Fast Cars, Cool Cars, Best Cars

Cool Cars: Brabus E-Class Coupe

noreply@blogger.com (Zee) — Sun, 21 Mar 2010 00:52:48 PDT

FAST FACTS:

Engine: 6100cc, V8
Power: 462 bhp
Torque: 615 Nm
0-100km/h: 4.7 seconds
Wheels: Options from 17” to 20” alloys
Topspeed: 315 kph (196 mph)
Price: Euro 29000
Available: Now
Verdict: Brabus' cool interpretation of the muscular new E Coupe

Test Drive: Peugeot 207cc

noreply@blogger.com (Zee) — Sun, 28 Feb 2010 07:33:50 PST

The new 207cc debuted in Malaysia in 2009. It replaces the 206cc which was a best-seller and introduced the affordable coupe-convertible to the masses. The new car looks bigger, more macho and less feminine.

Exterior & Design: The first thing one would notice is that the 207cc looks more coherent. Gone are the weird looking rails on the 206cc’s boot. The front lights and bonnet looks more aggressive. In keeping with the current Peugeot design cue, the front grille maintains the big smiley appearance. The car looks good with the top up and even better with its top down. And the transformation from coupe to cabriolet is very fascinating. However, it can only be done with the car stationary.

Interior: The interior feels solid and well built being a continental car. However, the Malaysian version does not come with the in-dash LCD screen. The leather seats are comfortable and the seating position is rather high for a coupe. It comes with 4 airbags, an air-conditioned glove box and CD/MP3 player with AUX input as standard. The rear seats are suitable for little kids or dwarfs only. The roof comes up or down with the touch of a button and there is no need to release any latches.
Engine: In Malaysia, we only have one choice of engine which is the 1.6L BMW-Peugeot Prince engine which is also used in the Mini Cooper. This engine produces 120bhp with 160Nm of torque and is mated to a 4-speed Tiptronic System Porsche gearbox.

The Drive: Getting into the 207cc is easy as it is about the same ride height as normal sedans. Offering only the 120bhp 1.6L engine, the 207cc is more of a cruiser than a bruiser. The steering is light and driving the car around the city is easy. It is also stable at high speeds. However, the steering feel could be improved. The car feels solid and everything seems well put together. I reckon the dash is a little too high but it does not intrude the forward view.

Conclusion: The Peugeot 207cc is the most affordable new coupe-convertible available in the Malaysian market at the moment. It is priced at RM158888 for a new car. This car offers a stylish and comfortable boulevard cruiser for the poseurs. Those who are looking for a sports coupe cabrio are advised to look elsewhere.

Addendum: A new facelifted version of the 207cc has recently being launched in the UK. The front grill and bumper looks less smiley and more aggressive.

More Info: http://www.peugeot.com.my/index.php/207-cc

Rivals: Mazda MX5, VW Eos, BMW Z4, Mercedes SLK (All of these cars are much more expensive. There are no real rivals at this price in Malaysia.)

Fast Cars - Super Saloons

noreply@blogger.com (Zee) — Mon, 14 Dec 2009 01:42:14 PST

Porsche Panamera Turbo

The first four-door Porsche sedan in Turbo guise can be considered the ultimate uber sports saloon. Not only is it wickedly fast, it is also a piece of superbly and wonderfully engineered machine. It is equally capable in a straight-line and also for attacking corners. It costs GBP100000, measures over 16ft long, weighs 2 tonnes and guzzles fuel at less than 8km/L. It is endowed with a 4.8L V8 twin-turbo engine which pumps out 493bhp and 700Nm of torque. The Panamera Turbo does 0 – 100 km/h in 4.2 seconds, 0 – 160 km/h in 9 seconds and has a top speed of 300 km/h. However, some people may not agree with the way it looks.

Maserati Quattroporte Sport GTS

Many people consider the Maserati Quattroporte a sexy car. Being Italian it certainly oozes sex appeal from all angles except its rear end which to me is a bit boring. The Quattroporte Sport GTS feels like a four-door Ferrari with lots of Alcantara in its cabin and a lively and loud engine note from its 4.7L V8 engine. It produces 434 bhp and 490 Nm of torque. 0 – 100 km/h takes 5.1 seconds and its top speed is 283 km/h. If it drives as well as it looks, it would have been a great car. The Quattroporte Sports GTS costs GBP90000.

