Car Highlight

Advice: How to choose a good used car

2011-10-07T17:22:00.001+02:00

   Before you buy a used car, you should look out for many things. The most important thing is that the vehicle is legally in order to avoid serious problems later.In addition, it's important to look out for it's condition to prevent any serious "hidden" investments after you buy the car.
   Here is some useful advice:

BODY

   Most cars that come from abroad to your markets are probably already damaged in their home country. This is confirmed by the car sellers themselves and they also claim that completely preserved specimens are a true rarity. Cars aging 6 years or less should not have any signs of corrosion on them. If corrosion does exist it is usually a sign of suffered physical damage. Minor scratches should not represent a problem. It is important to pay attention to whether the car has serious damage. This is best seen from the engine department and the boot. In these parts often remain traces of severe damage, poorly welded and poorly painted metal parts that are difficult to access. Pay attention to the gaps between the doors, wings, hood. Gaps should be equal to the left and the right side of the car. The difference in size of gap may indicate serious damage to the body.

SUSPENSION

   Try rocking the car by pressing one end of the car. If the shock absorbers are faulty vehicle should be easy to swing. When you stop rocking the car back and forth, good shock absorbers will stop the vehicle rocking in a short period of time. Bad shock absorbers allow the vehicle to make a couple more minor swings. Also if you are having a bouncy and bumpy feel on the steering wheel while driving the car, this also indicates suspension deterioration. If the wheels bearings are bad you will hear humming from the wheels during driving, therefore you must replace the bearings. Tilted car on a flat surface mean that the springs need to be replaced.

ENGINE

   If you notice that the engine compartment has been recently washed it's not a good sign because the seller may thus wanted to cover up some clues. Open the oil pouring cap on the engine. White condensate on the lid indicates the occurrence of water in the engine, which means that the engine is close to a general repair. If there is smoke coming out from the oil compartment while the engine is running, it is a sign that something is wrong with the links, valves or pistons. A good engine runs still on idle, and the cylinder compression should be equal on all cylinders.Observe the color of exhaust gases while the engine is running. Bluish exhaust gases indicate the occurrence of motor oil.
INTERIOR

   Ripped or even teared leather or covers on the seat or door can be a reliable indicator of the use of a car. If you have seat covers it would be good to take them off and check the condition of the seats underneath. Look carefully at the safety belt because the condition of the edges also tells a lot about the usage of the car. The exact mileage of the car is virtually impossible to determine, but using the most modern diagnostics you can roughly estimate whether the vehicle considering its manufacturing date, moved more or less miles than the average, as and whether there were some serious interventions. One of the easiest ways to determine whether the car was damaged, is using special instruments that quickly determine the thickness of paint, which must be equal in all parts of the body.

TEST DRIVE

   To determine whether everything is all right, it is best to take a short and sharp test drive. If you are able, bring with you the owner of the same model, because he will be able to identify any shortcomings. If no indicators on the dashboard come on upon engine start-up , it does not necessarily mean that all devices on the are correct. It happens that resellers deliberately remove light bulbs to hide flaws of a car. It is useful to park the vehicle several times, as this will determine whether the power steering works properly. During driving, do not listen to music so you can register sounds that indicate the faulty vehicle components.

IMPORTED CARS

   If you buy a car that was imported from Europe, it is very probable that it has lots of miles in various weather conditions and such vehicles certainly require smaller or larger investments. Cars with petrol engines generally passed aproximately 150,000 km, unlike diesel, which typically have twice the mileage. You should know that the crossed mileage is much less important than from who you are buying the car, so you could check the condition of the engine in an authorized service center. The essence lies in the answer to the question of how much the engine can serve, not how much it served the previous owners. Therefore, ask the authorized service about the condition of the engine, and how much more usage the engine can take before a general service/repair.

