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Monday 30 September 2013

Dodge SRT Viper TA

Dodge SRT Viper TA

At a dealer conference on September 14, 2010 in Orlando, Florida, Chrysler Group and Fiat CEO Sergio Marchionne was reported to have concluded his remarks by unveiling a rolling 2012 Dodge Viper prototype. There would be no 2011 Viper. Quotes from the Detroit News from SRT CEO Ralph Gilles that hint to the future of the brand include:
  • "The new Viper is not based on anything else".
  • "The Viper cabin is very rearward and the hood is very long. Few cars in the industry are designed with those proportions anymore."
  • "I want the new Viper to be a more forgiving car to drive and accessible to more people. We've never had stability control on a high-performance car, which is about to happen on the new car."
The Viper was also on display for one night only in Salt Lake City, UT at the 11th Viper Owners Invitational or VOI 11 from September 30, 2010 to October 3, 2010. Ralph Gilles was present gathering feedback from the owners themselves on new exterior design of the snake. The Generation 5 badge was unveiled as well at this event on each dining table in the hall.
In Autumn of 2011, Ralph Gilles announced that the Gen V Viper would debut at the New York Auto Show in April 2012.

 Public unveiling

All-aluminum 8.4-liter V-10 rated 640 horsepower (477 kW; 649 PS) and at 600 lb·ft (813 N·m), Tremec TR6060 six-speed manual transmission with final drive ratio 3.55, 50 percent improvement in torsional stiffness over previous model, electronic stability control, traction control, 4-channel anti-lock brake system (ABS), carbon fiber and aluminum skin with .364 drag coefficient (Cd), Pirelli P Zero Z-rated tires, 4-piston Brembo brakes with fixed-aluminum calipers with vented 355x32mm diameter rotors, 20 mm lower seating position, 7-inch full-color customizable instrument cluster, Uconnect RA3 or RA4 Access in-vehicle connectivity system with optional SiriusXM Travel Link, Harman Kardon audio system, bi-xenon projector headlamps with white light-emitting diode (LED) daytime running lamps and LED turn signals, LED taillamps with integrating stop-and-turn illumination and snakeskin texture lens, five-spoke forged aluminum "Rattler" wheel with fully polished (standard), fully painted Hyper Black or fully painted low-gloss black finishes. Top speed of the SRT Viper is 206 mph (331kmh). It will be the first to feature Viper's third logo, nicknamed "Stryker".The SRT Viper GTS includes leather upholstery, accented colors in seats, doors, center console and stitching; gun metal trim on the cluster bezel, HVAC outlets, window switch bezels, shifter base, park brake bezel and the integrated passenger grab handle on the center console; Sabelt racing seats with Kevlar and fiberglass shell, carbon-fiber hood, roof, decklid and aluminum door panels, split six-spoke forged aluminum "Venom" wheels with polished face and graphite-painted pockets (standard), fully painted Hyper Black or fully painted low-gloss black finishes.
Optional SRT Track Package includes Pirelli P Zero Corsa tires, StopTech slotted two-piece rotors and ultra-lightweight wheels in Hyper Black or matte black finishes.


SRT Viper GTS-R (2013–)

It is a race car designed for the GT class of the American Le Mans Series, designed and built by SRT Motorsports and Riley Technologies. It includes Michelin GT tires.
The vehicle was unveiled at the 2012 New York Auto Show.
The SRT Viper Racing team entering 2012 ALMS included Dominik Farnbacher, Marc Goossens, Ryan Hunter-Reay, Tommy Kendall, Jonathan Bomarito, and Kuno Wittmer.


Features

The all-new 2013 SRT Viper features a cruise control and controls on the steering wheel. U Connect Bluetooth phone with Bluetooth Audio streaming is standard, as is a 8.4-inch touch screen display like that on the Chrysler 300, Dodge Charger, and Dodge Journey. It also features an Alpine surround sound system and many exterior, interior, and wheel combinations. There is also a four-inch reconfigurable Thin-Film Transistor display in the gauge cluster to display important vehicle information, system messages, and has controls to turn the traction control, stability control, and other features off. It also has a "Track Mode" with a built-in track timer, "stoplight" countdown timer display, and other features. Power seats, keyless entry, and heated seats are also new options. A navigation system by Garmin is also an available option, as is Sirius-XM satellite radio and HD radio. A built-in HDD for storing music and photos JPEG and MP3 will also be included as standard equipment.


Sunday 29 September 2013

GranTurismo S

GranTurismo S (2008–2012)

The S version was unveiled in 2008 Geneva Motor show and features a 4.7 litre (4,691 cc (286.3 cu in)) V8 engine rated 440 PS (324 kW; 434 hp) at 7000 rpm and 490 N·m (360 lb·ft) at 4750 rpm, a robotic 6-speed sequential semi-automatic transmission with transaxle layout, 47% front and 53% rear weight distribution. The standard suspension set-up is fixed-setting steel dampers, with the Skyhook adaptive suspension available as an option. It was available in the North American market only for 2009 MY.


