World Premiere at the Geneva Motor Show: Small series Carlsson C25

Carlsson who are approved as an automobile manufacturer by the Federal German Motor Transport Authority, for the first time presents an own developed automobile at this year’s Geneva Motor Show – the Carlsson C25. The concept of this Super-GT is based on the vision of combining maximum driving performance with an entirely new design and high exclusiveness.

The result is a breathtaking and beautiful sports coupe with 753 hp in a limited edition of only 25 cars world-wide. Thereby, each automobile will be as individual as its future owner. “We exclusively make the cars to order and the delivery quantity for 2010 is already sold out”, says CEO, Dipl. Ing. (FH) Markus Schuster.

Sports Automobile For Under $3000

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For more tips and reviews on new sports cars, please visit http://www.newsportscars.org now

Prior Design M6

The German tuners from Prior Design have released a refined BMW M6 with the project name PD550. Previously tuning a Porsche 997 Turbo, Mini Cooper S, and Jaguar XJR models, the BMW M6 received a new custom made body kit. The kit consists of a new front bumper, rear bumper, side skirts, and front fenders. Equipped with large multi-spoke black wheels measuring 20×9 and 20×10.5, the PD550 BMW M6 really stands out. The wheels are also available in a 21″ model, and both come wrapped with 255/35ZR20 or 21 tires in the front, and 285/30ZR20 or 21 tires in the rear. Giving the car a wider stance, the body kit by Prior Design widens the BMW M6 by 80 mm. Now combine the large wheels, wide-body kit, lowered suspension, and you will have a true monster on the road.

For performance the car received a new custom exhaust system for optimal sound from the large V10. Official information about the BMW M6 horsepower has not been released yet, however guessing from the name PD550, it’s probably 550 hp. This is accomplished by simple engine tuning, adding a full exhaust system, and road tests. All of Prior Design’s vehicles are TUV tested and approved before purchase to ensure they meet all traffic regulations.

2011 McLaren MP4-12C

• The first in a range of high performance sports cars from the home of the world's most successful racing car company

• McLaren MP4-12C set to re-write the rules of sports car design through Formula 1-inspired engineering, revolutionary chassis architecture, and absolute focus on efficiency

• Legendary McLaren F1 inspires concept; 21st century demands drive McLaren MP4-12C execution

• McLaren MP4-12C represents 'pure McLaren'; from unique engineering to bespoke design where everything is for a reason

read on ---> rsportscars

Super Car: 2009 AC Schnitzer BMW X6

An eyecatcher at first glance - this calls for a closer look. AC Schnitzer presents the new styling and performance package for the BMW X6

The new BMW X6 exerts a particular form of magnetism: not only does its chassis sit perfectly on the road, it also magically attracts attention. Now it appears there is only one place where the fascination, dynamism and presence of the first Sports Activity Coupé (SAC) can be enhanced: in the workshops of AC Schnitzer in Aachen. The result is a visual and technical masterpiece which further magnifies the core qualities of the X6.

In the X6 by AC Schnitzer, the front skirt with its diagonal air intakes and repositioned fog lights are exposed. The drive-under protection has been removed in favour of a more dynamic contour of the spoiler edge. The rear carries a massive skirt with framed edges. In contrast to the original, all components are painted body-colour throughout, so the body appears downstretched and hence more dominant. Instead of the drive-under protection originally fitted here, AC Schnitzer Designer Michele Viandante has opted for a rear diffuser.

Another eyecatcher is the chromed tailpipes of the dual-flow exhaust system in AC Schnitzer
Racing Design. The BMW X6 is not the only SAC in the world, but it is one of the first vehicles to be fitted with the multipiece AC Schnitzer alloy wheels Type Vll. With their black paint and tightly arranged spokes, the 22" rims present a challenging stance. The changing angles of the web pairs give an air of sophistication.

Typical AC Schnitzer: The vehicle's appearance is not misleading, but simply a reflection of its inner values. The renowned BMW tuner has developed a real firecracker under the bonnet of the diesel versions 3.0dX and 3.5dX with a new Motor Control Unit. Precise performance data will be released shortly. Of course, sheer engine power is not the only ingredient in sporting performance. So Manfred Wollgarten, Technical Director of AC Schnitzer, has developed a unique suspension spring kit for the X6 on the North Loop of the Nürburgring.