Highlight: 2012 Lamborghini Aventador LP700-4

2011-10-07T17:22:00.000+02:00

   Lamborghini's new creation is redefining the world of supercars as we know it. The new Lamborghini Aventador LP700-4 with it's brutal power, outstanding lightweight engineering and phenomenal handling precision are combined with peerless design and the very finest equipment to deliver an unparalleled driving experience. With this car Automobili Lamborghini are taking a new step to the future. President and CEO of Automobili Lamborghini says: "The Aventador is a jump of two generations in terms of design and technology, it's the result of an entirely new project, but at the same time it's a direct and consistent continuation of Lamborghini's brand values. It is extreme in its design and its performance, uncompromising in its standards and technology, and unmistakably Italian in its style and perfection. Overall, the dynamics and technical excellence of the Lamborghini Aventador LP700-4 makes it unrivalled in the worldwide super sports car arena."In the traditional Lamborghini spirit, the Aventador was named after a Spanish fighting bull from the breeding stables of the sons of Don Celestino Cuadri Vides.

The Design

   Every Lamborghini is an avantgarde work of art, a fast-moving technical sculpture. Every line, every detail of a super sports car from Sant'Agata is derived from its function - namely speed, dynamics, performance. Every Lamborghini is a purist's dream, reduced to its very essence.
   With the new Aventador LP700-4, the designers at the Centro Stile Lamborghini in Sant'Agata Bolognese have taken this committed philosophy to a whole new level - its extreme, razor-sharp lines portray a precision that is without parallel in automotive design. And its clean, taut and expertly executed surfaces demonstrate the exceptional competence and depth of experience possessed by Lamborghini in carbon-fiber body shell design.
   The surface of the roof has a new geometry that provides greater spaciousness for the passengers while at the same time giving relief to the lines of the front section. This also addresses the aim of obtaining a better aerodynamic coefficient, continuing Lamborghini's design philosophy of 'form follows function'.
   The engine cover utilizes the same styling giving continuity to the concept.

Carbon-fiber monocoque

   The new Lamborghini flagship has a full monocoque. The entire occupant cell, with tub and roof, is one single physical component. This ensures extreme rigidity and thus outstanding driving precision, as well as an extremely high level of passive safety for the driver and his passenger. The entire monocoque weighs only 147.5 kilograms (325.18 lb).
   The monocoque, together with the front and rear Aluminium frames, features an impressive combination of extreme torsional stiffness of 35,000 Newton meters per degree and weighs only 229.5 kilograms (505.9 lb).

Maximum revs, amazing sound

   For the Lamborghini Aventador LP700-4, the engineers in Lamborghini's R&D Department have developed a completely new high-performance power unit - an extremely powerful and high-revving, but very compact power unit. At 235 kilograms (518 lb), it is also extremely lightweight. A V12 with 515 kW (700 hp) at 8,250 rpm sets a whole new benchmark, even in the world of super sports cars. The maximum torque output is 690 Newton meters (509 lb-ft) at 5,500 rpm. The extremely well-rounded torque curve, the bull-like pulling power in every situation, the spontaneous responsiveness and, last but not least, the finely modulated but always highly emotional acoustics are what make this engine a stunning power plant of the very highest order.

Innovative transmission for maximum performance

   Engineers at Lamborghini have created the perfect mate for the new twelve-cylinder engine with the highly innovative ISR (Independent Shifting Rods) transmission. The development objective was clearly formulated - to build not only the fastest robotized gearbox, but also to create the world's most emotional gear shift. Compared with a dual-clutch transmission, not only is the ISR gearbox much lighter, it also has smaller dimensions than a conventional manual unit - both key elements in the field of lightweight engineering for super sports cars.

Refined and safe with all-wheel drive

   This kind of extreme power must be delivered reliably to the road. The driver of the Lamborghini Aventador LP700-4 can depend fully on its permanent all-wheel drive - indicated by the 4 in the model designation. In the driveline, an electronically controlled Haldex coupling distributes the forces between front and rear. In a matter of milliseconds, this coupling adapts the force distribution to match the dynamic situation. A self-blocking rear differential together with a front differential electronically controlled by ESP make for even more dynamic handling. The Drive Select Mode System enables the driver to choose vehicle characteristics (engine, transmission, differential, steering and dynamic control) from three settings - Strada (road), Sport and Corsa (track) - to suit his individual preferences.

