I stumbled across this awesome video by Seattle Wedding Photographer “Yours by John” and absolutely loved both the video and the car itself. I messaged John over on Audizine to get more information and pics, and low and behold you have the latest “Featured Ride” post.

John’s car is a 2008 Audi S4 with the optional DTM appearance package. His most notable mods include STaSIS Ohlins SL coilovers, 20×8.5 ADV.10 Trackspec wheels, and a few carbon fiber bits. IMO it’s one of the best examples I’ve seen of how something a simple as a nice drop and a fantastic set of wheels can really set a car off. I loved the car so much I asked if he’d sell it to me, haha (seriously though, someone sell me a Sprint Blue S4, mkay?). What’s even better about this car is that the Sprint Blue color really highlights the sexy lines and aggressive bumpers of the DTM edition. As you can tell by some previous Featured Ride posts, I have a thing for the DTM package, haha.

The best part of having a professional photographer own a nice car is that they take really good pictures of their vehicles. While I’ve tried to become a better photographer myself, I can only dream of producing pictures this nice. Here’s a few more from one of John’s photoshoots:

Check out more of his videos on Youtube…thanks for sharing, John!

It’s no secret that one of the reasons Audi cars rank so highly as performance vehicles is their engines. In addition to being used in the Audi-branded vehicles we all know and love, however, the automaker’s powertrains have also been used in other performance cars over the years.

Among the interesting and exotic vehicles powered by Audi engines are the 1989 Zender Fact 4, a concept car that was fitted with the same 3.6-liter 4-valve-per-cylinder twin-cam V8 that was used in that year’s Quattro sedan, a German sports car known as the Gumpert Apollo (which also used a V8 engine, though this time it was a 4163 cc bi-turbo, intercooled version), and the Spyker C8 Aileron, which comes equipped with a 290 horsepower 4.2-liter V8.

This week, however, Audi engines – and Audi cars in general – made a leap in a different direction. The London-based corporation Limo Broker has announced the creation of the fastest limousine in the world, and it’s basically a super-powered, stretched out, Audi R8.

While it’s not yet available for actual use, the Audi R8 limousine will be built to street-legal specifications, sporting the same 5.2-liter, 525 horsepower V-10 engine in the standard R8, which is said to accelerate from 0 to 62 miles per hour in a mere 3.9 seconds, and reach a top speed of 197 mph. The stretch limo doesn’t yet have any official test results, but it seems likely that it will break the current speed record (held by a Ferrari limousine) of 0-60 mph acceleration in 6 seconds, with little trouble.

Speed, of course, is just one aspect of the Audi R8 stretch limousine. Inside, there is room for eight passengers, seated in three rows of red-upholstered bucket seats that face forward. Other features include gull-wing doors (reminiscent of retro DeLoreans) for the second and third rows of seats, with conventional doors for rows one and four. The limo will likely be fitted with the same R-tronic automated manual transmission system found in conventional Audi R8s, but there is no final word on whether it will also have the Quattro all-wheel drive.

Who had the bright idea to build this super-limousine? According to Limo Broker, which says at least one stretch R8 should be available to rent in about three months, it’s being manufactured by Carbonyte UK, the very same automaker that built the Ferrari 360 limousine mentioned above.

We’re not sure if more than one stretch R8 will be constructed, but we do know that finding cheap car insurance for such a unique vehicle is likely to be a challenge.

Photo of a leisurely drive in my father's 1939 Rolls Royce Wraith

Nowadays, driving is seen as more of a chore than a pleasure to some. Heavy traffic and hectic schedules means motoring is about getting from A to B as quickly as possible; the glamorous early years of the horseless carriage have been left on the lay-by like so many empty crisp packets. Far from dressing up in a sumptuous dust coat to take the car out for a spin, functional clothes like comfy trainers, elasticised waistbands and non-wrinkle shirts rule the roads.

