene by offering this special Type R child seat. Unfortunately it's only available (at the moment) in Japan, which makes sense when you consider the local availability of the four-door Civic Type R sedan, which has the space to drift the kids around Tokyo.

Related post:

Recaros for your kiddos

[Source: Carscoop]

Honda puts the kid in the driver's seat originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 23 Apr 2007 18:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Tuner Tuesdays: Maserati MC12 XX by Edo Competition

Noah Joseph — Tue, 20 Feb 2007 17:03:00 EST

Filed under: Aftermarket, Tuners, Supercars, Maserati, Ferrari

In the world of modern Italian exotic supercars, a surprising share of the field has stemmed from one car: the Ferrari Enzo. It is in and of itself one of the best performing cars of all time, shattering previous records and nearby windows in the process. But it didn't stop there: the Enzo had offspring. Most recently, the 599 GTB Fiorano got its engine from the Enzo. Before that came the Maserati MC12, which itself bred road, race and track versions, as well as the show-stopping Birdcage concept car. Then Ferrari turned out the FXX program, something of an "Enzo Evo".

German tuning house Edo Competition didn't like that the FXX was out-performing the first ever 200-mph Maserati and has set out to rectify the situation by giving the MC12 the "FXX treatment". This isn't the first time Edo has tinkered with the limited-edition MC12, having created the MC12 R previously. But whereas that program netted a more modest 70 horsepower increase - by no means something to scoff at considering how high-strung the engine is already - the new MC12 XX boosts power by 170hp to match the FXX's 800hp rating.

[Source: Edo Competition and World Car Fans]

Continue reading Tuner Tuesdays: Maserati MC12 XX by Edo Competition

Tuner Tuesdays: Maserati MC12 XX by Edo Competition originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 20 Feb 2007 17:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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High performance R-badged Touareg on its way

John Neff — Mon, 19 Feb 2007 17:56:00 EST

Filed under: SUV, Volkswagen

According to AutoTelegraaf, a loose-lipped V-dub employee spilled the beans that the German automaker is developing an R-badged high-performance version of the Touareg SUV. Unlike current gas-powered R variants such as the R32 Golf and upcoming R36 Passat, the R-badged Touareg will likely be based on the 4.9L V10 TDI model. Motor Authority reports that aftermarket tuners have gotten this engine to produce upwards of 625 ft-lbs. of torque and 365bhp, which bodes well for this SUV's potential. According to VW's naming convention, the new model will likely be called the R50. In terms of appearance, it's thought the R50 will resemble the R-line Touareg (shown) that can be built by outfitting your SUV with parts from the VW Individual customization program. Unfortunately, there's no word on whether this speculation includes the U.S. as a possible market for the R50. Currently, we're only promised the presence of the R32, which isn't even here yet (you can preorder one of the 5,000 earmarked for the States here), so chances are the R50 is not in our immediate future.

[Source: AutoTelegraaf via Motor Authority]

High performance R-badged Touareg on its way originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 19 Feb 2007 17:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Where's the R? Volvo's R-badged offerings dwindle

Damon Lavrinc — Tue, 06 Feb 2007 08:55:00 EST

Filed under: Sedan, Wagon, Volvo

When Volvo releases their new V70 sedan and wagon, customers won't get the choice of a hotted-up version sporting an 'R' on the boot lid. Volvo decided that the T6 provides adequate thrust for the Swedish saloon and, contrary to rumors, won't be equipping the V70 with the Yamaha-developed 325 HP V8, found in the XC90.

However, since Volvo normally limits its R-badged offerings to two, the lack of a V70R and the discontinuation of the S60R will allow other vehicles to benefit from some of the power and handling tweaks associated with the moniker.

The first on the list is a C30R, likely equipped with all-wheel-drive and 250 HP, so it can bring the pain to the A3s and GTIs that populate that hot hatch segment. The second offering may be an S40R, whose engine bay was specifically designed to fit the 281 HP, T6 engine.

The last possibility is a S80R, which may come equipped with a 4.4-liter V8, however the transmission currently available might not be up to the task of handling close to 400 HP.

One dark spot in the Autocar article is the idea that the R badge may be nixed altogether. We doubt it, but time will tell.

[Source: Autocar]

Where's the R? Volvo's R-badged offerings dwindle originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 06 Feb 2007 08:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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