One thing can be disclosed: Despite its high body, the X6 by AC Schnitzer in this configuration will show a clean pair of heels to many sports saloons. Perfect handling with corresponding Look and Feel is ensured by the "EVO" 3-spoke Sport Airbag steering wheel. With AC Schnitzer, you hold the road firmly in almost any position. The X6 by AC Schnitzer takes control on public roads as willingly as on changing terrain with varying up and down gradients!

Ferrari 458 ITALIA - Ferrari’s innovative new V8

The Ferrari 458 Italia is a completely new car from every point of view: engine, design, aerodynamics, handling, instrumentation and ergonomics, just to name a few.

A two-seater berlinetta, the Ferrari 458 Italia, as is now traditional for all Ferrari’s road-going cars, benefits hugely from the company’s Formula 1 experience. This is particularly evident in the speed and precision with which the car responds to driver inputs and in the attention focused on reducing internal friction in the engine for lower fuel consumption than the F430, despite the fact that both overall displacement and power have increased. However, Ferrari’s track experience makes its presence felt in the 458 Italia not only in terms of pure technological transfer but also on a more emotional level, because of the strong emphasis on creating an almost symbiotic relationship between driver and car. The 458 Italia features an innovative driving environment with a new kind of steering wheel and dashboard that is the direct result of racing practice. Once again input from Michael Schumacher - who was involved from the very start of the 458 Italia project - played an invaluable part.

Pure Power - ABTs new super sports car, the AS5-R

ABT Sportsline has achieved plenty of success with the AS5, which is based on Audi’s A5 - as the coupe has a dynamic and elegant design, is full of technical power and also quick. All this makes it a "real” ABT. Now the company from Kempten has brought out the jewel in this range - the AS5-R. This vehicle is an ab(t)solute super sports car, nothing more and nothing less. Thanks to ABT POWER R, i.e. the change to the engine management and the insertion of an ABT Compressor, the performance is increased by an impressive 156 HP (115kW) to a powerful 510 HP (375kW). The AS5-R reaches 0-62 mpg in 4.5 seconds and continues on powerfully up to its maximum speed of 181 mph. In spite of this enormous increase in performance, consumption and thereby emissions still remain at the level of the series-produced vehicle.

As is normal with ABT, all the components are perfectly adjusted to the enormous power of a top sports car. The ABT braking system with 15 inch disc diameter this provides maximum braking power even in extreme circumstances, and the ABT Coil-over suspension system also helps to bring the potential power onto the road. Motor sport professional Christian ABT has made this perfectinteraction of power with his know-how. The result is a top-class driving machine, which is also enjoyable in everyday use and is pleasant to drive on long journeys. The ABT AS5-R is therefore a maximum of a car – and a statement which shows the high level at which the engineers from Allgaeu work.

Its "suit” fits, of course, like a glove: The front spoiler accentuates the ABT grill and the striking section around the fog lights, inner fender skirt and the gill-shaped air inlets provide contours to the side of the ABT AS5-R. They have also succeeded on the side which most drivers only rarely get to see: The rear with the ABT rear skirt and 4-pipe rear muffler shows that this model athlete on wheels is more than “just” a car. The designers of ABT recommend the 20 inch BR alloys as the perfect accessory. Wheel-tyre combinations with height performance tires are, of course, also available. Only with these accessories can the fast AS5-R safely unleash its power. And it has lots of it.

2009 Jaguar XF Review

Reviewers were universal in their love of the new XF’s exterior and interior styling.

Edmunds.com credits its “crouching stance” and “coupelike roof,” that taper into a fastback-style tail, but thought the nose was “somewhat quirky.” Though both Edmunds.com and Automobile comment on the XF’s passing resemblance to the LexusGS series, Automobile thought that gave the new Jaguar a little less “drama than you’d expect...nice but not stunning.” Without the Jaguar hood ornament, they think, you wouldn’t know which company built the new XF. Kelley Blue Book felt the “unorthodox” look has a “sleek, flowing profile.”

From the rear, the high-mounted LED taillamps looked familiar to an Aston Martin, Cars.com said. Motor Trend sums up the exterior critiques by saying, “Make no styling judgments until you've seen the XF in person...in the metal the XF radiates a modernity and sexiness that simply don't translate to the printed page.”

Inside, Automobile thinks “the XF's interior really scores,” and that “the cabin overflows with neat details, such as the gear shifter, covered HVAC vents that rotate to open, a start button that pulses red when you enter the car, and blue lighting around the instruments and dials.” The tech mavens at C/Net were “most impressed by the dashboard components,” like that clever shifter dial that reminds TheCarConnection.com’s editors of a high-end audio system. It’s the combination of “traditional cues with contemporary touches,” in Cars.com’s words, that gives this new Jaguar an ambience completely different from the larger XJ sedan--and from any Jaguar before it.

