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[12-cylinder 'LS12' will blow your mind, doors off [w/video]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/10/12-cylinder-ls12-will-blow-your-mind-doors-off/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/10/12-cylinder-ls12-will-blow-your-mind-doors-off/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/10/12-cylinder-ls12-will-blow-your-mind-doors-off/#commentsFiled under: ,



So there you are on May 1 minding your own business on the internet when a forum user called "V12Baker" uploads a picture of the engine block above. But you're on the LS1 forum, a site devoted to the legendary V8s made by General Motors, and that's a V12. V12Baker explains that he sliced two LS1 engines and used the pieces to not only make an LS12, but also a V4 with the leftovers. That is probably when, like user "3.8redbird," you write "April Fools day is April 1st not May 1st."

But the engine is real, built by a guy named Ray and his partners in a shop in Seattle, WA. Ray said they wanted to make a V12 engine for a plane, and after experimenting with Buick 215 engine blocks they got around to the LS. With a stock stroke and a 4.4-inch sleeve, the result is a 545 cubic inch motor (8.9 liters) that fires like a V16 short of four cylinders. Their first two LS12 builds went into a 3/4-scale P51 Mustang, and a Chevrolet Tahoe two years ago. The Tahoe engine, only the second build, was said to get around 525 horsepower.

They now have the parts to make five more LS12s and are refining their technique, working on simpler solutions for the crankshafts - they machined the first crankshafts from a solid piece of steel, but that's crazy expensive. One of the engines is already slated to receive a massive Littlefield supercharger and "might find its way into a long-nosed 240Z." That Z, mind you, will also be getting its own chassis since the decades-old original item couldn't begin to handle the power.

Check out EngineLabs.com for more on the build, and a brief walkaround of the engine in the video below. For the long story, the link to LS1 forums is where the story begins - and where you'll discover that the V4 is apparently the perfect size for a Harley-Davidson.

Continue reading 12-cylinder 'LS12' will blow your mind, doors off [w/video]

12-cylinder 'LS12' will blow your mind, doors off [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 10 May 2013 11:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>enginegmls v12ls1ls12v12videovimeoFri, 10 May 2013 11:29:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20563736/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/10/12-cylinder-ls12-will-blow-your-mind-doors-off/20563736/article-detail.xml 20563736 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/ls12-build_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/ls12-build.jpg <![CDATA[BMW unsure over fate of V12 in 7 Series]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/03/bmw-unsure-over-fate-of-v12-in-7-series/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/03/bmw-unsure-over-fate-of-v12-in-7-series/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/03/bmw-unsure-over-fate-of-v12-in-7-series/#commentsFiled under: , ,



BMW, only recently celebrating 25 years of V12 engines in its 7 Series sedan and releasing a special 25 Years Anniversary Edition, has put the future of the top-flight execu-barge in question. A BMW product and pricing manager told Australian site Car Advice that a decision on putting a 12-cylinder in the next-generation car, due in 2016, hasn't been made yet.

It appears that this decision isn't due exclusively to emissions (that V12 is quite a guzzler, after all), since the current 760Li sells in such low numbers - at $140,200 in the US, it's the most expensive offering we have from The Roundel, beating the Alpina B7 by nearly $13,000. It sounds like the emissions issue, along with other issues like design and technology, are dominating considerations for the line in general.

Emphasis is being put on making sure the 7 Series is more differentiated from every other car in BMW's lineup, and while anything is possible, you can count us surprised if the next 7 Series shows up without a V12. There is no indication that the competitors are giving up on the biggest engines in their biggest sedans, and as the BMW executive says, there will always be a market for such cars - certain buyers need to be able to stress the word "ultimate" in "Ultimate Driving Machine."

BMW unsure over fate of V12 in 7 Series originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 03 Dec 2012 18:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>7 series760libmwv12Mon, 03 Dec 2012 18:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20392635/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/12/03/bmw-unsure-over-fate-of-v12-in-7-series/20392635/article-detail.xml 20392635 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/12/24-2010-bmw-760li-qs_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/12/24-2010-bmw-760li-qs.jpg <![CDATA[BMW marks 25 years of 12-cylinder engines]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/10/30/bmw-marks-25-years-of-12-cylinder-engines/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/10/30/bmw-marks-25-years-of-12-cylinder-engines/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/10/30/bmw-marks-25-years-of-12-cylinder-engines/#commentsFiled under: , ,

BMW's V12 7 Series models over the years

BMW has already celebrated the silver anniversary of its V12-powered 7 Series flagship by offering a special 25 Years Anniversary Edition of the car for 2013, but now the automaker has released a visual display of the engine's quarter-century in the nose of its big Autobahn cruisers. First introduced in 1987 in the 750i, BMW points out it was the first of the modern German luxury sedans to use a 12-cylinder engine - Mercedes-Benz and Audi didn't offer such an engine in their S-Class and A8 models for several more years.