Pushrod suspension

   Lamborghini has equipped its new V12 super sports car with an innovative and highly sophisticated suspension concept. The pushrod spring and damper concept was inspired by Formula 1 and tuned perfectly to meet the needs of a high-performance road-going vehicle. Together with aluminum double wishbone suspension and a carbon-fiber ceramic brake system, this lightweight chassis represents a further aspect of the new flagship's unique technology concept.

Carbon composite materials - A key technology for tomorrow's high-performance automotive engineering

   These materials made from CFRP combine the lowest possible weight with excellent material characteristics - they are very light, extremely rigid and exceptionally precise.
   Furthermore, CFRP materials can also be formed into highly complex components with integrated functions. This reduces the number of individual parts when compared to traditional metal construction - thus enabling further weight reduction. Lighter cars have lower fuel consumption and fewer CO2 emissions. Most significantly, however, it improves the power-to-weight ratio - the deciding factor in the overall feel and performance of a sports car. A super sports car built using CFRP accelerates faster, has superior handling and better braking.

Highlight: 2012 Ferrari FF

2011-04-29T16:42:00.021+02:00

   If the new Ferrari FF needs to be described in two lines these would be:
     Four seats,
     Four wheel drive...
   Yes,that's right! First four wheel drive prancing horse that came out from the factory in Maranello. It's first debut was at the 2011 Geneva Motor Show on March 21st. The FF is meant to be the replacement for Ferrari's 612 Scaglietti grand tourer which went out of production earlier this year.
   The new luxury four seater is powered by a 6.3 liter V12 witch puts out 651hp at a screaming 8,000rpm with a maximum torque of 504lb-ft at 6,000rpm of which 368lb-ft are available as low as 1,000rpm. All that impressive power is allowing the FF to accelerate from 0-100km/h in 3.7 seconds and a top speed of 335km/h. The FF's engine is paired with a 7-speed double-clutch semi-automatic paddle shift gearbox, similar to the one found on 458 Italia and California.
   What makes this car so special is it's four wheel drive system. It's called 4RM and it's engineered and patented by Ferrari.The whole system is 50% lighter than a conventional system and provides power intelligently to each wheel when needed. This system is based around a second, simple, gearbox taking power from the front of the engine. This gearbox (designated "power take off unit", or PTU) has only 2 forward gears (2nd and 4th) plus reverse (with gear ratios 6% taller than the corresponding ratios in the main gearbox), so the system is only active in 1st to 4th gears. The connection between this gearbox and each front wheel is via independent haldex-type clutches, without a differential. Due to the difference in ratios "the clutches continually slip" and only transmit, at most, 20% of the engine's torque. Despite the four-wheel drive system the FF maintains a rear-based weight distribution: 53% over the rear axle. The four-wheel drive technology delivers performance on all terrains and in all conditions via continuous predictive torque distribution to all four wheels.
   The FF is also equipped with the latest magnetorheological damping system (SCM3), as well as the most recent development in carbon-ceramic brakes from Brembo. It has generous space for four passengers and even 450 litres of luggage. With the rear seats down, luggage space increases to 800 litres.
   And now the price... 260,000 euros for all this modern,technology packed supercar. We think it's worth every penny!

Here is a video showing you the Ferrari's new creation in action:

Highlight: 2012 Pagani Huayra

2011-02-01T01:48:00.007+01:00

   When the Pagani Zonda's production run came to an end later last year, there's been a fuss about it's successor. Now the replacement for the Zonda is officially revealed and it's called the Huayra. The latest Pagani creation is named after Aymara god, Huayra Tata, the god of wind and it's first public debut is meant to be at 2011 Geneva Motor Show.
   The all new monocoque on the Huayra is entirely made from carbon-titanium and with a new set of gull wing doors that cut deep into the roof provide the Huayra high level of structural rigidity.The weight of the car has been kept to minimum so the whole car weighs just 1,350kg making it the lightest car in it's class.