Aston Martin Rapide

The Aston Martin Rapide was unveiled in the Frankfurt Motor Show 09. The concept was first introduced in 2006 and it became a reality within 3 years. Aston Martin describes the marque’s first four door sedan as encapsulating the core values of power, beauty and soul. The Rapide features a hand-built 6.0-litre V12 engine producing 470 bhp and 600 Nm peak torque at 5000 rpm. A specifically tuned six-speed Touchtronic 2 automatic transmission features as standard, allowing the driver to change gear automatically or manually via the steering column-mounted magnesium paddles. It does 0 – 100 km/h in 5.3 seconds and has an estimated top speed of 303 km/h. First deliveries of the Rapide is expected early 2010.

BMW 760Li

Many of you would be wondering why am I including a 7-series BMW in the comparison of Super Saloons. The BMW certainly does not have the same pedigree as the Porsche or Maserati, but the 760Li can show the pedigreed Panamera and Quattroporte a trick or two. For starters, the 760Li is equipped with the 6L V12 twin-turbo engine which pumps out an amazing 537bhp and 750 Nm of torque. It propels the 2100kg 7-series to 100 km/h in 4.6 seconds. Select Sport+ in the 760Li and the suspension firms up and the car transforms into a more aggressive animal. Not exactly a beast yet as this is still a 7-series mind you. The 760Li manages to keep up with the Panamera Turbo and certainly outshines the Quattroporte Sport GTS.

Bugatti Galibier

The Bugatti Galibier is currently still a concept. But it is expected to be launched by 2013 if there are enough rich people to afford it by then. Production of the Galibier is expected to start once the Veyron ceases in 2012. Bugatti technical boss Wolfgang Schreiber said that the idea of the Galibier is to be the “world’s fastest, most accelerative and powerful four-door car”. The Galibier is expected to be powered by the same W16 engine found in the Veyron with twin-superchargers pumping out around 800bhp. The price is expected to be approximately GBP900000! The Galibier is, in every way, a car of excesses but it would certainly be an exciting engineering feat.

Brabus CLS Rocket

The ex-record holder of the “world’s fastest street-legal sedan” (top speed: 365.7 km/h), the Brabus modified Mercedes CLS 500 definitely lives up to its namesake. Powering the Rocket is the revered 6233cc V12 twin turbo engine from Brabus (SV12 S) which is capable of 730 bhp and 1320 Nm of torque. The Rocket accelerates to 100 km/h in 4.0 seconds, 200 km/h in 10.5 seconds and 300 km/h in 29.5 seconds. Brabus extensively modified the CLS including the engine, drivetrain, suspension, brakes and aerodynamics. Priced at Euro420000, the limited edition Rocket is a very rare and special super saloon indeed. The Rocket’s top speed record was set in 2006 and held on until November 2008 when it was beaten by the G-Power modified Hurricane RS M5.

Cool Cars of Tokyo Motor Show 09

noreply@blogger.com (Zee) — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 22:23:45 PST

This year's Tokyo Motor Show feels less glitzy with the absence of major car-makers from Europe & America. The current economic recession adds further salt to the wound. However, the Japanese still do have something up their sleeves. They do not need the rest of the world to show them what they can do. Afterall, this is the land of Doraemon!

Among the stars of the Tokyo Motor Show 09 are the Toyota FT86, Honda CR-Z & Lexus LFA.

Toyota FT86 - front view

The Toyota FT86 is touted as the successor to the famous AE86 Trueno. The AE86, which is nicknamed 'Hachiroku', is regarded as the best handling rear-driven car among its legion of fans.

Toyota FT86 - rear view

It is made even more famous by the manga Initial D. The AE86 was introduced way back in 1983 and until now (26 years later) it is still one of the favourite drift cars.

Toyota FT86 - interior

The FT86 sure has huge boots to fill. But based on the way the FT86 looks, Toyota sure has a winner in its hands.

Toyota FT86

Here's hoping that the FT86 drives as well as it looks and that it lives up to the expectations as the heir to the legendary AE86.

Not one to be left out, Honda launched their new CR-Z sports car at the Tokyo Motor Show. We wrote an article about the concept a few months back and now the concept is becoming a reality. Honda has confirmed its production and it should be in showrooms in Japan as early as February 2010 and by June 2010 for the rest of the world.

Honda CR-Z - front view

The CR-Z is the successor to the Honda CR-X del Sol which was a targa convertible 2-seater coupe. Production of the CR-X was stopped in 1997 and now with the CR-Z, the CR series has been revived.

Honda CR-Z - rear view

CR-Z is the acronym for "Compact Renaissance Zero" and it will be a hybrid sports car. It is tipped to be endowed with a 1.5L iVTEC engine in combination with Honda IMA hybrid system and power is estimated at a modest 130-150bhp.