GranTurismo Sport (2012–)

Replacing both the GranTurismo S and S Automatica, the Granturismo Sport was unveiled in March 2012 at the Geneva Motor ShoThe revised 4.7L engine is rated 460 PS (338 kW; 454 hp). The Sport features a unique, MC Stradale inspired front fascia, new headlights and new, sportier steering wheel and seats. The ZF six-speed automatic gearbox is now standard, while the six-speed sequential transaxle is available as an option. The latter has steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters, a feature that’s optional with the automatic gearbox.




BMW Z4 Roadster

BMW Z4 Roadster

BMW E89 is the chassis code of the second generation of BMW Z4. It now has a retractable hardtop like the Mercedes SLK replacing the previous coupé and roadster (soft-top convertible) versions for the 2009 model year.
The new model was officially announced on 13 December 2008.The vehicle was unveiled in 2009 North American International Auto Show in Detroit.

Technology

In the Z4 sDrive35i, the new 7-speed double-clutch gearbox is used. In the 28i and 30i a six-speed sports automatic transmission with Steptronic is offered. Fitted as standard is a 6-speed manual transmission.EfficientDynamics regenerative braking is standard in most regions. The Drive Dynamic Control is standard, which include NORMAL, SPORT, SPORT+ modes. Optional Adaptive M Sport Suspension adds electronic damping control. The hand brake is electro-mechanically operated.
All BMW Z4 have as standard safety equipment: ABS including emergency brake assist and CBC, pretensioner and belt load limiter, and ESP with ASR. Furthermore, they are equipped with four airbags (driver/front seat passengers and two side airbags). The dynamic stop light feature has two stages, indicating how strongly the brakes are being applied. For normal braking, the main light element blinks, as well as blinking just before the vehicle comes to a standstill. Finally, two roll-over bars behind the seats and a reinforced windscreen protect occupants in case of roll-over.
 

 Design

The new roadster features a completely revamped interior designed by Nadya Arnaout, and exterior designed by Juliane Blasi in early 2006.Since the new Z4 now has a retractable hardtop, it no longer comes in separate roadster and coupé versions. The two-piece, electro-hydraulic retractable hardtop in lightweight aluminium shell can be folded up or down in 20 seconds automatically. In the open state, the boot capacity is 180 liters (if closed: 310 l).


Model upgrades in 2013

In March 2013 new LED headlights as well as modified back lights and indicators were introduced. Additionally, a new engine in the Z4 sDrive18i is now available. Also added were two interior trim packages "Design Pure Balance" and "Design Pure Traction", which can be combined with the M Sport Package. The theme- and color-balanced interior packages each include new trim and upholstery. In addition, the enclosure of the "Control Panel" has been replaced by a higher-quality material and feel and audible feedback of a few buttons and switches were upgraded in quality. Besides the option to order the hardtop in contrasting color to the body (black or silver), BMW offers the painting "Valencia Orange Metallic" for the Z4 since March 2013.



BMW Z4 GT3

An FIA GT3-specification car available to private teamsWhile the production version of the BMW Z4 has a six-cylinder engine, the GT3 car is powered by a 4.4-litre eight-cylinder engine derived from the BMW M3 GTS, which produces approx. 515 PS (379 kW; 508 bhp). The weight of the BMW Z4 GT3 is approx. 1,190 kilograms (2,624 lb). In its first year of racing, the car proved competitive in the FIA GT3 European Championship as well as not only emerging victorious from the Dubai 24 Hour endurance event, but also heading to second place from a low 49th position at the 2011 24 Hours of Spa-Francorchamps event by the Need For Speed Team Schubert.Nobuteru Taniguchi and Taku Bamba were the champions of the GT300 class in the 2011 Super GT season



 

Bentley Continental GT W12 Le Mans Edition

Bentley Continental GT W12 Le Mans Edition

The Bentley Continental GT is a two-door 'two plus two' grand touring coupé released in 2003, replacing the previous Rolls-Royce-based Continental R and T .It is equipped with a 6.0 litre twin-turbocharged W12 engine, which produces a DIN-rated motive power output of 560 metric horsepower (412 kW; 552 bhp) at 6,100 rpm, and torque of 650 newton metres (479 lbf·ft) at 1,600-6,100 rpm Torsen-based permanent four-wheel drive is standard.It will accelerate from 0 to 100 kilometres per hour (0.0 to 62.1 mph) in 4.8 seconds, and go on to reach a top speed of 318 kilometres per hour (197.6 mph).


Motorsport

In early 2007, a Bentley Continental GT Speed equipped with Nokian Hakkapeliitta Sport Utility 5 studded winter tyres and driven by four-time World Rally Champion Juha Kankkunen, broke the World Speed Record on Ice - on the frozen Baltic Sea near Oulu, Finland. It averaged 321.6 kilometres per hour (199.83 mph) in both directions on the "flying kilometre", reaching a maximum speed of 331 km/h (205.67 mph). The previous record was 296 km/h (183.9 mph), achieved with a Bugatti EB110 Supersport. The record-breaking Bentley was largely standard except for a roll-cage, aerodynamic improvements, and low-temperature fuel and calibration.



In February 2011, Bentley succeeded in breaking their own land-ice speed record previously set by the Continental GT. They managed to bring a slightly modified Supersports Convertible to 205.48 MPH in Finland, verified by the Guinness World Records.On February 15, 2011 Kankkunen broke the record again, reaching an average speed of 331 km/h (205.67 mph) in a convertible Bentley Continental Supersports. Bentley announced that a limited edition of the car would be released to celebrate the achievement. It seems that Bentley provoked the former tyre supplier by attempting a new record with a different brand (using Pirelli Sotto Zero IIs) because, on March 6, 2011, Nokian Tyres test driver, piloting an Audi RS6 with Nokian Hakkapeliitta 7 studded tyres, took the ice speed record in Finland, clocking a top speed of 206.05 mph (331.61 km/h) in freezing conditions


Continental GT W12 (2011-)

The vehicle was unveiled in 2010 Paris Motor Show.
Ordering of Continental GT began in October 2010, with deliveries of 2011 Continental GT began in the first quarter of 2011

Continental GT Le Mans Edition (2013-)

It is a limited (48 units per model) versions of Continental GT V8 coupe and convertible, GT W12 coupe and convertible, and GT Speed coupe for North American market, commemorating Bentley's six victories at the 24 Hours of Le Mans. Each car includes a unique Le Mans Edition numbered badge, Le Mans Edition clock face, embroidered Le Mans badge to each headrest, tread plates with the limited edition name, unique Le Mans Edition wheels and specific interior veneers and exterior colours. The vehicles were made in 6 models, named after the winning drivers:



Audi TT

 Audi TT

The Audi TT is a small two-door sports car marketed by Volkswagen Group subsidiary Audi since 1998, both assembled by the Audi subsidiary Audi Hungaria Motor Kft. in Győr, Hungary, using bodyshells manufactured and painted at Audi's Ingolstadt plant.
For each of its two generations, the TT has been available as a 2+2 Coupé and as a two-seater roadster employing consecutive generations of the Volkswagen Group A platform, starting with the A4 (PQ34). As a result of this platform-sharing, the Audi TT has identical powertrain and suspension layouts as its related platform-mates; including a front-mounted transversely oriented engine, front-wheel drive or quattro four-wheel drive system, and fully independent front suspension using MacPherson struts.

 With its world debut at the 2009 Geneva Auto Show, and developed by Audi's high-performance subsidiary quattro GmbH at Neckarsulm, Audi released the first ever compact sports car Audi "RS" model – the Audi TT RS, which was available from 2009 in Coupé and Roadster variants. This new TT RS harks back to the sporting legacy of 1980s Audi Quattros – with their high-performance five-cylinder turbocharged engines, the TT RS will include an all-new 2.5-litre inline five-cylinder Turbocharged Fuel Stratified Injection (TFSI) petrol engine. This new 183 kilograms (403 lb) engine produces a DIN-rated motive power output of 250 kilowatts (340 PS; 335 bhp) from 5,400 to 6,700 rpm, and torque of 450 newton metres (332 lbf·ft) at 1,600–5,300 rpm.



Ever since the original Audi "RS" model – the Audi RS2 Avant, all Audi "RS" models were assembled at the quattro GmbH factory in Neckarsulm, Germany. The TT RS is the first Audi RS vehicle that will not have any of its assembly performed in Neckarsulm but will be completely assembled in the Audi factory in Győr, Hungary, alongside the base Audi TT.
The TT RS has a new short-shift close-ratio six-speed manual transmission, and like all "RS" models, is only available with Audi's 'trademark' quattro four-wheel-drive system, with the TT RS using a specially adapted version of the latest generation multi-plate clutch from Haldex Traction.Additions to the quattro system include a constant velocity joint before the cardan propeller shaft, and a compact rear-axle differential – upgraded to cope with the increased torque from the five-cylinder turbo engine.
Like the TTS, the TT RS has a 10 millimetres (0.4 in) lower ride height, optional "Audi Magnetic Ride", and rides on standard 18-inch roadwheels with 245/45 ZR18 tyres (optional 19" or 20" wheels are also available). The brakes are upgraded to include two-piece cross-drilled and radially vented front discs, sized at 370 millimetres (14.6 in) in diameter. The front discs are clamped by gloss black painted four-piston calipers, adorned with the RS logo. Rear ventilated discs are sized at 310 millimetres (12.2 in) in diameter.