   Now we arrive at the heart of the car which is a 6.0L AMG twin-turbo V12 producing 700 horsepower and staggering 1000 Nm of torque. The twin-turbo system is specially designed to respond at any throttle input preventing delays in power delivery. The powertrain is in typical AMG style assembled by one technician by hand at AMG headquartres in Affalterbach, Germany. The two stage fuel system features two microprocessors controlled fuel pumps feeding fuel to the engine from a large 85 liter fuel tank. The titanium exhaust is made using technology from the racetrack weighing just only 10kg and guarantees high temperature reliability. The gearbox is transverse seven speed with dual plate clutch which fully assembled weighs only 96kg. Specially for the Huayra, Pirelli has developed ultra high performace tires capable of keeping car on the road at speeds excessing 370km/h and when exposed to lateral forces exceeding 1,5G.
   As far as interior goes the all aluminum dashboard takes inspiration from swiss watch design with leather latches to the toggle switches and a mechanical aluminum gearlever assembly.In the center of the aluminum center console there is a touchscreen controlling sattelite navigation,audio functions,Bluetooth phone.All the primary functions are on the steering wheel with gearshift paddles mounted directly to the steering wheel and the beautiful leather seats are enjoyable for long trips but also keep you lateral support on extreme driving.
   The price tag on the latest Pagani supercar when it goes on sale will be around 1.4 million US dollars and expected production of just only 20 cars per year. KYFPQCG2BAV3

Update : 9ff GTurbo 1200 Video

2011-01-31T21:19:00.003+01:00

Earlier I posted an article about the 9ff GTurbo 1200 when it debuted at the 2010 Essen Motor Show.Here are some videos showing the car in action on the road :

Video of the day : Ferrari 360 Challange Stradale

2011-01-31T20:57:00.004+01:00

The noise coming from the Ferrari 360 Challange Stradale's exhaust is just amazing.The 3.6L V8 produces 425hp at a screaming 8500rpm. Some performance figures:

0–100 km/h (62 mph): 4.1 s

Top speed: 300 km/h (190 mph)

Just be sure to set your speaker volume to max and enjoy!

Highlight: 2012 Nissan GTR

2010-11-29T00:43:00.006+01:00

(from Nissan Press Release) 2012 Nissan GT-R Features More Horsepower, New “Black Edition,” Revised Fascias and Carbon Fiber Interior Trim

– Nissan’s Multi-Dimensional 530-Horsepower Supercar Makes North American Debut at Los Angeles Auto Show, Set to Go On Sale in Early 2011 –

Entering its fourth year of availability in the North American market, the 2012 Nissan GT-R has a new look, new colors, new wheel design and, most important to fans of pure power, more horsepower under the hood. In addition, a new “Black Edition”– with unique seats, interior colors and wheels – joins the GT-R Premium model. The latest iteration of Nissan’s legendary supercar makes its North American debut that the 2010 Los Angeles Auto Show and will be available at official “GT-R certified” Nissan dealers across the United States in early 2011.

The 2012 Nissan GT-R’s advanced VR38DETT 3.8-liter twin turbo V6 now produces 530 horsepower (versus the previous 485 horsepower) and 488 lb-ft of torque (versus the previous 434 lb-ft) – a result of modifying the boost pressure of the turbocharger, valve timing and air mixture ratio, and through reducing intake air resistance by enlarging the inlet pipe diameter. In addition, exhaust air resistance was reduced through use of an enlarged section of exhaust pipe.

GT-R’s already impressive aerodynamics have been improved for 2012 with downforce increased by about 10% and the coefficient of drag reduced to 0.26 (from 0.27). Stability is improved by enlarged fascia and grille openings, which also help reduce air resistance inside the engine compartment. The volume of air that passes through the radiator and cools the front brakes is also increased.

The newly refreshed front fascia features aggressive double rectifier fins and new integrated high intensity LED running lights. Additional plated parts are used for the headlight inner panels, enhancing the car’s strong visual presence.

The redesigned rear fascia features a lower center of gravity than the previous design, created by using a sculpted lower section and extended length. Underfloor cooling performance is also enhanced and air resistance reduced by extending the rear diffuser.

In addition, cooling performance for the muffler is improved and rear downforce is increased by about 10% through use of a new rear fascia outlet and new vents on the lower rear fenders that help remove air from the rear wheel wells. Newly designed larger diameter tailpipe finishers are also adopted. Six exterior colors are available, including two new colors: Deep Blue Pearl and Jet Black. Other available colors are Solid Red, Gun Metallic, Pearl White and a limited production 4-stage metallic Super Silver.