But you the car aficionado – with a nice car and fashionable aspirations – don’t surrender yourself to slobbing behind the wheel while you wait for the lights to turn green. Why not inject a little old-school pizzazz into your driving get-up, and go? Your daily commute will seem like a winding drive down the French Riviera if you’re dressed the part – and who knows, it might inspire you to patch up your old banger and go on a proper jaunt on some unknown roads on the Continent. Grab yourself some European breakdown cover, a dapper companion and a few classic driving accessories:

1. Scarf

How to look like a 1950s pin-up babe while cruising in a convertible? Wrap a scarf gracefully over your delicately styled coif before heading out, adding a pair of large dark sunglasses if conditions are bright. Bold patterns on sultry silks will nicely offset that slick of scandalous red lipstick you’re wearing.

Wear while driving: A soft top – if your car has a roof, it’s not only pointless viz. protecting your hairdo, it’s self defeating in terms of trying to look cool. Anyone catching a peep through your driver window is going to think you’re an old lady.

2. Driving gloves

The ideal pair will have soft kid leather, popper fastenings and external seams. Get some that fit tight around the palm but loose around the fingers – glove lovers say you’ll get a better feel for the road and they’ll stop sweaty palms slipping on the wheel (this should be considered a bonus, really, as their true purpose is to make you look like a suave sophisticate). Make sure you’ve used a route planner before you set out: SatNavs can ruin the retro vibe, not to mention it can be tricky to work the fiddly buttons with leather-clad fingers.

Wear while driving: Driving gloves are a sexy addition to any road user’s wardrobe but look exceptionally good when clasping the wheel of old fashioned roadsters, like Hudsons or MGs.

3. Aviator sunglasses

These shades were originally intended for use on high-powered machines, at high altitudes, in high glare – and they give you the air of someone who’s complete mastery over their machine. Since Tom Cruise first went Maverick by wearing them on the road rather than in the clouds, Aviators have been the go-to accessory for the understated yet totally rock ‘n’ roll rebel speedster.

Wear while driving: Larger machines, like Hummers and VW vans. You’ll look potent, intimidating – in control of a both a mighty motor and your own destiny.

4. Driving hat and goggles

A style exemplified by Mr. Toad in Wind and the Willows, the ‘driving hat and goggles’ look is not to be attempted by the faint hearted. Either go for a flat cap or a saucy over-the-ears number – then, find a pair of dark-rimmed leather goggles with thick enough lenses to protect you from the flack your wheels throw up. Accessorise with a beaten up bomber jacket or a racing jacket (see below) and throw a pale white scarf casually around your neck for a devil-may-care, caddish appearance.

Wear while driving: Convertibles, unreliable old bangers with engines that tend to smoke

5. Racing jacket

Give your car the illusion of speed by wearing a thick racing jacket – whether you’re stuck in traffic or on the school run, remember that pace is a state of mind. Decide between an old school leather style or a bright, hi-tech fabric creation (see Ryan Gosling in Drive) – and make sure you find one that nips in at the hips and wrists to stop unpleasant drafts.  For ultimate style props, find a design that matches the brand of your car and have a racing seatbelt installed.

Wear while driving: Any car that’s capable of over 30mph.

 This is a guest post from Green Flag, the automotive (and fashion!) experts in Europe.

A recent press release from the German car company shows that Audi achieved its highest ever American annual sales by thanksgiving weekend. The company surpassed its previous sales record of 101,629 which was set in 2010. With under a month remaining the car manufacturer are expected to do well over the Christmas period, which will add further to the impressive sales figures.

This new record marks the second time the Audi brand has beaten the 100,000 sales mark since it first established the American side of the business more than 41 years ago. Audi has been setting records throughout the year – the company surpassed expectations every month so far this year. The American market for Audi models has been gaining momentum in recent months and December is expected to be similarly profitable. Audi announced in the same release that they believe that they will see an 11th record month when the full November sales totals are reported later this week.