TheCarConnection.com’s car experts think the 2009 Jaguar XF is without question the most attractive car Jaguar has accomplished in decades. There's nothing heavy-handed or retro about the look. Quite the contrary--it is an extraordinarily modern interpretation that traditional luxury benchmarks like Audi should note well.

read more at CarConnection

Super Car: 2010 Jaguar XJ concept Updates

Following the XF design theme, the XJ is completely restyled with the same styling from the 2007 Jaguar CX-F Concept. It shares the XF's range of direct gasoline injection engines, as well as its supercharged V8 producing 510 bhp. New to the range are plasma screen 'Virtual Instruments' and a 20-speaker Bowers & Wilkins sound system.

Press Release

Sleek, sporting and sophisticated, the all-new Jaguar XJ brings a daring new spirit to automotive luxury. It offers a seductive mix of striking design, breathtaking performance and engineering without compromise.

The new XJ is the epitome of fluid, contemporary automotive style. The elongated teardrop shape of the side windows establishes the car’s silhouette and lies at the heart of its flowing design. And the new XJ doesn’t just look streamlined: it shares a drag coefficient of 0.29 with the XF saloon, making them the most aerodynamic Jaguars ever.

A coupé profile cloaks a cabin that offers comparable levels of space to saloons with a more conventional style. There is generous accommodation for five occupants, while long-wheelbase models provide rear-seat passengers with even greater levels of comfort thanks to an additional 125mm of rear legroom.

The exquisitely designed interior has a strong sporting character throughout. A panoramic glass roof, standard on all models, dramatically enhances the sense of light and space inside the new XJ. And in keeping with its status as the ultimate four-door Jaguar, the XJ introduces a new generation of interior technologies, pioneering the use of display and infotainment systems such as the innovative Virtual Instrument dials and optional 1200W Bowers & Wilkins premium surround sound system.

At the heart of the all-new XJ’s construction is a next-generation application of Jaguar’s unique lightweight vehicle architecture. Primarily aluminium – but also utilising magnesium and composite alloys – it allows Jaguar to produce a significantly lighter and stiffer body – the lightest in its class. The new structure – which retains the same aerospace-based riveting and bonding processes – has been refined using these advanced new materials to deliver improved strength, enhanced refinement and superior safety performance.

The new XJ offers the choice of four powerful and refined engines, which use the latest powertrain technology to deliver an outstanding combination of performance and class-leading efficiency. The supremely powerful supercharged 510PS 5.0-litre AJ-V8 Gen III will head the line-up, with a 0-60mph time of 4.7 secs (0-100kph in 4.9 secs); 470PS supercharged and 385PS naturally aspirated petrol V8s are also available, dependent on market.

A no-compromise diesel alternative is provided by the formidable 275PS 3.0-litre AJ-V6D Gen III. With twin sequential turbochargers, this is an engine that delivers on every aspect of the Jaguar driving experience, marrying tremendous drive (0-60mph in 6.0 secs, 0-100kph in 6.4 secs) with impressive fuel economy and CO2 emissions (40.1mpg and 184g/km of CO2).

The all-new XJ delivers a driving experience that is just as memorable as the car’s appearance. Benefitting from technologies pioneered on the exciting new XFR and XKR models, including continuously variable damping (Adaptive Dynamics), electronically controlled rear differential (Active Differential Control) and a quick ratio power-steering system, the new XJ combines responsive, sporting dynamics with the refined, supple ride expected from a luxury Jaguar.

With its unique lightweight aluminium body structure and advanced new powertrains, the all-new XJ already has a head start when it comes to sustainable performance. The aluminium body uses more than 50 percent recycled material, with a plan to increase this to 75 percent. Body panels made from recycled material use only 5 percent of the energy required for new aluminium, equating to a potential saving of three tonnes of CO2 per vehicle.

“The new XJ is a thoroughly modern interpretation of the quintessential Jaguar. Its visual impact stems from the elongated teardrop shape of the car’s side windows, a powerful stance and wide track. It is the most emphatic statement yet of Jaguar’s new design direction.”

World’s Fastest Eco-Supercar the Frazer-Nash Namir

Hold your breath and fasten your seatbelt for the Frazer-Nash Namir’s intoxicating acceleration. The all-wheel drive hybrid features a 0.8-liter rotary engine that powers up four electric motors, one for each wheel. It speeds up to 187 mph at a 0-60 mph time of 3.7 seconds and a 1,200-mile range. The Frazer-Nash Namir tackled a hill climb at Goodwood, a perfect proof how the car’s technology brings out the best performance ever.