It includes a fixed rear spoiler (retractable optional), and has black interior with heated Alcantara/leather sports seats (Silk Nappa, Fine Nappa leather optional). The Recaro "RS bucket" seats, first seen in the Audi B7 RS4 are also available as an option. Also carried over from the B7 RS4 is the 'Sport' button, which sharpens the throttle response and deepens the exhaust note, and a three-stage user-selectable Electronic Stability Programme (ESP).Official performance figures indicate the TT RS Coupé will accelerate from standstill to 100 kilometres per hour (62.1 mph) in 4.5 seconds (4.7 seconds for the Roadster), with an electronically limited top speed of 250 kilometres per hour (155.3 mph). There is a factory option to de-restrict the top speed to 280 kilometres per hour (174.0 mph).The Coupé has a kerb weight of 1,450 kilograms (3,197 lb),and the Roadster weighs in at 1,510 kilograms (3,329 lb).As of 2010 the TT-RS is available with the 7-speed DSG automatic transmission capable of handling the torque delivered by the engine. The 6-speed gearbox used in the TT-S cannot cope with 450 newton metres (332 lbf·ft) which is why the TT-RS initially was offered only with a manual transmission.The car went on sale in March 2009, with delivery beginning in summer.In 2010, the TT-RS was confirmed for the US market. The decision was influenced by an internet petition to bring the TT-RS stateside, which succeeded with over 11,000 signatures. The TT-RS is expected to arrive in Q3 2011.


According to the May 2011 issue of Car and Driver (in which they tested a Euro-spec model in a comparison along with the BMW 1 Series M and Infiniti G37 IPL coupe), the North American model will have the same powertrain (possibly with 360 hp), but will only be available with the six-speed manual transmission. They will not have launch control or the racing-style Recaro seats available elsewhere.In 2012, the TT RS plus was launched. It has an uprated version of the 2.5 litre, 5 cyl, turbocharged engine (from the RS Q3 concept car), (power increasing from 340 ps (335 bhp) to 360 ps (355 bhp) and torque rising from 331 LB FT to 342LB FT). Predictably performance benefits as well; 0–62 mph takes 4.3 seconds – 0.2 seconds faster than the Standard TT RS, also the top speed has been delimited from its 155 mph mark so it now maxes out at 174 mph. Strangely, however, CO2 emissions have not been affected and economy has benefitted.
The TT RS plus is also notable for featuring alongside the Lotus Exige S and the (991 gen) Porsche 911 Carrera S in Top Gear Magazine's "Speed Week".

Thursday 26 September 2013

Koenigsegg CCX

Koenigsegg CCX

The Koenigsegg CCX is a mid-engined sports car built by Koenigsegg Automotive AB. The project began with the aim of making a global car, designed and engineered to comply with global safety and environment regulations, particularly to enter the United States car market To sell cars in the US many alterations were made to the design of the CCR; the previously used Ford Modular engine was replaced by a Koenigsegg engine designed to run on 91 octane fuel, readily available in the United States, and to meet the Californian emission standards.The name CCX is an abbreviation for Competition Coupé X, the X commemorating the 10th anniversary (X being the Roman numeral for ten) of the completion and test drive of the first CC vehicle in 1996.


Powertrain

The new engine is of all aluminum construction, made out of 356 aluminum with a T7 heat treat to further enhance block integrity and cylinder bore chill during casting. Specifically created and cast for Koenigsegg by Grainger & Worrall, a casting specialist with F1 experience in drivetrain components, the engine is built, assembled and tested at their Ängelholm production plant. The engine is lubricated with a dry sump system with a separate oil pump and the pistons are cooled by means of an internal cooler that sprays oil onto them in order to run high cylinder pressure with 91 octane fuel  making it capable of 14 mpg (17 l/100 km) in combined cycle and 18 mpg (13 l/100 km) in highway travel. Available transmissions are a Cima 6-speed manual and a 6-speed automated manual. Power is fed to the wheels through a torque-sensitive limited slip differential.



Body

The chassis is made from carbon fiber reinforced with kevlar and aluminium honeycomb like previous models and while the body keeps the targa top body style and the "dihedral synchro-helix" actuation doors it is completely reworked, there is a new front bumper design, enhanced brake cooling, fog lamps, US position lights, a new fresh air intake on the bonnet that acts as ram air booster, air intakes behind the front wheels to enhance airflow and a glass window over the engine.
The CCX has frontal area of 2,894 sq in (1.867 m2) and a drag coefficient of 0.30. It also has a flat underside with venturi tunnels at the rear and an optional rear spoiler to improve aerodynamics. At 200 km/h (120 mph) there is 60 kg of downforce over the front axle and 65 kg over the rear. The car is 88 mm (3 in) longer to comply with the US rear impact regulations and to free space around the rear muffler. On the interior side, there is 51 mm (2 in) of extra headroom as well as specifically designed Sparco carbon fiber seats

CCXR

The CCXR is a more "environmentally friendly" version of the CCX, powered by the same engine, but converted to use E85 and E100 ethanol fuel, as well as standard 98 octane petrol. The CCXR required modified fuel injectors, upgraded fuel lines and piston rings, and a higher boost setting on the superchargers.When run on ethanol, the power increases to 1,018 PS (749 kW; 1,004 hp) at 7000 rpm and 1,060 N·m (782 lb·ft) of torque at 5600 rpm. This is a direct result of the cooling properties of ethanol in the engine's combustion chambers along with the added boost, made possible by ethanol's higher octane rating when compared to gasoline. Due to the lower specific energy content of ethanol, the CCXR burns slightly more fuel than the CCX with a combined fuel consumption of 22 L/100 km (13 mpg-imp; 11 mpg-US) under the EU cycle.
In March 2009 the CCXR was chosen by Forbes as one of the ten most beautiful cars in history.