The company also established another new record with its certified pre-owned car sales. Sales of pre-owned cars through the end of the Thanksgiving weekend amounted to 33,102 vehicles, which demonstrated an increase of 32% compared to a year earlier.

 ”The Audi momentum story began a few years ago with the restructuring of our U.S. business model and the steady arrival of exciting new models that have captured the imagination of the American premium car customer,” said Johan de Nysschen, President, Audi of America. “Through precarious economic conditions, we have held fast to this plan along with our dealers who have devoted record levels of investments in their franchises.”

The German car company has been making significant gains in the American car market. They are expected to do similarly well next year. The cars are well known to be stylish, reliable and good value. So it is no wonder they are taking the American market by storm.

Well done, Audi!

I’m a hard guy to shop for…people know I love cars, but they also know I’m extremely particular about my car, the products I use on it, where I take it for service and everything else. They also think I own everything Audi/car-related that has ever been manufactured (sadly, not true), so they tend to shy away from buying car related gifts for me despite the fact they know I’m obsessed with cars and in particular Audi.

Here are some gift ideas that even the most discerning Audi lover will enjoy:

1:18 Diecast Models

Whether it be of a car the person already owns, or maybe their dream car like this Audi R8 GT ($32), a diecast model of their favorite Audi is a nice decoration for your desk, office, garage or other room of choice. Another really nice one is this extremely detailed Audi V8 Quattro DTM Race Car ($98) by Minichamps.

Detailing Products

You can never have enough tire shine or microfiber towels, or you can pamper them with some high-end detailing products that the pros use. Check out my post on detailing for more recommendations on this topic, or check out the Car Detailing Holiday Gift Guide from Detailed Images.

Car Magazine subscriptions

Just like tire shine, you can never have enough car magazines Figure out what they already have, then supplement with others. It’s a cheap gift at $10-30 per year, and it’s a gift that keeps giving all year long. I personally enjoy Eurotuner, European Car, Car & Driver, Road & Track, and Motor Trend.

Car Chargers

If they don’t already have a charger for their smartphone in their car, I’m sure they’d like one…This car charger from Scosche (pictured above, $8.99) is genius as it allows 2 USB chargers to be plugged in, so you could use it for an iPhone, Android or any other device that charges via USB. Another option is a DC/AC inverter which coverts your car’s cigarette lighter into 2 standard outlets, so you could use that for just about anything (perfect for the outdoorsman!).

Radar Detector

It’s a nice gift, especially for someone with a heavy foot. I know mine has saved me from getting a ticket several times in the past. Escort makes good radar detectors for the price, consider the X50 ($288) for basic needs, or the 9500ix ($449.92) if they live where there is photo/camera radar. If they already have one, consider getting them a hardwire kit so they can hide the cord and have it automatically turn on/off with the car (NicksCarBlog.com install guide here).

Detailing/Car Wash Gift Certificates

Find out where they get their car washed/detailed, and see if they have any gift certificates for a free car wash or wax. Or consider the same, but for an oil change or tune-up, although be careful as some enthusiasts will be very weary on where they will or won’t take their car (the dealership is usually a safe bet however).

Audi Apparel

Audi makes a bunch of nice clothing & accessories through the Audi Collection, and there is also a lot of nice unlicensed stuff out there too. From t-shirts to hats and windbreakers, or even this gear bag, there are a lot of neat Audi related gifts for your favorite car lover. These Audi cufflinks are pretty slick, as is this Audi Collection watch, too. Use promotional code HOL11 to get free shipping on all orders over $75 from the Audi Collection store (limited time only).

GoPro HD Motorsports Hero

This is a fun portable video camera ($199.00) you can mount anywhere on your car (inside & out) to capture video while you drive, rather that be on the track, a road trip, autocross, or any form of spirited driving you wish to capture. The video quality is great, and the camera is very versatile and can be used outside of motorsports as well – you can mount to just about any helmet and capture anything from snowboarding to cycling as well!