Honda CR-Z - interior

The Honda CR-Z will come with a manual or automatic transmission and the battery will be nickel metal hydride units.

Honda CR-Z

Perhaps the most glamorous and most anticipated launch in the Tokyo Motor Show 09 was the Lexus LFA. The LFA concept has been around since 2003 and now after 6 years of waiting, the Lexus LFA is finally a reality.

Lexus LFA

However, don't expect to see too many on the road as it is priced at Euro 361000! For that amount of money, one can get a Lamborghini Murcielago LP640 plus a Ferrari F430!

Lexus LFA

The LFA comes with a bespoke 4.8L V10 pumping out 552bhp and 480Nm of torque.

Lexus LFA

The Lexus LFA does 0-100 kph in 3.7 seconds and has a top speed of 323 kph. It's kerb weight is 1480kg with a power-to-weight ratio of 373bhp per tonne.

Lexus says only 500 units of the LFA will be built. With its exorbitant price tag, the Lexus marketing team would need to be really creative. LFA chief engineer, Haruhiko Tanahashi, said that the target buyer is one who is not as extrovert or showy as the traditional supercar customer, and someone who is interested in technology.

Lexus LFA - rear view

Cool Cars: McLaren MP4-12C

noreply@blogger.com (Zee) — Tue, 17 Nov 2009 17:27:53 PST

FAST FACTS:

Engine: 3800cc, V8 twin-turbo
Power: 600bhp (estimated)
Torque: 587Nm (estimated)
Weight:1300kg (estimated)
0-100km/h: Around 3 seconds
Gears: 7-speed dual clutch gearbox
Topspeed: 200 mph (estimated)
Price: GBP 160000 (estimated)
Available: 2011
Verdict: Hopefully it’s as good as its predecessor the ultimate McLaren F1

Test Drive: Mercedes Brabus CLK D4

noreply@blogger.com (Zee) — Fri, 23 Oct 2009 03:21:27 PDT

The Mercedes CLK is the stylish, classy coupe for the affluent. However, in its standard form, it does appear slightly mundane & dull. Renowned Mercedes tuners Brabus has taken the standard CLK and added more power and also a more sporty looking bodykit complete with nicer & bigger sports rims to create the Brabus CLK.

Exterior & Design: The Brabus bodykit complements the CLK’s classy design besides aerodynamic enhancements. The CLK looks more aggressive and sits lower thanks to the set of Brabus suspensions together with the Monoblock light 18” alloy rims. Double xenon foglamps are nestled snugly on either side of the Brabus front spoiler. An array of Brabus emblems are added to remind onlookers of its Brabus lineage. A pair of stainless-steel BRABUS sport exhaust systems and sport rear muffler complete the look at the rear.

Interior: The interior is solidly built as it is afterall a Mercedes Benz. Leather seats are comfortable and rear seats sit 2 adults comfortably. The CLK comes with a high-end in-car hi-fi which sounds impressive, powerful & refined. The dashboard & buttons are all driver-oriented and easy to use. It comes with a huge boot space which is able to fit all your luggages & 2 golf bags for a weekend getaway.

Engine: My test unit is the Brabus D4 which is based on the CLK 270 CDI. The Brabus D4 Tuning Kit boosts power of the common-rail turbo diesel engine from standard 170 bhp / 125 kW to 215 bhp / 150 kW. Maximum torque increases to 450 Nm. The Brabus D4 is definitely responsive with its 475 Nm of torque available early in the rpm range.

The Drive: Getting into the Brabus D4 feels very special. It looks classy & exciting and definitely begs to be driven. It is equipped with a keyless entry & keyless drive system. Just keep the key fob in the pocket and depress the Merc logo on the gear lever to start the car. On the outside, the engine sounds a little bit more harsh compared to a Merc petrol engine. But on the inside all is quiet, comfortable and serene. Depress the throttle and the car responds immediately. 0-100kph is dispensed in just 8.4 seconds. The steering is light and responsive. A little bit more steering feel would have been great. However, the Brabus D4 handles beautifully during both low & high speeds. The Brabus D4 feels planted to the ground even when cruising at speeds above 180kph.

Conclusion: The Brabus CLK D4 is the classy coupe for the discerning gentleman. It is not a racer but a coupe for cruising the boulevard with style. It is an able all-rounder which sits 4 adults comfortably and provides enough grunt shall the need arises. Driving the Brabus CLK D4 makes one feel special as it is indeed a special & rare car. With the upcoming E-series Coupe, the CLK moniker will no longer be used but this Brabus CLK D4 will remain in memory.