While the current engine used in the current F02 760Li pumps out 535 horsepower and 440 pound-feet of torque, the E32 750i had just 300 hp and 330 pound-feet of twist; the E38 750i had 322 hp and the E66 760i had 439 hp.

Just as dramatically as its power figures have progressed, so, too, has the car's styling, from its early days as more traditional luxury sedan right through its controversial period with Chris Bangle lines to today's modern look. Even the interior has come a long way over the lifespan of the 7 Series, starting out as barren, soberly Germanic (note the car phone) with a roomy back seat to a progressively more plush cabin stuffed with technology. See the progression for yourself in our gallery above, as well as in the press release below.

Continue reading BMW marks 25 years of 12-cylinder engines

BMW marks 25 years of 12-cylinder engines originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 30 Oct 2012 08:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 bmw 7 series2013 bmw 760li7 series750i750li760libmwe32e38e65e66f01f02v12Tue, 30 Oct 2012 08:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20361826/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/10/30/bmw-marks-25-years-of-12-cylinder-engines/20361826/article-detail.xml 20361826 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/10/25-years-bmw-v12_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/10/25-years-bmw-v12.jpg <![CDATA[Aston Martin Cygnet with V12 power possible?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/10/26/aston-martin-cygnet-with-v12-power-possible/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/10/26/aston-martin-cygnet-with-v12-power-possible/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/10/26/aston-martin-cygnet-with-v12-power-possible/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Aston Martin Cygnet minicar on cobblestones

As if the Aston Martin Cygnet weren't unlikely enough, rumor is that a Cygnet with the company's 6.0-liter V12 could find its way onto the British automaker's offer sheets. Yes, really. It would undoubtedly be special order or very limited edition, but according to a report in Autocar, Aston is taking it seriously enough to have completed a feasibility study.

The iQ-derived Cygnet minicar uses the 1.3-liter, 97-horsepower motor provided by Toyota, but it's apparently been found that there is room enough in that engine bay shoebox for Aston's 6.0-liter, 510-horsepower V12 "without extensive modifications." The changes necessary to fortify the rest of the Cygnet to handle a detuned iteration of the V12 haven't been divulged, but they are apparently "not insurmountable."

Autocar compares the concept of a V12 Cygnet to that of the Nissan Juke R. But whereas the latter offered Juke roominess with Godzilla power that made us go, "Hey!", the idea of a hot rod Cygnet - a Cygnet, mind you - makes us go, "Hmmm." For now.

Aston Martin Cygnet with V12 power possible? originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 26 Oct 2012 10:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 aston martin cygnetaston martincygnetiqsciontoyotav12Fri, 26 Oct 2012 10:15:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20361816/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/10/26/aston-martin-cygnet-with-v12-power-possible/20361816/article-detail.xml 20361816 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/10/cygnetv12_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/10/cygnetv12.jpg <![CDATA[Rolls-Royce Corniche Coupe does some performance testing at Nürburgring]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/10/10/rolls-royce-corniche-coupe-does-some-performance-testing-at-nurb/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/10/10/rolls-royce-corniche-coupe-does-some-performance-testing-at-nurb/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/10/10/rolls-royce-corniche-coupe-does-some-performance-testing-at-nurb/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,



While all the gory details surrounding the new Rolls-Royce coupe - including its true name, "Corniche" is just a savory-sounding best guess right now - are still shrouded in mystery, this new set of clandestinely foraged images proves that the car probably won't be a slouch in terms of performance.

The Ghost-based Roller was spotted on the Nürburgring Nordschleife recently, demonstrating its sporting chops at the same time it was showing off it's impressive patrician nose. Expectations are that, when the new coupe is shown off for real at the Geneva Motor Show in March of next year, that nose will belong to the fastest production car to ever wear the Spirit of Ecstasy.

Indications are that the Corniche will be rocking a turbocharged V12, making in the ballpark of 600 horsepower, and using an eight-speed transmission.

Rolls-Royce Corniche Coupe does some performance testing at Nürburgring originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 10 Oct 2012 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2014 rolls-royce corniche coupecornicheghostrolls-roycev12Wed, 10 Oct 2012 19:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20346367/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/10/10/rolls-royce-corniche-coupe-does-some-performance-testing-at-nurb/20346367/article-detail.xml 20346367 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/10/rolls-royce-cornish-coupe-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/10/rolls-royce-cornish-coupe-628.jpg <![CDATA[Future Bentleys to be built on Porsche platforms]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/09/07/future-bentleys-to-be-built-on-porsche-platforms/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/09/07/future-bentleys-to-be-built-on-porsche-platforms/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/09/07/future-bentleys-to-be-built-on-porsche-platforms/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

2012 Porsche Panamera Turbo S

Luxury, meet performance. Opulence, meet frugality.