Driving Shoes

A nice pair of driving shoes can double as a nice pair of sneakers for non-driving occasions, too. Find out their shoe size then go to town! I like these options by Piloti ($40-89.99) & Puma ($84.99), or you can get something race certified (FIA rated, fireproof) like those from Sparco or AlpineStars.

ECS Tuning Gift Card

ECS Tuning has a ton of parts for just about every current Audi model available. Chances are, any Audi enthusiast can find a way to spend money there. If you’re really stumped, a gift card can be thoughtful since you researched & found a specialty store that is right up there alley.

Audi Key Chain

A slick key chain is always nice. I have this one ($38.99, pictured above), which also has carbon fiber on it, and I love it. It’s a little pricey which makes it a “splurge” purchase that a car lover wouldn’t normally buy for themselves, so it’s a nice gift to give IMO.

Audi License Plate Frame

A nice license plate frame helps hide that ugly license plate frame and also communicates to other drivers that the owner is a true enthusiast. Check out this one from Audi Sport ($39.80) or this black S-Line one ($18.99). Consider looking for one to match the model of their car (S4, RS4, TT, etc).

Custom Fit Sunshade

If they live in a sunny area, having a custom fit sun shade is nice. Look for ones that are model specific and not just generic “one size fits all” as they’ll be easiest to use on a regular basis. Here is one for the A3,  A4, or A5 (all $34.95), for starters.

Car Cover

If the person you are buying gifts for parks their car outside, or under a car port, a car cover will be much appreciated. I love my Empire Covers car cover, and highly recommend them to you, too!

Audi Pet Accessories

This pet collar is too cute for words, as is the Doggie golf shirt by the Audi collection, both being great gifts for an Audi lover who is also a pet lover.

..and a Happy Holidays from Nick’s Car Blog!

I hope you all have a safe & happy holidays, and enjoy your cars, family, and friends in good health.

Got any other ideas? Things I missed? Questions about any recommendations – I’d love to hear it! Leave a comment below, or chime in on Twitter (@NicksCarBlog) or on my Facebook Page!

Disclaimer: Some of the links above are affiliate links, meaning if you click the link and purchase something, I will get a small commission of that sale. This did not influence my recommendations and I recommend you always search around before making a purchase, but any purchases you do make help benefit this site and pay for upkeep & maintenance costs, which is highly appreciated

I recently was in touch with the guys at SpoonFedTuning to try out a new carbon fiber lip they’re producing based of the Seat Cupra R lip – and wow am I excited with the outcome. I had previously ran the OEM version of the lip, but I had two issues with it – it never fit right since it was so hard to mount (too narrow), and the finish was kind of blah (textured plastic). The SpoonFedTuning version takes care of both of those complaints – it’s 100% carbon fiber, and they’ve widened the lip and improved the mounting points for a much better fit on the B7 Audi A4/S4…

The installation is simple – they provide the necessary hardware, along with rubber bushings to ensure a close fit without stressing the carbon fiber. They also provide the following diagram to illustrate suggested mounting points (circled in red), which I followed and was very happy with:

The lip is otherwise super easy to install. What I did was jack my front end up (due to coilovers, there isn’t much room to work under the car unless I do) and put the front axle on jack stands. I then test mounted the lip using 3M double sided mounting tape, until I felt I had the lip perfectly aligned. You want to make sure it’s centered, as well as sticking out far enough from the front bumper.

I found that my ideal placement was so that the lip ended on each side of the car with about a 1 finger gab to the end of the bumper. Once you have the alignment where you want with the mounting tape, pre-drill the holes through the lip & bumper (use a size down on the drill bit from the screw) and then manually tighten the screws into the bumper, starting in the middle and then working your way out.

Between test fitting, drilling & tightening the screws, I spent no longer than 1 hour installing everything – and that was working in the dark, by myself, and taking my time, so you can figure that’s a pretty reasonable time estimate.