Edition

At the 2008 Geneva Motor Show Koenigsegg presented two special edition models, the CCX Edition and the CCXR Edition, both fitted with a remapped, 4.8 L twin-supercharged V8 engine and limited to 2 and 4 units respectively. The modifications to the engine increase the power of the CCX Edition to 888 PS (653 kW; 876 hp) and 940 N·m (693 lb·ft) of torque while the CCXR Edition ratings remained largely unchanged over the CCXR. Later Koenigsegg also built 2 CCXR Special Edition cars with compared to the old CCXR Edition had updated aerodynamics and a F1 Paddleshift system.
The Edition models are more track oriented compared to the standard models, being equipped with stiffer springs and anti-roll bars, reset dampers and a lowered chassis and a fully visible carbon body, unique 11 spoke wheels and a large adjustable rear wing, larger front splitter and side strakes capable of producing 350 kg (772 lb) of downforce at 250 km/h (155 mph). The interior is also reworked and features: color matched leather carpets, Koenigsegg Edition side step plates, Edition chronograph instrument cluster, a new Edition only layout for the center console control panels, and features a special version of the Koenigsegg Chronocluster including a redesigned center console. All other extra equipment for the Koenigsegg Edition CCXR and CCX comes as standard: carbon wheels, special interior trim and color, rearview camera, Satnav or Bluetooth, amplifiers, complete Inconell exhaust system.


CCXR Trevita

The CCXR Trevita is a limited edition of the Koenigsegg CCXR Edition featuring a diamond weave carbon fibre finish. Trevita is an abbreviation in Swedish and translates into - three whites. Up until the development of the CCXR Trevita, it has only been possible to utilize the classic black carbon fibres.The Koenigsegg Proprietary Diamond Weave, fully developed by Koenigsegg, is a new and unique method to manufacture the carbon fibre material for the CCXR Trevita. By utilising this new and unique method, Koenigsegg has managed to coat fibres with a diamond finish. The process was fully developed at Koenigsegg headquarters in Ängelholm Sweden, where the fibre treatment is conducted carefully in small quantities, prior to further processing the prepreg material. The car is one of the world's most expensive streetlegal supercar, it has a total price of US $4,850,000 (€3,400,000 or 35,000,000 Swedish krona).Only three CCXR Trevitas were produced, making one of the rarest vehicle manufactured by Koenigsegg. All three cars featured the Koenigsegg Shimmering Diamond Weave bodywork, double carbon rear wing, inconel exhaust system, carbon ceramic brakes with ABS, airbags, paddle-shift, chrono instrument cluster, infotainment system, tire monitoring system and a hydraulic lifting system



Wednesday 25 September 2013

Rolls-Royce Ghost

Rolls-Royce Ghost

The Rolls-Royce Ghost is a luxury saloon from Rolls-Royce Motor Cars. The "Ghost" nameplate, named in honour of the Silver Ghost, a car first produced in 1906, was announced in April 2009 at the Auto Shanghai show. During development, the Ghost was known as the "RR04". Designed as a smaller, "more measured, more realistic car" than the Phantom, aiming for a lower price category for Rolls-Royce models, the retail price is around £170,000 (US$255,000). The production model was officially unveiled at the 2009 Frankfurt Motor Show. The 17 cm longer option Ghost Extended Wheelbase was introduced in 2011.


2010 Paris Motor Show bespoke car collection

Bespoke Ghost Silver 100 includes the following:
  • Single coachline in crème light
  • Black stained ash veneer
  • Black contrast stitching
  • Silver pinstripes
  • Tread plates RR logo and Mondial de l'Automobile Paris 2010
Bespoke Midnight Sapphire includes the following:
  • Seat piping in fleet blue
  • Spirit of Ecstasy inlay to door cappings
  • Tread plates RR logo and Mondial de l'Automobile Paris 2010
The vehicles were unveiled in 2010 Paris Motor Show.

Two-tone car (2012–)

The two-tone colour scheme bespoke option was first offered for Rolls-Royce Ghost in 2012.
The first bespoke Rolls-Royce Ghost (with Infinity Black and Cassiopeia Silver body colours, seashell headlining, black stained ash veneer with steel pinstripes framed by black leather upholstery, lambswool floor mats) was unveiled at the 2012 Geneva Motor Show.
The second bespoke Rolls-Royce Ghost (with Baynunah Brown body colour, Arizona Sun at bonnet, window surrounds, roof and luggage compartment; gold-plated Spirit of Ecstasy, double coach-line in gold) was commissioned for delivery to a client based in the Middle East.

Ghost Art Deco car (2012–)

This is a version of the Ghost with Art Deco-inspired interior detailing.Retail model includes a choice of infinity black or arctic white body colour, dual bespoke coach line, illuminated Spirit of Ecstasy, interior Art Deco inlays, Olympia-inspired motif on tread plates and headrest embroidery. A black and white interior scheme features a choice of four seat piping colours inspired by the colour palette of the era.
A bespoke car, which includes jubilee silver and cobalt blue body colours, was unveiled in 2012 Paris Motor Show



Design

The Ghost was designed by Andreas Thurner and engineered by Helmut Riedl, who led the development of the larger Rolls-Royce Phantom. The Ghost, codenamed RR04 during its design phase, was developed to compete with vehicles significantly less expensive than the Phantom, such as the Bentley Continental Flying Spur.The car is based on a heavily modified platform shared with BMW’s latest 7-Series, called the F01 platform. The company concedes that 20% of parts are common to both cars. The Ghost has a 129.7-inch (3,290 mm) wheelbase, roof height, bonnet height and track widths all of its own, and the Ghost uses Phantom-style air springs. The car also shares the FlexRay electronic system with its larger stablemate. The car has a kerb weight of 5,445 lb (2,470 kg).Like other current Rolls-Royce models, the Ghost uses parent company BMW's iDrive user interface; unlike the Phantom series, the Spirit of Ecstasy hood ornament along with more functions, are controlled using the system


Maybach 62 S


Maybach 62 S

The Maybach 57 (chassis no. W240) and 62 (chassis no. V240) were the first automobile models of the Maybach brand since the brand's revival by DaimlerChrysler AG (now Daimler AG). They are derived from the Benz Maybach concept car presented at the 1997 Tokyo Motor Show. The concept car was based on the Mercedes-Benz S-Class sedan, as are the eventual production models. The Luxury Brand Status Index 2008 voted the Maybach 1st place, ahead of Rolls-Royce and Bentley. The models will cease production in 2013, due to continued financial losses for the marque, and sales at one fifth the level of the profitable Rolls-Royce models.


 Maybach 62
The Maybach 62 includes many luxury features such as fully reclining rear seats, Maybach 4 zone climate control, tinted-windows, infrared-reflecting laminated glass all round, AirMATIC dual control air suspension, display instruments in rear roof liner (showing speed, time and outside temperature), folding rear tables (left and right), BOSE Surround Everywhere sound system and a refrigerator compartment. The Maybach 62 also includes an array of additional features such as Cockpit Management and Navigation System (COMAND), which includes DVD navigation, CD changer in rear seats, DVD players and TV tuners front and rear, two rear LCD TV screens including remote control and two sets of headphones, and automatic closing doors.Even though the Maybach 62 has all these features included, optional extras are available. Some of these are a panoramic glass sunroof at a cost of $11,670, and an external communication system, a loudspeaker and microphone system which allows the occupant in the rear of the Maybach to converse with people outside the car. This option comes at a cost of $1,780. Additionally, there is a retractable electrotransparent partition screen between the driver and the rear occupants, at $23,780 and, most expensive, a high protection GUARD B4 Package for an additional $151,810.


Maybach 62 S

The Maybach 62 S appeared in November 2006 at the Auto China 2006 exhibit in Beijing. It features the same engine as the 57S, a 612 metric horsepower (450 kW) twin-turbo V12 made by Mercedes-Benz AMG. However, the suspension remains untouched.



Maybach 62 Landaulet

The Maybach 62 Landaulet, based on the Maybach 62S, revives the classic landaulet car body style, which was popular in the 1920s and 30s. Powered by the 62S's 612 horsepower (456 kW) biturbo V12, the Landaulet's front seats are fully enclosed and separated from the rear passenger compartment by a power divider window; the opacity of this partition can be electronically controlled.
A sliding soft roof allows back seat passengers to take in the sun from the comfort of their seats. The chauffeur's area is finished in black leather, while the rear is white with piano black and gold-flecked black granite inserts.
Maybach publicly unveiled the Landaulet at the Middle East International Auto Show around the end of November 2007 as a concept car. Limited production was confirmed in January 2008.


2013 cessation

With poor sales expectations and heavy impact of 2008 financial crises, Daimler AG undertook a review of the whole Maybach division.These included talks with AstonMartin to engineer and style the next generation of Maybach models along with the next generation of Lagonda models.
However, on 25 November 2011, Daimler announced that sales of all Maybach models and the brand would cease in 2013
The line will be replaced by Mercedes-Benz S-Class Pullman models. An executive told a Frankfurt newspaper that: "(Daimler) came to the conclusion that the sales chances for the Mercedes brand were better than that of Maybach."
One suggestion for Maybach's struggles was that parent Daimler had failed to differentiate it from its Mercedes-Benz brand. While all three ultra-luxury marques share platforms and engines with other luxury brands from their parent auto company, Maybachs are built alongside the Mercedes-Benz S-Class flagship sedan, whereas Rolls-Royce and Bentley are assembled in England (separate from the rest of BMW and Volkswagen Group's production plants) and thus are regarded as being more "exclusive". Furthermore the Maybach's pedigree was virtually unknown outside Germany unlike its British rivals which have long enjoyed renown worldwide; indeed the 2006 Rolls-Royce Phantom's interior evokes memories of a 1930s car while the Maybach 57S's inside makes no reference to its marque's history.


Bentley Flying Spur

Bentley Flying Spur

Bentleys have worn the Continental Flying Spur name on two quite different classes of four-door cars since 1957.The first is a four-door saloon body made to special order by coachbuilders H. J. Mulliner & Co. (later Mulliner Park Ward) on a Bentley Continental chassis. These bodies were built in London on the various specification chassis made in Crewe between 1957 and 1966.
The second is a standard manufacturer's catalogue car, a four-door standard production line version of Bentley's own Crewe factory-built Continentals.Both may be described as four-door variants of 2-door Bentley Continentals.

1957–1966 Bentley Continental

Always for cars with more powerful engines than used in standard cars installed in lowered chassis provided to coachbuilders for distinctive and distinguished body shapes of specially lightened construction.
Bentley Continentals have usually been close-coupled two-door saloons intended for high speed touring and slightly less for comfort. They were named Continental, as with some Rolls-Royces before them, because until the 1960s there were no high speed roads of any length on their home territory.


2006–2013 Bentley Continental Flying Spur

The Bentley Continental Flying Spur (2006 - 2013) is the second Bentley manufactured since Volkswagen Group purchased the brand in 1999, after the Continental GT. They Flying Spur is essentially a four-door version of the GT, with a stretched wheelbase and greater length for more spacious rear seating. The two models are similarly priced.
The 2013 Spur weighs 5,580 lbs and carries the same twin-turbo 6.0-litre W12 used in the Continental GT, for an output of 600 horsepower and 533 pound-feet of torque. It has a zero-to-sixty-mph time of 4.5 seconds and a top speed of 200 mph. The steering column-mounted paddle shifters enable direct access to the six-speed gearbox when the ZF transmission is in “S” or sports mode. EPA fuel economy estimates are 11 mpg city/19 mpg highway. A 2013 Continental Flying Spur comes with a 3 year/unlimited mileage warranty.
The 2013 Bentley Flying Spur Speed version carries a $209,600 base price. Options include a remote-controlled rear-seat entertainment system embedded in the front row headrests. Lambswool rugs accompany the Premium specification.



2014 Bentley Flying Spur 
On 12 February 2013, Bentley Motors announced a redesigned Flying Spur for model-year 2014. The 2014 Flying Spur was first unveiled to the public at the 2013 Geneva Motor Show. The "Continental" prefix has been omitted from Bentley's promotional material for this model. It carries the same twin-turbo 6.0-litre W12 used in the Continental GT, for an
output of 616 horsepower, 590 pound-feet of torque and zero-to-sixty-mph time of 4.3 seconds. The sedan weighs 5,451 pounds and has a new eight-speed automatic transmission for the 2014 model-year. Its all-wheel-drive system is rear-biased with a ratio of 60:40.
The 2014 Flying Spur is expected to get better fuel economy by U.S. EPA estimates, with (uncertified) projections of 12 miles per gallon (mpg) in the city and 20 mpg on the highway.


Flying Spur (2013-)

Changes include increasing engine performance (from Continental GT Speed), ZF eight-speed transmission, redesigned body with lower, wider appearance with sharp lines and gently curvaceous surfaces; new wing vent at front fenders, new body structure includes reinforcement to the B-posts, sills and front crossmembers together with deformable components in the floorpan for optimal load transfer; a deployable aluminium bonnet that includes both new reinforcement panels and deformation elements, 600 new interior parts, lightweight acoustic underfloor panels, side glazing and both front and rear screens made in acoustic glass, heating and ventilation system with a new Thermostatic Expansion Valve (with optional Climate Boost function), new 19" tyre with 12% relative increase in sidewall height, suspension spring rates are softened front and rear by 10% and 13% respectively, anti-roll bars softened by 13 per cent and 15 per cent to improve single wheel impact absorption, suspension lever bushes all-round softened by at least 25 per cent for reduced road surface-induced noise and vibration, revised damper electronic control (CDC), new 19-inch Classic wheel in bright-painted or with a diamond turned finish (optional 20-inch five-spoke, 21-inch six-spoke and 21-inch ten-spoke wheels).
The vehicle was unveiled in 2013 Geneva Motor Show The car was presented to the public on March 5 at the 2013 Geneva Motor Show., followed by Auto Shanghai 2013, Barcelona International Motor Show 2013, 2013 Cholmondeley Pageant of Power,Bentley Moscow dealership on Tretyakov Passage fourth, Bentley Stockholm.The "Continental" prefix has been omitted from Bentley's promotional material for this facelift model. According to Bentley's designers, this was a conscious attempt to distance the Flying Spur - a 4-door limousine - from the 2-door Continental GT range (historically, the Continental name was generally used by Bentley to refer to 2-door models). The Flying Spur and Continental GT continue to share the same engineering platform.