That's apparently the plan between two of Volkswagen Group's more posh brands, Bentley and Porsche, as they explore ways to stretch Euros and provide a little commonality between the two distinct brands.

According to Autocar, Bentley will begin using the Porsche Panamera platform for its future vehicles, providing a much better base for rear- and all-wheel-drive vehicles. Additionally, Bentley will phase out its 6.75-liter V8 in 2013, likely replacing it with a V12. It may be a wise consolidation, and no one should ever complain when eight cylinders are replaced with 12, but we'll miss that magnificently brutal V8.

The news only confirms what many believed might happen as far back as 2010, when it was rumored that Bentley and Porsche were collaborating on how to best use the Panamera platform.

Future Bentleys to be built on Porsche platforms originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 07 Sep 2012 09:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>6.75-literbentleypanameraporschePorsche Panamerav12volkswagenvolkswagen groupvwFri, 07 Sep 2012 09:31:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20316595/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/09/07/future-bentleys-to-be-built-on-porsche-platforms/20316595/article-detail.xml 20316595 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/09/01-2012-porsche-panamera-turbo-s-review_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/09/01-2012-porsche-panamera-turbo-s-review.jpg <![CDATA[McLaren dismisses V12 engines as "a thing of the past" [w/poll]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/08/07/mclaren-dismisses-v12-engines-as-a-thing-of-the-past-w-poll/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/08/07/mclaren-dismisses-v12-engines-as-a-thing-of-the-past-w-poll/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/08/07/mclaren-dismisses-v12-engines-as-a-thing-of-the-past-w-poll/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

McLaren V8 engine

The V12 engine is synonymous with supercars, from classics like the Lamborghini Miura and Countach to modern-day screamers like the Ferrari FF and Pagani Huayra. The McLaren F1 - a car universally considered one of the most lust-worthy machines of all time - made use of a 6.1-liter V12 provided by BMW that pushed out 618 naturally aspirated horsepower.

Though not a true successor to the iconic F1, McLaren's more recent MP4-12C makes 617 horsepower from just eight cylinders displacing 3.8 liters, albeit with the help of twin turbochargers. Such power capabilities have prompted McLaren managing director Antony Sheriff to proclaim, "The V12 engine is a thing of the past. The engine belongs in a museum."

We're not quite ready to archive away all thoughts of V12-powered supercars, but Sheriff has a point. V8 engines, even with turbochargers in tow, are easier to package than V12s and have significantly fewer moving parts, which is good for both power and efficiency. Sheriff suggests that even a V6 would be a possibility for future high-performance applications from McLaren.

And so, we leave this question to you, dear readers: Is the V12 engine a thing of the past? Take part in our informal poll below to voice your opinion.

View Poll

McLaren dismisses V12 engines as "a thing of the past" [w/poll] originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 07 Aug 2012 16:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>f1mclarenmclaren f1mclaren mp4-12cmclaren v12mclaren v8mp4-12ctwin-turbo v8v-12v12Tue, 07 Aug 2012 16:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20294634/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/08/07/mclaren-dismisses-v12-engines-as-a-thing-of-the-past-w-poll/20294634/article-detail.xml 20294634 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/08/mclaren-v8-engine_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/08/mclaren-v8-engine.jpg <![CDATA[Tramontana XTR to get V12 with 888 horsepower]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/08/05/tramontana-xtr-to-get-v12-with-888-horsepower/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/08/05/tramontana-xtr-to-get-v12-with-888-horsepower/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/08/05/tramontana-xtr-to-get-v12-with-888-horsepower/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

a.d. Tramontana XTR - front three-quarter rendering

Remember the a.d. Tramontana R? The canopied, tandem-seat oddity represented a bold choice in supercardom, a far brasher choice than something from Maranello or Sant'Agata Bolognese, say. The carbon fiber missile debuted back in 2009 and was powered by a V12 sourced from Mercedes-Benz. Available in various tunes, the powertrain was good for up to 760 horsepower - no small sum given that the larger-than-you-think coupe still weighed less than 2,800 pounds.

But now there's a new choice in the a.d. Tramontana stable, dubbed XTR. While no pictures have been released, the Spanish builder has released this set of renderings, along with word that its latest creation will be powered by a new 5.5-liter twin-turbo V12 that will bludgeon its way down the road with 888 horsepower and 678 pound-feet of torque at its disposal. There's also word of a new "ultra-rapid competition gearbox," but no official details have yet been provided on what, exactly it might be.

The mid-engined, rear-drive XTR also looks to have a significantly reworked appearance, including new aero bits, lights, wheels, and so on, but the core airplane fuselage-like construction and cycle fenders remain.