Super Car: Pagani Zonda R

While one certainly cannot say the Zonda F lacks performance figures, driving around the Nurburgring in 7:32 and achieving lateral G forces of almost 1.5 G, it is however a road car, easy to drive, intuitive and setting the benchmark for comfort, safety and lightweight. Paired with a quality finish and the attention to detail this made the Zonda F one of the most desirable supercars resulting in the 25 Coupe models being sold out in record time. This did not seem to fulfill the requirements of our most demanding customers, who adore the weekend drive on a racetrack.

The spark has been set by an Italo-American customer, enthusiast and already proud owner of 3 Zondas. He describes the project this way: “The thought has been on my mind for quite some time, but I am not interested in racing”.

The Zonda R is born with full liberty. The target: the ultimate performance at the racetrack without any implications of rules, except for safety, where no compromise is allowed. In September 2006 the first drawings were ready, but it was crucial to have the support of Mercedes-AMG for a high revving engine with a power output of 750 bhp, dry sump, light and with a low center of gravity. The basis was the self supporting engine of the mighty CLK GTR, which has dominated the GT championships.

Eve at constant racing pace the engine would have to cover over 3100 miles (5000 kilometers) before servicing.

The Zonda R is a car designed from scratch, with only 10% of the Zonda F components to be carried over. The suspension forged in Avional, a new Pagani six speed transversal sequential gearbox, carbon-fiber monocoque, aeronautical four pump fuel tank are only part of the equation.

The wheelbase has grown by 2 inches, the overall length by 5 inches and the track is increased by 2 inches. The bodywork and aerodynamics have been studied to offer maximum downforce. Even though built for the track, the project would not have received kick off, if the quality and finish of the car and its details was not up to the level of the Pagani road cars.

One of the first cars to be delivered however will be kept in a living room, designed by Pagani and built with the same materials as the Zonda F, beautifully textured carbon-fiber, avional, titanium, inconel and other state of the art materials. Additionally it will feature a bespoke HiFi System that will allow the customer to listen to the sound of this car at Le Mans and the Nurburgring.

The Pagani customers who have ordered the Zonda R will be relieved of almost $1,6 million + taxes.

The Track is its Home

This Zonda is purpose made for track use, without restrictions of any competition rules or homologation, with the only exclusion of the passengers’ integrity, where no compromise is tolerated.

A New Heart

The engine is built by the racing specialists at Mercedes AMG, where the championship winning DTM cars are born, as well as the CLK GTR, probably the most devastating and effective weapon ever to compete in the GT series. From it’s engine the Zonda R borrows the basic architecture including an ingenious dry sump allowing a low centre of gravity. This self-supporting engine with 750 bhp at 8000 rpm and 425 lb-ft of torque carries a lightweight carbon-fiber high-performance intake system, a racing multiple disc sintered clutch and Formula 1 style exhaust system, hydroformed in Inconel 625 and ceramic coated for optimal heat dissipation. The power unit combined with a 6 speed transversal manual sequential synchronized gearbox is designed to satisfy the most ambitious drivers.

The Chassis

The central carbon chassis will incorporate a roll cage and a rubber racing fuel tank with 4 fuel pumps and quick refuel filler like on GT race cars. The wheelbase has been increased by 2 inches to offer the best stability. The front and rear subframes are brand-new, built to accommodate a new suspension geometry, produced in avional. The magnesium forged rims with central wheel nut and a quick pneumatic lifting system allows fast and effortless changes of the slick tires.

Bodywork and Aerodynamics

The new bodywork has been honed to offer elevated downforce even in low speed corners. The longer front bonnet with flaps, closed underbody and the rear overhang with the adjustable rear wing and race derived diffuser translate into shattering aerodynamic efficiency and will let you experience cornering speeds beyond imagination. The car displays and logs information about the amount of dowforce that the car is generating at each moment. Combined with the adjustable wings you can easily find the best setup for each track.

Workstation

The interior is designed to accommodate the driver and passenger in bespoke seats, built to offer the best support, when the G-forces from the vehicle dynamics come into question. The Digitek instrumentation provides the essential information and a sophisticated telemetry allows through a variety of sensors to monitor every single component of the car.

source: supercarnews

Fastest Super Cars in the World

SSC Ultimate Aero
Base manufacturer's suggested retail price: $654,400
Top Speed: 257 mph
Acceleration: 0-60 in 2.78 seconds
Horsepower: 1,183
Country of Origin: U.S.