Cool Cars: Ford Shelby GT-500

noreply@blogger.com (Zee) — Sat, 10 Oct 2009 23:41:27 PDT

FAST FACTS:

Engine: 5411cc, 32 valve, V8 supercharged
Power: 540 bhp
Torque: 690 Nm
Weight: 1780 kg
Power-to-Weight ratio: 303 bhp/tonne
0-100km/h: 4.6 seconds
Gears: 6-speed manual
Topspeed: 250 kph (155 mph)
Price: USD 48175
Available: Now
Verdict: Superb & sexy American muscle

Cool Cars: GeigerCars Chevrolet Camaro SS Kompressor

noreply@blogger.com (Zee) — Sat, 10 Oct 2009 23:11:15 PDT

FAST FACTS:

Engine: 6200cc, V8 supercharged
Power: 568bhp
Torque: 799Nm
0-100km/h: sub 5 seconds
Wheels: 20” alloy rims
Topspeed: 195 mph (314 kph)
Verdict: BumbleBee’s evil twin

Cool Car News: Mini Motor-tober 09

noreply@blogger.com (Zee) — Thu, 08 Oct 2009 00:26:12 PDT

The month of October kicks off the 3rd annual Motor-Tober celebration, MINI's made-up holiday that lasts the entire month of October for MINI USA.
MINI's October marketing campaign captures the fun & creativity with witty Halloween themed ads, encouraging test drives and events at dealerships nationwide, aggressive financing on all 2009 models as well as special lease pricing on select 2009 inventory.

Jim McDowell, Vice President, MINI USA said: "MINI wants to celebrate the ramp-up to the winter holiday season, which is usually a stressful time, and make it a time to thoroughly enjoy motoring. Nothing says exhilaration like getting behind the wheel of a MINI, and our Motor-Tober celebration encourages customers to do just that."

Dont you just love the cute little scary MINIs?

Cool Cars: BMW Z4 sDrive35i

noreply@blogger.com (Zee) — Sat, 03 Oct 2009 07:02:38 PDT

FAST FACTS:
Engine: 2979cc, twin-turbocharged

Power: 306 bhp

Torque: 400 Nm

Weight: 1580 kg

Power-to-Weight ratio: 194 bhp/tonne

0-100km/h: 5.1 seconds

Gears: 7-speed dual clutch transmission

Wheels: 17” alloys

Topspeed: 250 kph

Price: RM558800 (GBP 37000)

Available: now

Verdict: Sleek new Z4 ups the ante

Test Drive: Subaru Impreza S-GT

noreply@blogger.com (Zee) — Wed, 30 Sep 2009 07:07:44 PDT

The Subaru Impreza is best known among car fans as a superb rally car made famous by Colin McRae. And it is also well known as the arch nemesis of the Mitsubishi Evolution series. The latest version of the Impreza departs from its original sedan design and opts for a 5-door hatchback version instead. My review car is the Subaru Impreza S-GT.

Exterior & Design: The new hatchback design is a major shift from the previous versions. And it does take some getting used to. However, I must admit that it looks rather good and pleasing unlike the ugly older bug-eyed design. The huge bonnet air-scoop which is a trademark of all Impreza WRXs is still there to remind us of its pedigree. Compared with its bigger brother the Impreza STI, the S-GT looks milder and less aggressive without the extra bulges along its front and rear wheel arches.

Interior: The interior of this Impreza is certainly much improved from the previous versions. However, I reckon it is still too plasticky and grey. And the plastics feel hard and cheap. Built quality is good and sports seats are provided as standard. Sitting position is good and the sports seats provide wonderful support without being too constricting. The S-GT comes with a CD player with FM radio and a USB input as standard. This CD player sticks out like a sorethumb on the centre console. Very tasteless I would say and it does not blend well with the interior design. Being a hatchback, the boot space is definitely less than a sedan’s. However, it is big enough to fit a big luggage bag and more.

Engine: The S-GT’s boxer flat-four EJ20 engine is marvellous. This 1994cc turbocharged engine manages to pump out 250bhp and 333Nm of torque. That’s a lot of power for a car this size. That’s 25hp more than the RM200K Civic Type R and just 50hp less than its bigger bro STI (which costs RM70K extra). There is minimal turbo lag from this impressive engine and the S-GT is very responsive. The only gripe is that it is mated to a 4-speed automatic gearbox. It does have semi-automatic shifting though but the response is rather slow. Those who love to hear the sweet burble of the boxer engine will be disappointed as this engine is quiet even when revved hard.

