Toyota FT-86 Sports

Post by: Automotive

- FT-86 Sports Concept, Toyota’s vision for a future sports car

- European debut at Geneva motor show

- Designed and engineered to capture the spirit of the renowned Corolla AE86 of the 1980s

- Front-engine, rear-wheel drive format

- Lightweight, compact and aerodynamically efficient body

Celica, MR2, Supra, Corolla AE86: Toyota’s great driver-focused sports cars of the past have inspired its vision for a future-generation concept model that makes its European debut at the Geneva motor show.

In creating the FT-86 (Future Toyota-86) Sports Concept, Toyota has directly referenced the excitement and fundamental fun-to-drive quality that characterised the Corolla AE-86. In its day the AE86 became a must-have model for rallying and circuit racing, with its front-engine, rear-wheel drive powertrain, compact dimensions, light weight, impeccable balance and strong power to weight ratio. Even more than 20 years on from the end of production, it remains a popular choice with privateer rally teams.

Mercedes-Benz G V12 S Biturbo Widestar Brabu

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The most powerful in the world off-roader comes with a striking wide version: At the Geneva Motor Show 2010 BRABUS G V12 S Biturbo celebrate the debut WIDESTAR world. This exclusive special model is powered by twelve twin-cylinder turbo engine with 700 hp (690 bhp) / 515 kW.

BRABUS build a five-door with a hand based on the latest Mercedes G-Class. Like all BRABUS special model, accepted by the German Federal Vehicle Registration Agency (Kraftfahrtbundesamt) as a car manufacturer, which BRABUS G V12 S Biturbo WIDESTAR available with a long list of luxury appointments. Ultra-strong 4x4 starts at 394,900 Euros MSRP.

Designation as the model shows, the engine bay to accommodate G-Class vehicles BRABUS SV12 S engine originally developed for the BRABUS ROCKET with a top speed of 365.7 km / h (227.2 mph). High performance is based on the engine V12 Biturbo engine of the latest Mercedes S 600 model. In the state-of-the-art BRABUS engine shop displacement of the three-valve engine increased 5,5-6,3 liters (336-384 cu. Masuk) with the help of a special crankshaft with longer stroke, larger cylinder bore and piston greater. In addition, the engine cylinder head and re-equipped with special camshafts.

Engine peripherals are enhanced with larger turbochargers, the optimal system and intercooling stainless steel high-performance exhaust system with free-flow metal catalysts. Dispose of the custom-developed for the G-Class and features chrome-plated dual tailpipes that exit in front of the rear wheel on both sides. New mapping for engine electronics precision coordinate the perfect interaction of all new components. The result is a smooth-running model engines with maximum power that meets the limits set by strict EURO IV emission norms.

In the G-Class BRABUS S V12 S displacement engine produces 700 hp (690 bhp) / 515 kW at 5100 rpm. The turbocharged twelve-cylinder provides peak torque of 1320 Nm (973 lb-ft) at 2100 rpm. In the car peak torque is electronically limited to 1100 Nm (811 lb-ft).

The BRABUS G V12 S Biturbo offers acceleration performance of almost unimaginable for a true off-roader: Combined with a special five-speed automatic transmission and permanent four-wheel drive SUV catapult themselves exclusively from rest to 100 km / h (62 mph) in just 4.3 seconds. Top speed is limited electronically to 240 km / h (150 mph). Without limiting the high-tech self-imposed G-Class models can reach 260 km / h (163 mph).

With the new version WIDESTAR the BRABUS designers have managed to lend a classic G-Class body is more striking and dynamic profile. Strongly shaped fender flares add 12 cm (4.7 inches) with a wide body and optimize venting from the front wheels and rear of the house thanks to the integrated air vents. Hollywood striking BRABUS door moldings 4x4 provides a very distinctive appearance even when viewed from the side. Sturdy stainless steel running boards to facilitate entry and exit of vehicles during the day and at night. LED lights integrated into the front and rear fenders top WIDESTAR illuminate the ongoing activation through the door handle or keyless remote.