GT-R’s newly designed, lighter weight and more rigid forged aluminum 20-inch wheels, once again manufactured by RAYS®, help improve suspension response. Knurling inside the wheels is modified to help keep the tires from slipping around the wheels under heavy acceleration or braking. The wheels also feature a new premium dark (near black) finish, which provides a high quality, high-performance look. The Black Edition features special black six-spoke RAYS® lightweight wheels in place of the Premium model’s 10-spoke design.

Inside, the revisions for 2012 include new carbon fiber trim and upgraded materials. The Black Edition adds custom red-trimmed Recaro® seats, red and black interior trim and a dark headliner.

“The Nissan GT-R continues to be a multi-dimensional performance machine that lives up to the concept of ‘the ultimate supercar that can be driven by anyone, anytime, anywhere,’” said Al Castignetti, vice president and general manager, Nissan Division, Nissan North America, Inc. “With the enhancements for 2012, including its 530-horsepower twin turbo V6 and revised styling, the GT-R legend continues to grow. We can’t wait for its arrival in Nissan showrooms, and on the streets, here in the U.S.”

Additional information on the 2012 Nissan GT-R, including on-sale date, will be available in the coming months.

Now entering its fourth year of availability in the North American market, the 2012 Nissan GT-R has a new look, new colors, new wheel design and, most important to fans of pure power, 35 more horsepower under the hood. In addition, a new “Black Edition” – with unique seat design, interior colors and wheels – joins the GT-R Premium model. The starting MSRPs for the 2012 Nissan GT-R are $89,950 USD and $95,100 USD for the Premium and Black Edition respectively.

Highlight: Brabus SV12 R Biturbo 800

2010-11-28T22:40:00.005+01:00

   German tuner Brabus has revealed the SV12 R Biturbo 800. Shortly, the fastest luxury sedan on the planet with it's top speed limited to 350 km/h.
   The power comes from a S600 engine which displacement has been increased from 5.5 to 6.3 liters. The displacement increase is due to new special crankshaft with longer stroke, precision-balanced pistons, larger diameter pistons and corresponding larger cylinder bore. Also new air intake was custom developed to fit under the hood of the S-Class. Brabus developed new Biturbo system with two special manifolds with integrated turbine housings and turbochargers.The engine is cooled by four water-to-air intercoolers.The all new exhaust system with sport catalysts and four exhaust tips give the S-Class power increase and more dominant exhaust note. The engine produces 800hp at 5,500rpm and peek torque od 1,420Nm available from a low 2,100rpm, but the toque is limited to 1,100Nm due to technical reasons.
   Power transfer to the rear wheels is through a reinforced five speed-automatic transmission.Limited slip differential is available as an option.The car gets from 0 to 100km/h in an impressive 3.9 seconds bearing in mind that it's a luxury saloon.0 to 200 km/h is reached in 10.3 seconds.
   Stopping power is assured with 12-piston aluminum fixed calipers with vented cross-drilled discs in front and 6-piston aluminum fixed calipers in the back.
   A particular Brabus specialty is the cration of the multimedia equipement including the iBusiness concept. Brabus have integrated Apple components into the vehicle electronics of this Mercedes S-Class.

Highlight: 9ff GTurbo 1200

2010-11-28T21:40:00.005+01:00

Here is another treat from Essen 2010 motor show. The 9ff GTurbo 1200 features a new aero body kit, carbon rear wing, carbon bonnet, lightweight windows and special driveshafts. The 4.0 liter engine got some major updates: new pistons, bigger intercoolers and a new fuel sistem. The whole package produces 1200 hp. I cannot wait to see first videos of the 9ff GTurbo 1200 on the road!

Source: GTspirit.com

Highlight: Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG Widestar by Brabus

2010-11-28T13:16:00.004+01:00

One of the biggest car events of the year was the 2010 Essen motor show.There were a lot of great car exposed but the one that really got my attention was the Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG Widestar by famous German tuner Brabus.The red AMG sports car featured an exterior carbon fibre body kit,improved Brabus exhaust system and a set of really nice matt dark gray rims to complete the package.The blend of carbon fibre and a red body paint gives it a really nice and exclusive look.