The Drive: Subaru’s trademark Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system provides a competent and comfortable ride. The steering is well weighted and very responsive. And the turning radius is small. The S-GT feels stable at high speeds both in a straight line and also when cornering. The cabin is also very quiet and well insulated. Overall, the S-GT is very easy to drive fast and you will be breaking the speed limit before you even know it.

Conclusion: The Subaru Impreza S-GT is a softer more functional version of the STI. It is a capable car with lots of power and can perform when the need arises. However, it feels more at home as a fast family car. Its list price is RM185000 and if your main requirement is power, then no other new car comes close at this price. But if you are looking for a car with an overall package of power, nice design and a comfortable interior, this is not your cup of tea.

More info: http://www.motorimage.net/MY/showroom/

Rivals: VW Golf GTI, Honda Civic Type R, BMW 1 series

Frankfurt 09: Lambo Reventon Roadster

noreply@blogger.com (Zee) — Thu, 24 Sep 2009 07:20:55 PDT

One of the 'superstars' of Frankfurt 09 is the Lamborghini Reventon Roadster. Lamborghini presented the ultimate driving machine among open-top two-seaters – the Reventón Roadster is a sports car of breathtaking fascination, menacing power and uncompromising performance. The Reventon Roadster comes with a 6.5 liter twelve-cylinder lump which generates 660 bhp & 660Nm of torque at 6000 rpm, catapulting the Roadster from 0 to 100 Km/h in 3.4 seconds and a top speed of 330 KM/h (205 mph).

The open-top Reventón is not only one of the fastest, but also one of the most exclusive cars in the world – Lamborghini has limited the series.Less than 20 Lamborghini friends and collectors will be able to own this extraordinary car.

A unique paint finish completes the razor sharp design language of the Lamborghini Reventón Roadster. For this exclusive special edition, designers have created a new shade of matt grey called Reventón Grey. As for the Reventón Coupé, which is a slightly different shade of grey, this is a matt paint finish that, in the sunlight, displays an unexpected impression of depth thanks to its special metal particles.

Each Reventón Roadster will be sold for 1.1 Million Euro (without taxes). Deliveries will begin October 2009.

Frankfurt 09: VW Golf R

noreply@blogger.com (Zee) — Thu, 24 Sep 2009 07:07:01 PDT

The Mk VI Golf R was unveiled by Volkswagen at Frankfurt 09. This is the replacement for the Mk V Golf R32. Volkswagen is demonstrating – in the world premiere of the new 199 kW / 270 PS Golf R – that fuel consumption values can improve even in the high-end sports car area. While in the now retired Golf R32 (184 kW / 250 PS), 10.7 litres of fuel was required for every 100 kilometres, on the new Golf R – thanks to a boosted high-tech TSI – the figure is just 8.5 litres, which is 2.2 litres or 21 percent less. The all-wheel drive Golf R (350 Newton-meter torque between 2,500 and 5,000 rpm) sprints to 100 km/h in 5.7 seconds (Golf R DSG: 5.5 seconds) and reaches an electronically limited top speed of 250 km/h. The new Golf R also comes with the latest trend of LED taillights and LED daytime running lights. The Golf R can be ordered in Germany starting at the end of this year.

Frankfurt 09: Fiat Abarth 695 Tributo Ferrari

noreply@blogger.com (Zee) — Thu, 24 Sep 2009 06:57:49 PDT

Fiat launched the special-edition cute Fiat 500 at the Frankfurt Motor Show 09. The Abarth 695 is a marriage between the affable Fiat 500 with a Ferrari! This red hot chilli pepper packs a 180+hp 1.4-liter 16-valve turbo four, a retuned suspension, paddle-shift transmission, 17-inch rims, Brembo brakes and unique touches in every nook and cranny of the diminutive retro hatchback, from the Sabelt seats and Jaeger instruments to the 430 Scuderia paintjob and lots of carbon fiber. The cute little pony is now growing into a stallion. I like it!

Frankfurt 09: BMW X1

noreply@blogger.com (Zee) — Mon, 21 Sep 2009 21:36:17 PDT

BMW showcased their new llittle SUV - the X1. The exterior design looks more handsome that it's big brother X3 with the 7-Series looking grille and a sinister set of angel eyes. This will definitely prove to be the X1's major selling point. Just like the 3 Series and the 1 Series, the X3 and X1 are very closely related, not only in terms of powertrains, but mechanicals and chassis, too.

Engine choices range from the 258 bhp double-VANOS straight-six in the xDrive28i to the 295 lb-ft of torque twin-turbo and common-rail diesel xDrive23d to less powerful diesel models like the 258 lb-ft xDrive20d / sDrive20d. There's also the sDrive18d which can get up to a BMW claimed 54.3 imperial miles per gallon.