Bugatti Veyron
Base MSRP: $1.5 million
Top Speed: 253 mph
Acceleration: 0-60 in 2.5 seconds
Horsepower: 1,001
Country of Origin: France


Koenigsegg CCX
Base MSRP: $695,000
Top Speed: 250 mph
Acceleration: 0-60 in 3.2 seconds
Horsepower: 806
Country of Origin: Sweden


Saleen S7 Twin Turbo
Base MSRP: $555,000
Top Speed: 248 mph
Acceleration: 0-60 in 3.2 seconds
Horsepower: 750
Country of Origin: U.S.


Bristol Fighter T
Base MSRP: $700,000
Top Speed: 225 mph
Acceleration: 0-60 in 3.5 seconds
Horsepower: 1,012
Country of Origin: U.K.


Pagani Zonda F
Base MSRP: $741,000
Top Speed: 215 mph
Acceleration: 0-60 in 3.5 seconds
Horsepower: 549
Country of Origin: Italy


Spyker C8 Double 12 S
Base MSRP: $325,560
Top Speed: 215 mph
Acceleration: 0-60 in 3.5 seconds
Horsepower: 400
Country of Origin: Netherlands


Lamborghini Murciélago LP640
Base MSRP: $430,000
Top Speed: 213 mph
Acceleration: 0-60 in 3.3 seconds
Horsepower: 660
Country of Origin: Italy


McLaren Mercedes SLR
Base MSRP: $497,750
Top Speed: 206 mph
Acceleration: 0-60 in 3.8 seconds
Horsepower: 617
Country of Origin: England


Silva GT3
Base MSRP: $75,000
Top Speed: 205 mph
Acceleration: 0-60 in 3.7 seconds
Horsepower: 530
Country of Origin: U.S.

Super Car: 2009 G-Power G4 BMW Z4

300 km/h top speed, 0-100 km/h in just 4,9 seconds, 375 hp and an engine’s peak torque of 420 NM: These are the characteristics of the latest G-POWER development for the BMW Z4 3.0i.

In addition to the increase in power output of 144 hp for the 6- cylinder engine, that normally produces 231 hp, the G-POWER offers a complete tuning program for the Bavarian roadster consisting of: Aerodynamic body kit, light-alloy wheels, suspension modifications, high-performance brake system and exclusive interior components.

G-POWER offers superchargers system for increased power output looking back on 25 years of experience in tuning BMW automobiles. The new G-POWER EVO III supercharger system is an evolution, based on the well known systems for the Z4 2,2 to 3,0 l six- cylinder engines of the BMW Z4. Its core is an ASA T1-12 supercharger from the all new “black-line” edition that features ceramic ball bearings for an increased rpm limit of the charger. Accordingly the boost rises to a higher pick of 0,6 bar rel. , which is cooled down by a large air-to-air inter cooler and controlled by an Dual Flow bypass system. To keep the oil temperatures at level the G-POWER EVO III system is equipped with a thermostat controlled oil cooler, that prevents the ASA supercharger from overheating. On the exhaust side the G-POWER EVO III system features a complete exhaust system with racing-headers and catalysts. This measure optimizes power yield, throttle response and also ensures the engine’s thermal health. Specially developed mapping for engine electronics coordinate the perfect interaction of all new components.

The results of the G-POWER treatment are impressive: With 375 hp at 6.450 rpm and 420 NM torque at 4.650 rpm the standard 231 hp strong BMW Z4 3.0i becomes a true eliminator. With a sprint time from rest to 100 km/h of 4.9 seconds and to 200 km/h in 15,1 seconds the G-POWER G4 is at level with the BMW Z4M and finally outruns it with a top speed of 300-km/h. The conversion of the standard engine to the G-POWER EVO III configuration is 18,850,00 Euro including the installation; which can only be done at our headquarters’ workshop in Autenzell Bavaria.

The enormous performance places extreme demands on aerodynamics, tires, suspension and brakes. The G-POWER front apron replaces the production part in its entirety. Its large air inlets provide optimal supply of cooling air for the high performance air-to-air inter cooler. At the same time the spoiler minimizes lift on the front axle at high speeds. The G-POWER rocker panels smooth the airflow between the wheel houses and give the Z4 a longer, lower and sleeker appearance. Lift on the rear axle is reduced by the G-POWER rear apron, that features the needed openings for the 4 pipe G-POWER rear muffler.

The G-POWER Silver stone 20-inch light-alloy wheels that fill out the space beneath the wheel arches perfectly, underline the distinctive new look of the G-POWER equipped BMW Z4, are mounted in sizes 9.0 J x 20 with size 245/30 ZR 20 tires in front and size 10.0 J x 20 wheels with size 285/25 ZR 20 tires on the rear axle.

The large wheels make room for the G-POWER high-performance brake system with eight-piston fixed calipers and 380 x 34 millimeter brake discs on the front axle. The Z4 handling can be made even sportier by installing the height-adjustable G-POWER coil-over suspension RS with nine selectable settings each for bound and rebound.

The G-POWER EVO III supercharger system is available for all BMW Z4 3.0i with manual transmission, along with the numerous items from the extensive G-POWER tuning accessories lineup.

Super Car: 2010 Ford Shelby GT500 the King?

The 2010 Ford Shelby GT500 delivers the most power and refinement ever for a Mustang.

Ford's Special Vehicle Team used the gains made on the 40th anniversary edition Shelby GT500KR "King of the Road" Mustangs as the performance starting point and built from there. The design team, with a nod to the original Shelby Cobras from the 1960s, takes those design cues even further with nuanced improvements in both the coupe and convertible, each of which boasts a more-refined interior.

But, more importantly for a muscle car, the 2010 Shelby GT500 delivers more horsepower and more torque than the outgoing model, thanks in part to advancements pioneered on the GT500KR.

The 2010 Shelby GT500 is powered by a supercharged and intercooled 5.4-litre dual overhead cam V8 engine expected to produce 540 horsepower and 510 foot-pounds of torque. The redline is 6250 rpm. The car's aluminium power dome hood not only adds to the Shelby's appearance, it helps cool the engine through a hood extractor.

The Shelby's open-element air induction system features a conical air filter instead of a flat-panel closed system to reduce air restriction. This approach allows more air to be pumped through the engine, producing more power and increasing the engine's efficiency.

A cold-air intake feeds the coolest air possible directly into the air box, helping further increase horsepower. The intake necessitated moving the Cobra snake badge to the other side of the grille to enable maximum airflow.

The twin-disc clutch on the six-speed manual transmission has been significantly upgraded, improving drivability and NVH, while the car offers improved straight-line acceleration, plus fuel savings when cruising on the highway in the top gears.

The Shelby's distinct sounds will be apparent as always, though with new refinements, thanks to the work of the Noise, Vibration and Harshness (NVH) team. A resonator placed between the air filter and engine throttle body helps keep unwanted noise in check.

Driving dynamics also are improved, thanks to SVT's chassis tuning as well as new 19-inch Goodyear F1 Supercar tyres and forged aluminium wheels.

Spring and dampers have been optimised for better roll control, giving drivers more confidence when braking, accelerating or turning. The new chassis tuning takes its philosophy from the KR program, with a greater emphasis placed on primary body control.

The team also stiffened the steering shaft.

The 2010 Shelby GT500 features AdvanceTrac, Ford's stability control system with several options for performance. The default "on" mode accommodates every-day driving, and a Sport mode delivers for those wanting to put the Shelby GT500 through its paces on the track. The system also can be turned completely off, although the anti-lock brake system and other active safety systems remain in place. Standard safety equipment includes: dual stage front air bags, side-impact air bags and Ford's Personal Safety System.

More safety allows for more performance: numerous aerodynamic upgrades, including a redesigned splitter, were made to the front end. The design of the front fascia and the car's "flush" hood helps focus air flow. The top grille focuses air into the radiator, with a rubber flap inside the engine compartment helping to seal the system. The lower grille helps cool the intercooler. SVT engineers also went as far to block off specific diamonds in the front of the 2010 Shelby GT500's distinctive grille to help maintain the correct cooling and aerodynamic balance.

A meaner, reskinned snake

The design team took a cue from the Shelby AC Cobra 427 with respect to the front grilles, which are gaping and appear ready to swallow the road.

Another obvious difference for the Shelby is the addition of racing stripes, which made their mark on 1960s-era Ford performance vehicles,

Rounding out the Shelby's exterior modifications are the unique signature coiled Cobra badges on the front grille and front fenders, a more aggressive front splitter and lower-drag rear spoiler, which added to those improved aerodynamic features, round out the exterior modifications.

Inside there's genuine materials such as real leather in all seats, real aluminium on the instrument panel and Alcantara inserts on the seats and steering wheel.