Wide fender creates space for very large wheels and tires. WIDESTAR owner BRABUS offers a wide choice of custom-tailored tire / wheel combinations with diameters ranging from 20-23 inches. WIDESTAR versions available for all five-door G-Class models. The most exclusive choice for WIDESTAR features three-piece 11Jx23 PLATINUM EDITION Monoblock E alloy wheels in front and rear axle. The appropriate high-performance tires in size 305/35 R 23 are supplied by Pirelli and Yokohama.

WIDESTAR the BRABUS version offers a wider track and even more impressive appearance. Continue to shape the front apron flare on both sides and a large air channels to provide front brakes with a lot of cooling air supply. At the same time sophisticated shape reduces lift apron at the front axle. Six styles to optimize lamp integrated active safety aids in low light conditions. BRABUS running daytime LED lights under the main lights calls attention to the 'Power G' during the day.

Apron on the back of the front apron design language with stylish flare to fade and underride guard. In addition to the central reflector mounted on the rear bumper also houses WIDESTAR rear fog lights and backup lights on both sides. Designer suit round out the BRABUS roof spoiler with integrated LED brake light.

Optimal handling of the special model BRABUS complete G V12 S Biturbo with a comfortable custom suspension. To maintain the exceptional performance safely in check at all times the standard equipment also includes the BRABUS high-performance brake system with 12-piston aluminum fixed calipers and 380-mm (15.0 in) vented discs on front axle.

G BRABUS interior habits V12 S Biturbo WIDESTAR very exclusive too: This includes ergonomically shaped sport steering wheel, a speedometer with 280-km / h scale (175-mph), stainless steel plate pounded with illuminated BRABUS logo and completely artificial skin BRABUS interior made from especially soft and breathing BRABUS Mastik leather.

At the request BRABUS can turn customers into fully functional 4x4 and off-road capable office on wheels by installing a computer system including a wireless LAN network and UMTS internet connection. This concept can be enhanced with high-tech multimedia system with a DVD changer, TV tuner and game console DVBT.

Three screens display images from various sources: An electrically deployed 15.2-inch TFT screen is integrated into the headliner. In addition, BRABUS has developed a special console for the rear of the front seat. They each feature seven-inch integrated LCD screen with DVD player and an electric deployed table. The sound is carried by infrared headphones.

Automotive Wallpapers: Ferrari 599 GTO

Post by: Automotive

Maranello, www.ferrari.com is now available on the first photo and information about the new 599 GTO, extreme V12 Berlinetta developed for a brief orientation on specific performance. The 599 GTO, in fact, the fastest ever road car company. This is an exclusive special limited edition, in true Ferrari tradition, is an entirely new concept, although inspired by a production car. Actually based on the 599XX 599 GTO, the car advanced experimental songs, and can be considered almost road-going version.

GTO 599 599 are provided only for clients who are looking for maximum expression of high-performance driving. 599 GTO directly benefit from the transfer of technology from racing and set the record at Fiorano lap time in 1'24 ".

Automotive Wallpapers: Audi R8 GT

Post by: Automotive

- Limited-production, top-of-the-line version of the high performance sports car

- 100 pounds lighter, the carbon body parts

- V10 FSI with 412 kW (560 hp), 0-100 km / h in 3.6 seconds

Ingolstadt, now even stronger, lighter and faster: displays the version of the Audi R8's limited production high performance sports cars, GT R8. Output from the 5.2-liter V10 has been increased to 412 kW (560 hp), vehicle weight has been reduced by approximately 100 kilograms (£ 220.46). GT R8 accelerates from zero to 100 km / h (62.14 mph) in 3.6 seconds and reaches a top speed of 320 km / h (198.84 mph).

The R8 high-performance sports cars have a winner from scratch. This applies to both the production model, winner of the "World Performance Car" Award in 2008 (R8) and in 2010 (R8 V10), and racing cars, with the LMS R8, which won 23 races in his first season and claimed three championships. The genes from the version now comes to road races - the GT R8. Exclusive series limited to 333 units. Every GT R8 has a badge with a production number on the shift key lever.