Frankfurt 09: Peugeot RCZ

noreply@blogger.com (Zee) — Mon, 21 Sep 2009 21:21:19 PDT

The new Peugeot RCZ was unveiled in Frankfurt after months of teasing by Peugeot. It sports a Zagato-style double-bubble roof and muscular wheel arches. It is easily the most stylish French car apart from the Bugatti.

Mechanically, it's based on the 308 hatchback, but Peugeot has dropped the usual numeric moniker on the road to production. Engines include 1.6-liter turbo fours with 156 or 200 horsepower and a 2-liter turbodiesel with 163 ponies. A hybrid drivetrain is also available supplemented by a 37-horsepower electric motor that matches the top gas engine's output while upping the ante with all-wheel-drive.

Frankfurt 09: Mansory Specials

noreply@blogger.com (Zee) — Mon, 21 Sep 2009 21:12:04 PDT

Mansory Vitesse Rose - One of the more 'attractive' cars in Frankfurt 09 is this Mansory modified Bentley GTC. It features a very striking matte pink paint job coupled with matte carbon fiber trim and blacked out rims, chrome and logos. The gaudy theme is complemented with the interior finished in clashing pink and purple fittings – complete with purple-tinted carbon fiber trim. Perfect car for Ms Hilton!

Mansory Cyrus - The Cyrus is based on the Aston DB9 and has been redone in aerospace, pre-preg carbon fiber, and gets 28 extra bhp. The roof scoop isn't functional – but it looks good and beauty makes no promises to functionality. Aston DBS owners can also get their cars done up thusly. The Cyrus costs €380,000 on top of a DB9. Carbon fibre lovers rejoice!

Frankfurt 09: Porsche 911 Turbo 2010

noreply@blogger.com (Zee) — Fri, 18 Sep 2009 07:27:11 PDT

The 2010 Porsche 911 Turbo was also unveiled at Frankfurt 09. Porsche claims that it is better, stronger and faster than the current one. Expect power figures up to 500bhp from the turbo 911 and prices around USD 130000 for the coupe and USD 140000 for the cabriolet.

Frankfurt 09: Porsche 911 GT3 RS

noreply@blogger.com (Zee) — Fri, 18 Sep 2009 07:15:39 PDT

Porsche unveiled the new 911 GT3 RS in the Frankfurt Motor Show 09 with the interesting grey and red theme. The heart of the new RS is a naturally-aspirated 3.8 litre engine which delivers 450 horsepower, 15 more horsepower than its 911 GT3 counterpart. And it is capable of revving up even faster to its 8500 rpm redline.

Porsche claims that the power unit in the new GT3 RS remains fully suitable for everyday use. The GT3 RS is only fitted with a six-speed manual gearbox optimized for short gearshift travel, low weight and high efficiency. To enhance the level of performance throughout the entire range of engine and road speed, the transmission comes with shorter ratios than found in the 911 GT3, deliberately conceding an even higher potential top track speed.

The low ride height, extra large carbon-fiber rear wing and titanium exhaust system enhances its motorsport DNA. The 2010 911 GT3 RS goes on sale in the U.S. in 2010 and will be priced at USD132,800.

Frankfurt 09: Mercedes Brabus E V12 Black Baron

noreply@blogger.com (Zee) — Thu, 15 Oct 2009 08:48:45 PDT

One of the most eye-catching cars seen in Frankfurt Motorshow 09 is the Brabus E V12 "Black Baron" which is based on the new 2010 Mercedes E-Class W 212. With its totally matt-black theme, it looks like it came directly from a Batman movie.

This Brabus uberBenz features a 6.0-liter V12 biturbo bored out to 6.3-liters producing 800 hp and 1420 Nm of torque. Much more powerful that the usual Ferraris & Porsches out there. And the exterior is totally reworked by the guys at Brabus to improve aerodynamics, engine ventilation, and brake cooling. Changes include a revised front bumper, new front quarter panels, aggressive side sills, and rear wheel covers. Out back, the car features a trunk-mounted spoiler and a carbon fiber rear diffuser.

The Brabus Black Baron rockets from 0-100 km/h (62 mph) in 3.7 seconds, 0-200 km/h (124 mph) in 9.9 seconds, and 0-300 km/h (186 mph) in 23.9 seconds. If you keep your foot planted, the car will eventually top out at an electronically limited 350 km/h (217 mph). Without the limiter, Brabus estimates the car can hit a top speed in excess of 370 km/h (230 mph). Totally psycho for a sedan!!

However, those wishing to get one in their garage will have to act fast as production will be limited to ten units, and prices start at €600,000. (USD 875000, RM 3 million)

Mercedes 'Gullwings': New SLS vs Classic 300SL Coupe

noreply@blogger.com (Zee) — Thu, 15 Oct 2009 08:49:06 PDT

The new Mercedes SLS AMG will be launched at the Frankfurt Motorshow next week. It is the successor to the famous Mercedes Benz 300SL Gullwing Coupe of 1954. They share the same classical sports car shape with a long bonnet and that unmistakable classical 'Gullwing' door.

The original 'Gullwing' 300SL Coupe was made from 1954 until 1957 and only 1400 units were ever made. The classical 300SL Coupe was conceived initially as a purpose-built racing sports car. In 1952, the coupe notched up an impressive record of success in the year’s major races at the Grand Prix in Bern, at the 24 Hours of Le Mans, at the Nürburgring and also claimed victory in the Carrera Panamericana in Mexico.

The tubular frame for the 300 SL, designed by Rudolf Uhlenhaut, reduced weight to a minimum but provided maximum strength. The complete car in ready-to-drive condition and including the spare wheel, tools and fuel weighed in at 1,295 kilograms. The new sports car was a real crowd-puller, thanks in no small measure to its wonderfully charismatic “gullwing” doors. Rather than serving merely as a stylistic gimmick, they represented the central element of the 300 SL design.

The six-cylinder engine featured a number of modifications, one of which saw the carburetor replaced by a direction injection system – a technical advance which was years ahead of its time. This new technology boosted output to 215 bhp and the car’s maximum speed up as far as 260 km/h. The classical 300 SL Gullwing Coupe is certainly an icon in the automotive world and it was no coincidence that it was voted “Sports car of the Century” in 1999.

The new 'Gullwing' SLS AMG certainly has huge boots to fill. It comes with an array of impressive specifications including a powerful 6300cc V8 from AMG which is capable of 571 bhp and 650 Nm of torque. It's top speed is claimed to be 317 km/h and it does 0-100 kph in 3.8 seconds.

The SLS AMG is designed with an all aluminium space frame. Its silhouette is modern, dynamic & handsome but yet it reminisces of the classical 300 SL Coupe. It comes with bixenon headlamps and LED daytime running lights. The interior is luxurious and Mercedes says that it is inspired by the layout of an airplane cockpit. The sports seats are constructed with lightweight magnesium backrests and wrapped in leather.

The new car weighs 1620kg with a power-to-weight ratio of 352 bhp/tonne. It is equipped with the latest AMG Speedshift DCT 7-speed Sports Transmission. The new Gullwing SLS AMG is expected to be available in Mercedes showrooms by 2010 but the pricing is unconfirmed at the moment.

Cool Cars: Nissan R35 GTR

noreply@blogger.com (Zee) — Sat, 03 Oct 2009 07:03:00 PDT

FAST FACTS:
Engine: 3799cc, V6, twin-turbocharged

Power: 473 bhp

Torque: 588 Nm

Weight: 1750 kg

Power-to Weight ratio: 270 bhp/tonne

0-100km/h: 3.5 seconds

Gears: 6-speed dual clutch automatic
Wheels: 20” Rays forged alloys
Topspeed: 193 mph (310 kph)
Price: approx. RM600k – 700k

Available: Now in UK & USA. Malaysia: grey import only

Verdict: One of the best affordable supercars ever created

Test Drive: Mazda RX-8

noreply@blogger.com (Zee) — Wed, 30 Sep 2009 07:13:10 PDT

The Mazda RX-8 was officially launched in Malaysia just this year; 6 years after it was launched worldwide. Prior to this, those who wanted an RX-8 would need to get one from a grey importer without any service support from Mazda. Most people assume that the RX-8 is the successor of the highly rated FD RX-7. However, Mazda actually designed the RX-8 as a totally new car.

Exterior & Design: The RX-8 is a sports car in essence. It is low and aggressively styled with flared wheel arches on all four corners. The most outstanding feature is the pair of rear-hinged doors which Mazda calls the ‘Freestyle Door System’. So, the RX-8 is actually a four-door sports car which improves on its functionality. In Malaysia, the RX-8 comes with 18” alloys as standard.

Interior: Three big instrument clusters dominate the dash and the steering is wrapped in leather giving it a luxurious feel. All the seats are wrapped in leather as well. The two rear-seats are full-sized bucket seats which will fit two adults comfortably. Overall, the interior feels well appointed, comfortable and snug. The RX-8 comes with a 6-disc CD changer with AUX input. In the USA, the GT & R3 version comes with 9-speaker Bose system with Centrepoint & Audio Pilot technology designed for the acoustics of the RX-8.

Engine: This is the only production sports car currently fitted with a rotary engine. This sports car features the ever-unique 1.3-liter RENESIS rotary engine which is capable of 211 bhp and 211 Nm of torque. The car features a unique variable red zone in the tachometer that moves according to engine conditions, helping to prevent over-revving when engine temperature is low. The RX-8 can rev up to 7,500rpm, but if the engine is not hot enough, it will limit the revs in order to protect the engine. There are actually three levels of rev-limit, and if the car is cranked from a cold start, there will be another level of rev limiter which limits the rev up to 5,000 rpm only.

The Drive: The RX8 is really a fun car to drive. It's nice for cruising, and it has got the power when you need it. When you are up for spirited driving, the handling won't fail you although I have not really tested its full-potential yet. However, the RX8 is not a fast car on straights. I tried a 0 to 100kph run, and it took almost 9 seconds to reach the century sprint.

Conclusion: The RX-8 is a truly unique & one-of-a-kind sports car with its RENESIS rotary engine and 4-door configuration. Priced at RM233700 for a new car, I cannot think of any other new car which offers the same level of sportiness, versatility & exclusivity at this price.

More info: http://www.mazda.com.my/rx8/overview.aspx

Rivals: Volkswagen Eos, Golf GTI, Alfa Romeo GT, Honda Civic Type-R, Subaru Impreza STI

Special Thanks: This Mazda RX-8 review is courtesy of Sam Lee.

Visit Samlee’s blog @ http://www.samlee860407.com/2009/07/my-car-is-finally-here.html

FutureCars: Honda CR-Z

noreply@blogger.com (Zee) — Wed, 02 Sep 2009 07:42:55 PDT

Many years after the production of the CRX ceased, Honda has recently showcased the new concept CR-Z. CR-Z is the acronym for Compact Renaissance Zero. Its design borrows some elements from the previous CRX combined with futuristic styling and advanced hybrid technology.

The design concept features an oversized front grille with air-vents on each side, LED headlights, aerodynamic & slim door mirrors and large 19" wheels. Its tail is high with split level glass, shallow rake of roof and kamm-style tail which brings back memories of the CRX.

The CR-Z cockpit is spacious with cutting-edge dash and meter clusters beautifully encased in a glass art piece. Hopefully, this makes it to the production model.

The CR-Z's designers, Mr Tetsuji & Yosuke, said that they were inspired to create a lightweight hybrid sportscar which is fun to drive & minimises damage inflicted on the environment. Honda President & CEO recently announced that the CR-Z will be available by end 2010.

Cool Cars: Mini Coupe Concept

noreply@blogger.com (Zee) — Sat, 03 Oct 2009 07:03:21 PDT

On its 50th birthday, MINI is celebrating it with a gift to all MINI enthusiasts: the MINI Coupe Concept. The Coupe Concept is touted as the expression of MINI design and will be unveiled for the first time at the Frankfurt Motor Show (17–27 September 2009).

This sporting two-seater is designed to accommodate even the most powerful engine currently available in the MINI – and with the 1.6-litre twin-scroll turbocharged power unit carried over from the MINI John Cooper Works, the MINI Coupé Concept offers truly outstanding performance. Maximum output is 155 kW/211 hp, peak torque 260 Newton-metres/192 lb-ft increasing through the Overboost function for a short while to an even more substantial 280 Newton-metres/206 lb-ft.

The new concept car carries over the unmistakable front end look from the four-seater MINI. Smoothly balanced contours on the engine lid characterised by wide and sweeping radii, the large headlights, the homogenous shape of the radiator grille and the wide lower air intake give each model that unique look, openness and charm so typical of the brand. Through the greater rake of the windscreen on the MINI Coupé Concept, the car looks even more striking and dynamic, the low and streamlined body proving clearly that the MINI Coupé Concept is a particularly outstanding performer.

The MINI Coupe Concept is rather functional too despite being a two-seater. The rear end of the MINI Coupé Concept comes with a large and wide-opening tailgate. Hinged above the roof spoiler, the entire tailgate including the rear window swings up gracefully, offering convenient access to the generous luggage space. Deliberately foregoing the rear seat bench, this unique two-seater offers lots of additional space for taking along all kinds of luggage. Luggage capacity is 250 litres or 8.8 cu ft.

The MINI Coupe Concept certainly looks cool and here's hoping that it will not remain just a concept. For now, we'll just have to wait until the Frankfurt Motor Show to get the full review of the MINI Coupe Concept.