The genuine aluminium finish panels have a unique-to-GT500 three-dimensional dimpled texture pattern inspired by racing clutch plates, braided hoses and cross-drilled racing brake rotors. The pattern has been tuned to compensate for the compound curvature of the instrument panels. In addition, the "GT500" logo has been discretely engraved into the aluminium in front of the passenger as a nod to classic Shelby Mustangs of the 1960s.

This unique aluminium finish panel is fully encapsulated by a soft seamless TPO (Thermoplastic Olefin) instrument panel with a shape that resonates with Mustang's heritage. The centre stack flows into the console and features a sub-flush shifter trim ring, flush cup holder door and lockable console stowage featuring the word "SHELBY" engraved in its Satin Liquid Chrome release button.

All 2010 Mustangs and Shelbys feature bright 360-degree rings surrounding the gauge cluster, uninterrupted by the steering column. These rings come in chrome for the Mustang and a Satin Liquid Chrome finish for the GT500. This finish is featured throughout the interior. An intricate cobra is etched into the centre of the aluminium steering wheel badge. The Shelby Cobra appears at startup on the navigation screen, and the familiar red "SVT" logo utilises new ambient lighting to illuminate the door scuffplate.

Even the classic white shift knob – an icon of Shelby Mustang DNA from years past – received special attention. First, it had to be the traditional white. It also had to be specific to the Shelby. The answer was to combine the racing-stripes theme with the traditional "H" pattern found on shifters to create a one-of-a-kind knob. Like the exterior, the racing stripes wrap from end to end, encircling the knob.

Ferrari 612 Scaglietti by Imola Racing

To mess around with perfection should be a sin. So the moment "Imola Racing" even began to mess with the Ferrari 612 Scaglietti, the heavens should've opened and swallowed whole the German Tuner.

At least it seems Imola was smart enough to not touch the engine. Instead this is likely just body enhancements. I don’t have much info on the kit. I do know its being considered a widebody because of the enlarged fenders and wider tires. There are also new front and rear spoilers as well as a two-tone paint job that is reminiscent of the first generation Corvette.

Reiter Engineers Gallardo GT3 Strada

So who turns road cars into race cars and then back into a road car? Well thats Reiter Engineering for you, who recently built a street-legal variant of their Murcielago R-GT that competes in the FIA GT1 and European Le Mans Series, is now offering a road version of their Gallardo GT3 racecar.

Based on the standard Gallardo this one features carbon fiber body work wich widens the car by 60 mm. A single large center-mounted exhaust system reduces weight by nine kg and added an extra ten horsepower, while new three-piece alloy wheels are wrapped with ultra sticky Michelin Pilot Sport 2 rubber. The interior stays relatively stock, although the stock seats have been replaced with leather-covered racing units. I can't say more about this car but that it is one of the cleanest/sickest Lambo's I've ever seen.

Surface: Original 1965 Lamborghini Miura Turin

A one of a kind 1965 Turin Salon Lamborghini Miura chassis has surfaced equipped with the companies very first rear mounted 12 cylinder engine. The historic chassis that was designed by Gian Paolo Dallara, represents the very first mid-engined supercar theme for all very favirote supercars. The show chassis had been stored for the past 30 years in Cyprus by the country's original Lamborghini concessionaire, Marios Kritikos, who had acquired the historic unit in April 1978.

A month after its discovery and it was sold to LA collectors, the one of a kind chassis has been imported to the US and now resides in a restoration facility in Miura where specialist Gary Bobileff, will restore it to bring it to its former show glory. According to Lamborghini, the chassis will make its USA debut in the summer of 2009.

2009 Audi R8 Super car equipped with v10 engine

AUDI will release the newly unveiled V10 petrol-engined R8 in Australia by the end of next year.

No pricing details are available yet, although we can expect this car to cost considerably more than the $277,196 and $293,085 Audi charges for the existing six-speed manual and R-Tronic sequential manual 4.2 FSI V8 R8 versions respectively.

In Germany, the Audi R8 5.2 FSI quattro is priced from A$278,182 (142,400 Euros). The Volkswagen luxury marque is also keeping mum on when the long-awaited V10 diesel-powered version will be announced.

The ten-cylinder petrol R8 is powered by a 5.2-litre V10 engine featuring chain-driven quad camshafts, a wide cylinder angle of 90 degrees, a high-strength aluminium-alloy cast crankcase, dry sump lubrication and FSI direct fuel-injection, with the common-rail system injecting premium-unleaded petrol into the combustion chambers at up to 120 bar of pressure, according to Audi.