I’m very pleased with the outcome – I’ll obviously need to be very careful not to hit any curbs or take any bumps too fast, but I think that is something I can manage at this point. The mounting hardware is very easy to install or remove, so you could potentially remove the lip for daily driving and only install for car shows & such – once everything is drilled it should only take a few minutes to screw it back on or take it off…

Here are a few more pictures I’ve taken – let me know if I missed any angles you were interested in seeing and I can provide more pictures upon request!

Thank you to James @ SpoonFedTuning for answering all of my questions along the way. You can also check them out on Facebook here.

The Audi A6 3.0 TDI Quattro is one of the latest & greatest models in Audi’s range of luxury sedans

Editors Note: This was a guest post submitted by Ferdous – thanks for you Australian insight into this great car.  Personally, I love the styling & size of this car, and think it’s great Audi is offering an eco-friendly diesel variant that still packs a punch at the throttle – that’s performance without compromise at its finest! 

The 2012 A6 3.0 TDI is one of a number of different variants in the A6 sedan range, with some of its counterparts including the 2.0 TDI, the 2.0 TSFI, the 2.8 FSI Quattro and the A6 3.0 TSFI Quattro.

As the Australian market becomes more conscious of the impact of cars on the environment, smaller and more fuel efficient models are gaining in popularity. In light of this manufacturers have had to take strides to ensure that their larger models meet the modern demands of the public.

So the environmentally aware will be keen to know that the 3.0 TDI Quattro has a fuel consumption rate of 5.9 litres of diesel per 100 kilometres, one of the lowest in the A6 range. It gives out 156 grams in CO2 emissions every kilometre*.

The 3.0 litre TDI engine gives 180kW and 500Nm of torque. This helps propel the car to a top speed of 250kmh, and a 0-100kmh acceleration time of 6.1 seconds1**.

A number of safety features are present, including 8 airbags that inflate in two stages, depending on the severity of any impact. Driving aids include Electronic Differential Lock (EDL), Traction Control (ASR) and Electronic Stabilisation Program (ESP), which help keep the car under control and prevent wheel spin, while Brake Assist, Anti-lock Brakes (ABS) and Electronic Brake Distribution (EBD) help the car slow down.

Extras include cruise control and an Audi parking system with a reverse rear camera. Some additional optional extras include an advanced cruise control with a stop and go function, a head up display, and a night vision assistant that detects pedestrians.

Being a luxury car there is also a selection of entertainment features, perhaps the most notable of these being a USB port for connecting MP3 players, which is accompanied by a ten speaker sound system.

When buying a car one of the main considerations buyers take into account is car insurance. There is a wide variety of factors that can influence this, with the type of car being purchased as well its value and record being some obvious ones.

Another important one is the driver. Drivers who have previously claimed or been involved in accidents may be considered higher risk by insurers as they may be seen to be more likely to claim again.

However these are not the only variables. Younger males may also find that they may be considered high risk, as they may be deemed to be more likely to make a claim, while on the other side of the coin a woman may  be considered less likely. Additionally people who live in neighbourhoods with high rates of claim may also be seen as higher risk.

Comprehensive Car insurance quotes can be widely obtained online nowadays, with many insurance companies conducting an increasing amount of their business over the internet.

While the cars have much in common – matching 4.2L V8s and carbon fiber Vorsteiner hoods, to start – both Matt & John have taken their cars in different directions, and executed them brilliantly.

John is a self-admitted “wheel whore,” and while I’ve seen many sets of wheels he’s owned, from SSRs to Sportec to Enkei and many more, his latest and greatest are custom built CCW Classics in 18″ that push the limits of stance. The polished wheels are perfectly complimented by an otherwise understanded Ibis White exterior, which makes for a breathtaking combo. He’s on a static drop riding on KW V3 coilovers, and has a few other subtle exterior mods you might notice such as a Cupra R lip, light smoke Lamin-X headlights, and painted black grille & rear valence.

