Autoblog

Droolworthy: Pagani rips the lid off its Cinque for new Roadster model

Chris Paukert — Fri, 03 Jul 2009 10:28:00 EST

2010 Pagani Cinque Roadster - click above for high-res image gallery

Small-volume manufacturers like Pagani have to build all the variants they possibly can on what few platforms they have in order to continue to squeeze money and public interest out of their models. Thankfully, the company's Zonda is so spectacular that we hardly tire of the seemingly endless number of riffs the Italian automaker is developing on the theme. Their latest is the Cinque Roadster, a decidedly draftier version of the already-released Coupe, itself a street-legal version of the track-only Zonda R.

The carbon fiber/titanium Roadster is expected to run to about 217 mph thanks to its 678 horsepower Mercedes-Benz/AMG V12 - a terminal velocity that's the same as its hard-hatted brethren. Because the fixed-head coupe's structure is so robust, Pagani hasn't gone crazy with buttresses and braces, meaning that like the Coupe, the Roadster weighs 1210 kg (2,662 pounds) - a figure that Pagani says should help get the car to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 3.4 seconds.

As the story goes, just five examples of the Roadster will be built at a tidy £1.1 million (about $1.8M USD) per copy. We'll take two.

Gallery: Pagani Cinque Roadster

[Source: Pagani]

Continue reading Droolworthy: Pagani rips the lid off its Cinque for new Roadster model

Droolworthy: Pagani rips the lid off its Cinque for new Roadster model originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 03 Jul 2009 10:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Elon Musk: "Golden handcuffs" require I stay through Model S launch

Sebastian Blanco — Thu, 02 Jul 2009 09:28:00 EST

Filed under: Convertibles, Hybrids/Alternative, Sedans/Saloons, Sports/GTs, Government/Legal, Green

For a guy who allegedly wants a lot of the credit for creating Tesla Motors, Elon Musk certainly doesn't seem to like the job of being its CEO. As part of Daimler's investment deal with Tesla, Musk needed to commit to staying on as Tesla's CEO at least until the Model S launches in 2011. Musk told Reuters:

I didn't really have a choice. This was a requirement of Daimler that I remain CEO of Tesla through the Model S launch and then continue to be part of Tesla in a chairman role beyond that. It's flattering, but at the same time it's golden handcuffs.

Well, that sure makes it sound like fun, doesn't it? It's clear that Musk has always been interested in projects other than Tesla (e.g.: electric planes and SpaceX), but does he have to make running one of the hippest electric car companies around sound like a drag?

Another nugget from the article: One of the reasons the price on the Roadster was raised was to help qualify Tesla Motors for the DOE loan it later received. Musk said, "We did the minimum we needed to do to make the business work."

Gallery: Tesla Model S

[Source: Reuters]

Elon Musk: "Golden handcuffs" require I stay through Model S launch originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 02 Jul 2009 09:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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BREAKING: Chevrolet Camaro outsells Ford Mustang in June

Chris Paukert — Wed, 01 Jul 2009 14:42:00 EST

Filed under: Car Buying, Trends, Convertibles, Coupes, Sports/GTs, Chevrolet, Ford, GM

Despite having fewer model variations on the market, pent up demand for the 2010 Chevrolet Camaro appears to have been enough to send the bad Bowtie past Ford's redone Mustang in June. Sales figures for the month are beginning to trickle in today, and General Motors says it shifted 9,320 Camaro units last month, as compared to the Blue Oval's 7,632 Mustangs.

Whether Chevrolet's victory will be sustainable over the long haul remains to be seen, but as The General has a backlog of 10,000 sold orders to fill (equating to less than a seven day supply), the streak is likely to continue for at least the next few months. Presently, GM offers just two main Camaro models, the V6 RS and the V8-powered SS, while the Ford Mustang has more bodystyles and trims than you can shake a stick at (arguably making the Camaro's achievement seemingly that much more impressive).

Sales of the third leg of 2009's pony car table, the Dodge Challenger, trail far behind, with just 1,369 units cleared last month.