High Quality and Residuals Make the Volkswagen Transporter a Double Winner

The Volkswagen Transporter van has been described as ‘head and shoulders’ above its rivals by the judges who chose it as the Best Medium Van in the inaugural Fleet Van Awards 2008, while the latest issue of Commercial Motor magazine has named the VW Transporter winner of a Medium Van group test against five rival vehicles, with particular praise for its quality and fuel economy.
‘In such a tough category, the winner had to have a supremely strong offering. But there was no doubt in the judges’ minds that one van stood head and shoulders above the rest, with superb build quality, road manners and residual values – the Volkswagen Transporter,’ said the judges of the Fleet Van Awards 2008.
The unsuccessful vehicles in the category compared against the VW Transporter included the Ford Transit, Vauxhall Vivaro, Mercedes-Benz Vito and Citroën Dispatch.
‘In these difficult economic times, this award is a great help to van buyers,’ said Simon Elliott, Director of Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles. ‘Choosing a van is not just about the purchase price, but also its quality, durability and competitive whole-life costs. Buying a Volkswagen van also includes the reassuring back-up of a dedicated Van Centre network and fully trained, professional staff,’ he continued.
In its group test of medium vans, Commercial Motor magazine praised the Volkswagen Transporter T30 TDI PD 130 PS, saying: ‘It comes as no surprise that its main strength is in the quality of its construction and design – something the manufacturer is noted for – and this is evident not just in the overall build, but in the way everything works together. The interior was the highest scoring in the group. And on fuel economy it also comes top.’
The Volkswagen Transporter range offers load volumes from 5.8 m³ to 9.3 m³, payloads from 802 kg to 1,282 kg, short and long wheelbase models, low, medium or high roof and four diesel engines from 84 PS to 174 PS. Basic retail prices start from £14,480 (excluding VAT) with vehicle contract hire or finance lease currently available from £205 a month with three years free servicing. It is the best-selling Volkswagen van in the UK and most of Europe, and one of the most popular vans ever with over 10 million produced since 1950.

Drivers – Save £5 Billion – But Be A Boring Driver

British motorists could save more than £250 per year – by changing their driving style to something that’s a little more greener (rather than honing around aggressively, one could say). So-called ‘better’ drivers can slash their fuel consumption by 15 percent, according to the energy saving truste The Trust is offering a £15 one hour course aimed at business drivers. Naturally, driving a little less enthusiastically also reduces emissions, as the engine gets worked less hard than otherwise. I’ve already covered the tips, so I won’t do it again. What I will say though is how much do you enjoy driving?
For me, it’s worth extra cash sometimes to drop a little bit of a heavier right foot. In fact, it makes me a little sick and tired of the current obsession with miles per gallon. I’d go so far as to say that I’d almost certainly never drive a diesel – unless it happens to be an Audi R8 V12 TDI.
Naturally, there’s a caveat here. The caveat is, rather than being concerned over money or emissions – consider the weather at the moment. You’d have to be rather mad to put the pedal to the metal at the moment, given how treacherous conditions are out there. I rectified a small skid on the way home myself…
Of course, if you are interest in being a ‘Galactic Miler’ or whatever they call them, then watch out for the Car Articles Green Car of the Year. Here’s a tip. It won’t be a bloody Prius! It’ll be a ‘proper’ car that won’t have mad airs and graces but will provide a good drive and a good MPG rating.

Aston Martin Cuts 600 Jobs

In yet another blow to the British car industry, Aston Martin has announced that it is to cut 600 jobs – half of which are actually full time posts. The luxury car maker, who employs around 1,800 people, blamed the downturn (who isn’t) on the loss of the roles.
Naturally, our thoughts go out to the workers who have unfortunately lost their jobs at a particularly hard time of year. Perhaps tellingly, Aston Martin sold only 110 cars in October this year, compared to the same month last year when they managed 164 sales.
I hate to say it – as I have huge respect for the man – but there’s just something a little hollow about the words that Dr Ulrich Bez spoke in response to this crisis of a third of the workforce being laid off. Particularly, his statement of “the Aston Martin brand is the strongest it has ever been”. I just feel that would stick in the throat of some of the workers who’ll be leaving the factory for the last time.
To be honest, I’m actually surprised that Aston Martin has had sales problems – it’s not really like the super rich (footballers etc) will really have been affected too badly by the credit crunch or the government’s advice to businesses of not giving employees pay rises that are higher than inflation.
We can all only hope that the British car industry picks up shortly – as this isn’t any good for any of us.