Pricing? Glad you asked. Available later this year, the XTR is expected to command 420,000 euros - around $514,000. Only about a dozen examples are expected to be built per year, but a.d. Tramontana is reportedly working on expanding both its manufacturing capabilities and dealer footprint.

Tramontana XTR to get V12 with 888 horsepower originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 05 Aug 2012 09:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ad tramontanamercedes-benz v12supercartramontanatramontana xtrv-12v12xtrSun, 05 Aug 2012 09:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20292846/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/08/05/tramontana-xtr-to-get-v12-with-888-horsepower/20292846/article-detail.xml 20292846 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/08/2013-ad-tramontana-xtr-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/08/2013-ad-tramontana-xtr-628.jpg <![CDATA[Aston Martin V12 Zagato production cut from 150 to 101]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/07/25/aston-martin-v12-zagato-production-cut-from-150-to-101/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/07/25/aston-martin-v12-zagato-production-cut-from-150-to-101/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/07/25/aston-martin-v12-zagato-production-cut-from-150-to-101/#commentsFiled under: , ,



One of the most exclusive upcoming supercars has just become a little bit more... exclusive.

Aston Martin has announced that the production run of its stunningly badass V12 Zagato will be cut from 150 to 101 units. Whether or not this is in response to low demand is not known, but for those who have signed on to purchase the €400,000 coupe, the value of their bounty is likely to increase.

The V12 Zagato was not penned by the famous design house. Rather, it was the result of an internal design competition. The car consists of an aluminum and carbon fiber body, and the underpinings of the Aston Martin V12 Vantage. Each car will take 2,000 man hours to build, with 100 hours alone spent on the paint job.

The combination of extensive carbon fiber use and the 510-horsepower 6.0-liter V12 means it will be one super fast - and ultra rare - supercar.

Aston Martin V12 Zagato production cut from 150 to 101 originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 25 Jul 2012 09:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 aston martin v12 zagatoaston martincarbon fibersalesv12v12 zagatoWed, 25 Jul 2012 09:29:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20284054/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/07/25/aston-martin-v12-zagato-production-cut-from-150-to-101/20284054/article-detail.xml 20284054 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/aston-martin-v12-zagato-galpin_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/aston-martin-v12-zagato-galpin.jpg <![CDATA[Aston Martin makes V12 Vantage Roadster official]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/07/11/aston-martin-makes-v12-vantage-roadster-official/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/07/11/aston-martin-makes-v12-vantage-roadster-official/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/07/11/aston-martin-makes-v12-vantage-roadster-official/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2013 Aston Martin V12 Vantage Roadster - white - front three-quarter view

Here it is in all of its open air glory: The 2013 Aston Martin V12 Vantage Roadster.

Aston Martin has just released official photos and specs for its all-new roadster that will have limited availability around the world. It is powered by Aston's 6.0-liter naturally aspirated V12 engine that cranks out 510-horsepower and 470 pound-feet of torque. The English firm promises a 0-to-62 mph time of 4.5 seconds and a top speed of 190 mph.

Compared to the V12 Vantage Coupe, the roadster has a redesigned rear decklid, which includes a new "flip" to provide high-speed stability and lower front intakes. It also arrives with chassis changes and a modified damper setup with unique valves and redesigned rear springs. Oh, and it's a convertible.

Aston uses carbon fiber all around the body and will offer an optional interior package with additional carbon fiber pieces.

The roadster comes with a starting price of ₤150,000 - that's $233,340 to you, Yankee. Scroll down to view the press release.

Continue reading Aston Martin makes V12 Vantage Roadster official

Aston Martin makes V12 Vantage Roadster official originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 11 Jul 2012 13:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 aston martin v12 vantageastonaston martinaston martin v12 vantagev12v12 vantagevantageWed, 11 Jul 2012 13:29:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20275885/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/07/11/aston-martin-makes-v12-vantage-roadster-official/20275885/article-detail.xml 20275885 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/07/aston-martin-v12-vantage-roadster-01_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/07/aston-martin-v12-vantage-roadster-01.jpg <![CDATA[Aston Martin's DBS successor resurrects Vanquish moniker, with likely Pebble Beach debut]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/03/aston-martins-dbs-successor-revives-vanquish-moniker/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/03/aston-martins-dbs-successor-revives-vanquish-moniker/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/03/aston-martins-dbs-successor-revives-vanquish-moniker/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

2013 Aston Martin Vanquish

A week ago, Aston Martin showed off the new AM310 concept at Villa d'Este. Now we know what the DBS replacement will be called when the production version arrives, thanks to the snoops at CAR magazine: Vanquish.

The resurrected moniker, last used on the V12 GT flagship that Aston retired in 2007, is plainly visible on the decklid of the car shown above, whose rear-end styling exactly matches that of the AM310 Concept.

Whether the transporter carrying the new Vanquish was left open by genuine mistake or "accidentally" by design, CAR's video of the discovery, posted below, leaves no doubt as to the next Aston Martin's identity. And we have some tidbits of our own to add to the developing story.

We've heard some rumblings that more concrete information will become available later this month, and that if you want to see the Vanquish in person, you should keep Pebble Beach weekend open. As indicated by the AM310, the Vanquish looks to the ultra-exotic One-77 for some styling cues, but that's not all. Expect the Vanquish to outperform the DBS, with more power from the latest version of Aston's familiar 6.0-liter V12 and less weight thanks to carbon fiber bodywork. Lighter, quicker and faster? Our attention is piqued. U.S. buyers should be able to get their hands on the Vanquish sometime in early 2013.

Continue reading to watch video of the 2013 Aston Martin Vanquish sitting in its transporter, and compare its styling to that of the AM310 in an accompanying second clip.

Continue reading Aston Martin's DBS successor resurrects Vanquish moniker, with likely Pebble Beach debut

Aston Martin's DBS successor resurrects Vanquish moniker, with likely Pebble Beach debut originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 03 Jun 2012 20:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013am310aston martincoupegtnew vanquishv12vanquishSun, 03 Jun 2012 20:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20250326/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/06/03/aston-martins-dbs-successor-revives-vanquish-moniker/20250326/article-detail.xml 20250326 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/06/vanquish-badge_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/06/vanquish-badge.jpg <![CDATA[Brabus bringing 800-HP "Bullit" C-Class Coupe to Geneva]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/05/brabus-bringing-800-hp-bullit-c-class-coupe-to-geneva/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/05/brabus-bringing-800-hp-bullit-c-class-coupe-to-geneva/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/05/brabus-bringing-800-hp-bullit-c-class-coupe-to-geneva/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Brabus Bullit C-Class Coupe

Brabus has taken the time to work over the new Mercedes-Benz C-Class Coupe in the company's trademark over-the-top style. The result is the Brabus Bullit Coupe, which is headed for a debut at the Geneva Motor Show this week, complete with an 800-horsepower version of the same V12 found under the hood of the Mercedes-Benz S-Class. That kind of craziness is so beautiful, it almost brings a tear to our eye.

The engineers at Brabus bored out the block to 6.3 liters of displacement, up from 5.5 liters in factory form. Throw in a pair of turbos and you have a vehicle capable of dumping a staggering 1,047 pound-feet of torque on the rear tires.

Or at least you would if Brabus didn't have to electronically limit final output to 811 lb-ft of torque. The company says there simply isn't a transmission out there capable of standing up to that kind of twist. Even with the limited grunt, the Bullit Coupe can pop off a 0-62 mph run in 3.7 seconds on its way to a top speed of 229 mph. Pure brilliance.

Continue reading Brabus bringing 800-HP "Bullit" C-Class Coupe to Geneva

Brabus bringing 800-HP "Bullit" C-Class Coupe to Geneva originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 05 Mar 2012 11:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>brabusbrabus bullitbrabus bullit c-class coupebullitbullit c-class coupec-classc-class coupegenevageneva 2012geneva motor showmercedes-benzv12Mon, 05 Mar 2012 11:29:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20185680/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/03/05/brabus-bringing-800-hp-bullit-c-class-coupe-to-geneva/20185680/article-detail.xml 20185680 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/01-brabus-bullit-c-class-coupe-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/01-brabus-bullit-c-class-coupe-628.jpg <![CDATA[Ferrari clears its throat and announces new F620 GT to debut on February 29]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/21/ferrari-f620-gt-video-teaser/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/21/ferrari-f620-gt-video-teaser/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/21/ferrari-f620-gt-video-teaser/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Ferrari F620 GT teaser

With dozens of major automakers competing to separate us from our hard-earned cash in return for the newest, greatest development in motorized transportation, there are new cars making their debut just about every day. But the vast majority of them are not, of course, from Ferrari. Even with four production model lines, the purveyor of exotic performance machinery doesn't have a new model to roll out every day. But that rare occurrence is coming up, and in typical Maranello style, it's coming up fast.

We're talking, of course, about the F620 GT, a new front-engined, rear-drive V12 supercar designed to succeed the 599. We've brought you spy shots of the prototype undergoing testing at Fiorano and seemingly countless rumors of its composition, but soon we won't have to squint at spy shots and speculate at details as the car's unveiling is just around the corner.

Although the supercar's public debut is expected to take place at the Geneva Motor Show in just a couple of weeks from now, Ferrari will reveal the car it calls its most powerful to date in all its glory a little before that, on February 29. In the meantime, you're invited to crank up the speakers, strap on a bib and click past the jump for a teaser video where a camouflaged prototype clears its throat in spectacular fashion.

Continue reading Ferrari clears its throat and announces new F620 GT to debut on February 29

Ferrari clears its throat and announces new F620 GT to debut on February 29 originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 21 Feb 2012 10:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 geneva motor showf-620 gtf620f620 gtferrariferrari f620ferrari f620 gtferrari v12genevageneva 2012geneva motor showteaserv12videoTue, 21 Feb 2012 10:28:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20175935/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/02/21/ferrari-f620-gt-video-teaser/20175935/article-detail.xml 20175935 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/f620-teaser_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/f620-teaser.jpg <![CDATA[Aston Martin debuts production V12 Zagato]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/09/aston-martin-debuts-production-v12-zagato/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/09/aston-martin-debuts-production-v12-zagato/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/09/aston-martin-debuts-production-v12-zagato/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

Aston Martin V12 Zagato

Aston Martin has pulled back the sheets on the first images of its production V12 Zagato. The road car is headed for an official debut at this year's Geneva Motor Show in March.

Following in the tradition of the automaker's ultra exclusive One-77, the V12 Zagato will take more than 2,000 man-hours to manufacture thanks to hand-hewn body panels, including the hood, roof and doors. Not surprisingly, Aston Martin has committed to building just 150 examples. The V12 Zagato will also make extensive use of carbon fiber, with the front and rear fenders, trunk lid and door sills all constructed from the composite.

Aston Martin created four new colors especially for the V12 Zagato, and paint alone takes 100 hours to complete. Indoors, it takes a full seven hides to cover the cabin in hand-stitched, quilted leather.

The V12 Zagato effectively rides on the same underpinnings as the V12 Vantage, which means buyers can look forward to a 6.0-liter V12 engine with 510 horsepower and 420 pound-feet of torque, while a six-speed manual transmission puts the power to the ground. Hit the jump for the full press release.

Continue reading Aston Martin debuts production V12 Zagato

Aston Martin debuts production V12 Zagato originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 09 Feb 2012 10:10:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 geneva motor showaston martinaston martin v12 zagatogenevageneva 2012geneva motor showv12v12 vantagev12 zagatovantagezagatoThu, 09 Feb 2012 10:10:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20168047/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/02/09/aston-martin-debuts-production-v12-zagato/20168047/article-detail.xml 20168047 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/zagato-front-3-4-mid-low-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/zagato-front-3-4-mid-low-opt.jpg <![CDATA[Aston Martin gets to work on new V12 Vantage GT3]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/25/aston-martin-gets-to-work-on-new-v12-vantage-gt3/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/25/aston-martin-gets-to-work-on-new-v12-vantage-gt3/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/25/aston-martin-gets-to-work-on-new-v12-vantage-gt3/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Aston Martin V12 Vantage GT3

It seems to us like Aston Martin never tires of rolling out ever hotter renditions of its Vantage sports coupe. As if the original V8 Vantage weren't enticing enough, Aston then shoehorned a V12 under the hood. Zagato then rebodied what we already thought was one of the shapeliest beasts on the market. And the improvements just keep on rumbling in. But then there's the racing versions. Oh, the racing versions!

The N24 showed us what it meant to take beauty to the beast that is the Nürburgring. Then came the GT4 racing model, followed by the even hotter GT2. The category in-between used to be tended to by the DBRS9, but now Aston's opted to replace it with yet another competition version of the Vantage.

First teased back in April, Aston revealed further photos and details of the V12 Vantage GT3 in August, and the British marque has now commenced track testing of its latest racing machine. Packing a 6.0-liter V12 with more than 600 horsepower and enough wings and ducting to make a fighter jet blush, the new Vantage GT3 has already covered a thousand kilometers of shakedown running while gearing up to take on series like the FIA GT3 championships, the Blancpain Endurance Series and the VLN Nürburgring series.

Like what you see? There's a fresh pair of images we've added to our gallery, and a whole mess of specifications in the press release after the jump, so check 'em out and start dreaming of racing glory.

Continue reading Aston Martin gets to work on new V12 Vantage GT3

Aston Martin gets to work on new V12 Vantage GT3 originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 25 Nov 2011 14:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aston martinaston martin v12 vantage gt3aston martin vantage gt3nurburgringv12v12 vantagev12 vantage gt3vantageFri, 25 Nov 2011 14:25:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20113489/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/11/25/aston-martin-gets-to-work-on-new-v12-vantage-gt3/20113489/article-detail.xml 20113489 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/11/aston-gt3web_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/11/aston-gt3web.jpg <![CDATA[Video: Pagani releases odd coffee-flavored C9 teaser]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/12/31/video-pagani-releases-odd-coffee-flavored-c9-teaser/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/12/31/video-pagani-releases-odd-coffee-flavored-c9-teaser/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/12/31/video-pagani-releases-odd-coffee-flavored-c9-teaser/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Pagani C9 Teaser
Pagani teases... something - Click above to watch video after the jump

The Pagani C9 is coming and it will be here sooner than you think. Slated to arrive in the beginning of 2011, the C9 figures to be a beastly V12-powered supercar ready to pick up where the Zonda leaves off... if it ever actually leaves. Before we get a good look at the production C9, Pagani has decided to go the teaser route. It's giving us a glimpse of... something, and it's doing it in video form rather than close-ups of a headlamp or a wheel lugnut.

It's hard to tell exactly what to look for in the video, but you have to watch until this most subtle of teasers all the way to the end to find it. Hop the jump to view the java-flavored clip. Thanks to all for the tips!

[Source: YouTube]

Continue reading Video: Pagani releases odd coffee-flavored C9 teaser

Video: Pagani releases odd coffee-flavored C9 teaser originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 31 Dec 2010 17:07:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>c9paganipagani c9pagani zondasupercarv12videozondaFri, 31 Dec 2010 17:07:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19782220/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/12/31/video-pagani-releases-odd-coffee-flavored-c9-teaser/19782220/article-detail.xml 19782220 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/12/pagani-c9-teaser_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/12/pagani-c9-teaser.jpg <![CDATA[Video: Lamborghini Murcielago production end honored with V12 parade]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/11/29/video-lamborghini-murcielago-production-end-honored-with-v12-pa/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/11/29/video-lamborghini-murcielago-production-end-honored-with-v12-pa/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/11/29/video-lamborghini-murcielago-production-end-honored-with-v12-pa/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Lamborghini Parade
Click above to watch video after the jump

After nine years and 4,099 examples produced, the Lamborghini Murciélago has reached the end of its production cycle. A new V12-equipped Lambo is on the horizon, but before that beast roars to life the Italian automaker decided to take its resident raging bull for one more lap through Sant'Agata Bolognese.

Not content to trot the Murciélago out alone, Lamborghini also lined up a 350 GT, Miura, Countach and Diablo to escort the Super Veloce. Baby-brother Gallardo also gets in on the parade action by means of the local polizia. The whole affair was captured on video and, while it might not be action packed, it is packed with beautiful and exotic examples of Lamborghini's history.
Hop the jump to watch the Murciélago take on final victory lap through its hometown.

[Source: YouTube]

Continue reading Video: Lamborghini Murcielago production end honored with V12 parade

Video: Lamborghini Murcielago production end honored with V12 parade originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 29 Nov 2010 19:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>350 gtcountachdiablolamborghinilamborghini 350 gtlamborghini countachlamborghini diablolamborghini miuralamborghini murcielagomiuramurcielagomurcielago svSantAgatasantagata bolognesesuper velocev12videoMon, 29 Nov 2010 19:25:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19736560/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/11/29/video-lamborghini-murcielago-production-end-honored-with-v12-pa/19736560/article-detail.xml 19736560 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/11/lambos_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/11/lambos.jpg <![CDATA[Spy Shots: Pagani C9 caught flexing its V12 muscle]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/11/26/spy-shots-pagani-c9-caught-flexing-its-v12-muscle/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/11/26/spy-shots-pagani-c9-caught-flexing-its-v12-muscle/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/11/26/spy-shots-pagani-c9-caught-flexing-its-v12-muscle/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Spy Shots: Pagani C9
Spy Shots: Pagani C9 - Click above for high-res image gallery

While you might be at home recovering from a Turkey-induced hangover, the dedicated spy photographers of the world are out and about, dutifully catching glimpses of new cars as they are tested. One lucky lensmith caught a camouflaged Pagani C9 being put through a rigorous testing regime.

And rigorous it is, with a reported 500,000-plus combined kilometers having ticked off the odometers of the four prototypes and one test mule. Pagani wants to hit 700,000 kilometers before the car shows its unmasked face, which looks almost Fisker-esque in the photos you see here.

The Pagani C9 is powered by an AMG-developed V12 engine, which is not related to the V12 found in the Mercedes-Benz SL65 AMG Black Series. Rumor has it that the V12 powering the C9 produces over 700 horsepower while also lowering C02 emissions to sub-supercar levels.

We're still calling it the C9, but the real name will be revealed sometime in the next few weeks. Pagani's Zonda replacement, whatever moniker it might wear, should make its debut at the Geneva Motor Show in March of 2011. If that happens, you can be certain we'll be on hand to capture it from every angle.