As the industry heads into the dog days of summer, it looks like America's renewed pony car war is just heating up. Who will take the crown for the whole year? Sit tight, muscle fans.

Gallery: One Night Stand: 2010 Chevrolet Camaro

Gallery: First Drive: 2010 Ford Mustang GT

BREAKING: Chevrolet Camaro outsells Ford Mustang in June originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 01 Jul 2009 14:42:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Rendered Speculation: Mazda preparing sub-Miata MX-2?

Noah Joseph — Tue, 30 Jun 2009 19:28:00 EST

Filed under: Convertibles, Mazda, Rendered Speculation

We've seen it happen a million times: a small car is successful, then the automaker ruins it by making it larger and heavier to satisfy what it thinks the average buyer is after. Fortunately, that hasn't been the case with the Mazda MX-5, which - retractable hardtop option notwithstanding - the Japanese automaker has always been careful not to spoil the core elements of the MX-5. So we'll take reports that Mazda is preparing an even smaller MX-2 with a grain of salt. But a small one.

According to the speculation, a future MX-2 would come in noticeably smaller than the full-size Miata, and therefore require smaller engines. Something between 700cc and 1.6-liter engines are reportedly in store, with a turbo at the top end delivering 160 horsepower. No word on layout, but we'd grudgingly expect a front-drive set-up when the purported MX-2 is unveiled as early as 2012.

[Source: Auto Express]

Rendered Speculation: Mazda preparing sub-Miata MX-2? originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 30 Jun 2009 19:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Novitec unveils twin-supercharged Ferrari Scuderia Spider 16M

Drew Phillips — Tue, 30 Jun 2009 10:30:00 EST

Filed under: Aftermarket, Tuners, Convertibles, Supercars, Ferrari

Novitec Rosso Ferrari Scuderia Spider 16M - Click above for a high-res image gallery

We're unsure about the logic behind messing with one of Ferrari's amazing creations, let alone a limited edition model like the Scuderia Spider 16M. But German tuning company Novitec Rosso has no qualms about putting their own creative mark on the cars from Maranello. Their most recent creation is this twin-supercharged Scuderia Spider 16M that puts out 696 horsepower at 8400 rpm and 503 lb-ft torque at 6300 rpm. Capable of hitting 60 mph in 3.5 seconds and topping 205 mph, it's easily one of the fastest convertibles in the world. The Italian drop top also gets larger wheels and tires, sport springs with a hydraulic lift system, black taillights, side markers and reflectors, a leather/carbon fiber steering wheel, and carbon fiber shift paddles. Full details in the press release after the jump.

Gallery: Novitec Rosso Ferrari Scuderia Spider 16M

[Source: Novitec via AutoGuide.com]

Continue reading Novitec unveils twin-supercharged Ferrari Scuderia Spider 16M

Novitec unveils twin-supercharged Ferrari Scuderia Spider 16M originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 30 Jun 2009 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Pics aplenty: Lamborghini Gallardo LP560-4 Spyder

Drew Phillips — Mon, 29 Jun 2009 19:58:00 EST

Filed under: Convertibles, Supercars, Lamborghini

Lamborghini Gallardo LP560-4 Spyder - Click above for a high-res image gallery

We love us some supercar photos, and Lamborghini just made our day by releasing a plethora of new images of the Gallardo LP560-4 Spyder. Introduced late last year at the L.A. Auto Show, the new Gallardo drop-top received a host of upgrades compared to its predecessor, including a new folding top, LED taillights, and, of course, the new 552 horsepower 5.2-liter V10 also found in its coupe sibling. Check out the gallery below for all-new high-res images.

Gallery: Lamborghini Gallardo LP560-4 Spyder

[Source: WebRidesTV.com]

Pics aplenty: Lamborghini Gallardo LP560-4 Spyder originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 29 Jun 2009 19:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Spy Shots: Mercedes-Benz E-Class convertible

Damon Lavrinc — Mon, 29 Jun 2009 14:58:00 EST

Filed under: Frankfurt Auto Show, Spy Photos, Convertibles, Mercedes-Benz

2010 Mercedes-Benz E-Class Convertible - Click above for a high-res image gallery

The engineers at Mercedes-Benz are working tirelessly to get the all-new E-Class cabrio ready for its debut at the Frankfurt Motor Show. So much so that they appear to be bringing dates along for a ride in the chop-topped mules.

These newest shots of the 2010 Mercedes-Benz E-Class Convertible are the first we've seen with the cloth top stowed away, and they reveal an interesting detail: a retractable wind deflector mounted on the top of the windshield.

Like Audi, Mercedes has opted to forgo the folding hard-top treatment for the new E, allowing the automaker to retain the coupe's hard-edged style and keep the curb weight in check. When the E-Class Convertible arrives in dealerships early next year, expect a range of six- and eight-cylinder powerplants, including the range-topping E500.

Gallery: Spy Shots: Mercedes-Benz E-Class Convertible

Spy Shots: Mercedes-Benz E-Class convertible originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 29 Jun 2009 14:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Pics Aplenty +Video: Fiat 500 Cabrio introduced at global sales milestone

Noah Joseph — Fri, 26 Jun 2009 20:01:00 EST

Filed under: Convertibles, FIAT

Fiat 500C - Click above for high-res image gallery

With the rampant acquisition streak Fiat's embarked on, the Italian automaker has clearly emerged as a power-broker in the global automotive industry. The auto group has always been strongest in its home market, but with the ink on the Chrysler deal still wet and more mergers and acquisitions looming on the horizon, Fiat has reached a new milestone: for the first time in the company's history, it's sold more of one model outside of Italy than within.

The model in question, it should come as no great surprise, is the 500, with 54% of sales currently take place outside its home market. The retro hatchback has been selling like hotcakes in every locale it's been introduced, and is slated to come Stateside within a couple of years.

The announcement of the 500's international sales success came at the market introduction of its convertible version, the 500 C, which goes on sale next month in Italy, France and the UK, with more markets to follow. We've loaded a whole new crop of high-resolution images into the gallery below, and posted a video after the jump to satiate all your quaint Italian cabrio fantasies, so enjoy.

Gallery: Fiat 500C

Continue reading Pics Aplenty +Video: Fiat 500 Cabrio introduced at global sales milestone

Pics Aplenty +Video: Fiat 500 Cabrio introduced at global sales milestone originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 26 Jun 2009 20:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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VIDEO: Ford previews blind man unleashing inner Mustang

Drew Phillips — Wed, 24 Jun 2009 19:55:00 EST

Filed under: Convertibles, Marketing/Advertising, Ford

Click above to view the video after the jump

Most of us take for granted the ability to enjoy driving cars. Whether it's with a clunker or a supercar, there is a wonderful freedom that comes with getting behind the wheel of an automobile. No one knows that more than Roger Keeney, a man from Athens, GA who lost his sight twenty years ago. As we reported earlier, Keeney caught Ford's attention with his application for the '10 Unleashed' program, and decided to fulfill his dream of driving a Mustang. Ford had the cameras rolling during the whole thing, and will be posting a series of videos on the 2010 Mustang web site. Both the trailer and chapter one have already been released, and we've embedded them after the jump.

Gallery: Roger Keeney's 2010 Mustang Drive

[Source: Ford]

Continue reading VIDEO: Ford previews blind man unleashing inner Mustang

VIDEO: Ford previews blind man unleashing inner Mustang originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 24 Jun 2009 19:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Rendered Speculation: Vauxhall Astra droptop to get more rakish

Chris Paukert — Tue, 23 Jun 2009 19:01:00 EST

Filed under: Convertibles, Opel, Vauxhall, UK, Rendered Speculation

If you're like us, you can't help but smile at the breathless optimism and certainty that the folks at Auto Express have for not-yet-released models. The latest car to catch their rendering artist's eye is the forthcoming Vauxhall Astra droptop.

According to AE, the new convertible Roadster variant will forgo the rear seats of the current TwinTop and instead adopt a more rakish two-seat design. The folding metal roof will reportedly integrate a pair of rollover fairings in its tonneau cover, and tighter overhangs with more aggressive ground effects.

Interestingly, AE claims that the Astra Roadster will not get a VXR performance variant, but it will receive the hot hatch's 2.0-liter turbo engine, reportedly good for 270 bhp and a 0-60 mph time in six seconds. Lesser engines will apparently include a 1.4-liter turbo giving 150 bhp and a 170 bhp 2.0-liter CDTI diesel.

Due to General Motors selling off Vauxhall and its twin brand Opel to Magna, the likelihood of seeing such a model Stateside would appear to be even slimmer than normal. Either way, the U.K. publication says the world will have to wait a while for the topless Astra, as the automaker will first roll out the five-door, followed by the three-door and wagon models and later an MPV. Only after the rest of the lineup is revealed will Vauxhall break out the suntan lotion.

[Source AutoExpress]

Rendered Speculation: Vauxhall Astra droptop to get more rakish originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 23 Jun 2009 19:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Karmann Go: Legendary coachbuilder shuts down as last car comes off the line

Chris Paukert — Tue, 23 Jun 2009 16:56:00 EST

Filed under: Convertibles, Euro, Government/Legal, Plants/Manufacturing, Special/Limited Editions

Karmann throughout the years - Click above for high-res image gallery

Troubled coachbuilder and specialty car manufacturer Karmann has gone dark. The firm's final vehicle - a Mercedes-Benz CLK came off the lines on Monday as the legendary company has been shuttered because of insolvency.

Perhaps best known for its Volkswagen-based Karmann Ghia coupe and convertible (shown above), Karmann has actually produced in excess of 3.3 million automobiles for various automakers - mostly convertibles. In recent times, it's been responsible for assembling cars like the Spyker C8, Audi A4 Cabriolet, Chrysler Sebring Convertible, Volkswagen New Beetle Convertible, and the Pontiac G6 Convertible.

According to German's The Local, Karmann actually "went bust last week," though it still hopes to change its focus to parts production if officials are able to successfully reorganize the firm and stay in business. Unfortunately, finger-pointing between the Osnabrück company's management and its unions is preventing any sort of restructuring, let alone a quick turnaround.

The company's 2,240 workers have all apparently been given notice, and their benefits plans will likely be eliminated. Check out more details at the link below and peruse a high-res gallery of Karmann's vehicles (including some of its concept cars) by clicking on the thumbnails below. Thanks for the tip, Gregg.

Gallery: Karmann throughout the years

[Sources: The Local; StraitsTimes]

Karmann Go: Legendary coachbuilder shuts down as last car comes off the line originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 23 Jun 2009 16:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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VIDEO: Audi R8 Spyder uncorks its V10 on the Nürburgring

Chris Shunk — Tue, 23 Jun 2009 12:59:00 EST

Filed under: Convertibles, Videos, Supercars, Audi

2011 Audi R8 Spyder - Click above to watch a video after the jump

We're definitely looking forward to our first official glimpse at the 2011 Audi R8 Spyder, but unfortunately, we don't know exactly when that will happen. While it was widely expected to bow at the Frankfurt Auto Show in September, we've recently heard that it could show its V10-only face as late as Detroit in January.

Fear not, though, because we've got some high-quality footage of the R8 Spyder as it takes its 525 horsepower whoopin' stick to the Nürburgring. Hit the jump to view the future crown jewel of the Audi lineup as it comes hard after some of the most famous curves in the history of race tracks. If seeing the uncovered R8 Spyder on the track isn't exhilarating enough for you, make sure to turn up the volume. The sinister growl emanating from the rear of Audi's supercar in waiting is enough to send chills down the spine. We like.

Gallery: 2010 Audi R8 5.2 FSI quattro

Source: Auto Wereld via Jalopnik]

Continue reading VIDEO: Audi R8 Spyder uncorks its V10 on the Nürburgring

VIDEO: Audi R8 Spyder uncorks its V10 on the Nürburgring originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 23 Jun 2009 12:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Spy Shots: Ferrari 599 GTB Spider?

Damon Lavrinc — Mon, 22 Jun 2009 19:28:00 EST

Filed under: Spy Photos, Convertibles, Sports/GTs, Supercars, Ferrari

The crew from CzechFerrari made an interesting discovery in an unknown location: a Ferrari California-bodied prototype with an awkward removable roof. At first glance, it's easy to dismiss the mule as just another California being readied for testing, but peering through the driver's side window reveals an interior that's noticeably different from the entry-level Fezza - it's closer to the Ferrari 599. While it's hardly conclusive evidence that Maranello is working on a convertible variant of its V12 super-tourer, it's compelling nonetheless. And with rumors of a drop-top version circulating for months and a facelift right around the corner, Ferrari could be preparing a 599 Spider before the new model debuts in the next two years.

[Source: CzechFerrari]

Spy Shots: Ferrari 599 GTB Spider? originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 22 Jun 2009 19:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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REPORT: S197 Ford Mustang could have had independent rear suspension for $100 per car

Drew Phillips — Mon, 22 Jun 2009 16:57:00 EST

Filed under: Convertibles, Coupes, Sports/GTs, Tech, Ford, Earnings/Financials, Rumormill

It seems that any discussion about a modern Ford Mustang inevitably turns into a debate about its solid rear axle. While Ford has done an incredible job of optimizing the pony car's suspension, many still find it unacceptable that such an antiquated technology is used on a modern day performance car. Motor Trend boss Angus MacKenzie, however, says that the S197 Mustang platform almost received an independent rear suspension a while back - and for a lot less than you might think.

According to MacKenzie, the 2005 Mustang was set to get an independent suspension shared with the BA-series Falcon sedan built in Australia. Even when it was decided that the two cars would use different platforms, Ford designers set about designing an independent suspension specific to the Mustang. So why did it still end up with a solid rear axle? According to MacKenzie, product development executive Phil Martens convinced Bill Ford Jr. that they could save $100 per car if they dropped the IRS and went with the solid axle. For all of you non drag-racing types that wish the Mustang had an independently suspended rear, this news probably makes you sick to the stomach.

But wait... there's more! MacKenzie's sources say that the cost of sorting out the current Mustang's suspension actually cost $98 more per car than the IRS that could have gone in the car. Like Angus, we love the current Mustang but have to wonder if it could have been that much better.

[Source: Motor Trend]

REPORT: S197 Ford Mustang could have had independent rear suspension for $100 per car originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 22 Jun 2009 16:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Spy Shots: Audi R8 Spyder

Jonathon Ramsey — Sun, 21 Jun 2009 15:07:00 EST

Filed under: Frankfurt Auto Show, Spy Photos, Convertibles, Sports/GTs, Supercars, Audi

Audi is testing its forthcoming R8 Spyder, and the car is wearing what appears to be a completely stowable roof, not the targa-style top that has been suggested as a possibility. Yet disappearing along with the roof could also be your view of the engine. The droptop in the spy photos and in Audi's official sketch features a solid engine cover and two curious structures adorned with gills that run up to the rear window. They could line up with an interior element when the roof is down, but it would have to be mighty cool to be worth missing out on that engine. Audi's 552 horsepower competitor for cars like the Vantage V12 and Porsche 911 Turbo Cabrio will bow at this year's Frankfurt Auto Show.

[Source: Fastest Car]

Spy Shots: Audi R8 Spyder originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 21 Jun 2009 15:07:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Return of the 5.0 Part Deux: 5.0 badge returning on 2011 Mustang GT?

Damon Lavrinc — Thu, 18 Jun 2009 12:34:00 EST

Filed under: Convertibles, Coupes, Ford, Rumormill

2010 Ford Mustang - Click above for a high-res image gallery

The Ford Mustang 5.0 has been gone for some time, but with the new 32-valve, 5.0-liter "Coyote" V8 on its way, the badge could make a comeback and undoubtedly it'll be more successful than Vanilla Ice's past attempts.

After some digging through Ford's parts database, a forum member at TheMustangSource came across a "5.0" badge and an accompanying part number that could find itself attached to the 2011 Ford Mustang. Supposedly, KC also found listings for three new engine/transmission combos for 2011: the 3.7-liter V6 reported earlier (with both auto and manual gearboxes), a 5.0-liter (with the same transmission options) and a supercharged 5.4-liter. Although we're treating this with a healthy bit of skepticism, it doesn't seem beyond the pale, and if Van Winkle plays his cards right, maybe Ford will tap him for the marketing campaign. Thanks for the tip Matt!

Gallery: 2010 Ford Mustang

[Source: TheMustangSource via MustangBlog]

Return of the 5.0 Part Deux: 5.0 badge returning on 2011 Mustang GT? originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 18 Jun 2009 12:34:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Porsche considering Audi TTS engine for cheaper Boxster?

Chris Shunk — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 17:26:00 EST

Filed under: Convertibles, Sports/GTs, Audi, Porsche

2010 Porsche Boxster - Click above for high-res image gallery

With sales slumping and money suddenly pretty tight, Porsche would no-doubt love to move more metal. Sure, the Stuttgart, Germany sports car maker has assured us that it will make money this year and next, but it wouldn't hurt to have a little insurance. According to Auto Motor & Sport, more sales could come from a cheaper yet more powerful Boxster. The site is reporting that Porsche is looking into the Audi TTS engine. At 272 hp and 258 lb-ft, the turbocharged 2.0-liter engine would eclipse Porsche's standard issue boxer engine by a useful 17 hp and 45 lb-ft of torque.

If the story from Auto Motor & Sport is to believed, the Audi-fied Boxster would be cheaper, too. The site is quoting a price that drops from €46,500 ($64,000 in US funds) down to €40,000 ($55,000). The only problem for Porsche purists is that the TTS engine isn't exactly a boxer engine. But the faithful got over the Cayenne (maybe), so we're sure an affordable Boxster that is lighter (we're guessing), more powerful, and cheaper will put their minds at ease.

Interestingly, the article also mentions anew a lower-priced roadster that would sit at the bottom of the Porsche food chain. The sub-Boxster Porsche would have to start somewhere around $40,000, and while it would almost surely boost Porsche sales, it could also cut into the brand's prestige if it isn't properly executed.

Gallery: First Drive: 2009 Porsche Boxster S PDK

[Source: Auto Motor & Sport via Motor Authority]

Porsche considering Audi TTS engine for cheaper Boxster? originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 17 Jun 2009 17:26:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Ferrari California receives 500 HP attitude adjustment at the hands of Edo Competition

Chris Paukert — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 15:56:00 EST

Filed under: Aftermarket, Tuners, Convertibles, Sports/GTs, Euro, Supercars, Ferrari

Ferrari California by Edo Competition - Click above for high-res image gallery

Despite its position as the 'approachable' Prancing Horse, Ferrari's new California folding hardtop is a heck of an impressive drive all the way around. However, that hasn't stopped some quarters from suggesting that it's a bit compromised and a bit too effeminate to be a proper Maranello supercar. While we think that's nonsensical, we admit a little toughening up couldn't hurt to silence the doubters.

Enter German tuner Edo Competition, which has just taken the wraps off of their own fettled California. Looking suitably foreboding in black with larger matching alloys, Edo has tweaked the car's 4.3-liter V8 engine to deliver 500 horsepower (+40). That nice, round number arrives courtesy of a remapped ECU and a pair of high-flow cats that feed into a new cockpit-adjustable exhaust system. The engine's torque level doesn't swell quite as much, peaking at 369 lb-ft (@ 5,200 rpm), but nevertheless, EDO says the car is good for a 0-62 mph run in 3.9 seconds and a top end of 315 km/h (196 mph). Oddly, Ferrari says the box-stock Cali will get to 60 mph in "under 4 seconds," so there's probably not much of a difference between the two on the low end, although Edo's top speed is 5 kmph faster than when it left the factory.

Commendably, Edo has resisted the need to fit a lairy body kit, although the company says it will be happy to trim-out your droptop with lowering springs (-35mm), a full-on sport suspension system with adjustable damping, or your choice of 20- and 21-inch wheels. They'll even redo the interior for you, although we find the standard car to be quite wonderful in this regard, and might recommend leaving well enough alone.

Check out the high-res gallery below and Edo's official verbiage after the jump.

Gallery: Edo Competition Ferrari California

[Source: Edo Competition]

Continue reading Ferrari California receives 500 HP attitude adjustment at the hands of Edo Competition

Ferrari California receives 500 HP attitude adjustment at the hands of Edo Competition originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 17 Jun 2009 15:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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REPORT: 2011 Audi R8 Spyder will launch with V10 only, next A8 not coming to Frankfurt

Damon Lavrinc — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 13:00:00 EST

Filed under: Detroit Auto Show, Frankfurt Auto Show, Convertibles, Sedans/Saloons, Sports/GTs, Euro, Supercars, Audi

2010 Audi R8 V10 - Click above for a high-res image gallery

It's been all but confirmed by Audi that the R8 Spyder is due to debut alongside the new A5 Sportback at the Frankfurt Motor Show this September, but according to two reports from Car and Driver, there will be one less vehicle on the show stand in Germany and only one engine available in the drop-top supercar.

The 2011 Audi R8 Spyder will reportedly be available with the 525 hp, 5.2-liter V10 at launch -- meaning no V8 -- with a standard six-speed manual gearbox or optional R-tronic automated transmission. The 420 hp, 4.2-liter V8 currently fitted to the standard R8 could be added later, but Audi seems to favor sticking with the V10 until the R8's replacement arrives a few years down the road.

Additionally, it was widely reported that the 2011 Audi A8 would be unveiled in Frankfurt, but C&D says that the launch has been pushed back sometime after the LA Auto Show in December. Apparently, the reason for the delay is two-fold: Audi doesn't want to risk quelling sales of the current A8 in some of its most important markets (China, Europe and the U.S.) and the automaker is (wisely) worried that the unveiling could be overlooked at a large auto show where too many models are vying for attention. As such, the A8 could be shown initially at a private event in Florida later this year, with the first public exhibition being the Detroit Auto Show in January.

Gallery: 2010 Audi R8 5.2 FSI quattro

[Source: Car and Driver (1) (2)]

REPORT: 2011 Audi R8 Spyder will launch with V10 only, next A8 not coming to Frankfurt originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 17 Jun 2009 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Ford Racing to introduce new intake manifold for modular V8s

Sam Abuelsamid — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 08:00:00 EST

Filed under: Convertibles, Coupes, Sports/GTs, Ford

During the recent Ford Racing Invitational, one of the Mustangs being raced by the journalists on hand featured a newly developed intake manifold on its 4.6-liter V8. The current production manifold works very well with all kinds of engine modifications, but once the revs hit 6,500 rpm, it completely falls flat. The new manifold is designed to support a bump of that redline up to 7,500 rpm. The manifold doesn't really add much power on its own, but it does allow other mods like camshafts, valves and exhaust systems to take advantage of more engine speed.

Ford will be building tooling over the next few months and running production prototypes toward the end of summer. The manifold should be on sale later in the fall. Ford hasn't yet set pricing for the new manifold but it may come in at about $600-700. Mike Sutton from Car and Driver who drove a 2009 GT fitted with the new manifold said the engine easily revved beyond 7,000 rpm, something impossible with a stock modular V8.

Ford Racing to introduce new intake manifold for modular V8s originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 17 Jun 2009 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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