A New Van Centre In Glasgow

A new, state of the art Verve Van Centre in Glasgow was officially opened last week by Stephan Schaller, CEO of Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles. The new verve van centere , which represents a financial investment of £3m and is expected to create 20 new jobs, is a bespoke building in a new location at Glasgow Business Park in Baillieston, Glasgow. It replaces the previous Verve Van Centre which had outgrown its premises in Rutherglen, Glasgow.
The new building will enhance Verve’s customer service and experience with more servicing facilities, thanks to its larger ten vehicle workshop equipped with the latest testing and diagnostic equipment and fully trained staff. There is also a spacious showroom to demonstrate the award-winning Volkswagen range of vans including the Caddy vans and Transporter vans, people carriers and even the California camper van, plus a range of Volkswagen Assured Used vans. Verve is also proud to offer its customers courtesy vehicles if their vehicle is off the road, and will shortly be introducing the flexible option of Volkswagen Van Rental.
‘At Verve, we understand that to keep a business moving, our customers’ commercial vehicles need to keep moving too, so we look forward to enhancing our customer service by offering more facilities together with a warm welcome from our staff at our new location,’ said Charlie Adair, Managing Director of Verve who founded the business almost exactly ten years ago, on 4 December 1998, and has seen sales of commercial vehicles increase from 64 in his first year to 650 in 2007.
‘Verve is an innovative and enthusiastic business. We believe in making things happen, not sitting about waiting for things to happen, so we are quick to adopt best practice in the industry, such as the Verve Apprentice Academy to develop the best Volkswagen-trained technicians,’ he continued.
Stephan Schaller, CEO of Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles said: ‘It is an honour to be here with my colleague Harald Schomburg, board member for sales and marketing. At the moment, Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles is number one in Europe with a total market share of 16 per cent, but this is only possible with a strong dealer network, fighting lowering business confidence with customer orientation every day.’
He added: ‘I must congratulate Charlie Adair on the brand-new facilities and for investing for the future during hard economic times; expanding from the old building to this impressive, new stand alone Van Centre, located in a regenerated area of Glasgow.
What I think is most remarkable is that you have created 20 new jobs in this customer orientated building to improve your business and to make your customers satisfied by meeting their demands. That’s the right spirit to sell our modern commercial vehicle range and to keep them on the road to success.’

audi q7

This Audi Q7 diesel is a monster, monster vehicle with more power than almost anything else on the road – but perhaps the most impressive thing is the fact that this power is channelled through a 7 seater 4×4 body! In fact, it’s the most powerful 4×4 in the world.
It’s the only passenger car available that comes with a 12 cylinder diesel engine – and engine that’s apparently closely related to the same powerplant used in the Le Mans R10 TDi sports car that was unleashed by Audi and driven by Allan McNish.
Performance is of course staggering, with the 500bhp engine tearing the car to 60 in only 5.5 seconds. There’s also the (limited) top speed of 155 miles per hour – one does have to wonder what it would be capable of with this removed, but then bear in mind the sheer size of the thing…
Fuel consumption is what you’d expect, with around 20mpg. Stopping power is good thanks to the massive brakes that are fitted as standard, but then come on, with all that weight matched to all that power, you’d need something serious to slow you down.
The Q7 is certainly one for those who need a fast Chelsea tractor – could you see yourself driving such an expensive vehicle (only slightly shy of £100,000) with a sign of any mud whatsoever on the bodywork? I didn’t think so.
Standard spec includes the usual leather, heated seats, sat-nav, Bose stereo etc etc. The list is quite good, but then again, it’s not exactly cheap. The suspension is adaptive so you should have difficulty making this big beast fall over, whilst the ground clearance is actually surprisingly good.