With a displacement of 5204cc, it delivers 386kW of power at a stratospheric 8000rpm and 530Nm of torque at 6500rpm. This compares to the 4.2 V8’s 309kW at 7800rpm and 430Nm at 4500-6000rpm. Driving all four wheels is a six-speed manual or R-Tronic sequential manual gearbox, as per the 4.2 V8 model.

Audi is proud that the R8 V10’s kerb weight of 1620kg is only 31kg more than its smaller-engined sibling, helping the mid-engined sports car flagship to rip to 100km/h sprint in a claimed 3.9 seconds.

Meanwhile, the R-Tronic V10 is claimed to be capable of hitting 200km/h from standstill in 12 seconds, on its way to a 316km/h top speed. On the EU combined fuel consumption cycle, the V10 averages 13.7 litres per 100km. As with the R8 4.2 FSI, the V10 employs Audi’s Torsen differential quattro all-wheel drive running gear, while a 44 per cent front and 56 per cent axle load is described by the Ingolstadt-based firm as ideal.

Dual aluminium front and rear double wishbone suspension, Audi’s magnetic ride control, 380mm ventilated front/356mm ventilated rear disc brakes, and 10-spoke 235/35 front and 295/30 rear wheels and tyres are other R8 V10 technical highlights.

Audi is also offering a ceramic brake system that is said to be especially light at 9kg. Helping to distinguish the V10 from the regular V8 is a high-gloss black-painted finish for the front air inlets and apron lip; two instead of four cross-braces are fitted and the vanes in the grille are finished in chrome.

From the side, the ‘sideblades’ stand out more, the side sills are wider and the exhaust grilles at the rear windows have a matt aluminium look, while the engine that is clearly visible through the back window is marked as a V10 FSI unit.

All-LED headlights are on the standard features list, as are heated leather seats, GPS navigation, a Bang & Olufsen sound system, climate-control air-conditioning, an alarm and a trip computer.

Red rings decorate the instruments and gearshift knob, while the footrests and rocker switches of the R-Tronic gearbox are finished in aluminum.

Cayman vs. 911

I’ve just been driving the new Porsche Cayman S - the one with the new direct-injection engine and the limited-slip diff, the one that’ll now hit 60mph in just 4.9 seconds - out in Spain.

We’ll have a proper in-depth review soon, but for now, here’s what you need to know: it’s unbelievably, unbelievably good - brutally quick, completely useable and just a tiny bit unhinged.

No, the Cayman isn’t a friendly point-and-go sort of car: it makes you drive it properly. Stand on the brakes mid-corner and it’ll happily deposit you into a hedge, but take some time to get to grips with the mid-engined manners and it’s just magically, stunningly good to drive. One of the best ever, I reckon, especially if you get the manual rather than the double-clutch PDK gearbox.

In fact, the Cayman S is so savagely quick - the direct injection gives astonishingly sharp throttle response - and so pure in its handling that I’d take one over a 911 Carrera. No question.

But here’s where I need your help. The guys at Porsche are saying that - despite the general consensus that the Cayman S is now as quick as the Carrera over just about any sort of road - they’re not worried that potential customers might choose it over a 911. Different markets, different people, they say - while they admit the gap between the two ranges has tightened, people considering a 911 won’t look twice at a Cayman.

So what do you think - is Porsche right? Is the 911 just too iconic to make you ever think about a Cayman, no matter how fast? Or would you stoop just a little for a car as good as this?

By Sam Philip from ---> Top Gear

2009 Maserati Gran Turismo MC Sport Line

Looks like Maserati is getting into some territory usually reserved for the customizers when it unveiled a new special edition at the Bologna Auto Show, the MC Sport Line. Starting with a GranTurismo S, Maserati adds front and rear carbon-fiber spoilers, side skirts with a matte black central panel, carbon fiber mirror housings and exterior door handles, and glossy black 20" wheel rims.



Maserati also added performance enhancing elements. The suspension has been upgraded to stiffer springs, shock absorbers and anti-roll bars. There’s also new software for Maserati’s Stability Program, which the company says allows the driver "more freedom".

Because this comes directly from Maserati everything is done in good taste. This makes it a much harder sell for some of the custom jobs out there. Although this MC Sport Line is based on the GranTurismo S, Maserati says it will bring the Sport Line features to the GranTurismo and then the entire Maserati line-up in 2009.

More pics ---> Top Speed