Matt on the otherhand takes pride in his “sleeper” status. While nothing by itself draws your attention that this car might be heavily modified under the hood (it is, with a custom LSD to boot), any Audi enthusiast can tell that his car isn’t stock, either. Matt has taken the approach that form follows function, and everything from the vented hood to the heavy camber he runs demonstrates this – so do his massive brakes and super lightweight Champion Motorsports/STaSIS wheels. I wish I had sound clips of either Matt or John’s cars, as they’re both running aftermarket downpipe & exhausts that make the V8 sing gloriously.

The difference between these cars illustrates why enthusiasts like Matt & John (and myself) enjoy modding our cars so much – you can start with the same car, and the same platform, and find multiple ways to achieve your idea of perfection. There is no one “right” way to mod a car, and as Matt & John illustrate – baby it don’t matter if you’re black or white!

Thanks guys again for sharing your pics. I had some fun editing the rest of em, I hope you enjoy!

His mod list is certainly impressive, especially since at first glance it doesn’t look over-modded, and retains that nice OEM plus look that keeps the car looking classy & timeless. For the body, the Audi DTM package really makes the B7 body style shine. The brilliant black finish of his car also really makes the wheels & other chrome bits really pop-out, creating an awesome contrast that really draws your attention to all the right places.

Steven would like to send a special thank you to his sponsors & supporters, particularly Prime Motoring, New Life Auto Body, and Ferry and Market Service Center.

Performance:

• Revo Tune Stage 2+
• Revo SPS Select Plus
• EVO MS Intake
• 034 Motorsports Silicone Turbo Inlet Pipe
• Custom Heat Shield
• AWE Exhaust
• AWE Downpipe
• 034 Motorsports HFC
• APR HPFP
• Apikol Snub Mount
• AWE FMIC
• JHM Short Shifter

Aesthetics:

• DTM Front Bumper
• DTM Filler Plate
• DTM CF Chin Spoiler
• DTM Front Grills
• DTM Grill
• DTM Accessories
• DTM Rear
• Projector Headlights
• Flat Door Blades
• DTM Wing
• Votex Side Skirts
• Hagus Matte Mirror Covers
• EuroJet Valve Cover
• RS4 Engine Bay Cover
• S4 Cowl and Battery Cover
• JCAP’s Coolant and Windshield Tank Cap

Interior:

• TT-RS Flat Bottom Steering Wheel w/ Airbag
• VMR Vent Boost Gauge
• RSN-E Navigation Unit
• RS4 Shift Knob and Boot
• RS4 E-Brake Handle
• OEM RS4 CF Trim
• RS4 Pedals w/ Dead Pedal
• RE 10″ Subs
• Boss 2F Capacitor
• Alpine 600W RSM Amp

Suspension & Tires

• RS4 Rear Sway Bar
• Koni Coilovers
• 19×8.5 ET32 BBS LMs refinished with teal faces
• 225/35/19 General UHP tires

I was recently contacted by the owner of 3SDM wheels and he had some pictures he wanted to share of various Audis running their latest wheel. I’m always looking for nicely modified Audis to feature on this blog, and the cars he submitted certainly make the cut – I love the concavity of the wheels and the aggressive stance & aesthetics of the cars he submitted. They make them in either 18″ or 19″ diameter with a 9.5 width – some very wide wheels for an Audi, which is cool to see! Right now they’re only in the UK, but they do have plans to bring them to the US soon.

If you have a car (your own or otherwise) that you’d like to see, contact me at cars@nickroshon.com and I’ll be glad to have a look!

First off – here is a nice B6 A4 avant sporting these wheels and a nice drop:

While we’re on the topic of nice avants, here is a B5 A4 with these wheels:

A little more new school here with a nice B8 Audi A4:

A few more avants: