Autoblog

LA 2009: Porsche debuts lightweight 2011 Boxster Spyder

Michael Harley — Wed, 02 Dec 2009 18:19:00 EST

Filed under: LA Auto Show, Convertible, Performance, Porsche

2010 Porsche Boxster Spyder - Click above for high-res image gallery

Porsche rolled out the 2010 Boxster Spyder, the third model in the Boxster lineup, for its world debut at the LA Auto Show, with an entirely new look and - we are led to believe - a driving personality nearly on par with the 911 GT3 RS.

Hidden deep and low in the belly of the Spyder is a tuned version of Porsche's 3.4-liter flat-six, rated at 320 hp (ten more than the Boxster S). While the added horses are welcome, it's the 176 pounds of mass lost that really raises our interest. To achieve these savings, Porsche has fitted the Spyder with a lightweight carbon fiber-ribbed soft top, unique rear decklid, low side windows, aluminum door skins and interior door panels with straps swapped from the 911 GT3 RS. Air conditioning, cupholders and an audio system have been left back on the factory floor (don't worry, Porsche will let you add them back for a price). With a curb weight of just 2,811 pounds, it is the lightest model in Porsche's lineup. With a power-to-weight ratio rivaling the Carrera S, the Boxster Spyder with a dual-clutch PDK transmission will now rip to 60 mph in 4.6 seconds.

However, that's only part of the enthusiast-oriented story. Porsche replaced the dampers with an all-new sport suspension, riding 20 mm lower than the other models, to drop the center of gravity and improve handling over the standard Porsche Boxster and Boxster S. Fitted with a standard limited-slip differential and lightweight wheels, the package looks just fine to us. As expected, the pure driving enjoyment of the Porsche Boxster Spyder won't come cheap - base pricing starts at $61,200 when it arrives in February 2010.

Gallery: LA 2009: 2010 Porsche Boxster Spyder

[Source: Porsche]

Continue reading LA 2009: Porsche debuts lightweight 2011 Boxster Spyder

LA 2009: Porsche debuts lightweight 2011 Boxster Spyder originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 02 Dec 2009 18:19:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Pics Aplenty: Porsche Boxster Spyder

Noah Joseph — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 19:25:00 EST

Filed under: LA Auto Show, Convertible, Performance, Porsche

2011 Porsche Boxster Spyder - Click above for high-res image gallery

Porsche drivers don't like waiting. That's why they buy a Porsche, after all. So while a few weeks might not seem like a long time for most people, to a Porsche driver used to rocketing to 60 miles per hour in four-point-right-now seconds, the span of weeks must seem like an eternity.

Although we're still weeks away from the LA Auto Show, where Porsche is set to unveil the new Boxster Spyder, Zuffenhausen has kept its enthusiasts placated with a fresh batch of photos showing its newest, lightest vehicle in all its glory. We'll be on hand for the unveiling next month, but before then check out the updated high-res image gallery below.

Gallery: 2011 Porsche Boxster Spyder

[Source: Porsche]

Pics Aplenty: Porsche Boxster Spyder originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 19 Nov 2009 19:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Audi R8 Spyder gets an early unveiling

Damon Lavrinc — Wed, 09 Sep 2009 23:01:00 EST

Filed under: Concept Cars, Frankfurt Motor Show, Convertible, Performance, Audi, Luxury

Audi R8 Spyder - Click above for high-res image gallery

With all the leaks leading up to the Frankfurt Motor Show, we knew this one would pop sooner rather than later. And here it is: the Audi R8 Spyder. No more spy shots or speculation. The drop-top bomber from Ingolstadt has arrived... and it's achingly gorgeous in this chocolate hue.

Without any official information to go off of, we can't comment on weights and measures, but we do know Audi will only be offering the Spyder with the Lambo-derived 5.2-liter V10, putting out 525 hp and 390 lb-ft of torque. On the styling side, there's not much to report. Along with the removal of the roof, the sideblades have been dispatched in favor of a duo of scoops ahead of the rear wheels, while the windshield gets framed in brushed aluminum and a set of vented bulges trail off from the seats. Unfortunately, we don't have any shots of the R8 with the top up, but when we get an eyeful in Frankfurt, we'll get our first glimpse of the retractable soft-top and the R8's new profile. Until then, check the images in the gallery below.

Gallery: Audi R8 Spyder

[Source: Carscoop]

Audi R8 Spyder gets an early unveiling originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 09 Sep 2009 23:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Rumormill: Lamborghini to unveil Reventón Roadster at Frankfurt show

Noah Joseph — Fri, 21 Aug 2009 09:00:00 EST

Filed under: Frankfurt Motor Show, Convertible, Performance, Lamborghini, Rumormill

Rumors of an open-air version of the exclusive Lamborghini Reventón have been circulating for months, with recent reports suggesting that the company has already shown a pre-production prototype to some of its best customers. Now sources suggest that the Raging Bull brand could be preparing to unveil the Reventón Roadster at the upcoming Frankfurt Motor Show, with only ten to be built, packing the more potent 670 horsepower engine from the SuperVeloce.

By slapping on some edgy body panels and glitzy instruments, Sant'Agata managed to bump the Murcielago's price up into seven-figure territory, and they could do it again by lopping off the Reventón's roof (or slapping said panels on the Murci Roadster, depending on how you look at it). But while they could very well unveil the car in Frankfurt, with the Balboni edition Gallardo yet to make its public debut, they may also opt to make good on their commitment of a new product at every major auto show and keep the Reventón Roadster under wraps until a later date.

[Source: LamboCars.com via The Car Connection]

Rumormill: Lamborghini to unveil Reventón Roadster at Frankfurt show originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 21 Aug 2009 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Monterey 2009: Spyker C8 Aileron Spyder debuts

Damon Lavrinc — Sat, 15 Aug 2009 19:25:00 EST

Filed under: Convertible, Performance, Misc. Auto Shows, Luxury

Spkyer C8 Aileron Spyder - Click above for a high-res image gallery

Spyker deals in the ultimate four-wheeled fashion accessories, so it's fitting that the automaker debuted its next-generation droptop - the C8 Aileron Spyder - to the primped and bedazzled throngs in Monterey.

Based off the all-new Aileron that debuted at the Geneva Motor Show earlier this year (replacing the original C8 after a successful nine-year run), the Spyder version stays true to its predecessor with a frameless windshield and a flowing profile that doesn't disrupt the more angular, aircraft-inspired theme of the coupe.

Ahead of the CNC-machined aluminum luggage rack and integrated roll-bars, a tonneau cover houses a soft-top (available in eight colors) and glass window that's deployed using an electric/hydraulic system and latched with a single mechanism.

Like the original C8, Spyker developed the Aileron to be a convertible from the onset, so little if any modifications have been made to ready the Spyder for drop-top duty. The chassis carries over unchanged, as does the drivetrain - an Audi-sourced 400+ hp 4.2-liter with a choice of either a six-speed manual or automatic gearbox (with paddle shifters) - along with the massive AP brakes and 19-inch Aeroblade wheels. And if the inside of the Aileron wasn't enough of a masterpiece to begin with, Spyker has teamed up with ultra-high-end stereo purveyors Kharma to offer a new infotainment system that will add another level of excess to the already excessive interior. Expect sales to begin later this, with around 50 percent of all Spyders winding up on U.S. shores.

Gallery: Monterey 2009: Spyker C8 Aileron Spyder

Monterey 2009: Spyker C8 Aileron Spyder debuts originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 15 Aug 2009 19:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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REPORT: 2011 Audi R8 Spyder will launch with V10 only, next A8 not coming to Frankfurt

Damon Lavrinc — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 13:00:00 EST

Filed under: Detroit Auto Show, Frankfurt Motor Show, Convertible, Sedan, Performance, Europe, Supercars, Audi

2010 Audi R8 V10 - Click above for a high-res image gallery

It's been all but confirmed by Audi that the R8 Spyder is due to debut alongside the new A5 Sportback at the Frankfurt Motor Show this September, but according to two reports from Car and Driver, there will be one less vehicle on the show stand in Germany and only one engine available in the drop-top supercar.

The 2011 Audi R8 Spyder will reportedly be available with the 525 hp, 5.2-liter V10 at launch -- meaning no V8 -- with a standard six-speed manual gearbox or optional R-tronic automated transmission. The 420 hp, 4.2-liter V8 currently fitted to the standard R8 could be added later, but Audi seems to favor sticking with the V10 until the R8's replacement arrives a few years down the road.

Additionally, it was widely reported that the 2011 Audi A8 would be unveiled in Frankfurt, but C&D says that the launch has been pushed back sometime after the LA Auto Show in December. Apparently, the reason for the delay is two-fold: Audi doesn't want to risk quelling sales of the current A8 in some of its most important markets (China, Europe and the U.S.) and the automaker is (wisely) worried that the unveiling could be overlooked at a large auto show where too many models are vying for attention. As such, the A8 could be shown initially at a private event in Florida later this year, with the first public exhibition being the Detroit Auto Show in January.

Gallery: 2010 Audi R8 5.2 FSI quattro

[Source: Car and Driver (1) (2)]

REPORT: 2011 Audi R8 Spyder will launch with V10 only, next A8 not coming to Frankfurt originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 17 Jun 2009 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Frankfurt Rumormill: Electric R8 concept joining Audi R8 Spyder

Damon Lavrinc — Wed, 27 May 2009 15:00:00 EST

Filed under: Frankfurt Motor Show, Convertible, Hybrid, Performance, Green, Supercars, Audi, Rumormill

Audi R8 V10 - Click above for a high-res image gallery

Reports out of France and Germany indicate that in addition to the all-new A8 and A5 Sportback, Audi plans to reveal two versions of the R8 at the Frankfurt Motor Show this September.

Both Auto Motor und Sport and L'Automobile report that Audi will finally reveal the R8 Spyder at the IAA expo, with the French pub saying the drop-top supercar will be available with either the standard 420 hp, 4.2-liter V8 or the newly released 525 hp, 5.2-liter V10, allowing Audi to compete directly with the 911 4S, Turbo and convertible models.

However, the big news is the rumored reveal of an electric version of the R8. Details are scarce, so it's unclear if the R8 concept will be a pure EV, a diesel/gasoline-electric hybrid, a limited production model or, more likely, just an indication that Audi is looking at future powertrains. Regardless, we'll be on the floor in Frankfurt to bring you both the reveals if/when they happen.

Gallery: 2010 Audi R8 5.2 FSI quattro

[Sources: AMuS, L'Automobile]

Frankfurt Rumormill: Electric R8 concept joining Audi R8 Spyder originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 27 May 2009 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Rumormill: Porsche planning road-going RS Spyder?

Damon Lavrinc — Mon, 18 May 2009 19:58:00 EST

Filed under: Supercars, Porsche, Rumormill

2007 Porsche RS Spyder - Click above for a high-res image gallery

L'Automobile, our new favorite purveyors of outlandish stories and Photoshopped speculation, is reporting that Porsche is considering building a road-going version of the RS Spyder to fill the vacuum created by the dearly departed Carrera GT.

According to the French rumormongers, the RS Spyder's road-legal progeny will measure in at 183 inches (about eight inches longer than a 911) and will consist of a carbon fiber monocoque to keep weight to a minimum. A version of the Spyder's 3.4-liter V8 would be mounted amidships, but will be de-tuned from its current 503 hp (at 10,000 rpm) to around 400 hp.

Naturally, we're suitable skeptical about the report, particularly since it's lacking some basic information about the powerplant (is this the new direct-injected engine?) and there's no word on the transmission, running gear or even a possible debut date. Regardless, we can dream, and as far as fantasies go, an LMP2 car for the road is good starting point.

Gallery: 2007 Porsche RS Spyder

[Source: L'Automobile]

Rumormill: Porsche planning road-going RS Spyder? originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 18 May 2009 19:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Maserati Spyder debut pegged for early 2010

Noah Joseph — Wed, 06 May 2009 18:01:00 EST

Filed under: Convertible, Maserati

Maserati GranTurismo S - Click above for a high-res image gallery

As the prospective launch date approaches, everyone's wondering what will become of the upcoming Maserati Spyder. Some big questions remain about what shape the new GranTurismo cabrio will take: will it have four seats, or will the folding top take up the cramped rear quarters? Will it have a soft top like its predecessor, or a hard top like its Ferrari counterpart? Will it offer the 400hp 4.2-liter V8 from the base GranTurismo, or the 435hp 4.7-liter unit from the GranTurismo S? One way or another, sources suggest we'll find out soon enough, placing it on the road by early next year, with a springtime market launch likely. That means its debut could come as early as the Frankfurt Motor Show in September, or else wait for the Geneva Motor Show in March. Expect the sticker price to come in below the Ferrari California, targeting the likes of the Aston Martin DB9 Volante, Bentley Continental GTC, BMW M6 convertible, Jaguar XKR convertible and Mercedes-Benz SL-Class and at around $130,000.

Gallery: Maserati GranTurismo S

[Source: Car and Driver]

Maserati Spyder debut pegged for early 2010 originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 06 May 2009 18:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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REPORT: Maserati GranTurismo Cabriolet headed for Geneva - in 2010 - S Automatic coming next week [*UPDATED]

Chris Paukert — Mon, 23 Feb 2009 13:29:00 EST

Filed under: Convertible, Performance, Rumormill

Corroborating what we've already known for some time is a new Motor Trend article that confirms a drophead version of Maserati's voluptuous GranTurismo coupe is on the way. However, what is news is that MT is reporting that the car will likely be dubbed "Cabriolet" and not "Spider," largely because the convertible is expected to keep its 2+2 seating, and the latter has been historically reserved for two-place models.

MT believes that the car will carry the 433-horsepower 4.7-liter V8 engine and six-speed ZF automatic gearbox sourced from the Quattroporte Sport GT S, as the GranTurismo S' automanual is considered to be too out-of-character for soft-top motoring. Regardless of what drivetrain arrives contained therein, MT recons the Maser Cabrio will probably debut at next year's Geneva Motor Show, a full year later than earlier reports indicated.

UPDATE: Maserati has just announced that it will bring its new GranTurismo S Automatic to the Geneva show next week. Press release after the jump.

[Source: Motor Trend]

Continue reading REPORT: Maserati GranTurismo Cabriolet headed for Geneva - in 2010 - S Automatic coming next week [*UPDATED]

REPORT: Maserati GranTurismo Cabriolet headed for Geneva - in 2010 - S Automatic coming next week [*UPDATED] originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 23 Feb 2009 13:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Audi R8 V10 debuting in Detroit, cabrio coming in 2010

Damon Lavrinc — Tue, 02 Dec 2008 15:04:00 EST

Filed under: Detroit Auto Show, Performance, Supercars, Audi

Click above for a high-res gallery of the Audi R8

While other automakers are dropping out of the Detroit Auto Show left and right, Audi is heading to Motor City with guns blazing, beginning with the 2010 Audi R8 V10.

Car and Driver decided to put the rumors to rest that the updated super coupe is officially coming to Detroit, packing a 5.2-liter V10 putting out 520 hp and 398 lb.-ft. of torque. Aside from the obvious aural and performance differences, the V10-powered R8 will make use of a pair of larger dual exhaust tips rather than the V8 model's quad outlets. Expect new wheels, upgraded brakes and a few changes to the interior as well.

The oft-rumored Audi R8 Spyder will hit the European market in late 2009, with sales beginning in the U.S. sometime in 2011. According to C&D, the reason for the delayed Stateside launch is due to dealers that "have their hands full allocating coupes." Whatever that means. The R8's stylistic party pieces - it's side blades - will be shrunken down to accommodate a power-operated soft top, and the interior will carry over unchanged.

We've got more Audi goodness for you at 6 PM EST tonight, so check back in a few hours for a sneak peak of the four-ringer's plans for the Geneva Motor Show.

Gallery: Audi R8 V10 spied at quattro GmbH

Gallery: 2008 Audi R8

[Source: Car and Driver]

Audi R8 V10 debuting in Detroit, cabrio coming in 2010 originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 02 Dec 2008 15:04:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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1961 Ferrari California Spyder sells for record $10,894,900

Drew Phillips — Mon, 19 May 2008 13:28:00 EST

Filed under: Convertible, Auctions, Ferrari

Click above for high-res gallery of this record-breaking Ferrari

This past weekend a new record was set for the highest amount paid for a car at a vintage auction by a 1961 Ferrari California Spyder selling for $10,894,900 after auction fees. The sale was at RM Auction's second annual "Ferrari Leggenda e Passione" auction in Maranello, Italy, and the obviously wealthy buyer was popular British radio host Chris Evans.

While we aren't experts on the classic car market, we can't help but think this sale was the result of a "gotta have it" mentality by Evans with no regard for the actual value of the vehicle. The initial estimate from RM Auctions was nearly half the sale price, and the fact that the car was previously owned by actor James Coburn seems somewhat inconsequential. While there's no doubt that Evans snagged an incredibly beautiful vintage Ferrari, we think he could have got his hands on a California Spyder for much less.

Gallery: Record 1961 Ferrari California Spyder

[Source: RM Auctions]

Continue reading 1961 Ferrari California Spyder sells for record $10,894,900

1961 Ferrari California Spyder sells for record $10,894,900 originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 19 May 2008 13:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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VIDEO: Car-Parazzi kids go nuts at CHP Run

Frank Filipponio — Wed, 12 Mar 2008 12:33:00 EST

Filed under: Performance, Videos, Supercars

Click above to view video

We wrote about the Car-Parazzi kids a while back when they were discovered by Jay Leno and became web celebs overnight. This team of young teens is possessed with some insane energy and skill. Still young and unjaded, they have tons of opportunities to feed their passion in the areas around SoCal. This new footage from the teen titans is of the annual Southern California CHP 11-99 Charity Drive, a venerable cornucopia of exotica.

The California Highway Patrol's (CHP) 11-99 Foundation is an assistance program for the families of officers who have been injured or fallen in the line of duty. The foundation sells merchandise and holds various fundraisers throughout the year, but the highlight is this drive. Virtually every supercar and exotic in and around Los Angeles shows up for the short drive to the charity dinner/auction destination. The young men at Car-Parazzi were there last fall to capture some of the excitement. Keep your eyes peeled and you'll see a Maserati MC12, Ferrari Enzos, Porsche Carrera GTs, a Bugatti Veyron, Mercedes SLR McLaren and a host of other Ferraris, Porsches, Lamborghinis, Ford GTs, and the like. Check out the car porn for yourself after the jump.

[Source: Streetfire.net]

Continue reading VIDEO: Car-Parazzi kids go nuts at CHP Run

VIDEO: Car-Parazzi kids go nuts at CHP Run originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 12 Mar 2008 12:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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US-market Alfas could be built in Mexico

Dan Roth — Sat, 08 Mar 2008 12:07:00 EST

Filed under: Europe, Plants/Manufacturing, Alfa Romeo

Alfa Romeo is returning to the US market in about a year, offering the zooty 8C Competizione and 8C Spider atop a range of less spectacular offerings. While the top-end 8Cs will probably be Italian emigres, the 149 and 169 sedans could be put together in Mexico. Alfa doesn't have a hard and fast decision yet, and could pick another site, even one in North America. Moving the labor to Mexico for the volume sellers might prove to be a wise move on Alfa's part. The dollar continues to take a beating, pushing up the cost of European items on US sales markets, and building somewhere else would sidestep some of those increased costs. Alfa is trying this idea in China, too, where Chery will assemble automobiles for that market. We're all for it if it gets the keys to some stylish Italians in our hands while holding the prices down. The quality can't be any worse than it was in the bad old days that led to the notorious reputation for unreliability that afflicted Italian marques. Besides, those shop queens were so joyous to drive, they made suckers out of all of us, and we'd do it again, given the chance.

[Source: Inside Line]

US-market Alfas could be built in Mexico originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 08 Mar 2008 12:07:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Geneva '08 Preview: Spyker to unveil long-wheelbase C8

Noah Joseph — Mon, 21 Jan 2008 15:43:00 EST

Filed under: Convertible, Performance, Geneva Motor Show, Supercars, Spyker

The current standard-wheelbase Spyker C8 Laviolette

Spyker may be down, but it's not out. The Dutch exotic automaker has fallen on some hard times, but that's not going to stop it from moving forward with at least some of its plans. The C12 Zagato has been postponed indefinitely, but at the upcoming Geneva auto show in March, Spyker is expected to unveil an improved version of its existing C8 Laviolette.

As wonderfully quirky as the current C8 is, owners complain of constricted space. In response Spyker has stretched the wheelbase, giving more space in the cabin while improving the vehicles proportions. The C8 Laviolette LWB will feature an elongated version of the current model's glass roofline. A long wheelbase Spyder version is expected to follow sometime thereafter, benefiting from a proper motorized convertible roof instead of the largely useless folding rag on the current short-wheelbase model. It's a small step forward for the ailing company, but a step forward nonetheless.

Follow the jump for a video rendering of the upcoming C8 Spyder LWB doin' the turntable thing.

[Source: Spyker Owner Forum]

Continue reading Geneva '08 Preview: Spyker to unveil long-wheelbase C8

Geneva '08 Preview: Spyker to unveil long-wheelbase C8 originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 21 Jan 2008 15:43:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Maserati GranTurismo convertible coming in March '09

Noah Joseph — Wed, 16 Jan 2008 11:56:00 EST

Filed under: Convertible, Maserati

click above to view more high-res images of the gorgeous GranTurismo

Since Maserati unveiled the GranTurismo almost a year ago in Geneva, the question on everybody's mind has been, when is the convertible coming? The Trident marque from Modena has finally answered the call, announcing that, although it has yet to decide which show will feature its debut, the convertible will hit the market in March 2009.

Based on the GranTurismo's platform, itself shortened from the four-door Quattroporte's, the remaining question is what form the convertible will take. Although Maserati is thought to be developing a hardtop convertible, sources suggest the upcoming model will adopt a folding soft top, leaving the door open for a smaller hard-top convertible in the future.

The convertible GranTurismo will fill a void in Maserati's line-up created by the departure of the previous-generation Spyder - which ended production along with the GranSport and Coupe - and will form a vital component to achieving its sales targets. When the final figures come in later this month, Maserati expects to post its first profitable year since being taken over by the Fiat Auto Group some 17 years ago, buoyed by steadily increasing sales: In 2006 Maserati sold 5,714 units, rising to 7,353 units in 2007, anticipated to reach 9,000 in 2008, putting the company on track to reach its target of 12,000 vehicles annually by 2011.

[Source: Automotive News - sub. req'd]

Gallery: 2007 Maserati GranTurismo

Maserati GranTurismo convertible coming in March '09 originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 16 Jan 2008 11:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Make it up to the kid with an Alfa Spider

Noah Joseph — Thu, 27 Dec 2007 20:02:00 EST

Filed under: Gadgets, Alfa Romeo

Uh-oh. The big day came and went and you forgot a present for that pint-size kiddie on your shopping list. This is gonna cost ya. We'd charge you for information on the ultimate "stop crying, let me make it up to you" gift, but our lawyers insist it's legally questionable and our life coach says it's "wrong", whatever that means.

So here's what you want to get to make the kid forget the conspicuous and disappointing void under the tree: an Alfa Romeo. Okay, not a real one, but everything is relative and to a child, this will seem just as cool - trust us. These downsized rideable Alfa Spiders are available with a choice of body-styles - 8C Competizione or Brera - and powertrain. A hair under three bills will get pedal-power, or an extra two hundred nets the 6-volt electric version. Shipping's extra if you live outside the UK, and the roadsters are made for kids ages 2-5. Oh, and they're available only in red.

If your kid's passion lies elsewhere than with Alfa Romeo, we'd recommend a better education. In the meantime, don't fret: Turbo Toys has a variety of similar ride-ons, including a Maserati, Audi TT, Jag XK, Porsche, and several Ferraris.

You can thank us later.

[Source: Turbo Toys via Carscoop]

Make it up to the kid with an Alfa Spider originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 27 Dec 2007 20:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Vandenbrink unveils Ferrari 599 GT Convertible design

Noah Joseph — Wed, 19 Dec 2007 12:42:00 EST

Filed under: Concept Cars, Convertible, Performance, Supercars, Ferrari

click to enlarge

Dutch designer Michiel van den Brink doesn't seem to be deterred by adversity. First he set out to pen a modern interpretation of one of the most iconic homologated racing GTs of all time, the 1962 Ferrari 250 GTO. Then he actually decided to build his design, basing it on the Ferrari 599 GTB Fiorano, arguably the most dynamically sublime supercar ever to grace tarmac. When the Fiorano's 600-hp Enzo sourced V12 wasn't good enough, he teamed up with tuning house Edo Competition to turn it up to 11 by boring it out to 6.3 liters. The result? 750 horsepower. When Maranello declined to grant him its blessing, he started taking orders anyway from customers seemingly undeterred by the $1.3 million asking price... over the cost of the donor car.

Now that conjecture has begun circulating cyberspace that Ferrari is considering building a small run of convertibles based on the Fiorano, van den Brink has thrown his hat into the ring by unveiling his own design, dubbed the "GT Convertible". A far more convincing and seducing design than the photochops we've seen so far, van den Brink says he'll build it complete with a folding carbon-fiber hard-top for any interested customer.

That's some unfettered ambition, considering we've yet to see an actual copy of the Vandenbrink GTO built, yet despite an undisclosed but undoubtedly high cost for the sublime chop-job, Michiel might start taking orders before you know it.

More details are included in the press release after the jump, where van den Brink alludes to future designs to be based on the Audi R8, Spyker C8 Spyder and Corvette Z06. Oh yes, the future bears promise.

[Source: Vandenbrink Design]

Continue reading Vandenbrink unveils Ferrari 599 GT Convertible design

Vandenbrink unveils Ferrari 599 GT Convertible design originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 19 Dec 2007 12:42:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Mussolini's Alfa on the auction block

Noah Joseph — Fri, 14 Dec 2007 09:34:00 EST

Filed under: Auctions, Alfa Romeo

Who would have guessed, but Benito Mussolini was a certified car guy. At least we can surmise that much from his car: the Alfa Romeo roadster you see above was once owned by the Italian dictator, and is now destined for the auction block.

Il Duce ordered this Alfa Romeo 6C 2300 Pescara Spyder in 1935. Before it was delivered, he had custom coachwork with an auxiliary jump-seat crafted for it by Carrozzeria Touring. Underhood, he had the engine tuned to 95 horsepower from the standard 68. Naturally, the father of fascism didn't drive himself, but he didn't get any ordinary chauffeur either: he hired Ercole Boratto, a former Alfa Romeo factory test driver. In 1936 Boratto even took the car to the famous Mille Miglia street race, where he and the dictator's Alfa finished third in class.

Now, there are cars with provenance, and there are cars with provenance. As if its infamous first owner and its race history weren't enough, chassis 700635, with matching numbers, was awarded top honors at the 2005 New York Concours d'Elegance and second in class at Pebble Beach the same year. H&H auction house is putting it up on the block at England's Cheltenham race course on February 27, 2008, where it is expected to fetch between six and eight hundred thousand pounds sterling (approximately one and a half million dollars).

[Source: Italiaspeed]

Mussolini's Alfa on the auction block originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 14 Dec 2007 09:34:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Enter the Rumormill: Ferrari 599 roadster and F149

Noah Joseph — Wed, 12 Dec 2007 12:31:00 EST

Filed under: Convertible, Performance, Supercars, Ferrari

The internet, as usual, is rife with speculation. Today's source is the FerrariChat message forum, where members claim to have inside information on two new Ferrari models that are anticipated for launch within the next couple of years.

The news concerns a convertible version of the current 599 GTB Fiorano, an illustration of which you see above (courtesy of AutoGespot). FChat member "supraman55" says his local dealer confirmed the upcoming model for a debut at either Detroit or Geneva in 2009. Speculation surrounding the 599 Spider is backed up by an interview with Ferrari's General Director, Amadeo Felisa, which appeared recently in the German magazine Auto Motor und Sport. When asked about a convertible 599, Felisa confirmed that Ferrari is developing such a model for possible production in a limited series like its predecessor, the 575-based SuperAmerica. We'll add our own fuel to the fire by speculating that, based on traditional Ferrari nomenclature revived for the 599 GTB, the roadster will likely carry the 599 GTS designation, perhaps married to another name to replace Fiorano for the open-air version.

[Sources: FerrariChat, Auto Motor und Sport, AutoGespot]

Continue reading Enter the Rumormill: Ferrari 599 roadster and F149

Enter the Rumormill: Ferrari 599 roadster and F149 originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 12 Dec 2007 12:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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