Tuesday 24 September 2013

Ferrari F12 Berlinetta

Ferrari F12 Berlinetta

The Ferrari F12berlinetta (also unofficially referred to as the F12 Berlinetta or the F12) is a front mid-engine, rear-wheel-drive grand tourer produced by Italian sports car manufacturer Ferrari. The F12berlinetta, introduced to the public at the 2012 Geneva Motor Show, replaces the Ferrari 599 series grand tourers. The naturally aspirated 6.3 litre Ferrari V12 Engine in the F12 has won the International Engine of the Year Awards 2013 in the Best Performance category and Best Engine above 4.0 litres. The F12berlinetta was named "The Supercar of the Year 2012" by car magazine Top Gear.


Aerodynamics

The F12berlinetta makes use of aerodynamic techniques based on Ferrari's 599XX and Formula One programmes, developed with wind tunnel and CFD testing. A notable feature is the Aero Bridge, an air channel running from the bonnet, through the flanks and along the sides of the vehicle, creating an effect that increases downforce. Another feature is Active Brake Cooling ducts, which open to direct cooling air only when the brakes are hot, keeping them closed at other times to reduce aerodynamic drag. The F12berlinetta produces 123 kg (271 lb) of downforce at 200 km/h (120 mph) – an increase of 76% over the 599 GTB – and has a drag coefficient of 0.299.

Chassis

The F12berlinetta is built around an aluminium space frame chassis co-developed with Scaglietti. The chassis is made up of 12 different aluminium alloys and improves structural rigidity by 20% over the 599, whilst reducing weight by 70 kg (150 lb). The centre of gravity has been lowered by around 25 mm (1 in). The F12berlinetta's weight distribution is 46% front, 54% rear.Similar to other contemporary Ferrari models, the F12berlinetta uses Ferrari's third generation CCM3 carbon ceramic disc brakes with ABS, SCM-E magnetorheological suspension, an electronic limited slip differential, ESP Premium stability control and F1-Trac traction control. The car's stability and traction control, suspension and other settings are controlled by the Manettino dial mounted on the steering wheel.




Performance

Ferrari reports that the F12berlinetta is capable of lapping the Fiorano test circuit in 1 minute, 23 seconds; 1.0 second faster than the 599 GTO, 2.0 seconds faster than the Enzo Ferrari, 2.0 seconds faster than the 458 Italia, 2.0 seconds faster than the 430 Scuderia and 3.5 seconds faster than the 599 GTB.

 

Design

The body of the F12berlinetta is designed by the Ferrari Styling Centre and Pininfarina, and shares some styling elements with other recent Ferrari models. This includes a front grille similar to the FF and headlights shared with the FF and 458 Italia. The interior, based on the FF, features new "Frau leather" upholstery with aluminium, Alutex, and carbon fibre trim, and has increased luggage space compared to the 599.The body computer system is developed by Magneti Marelli Automotive Lighting.



Engine

The F12berlinetta uses a 6,262 cc (382 cu in), naturally aspirated 65° V12 engine shared with the Ferrari FF, producing 740 PS (544 kW; 730 hp) at 8500 rpm and 690 N·m (509 lb·ft) of torque at 6000 rpm, making it the most powerful road-legal Ferrari to date, only surpassed by the 2013 LaFerrari. This allows the F12berlinetta to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in an officially reported 3.1 seconds, with third party tests reporting as little as 2.8 seconds, 0 to 200 km/h (120 mph) in 8.5 seconds and a top speed of over 340 km/h (210 mph). It is theoretically possible that the F12berlinetta can reach 362 km/h (225 mph) The engine of the F12berlinetta has been designed to be more efficient than that of the 599, as well as more powerful. The engine management system is fitted with Ferrari's HELE start-stop system to reduce fuel consumption when idling. Ferrari reports that the F12berlinetta can achieve 18 mpg (15.7 L/100 km; 15.0 mpg-US) – a 30% improvement over the 599 – and produces CO2 emissions of 350 g/km.

Transmission

n common with the California, 458 Italia, FF and LaFerrari, the F12berlinetta transmits power through a 7-speed dual-clutch automated semi-automatic gearbox operated by the driver using 'paddles' behind the steering wheel. Compared to similar models, the F12berlinetta uses shortened gear ratios to match the power of the engine.





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