Gallery: Spy Shots: Pagani C9

Spy Shots: Pagani C9Spy Shots: Pagani C9Spy Shots: Pagani C9Spy Shots: Pagani C9Spy Shots: Pagani C9

[Source: Carpix]

Spy Shots: Pagani C9 caught flexing its V12 muscle originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 26 Nov 2010 16:14:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amgamg v12c9geneva 2011geneva motor showpaganipagani c9spy shotsv12zondaFri, 26 Nov 2010 16:14:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19734460/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/11/26/spy-shots-pagani-c9-caught-flexing-its-v12-muscle/19734460/article-detail.xml 19734460 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/11/00-pagani-c9-spy-shots-lede_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/11/00-pagani-c9-spy-shots-lede.jpg <![CDATA[Videos: Lamborghini highlights new V12 with a quartet of clips]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/11/18/videos-lamborghini-highlights-new-v12-with-a-quartet-of-clips/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/11/18/videos-lamborghini-highlights-new-v12-with-a-quartet-of-clips/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/11/18/videos-lamborghini-highlights-new-v12-with-a-quartet-of-clips/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Lamborghini's new V12 engine
Lamborghini's new V12 and ISR transmission - Click above to watch the videos after the jump

Lamborghini is pretty excited about its new V12, and justifiably so. The outgoing Bizzarrini-designed engine it replaces has been on duty for nearly fifty years since the company's founding, and has powered everything from supercars to SUVs to F1 racers along the way.

The new clean-sheet design - which was just recently announced - is set to power the Murcielago's replacement, tipped to be named the Lamborghini Aventador LP700-4. Along with it, Sant'Agata has also developed a new breed of gearbox, which is highlighted in the series of videos we've placed for your viewing pleasure after the jump. Check 'em out for a closer look at the beating heart of a new generation of Raging Bulls.


Gallery: Lamborghini's new V12 and ISR transmission


[Source: Lamborghini]

Continue reading Videos: Lamborghini highlights new V12 with a quartet of clips

Videos: Lamborghini highlights new V12 with a quartet of clips originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 18 Nov 2010 11:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aventadoraventador v12independent shifting rodisrisr gearboxisr transmissionlamborghiniLamborghini Aventador LP700-4lamborghini new v12lamborghini v12V12v12 engineThu, 18 Nov 2010 11:31:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19719891/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/11/18/videos-lamborghini-highlights-new-v12-with-a-quartet-of-clips/19719891/article-detail.xml 19719891 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/11/web630-lamborghininewv12powertrain1_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/11/web630-lamborghininewv12powertrain1.jpg <![CDATA[Lamborghini reveals all-new 6.5L V12 engine and ISR gearbox]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/11/15/lamborghini-reveals-all-new-6-5l-v12-engine-and-isr-gearbox/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/11/15/lamborghini-reveals-all-new-6-5l-v12-engine-and-isr-gearbox/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/11/15/lamborghini-reveals-all-new-6-5l-v12-engine-and-isr-gearbox/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Lamborghini 6.5-liter V12
Lamborghini's new V12 and ISR transmission - Click above for high-res image gallery

Ever since the introduction of the 350 GT in 1964, every twelve-cylinder Lamborghini has used a derivative of the same engine, straight through the Miura, Espada, Countach, LM002, Diablo, Murciélago and Reventón. Now, the Italian automaker is throwing that old design in the trash bin and starting fresh with a clean-sheet design. And what a design.

Destined for duty in the upcoming Murcielago successor, this 6.5-liter V12 is an all-new engine - designed, developed and produced entirely in-house at the company's Sant'Agata Bolognese factory. It features four-valve cylinder heads made from an aluminum-silicon alloy, short stroke and lightweight construction to deliver an output of 700 horsepower and 509 pound-feet of torque.

Along with the new engine, Lamborghini introduces a new type of gearbox called the Independent Shifting Rod (ISR) transmission. Employing dual shifting rods, the ISR is said to be able to shift nearly 50 percent faster than a comparable dual-clutch gearbox, while weighing considerably less. Follow the jump for the full details in the official press release and check out the images in the gallery below.


Gallery: Lamborghini's new V12 and ISR transmission


[Source: Lamborghini]

Continue reading Lamborghini reveals all-new 6.5L V12 engine and ISR gearbox

Lamborghini reveals all-new 6.5L V12 engine and ISR gearbox originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 15 Nov 2010 09:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>engineindependent shifting rodisrisr gearboxisr transmissionlamborghinilamborghini isrlamborghini new v12lamborghini v12v12Mon, 15 Nov 2010 09:33:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19716709/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/11/15/lamborghini-reveals-all-new-6-5l-v12-engine-and-isr-gearbox/19716709/article-detail.xml 19716709 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/11/web630-lamborghininewv12powertrain5_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/11/web630-lamborghininewv12powertrain5.jpg -1 2