Car Fans Blog

1956 Chrysler Diablo Concept Auctions for $1.3 Million at Barrett-Jackson

noreply@blogger.com (carfansblog) — Tue, 18 Jun 2013 15:11:00 +0000

A 1956 Chrysler Diablo Concept was auctioned at the 2013 Barrett-Jackson auction for $1,375,000, the auction has seen some one-off projects auction at very high prices such as the Original 1966 Batmobile that auctioned for $4.62 million.

This Diablo was a product of the director of automotive design for Chrysler in 1953, Virgil Exner Sr., who was given the responsibility to design all of Chrysler’s concept cars starting in 1954. Exner would then collaborate with Ghia, one of the best body builders in Italy to come up with the Diablo Concept. Designed in a wind tunnel, the Diablo is one of the largest custom bodied convertibles ever built by the Ghia body builder and in its second phase it retained a full convertible top.

They used a 1956 Chrysler 300 with a 392 cubic inch V8 engine featuring two four barrel carburetors, automatic push-button transmission and a ton of chrome in the engine compartment. Every detail on this car was fastidiously gone over by Virgil Exner including the pitchfork emblems, emblem on the gas filler lid which is in the trunk area and the sculpting on the exhaust tips, which reportedly took Virgil several days on the drawing board to get the design just perfect.

The Diablo is also fitted with power steering, power brakes, power windows, power top, power antenna and air conditioning. The size of this car is of 21′ long and very wide. This car has been in the same important collection for approximately 25 years.

[Via Autoblog]

1956 Chrysler Diablo Concept Auctions for $1.3 Million at Barrett-Jackson

noreply@blogger.com (carfansblog) — Tue, 18 Jun 2013 15:11:00 +0000

[Via Autoblog]

1956 Chrysler Diablo Concept Auctions for $1.3 Million at Barrett-Jackson

noreply@blogger.com (carfansblog) — Sun, 16 Jun 2013 15:14:00 +0000

[Via Autoblog]

1956 Chrysler Diablo Concept Auctions for $1.3 Million at Barrett-Jackson

noreply@blogger.com (carfansblog) — Sun, 16 Jun 2013 15:13:00 +0000

[Via Autoblog]

1956 Chrysler Diablo Concept Auctions for $1.3 Million at Barrett-Jackson

noreply@blogger.com (carfansblog) — Sat, 15 Jun 2013 15:20:00 +0000

[Via Autoblog]

1956 Chrysler Diablo Concept Auctions for $1.3 Million at Barrett-Jackson

noreply@blogger.com (carfansblog) — Sat, 15 Jun 2013 15:20:00 +0000

[Via Autoblog]

2016 Lincoln Navigator to go V6 only - report

noreply@blogger.com (carfansblog) — Fri, 14 Jun 2013 15:11:00 +0000

2013 Lincoln Navigator 12.3.2013

Ford Expedition could retain the V8

The Lincoln Navigator once ruled America's classiest suburbs, but the current model hasn't managed to attain the fame of the original in the face of strong competition from Cadillac, Infiniti and Mercedes. However, Lincoln is committed to the model as Motor Trend is reporting brand director Matt VanDyke has confirmed a replacement is in the works.

Expected be based on the 2015 Ford F-150, the redesigned Navigator is slated to be powered by a 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6 engine that develops 365 bhp (272 kW) and 410 lb-ft (555 Nm) of torque. There could also be an entry-level 3.7-liter V6 engine that produces 302 bhp (225 kW) and 278 lb-ft (376 Nm) of torque. This doesn't sound like much, but the current model has a 5.4-liter V8 that churns out 310 bhp (231 kW) and 365 lb-ft (494 Nm) of torque.

Interestingly enough, the magazine is reporting the Navigator's corporate cousin - the Ford Expedition - could be offered with the aforementioned engines as well as a 5.0-liter V8 that produces 360 hp (268 kW) and 380 lb-ft (515 Nm) of torque.

Rolls-Royce crossover not being considered, but exec says 'never, say never'

noreply@blogger.com (carfansblog) — Fri, 14 Jun 2013 15:11:00 +0000

Rolls Royce Ghost

Model wouldn't launch until the end of the decade even if it were approved

We've heard rumors that Rolls-Royce was considering a crossover to battle the production version of the Bentley EXP 9 concept, but the company's Asia Pacific director has decided to put the speculation to rest.

Speaking to Car Advice, Paul Harris said the company is not currently considering a crossover but the idea hasn't been ruled out. As he explained, “The Rolls-Royce philosophy is very clear ... we will never say never to anything."

Harris went on to say the Wraith will likely remain the company's newest model for the next two and a half years and “There’s nothing on the drawing board, at all, as it stands now."

Rolls-Royce's South and East Asia Pacific general manager, Dan Balmer, went one step further by saing a crossover faces two key challenges: styling and ride quality. According to him, “Our number one concern before design, though, is ride quality." He added, “SUVs aren’t known for their ride quality. 4×4 drivetrains and systems are not the best-riding you can get.”

If Rolls-Royce were to approve a crossover, Balmer said it wouldn't launch until the end of the decade because their models are hand built and it would take several years to train people to build it.

LaFerrari stars in latest Ferrari Museum exhibition in Maranello

noreply@blogger.com (carfansblog) — Thu, 13 Jun 2013 15:09:00 +0000

"Ferrari Supercar. Technology. Design. Myth" exhibition

Its predecessors are also showcased

The recently unveiled LaFerrari is now being showcased as part of an exhibition at the Ferrari Museum in Maranello.

The exhibition is called "Ferrari Supercar. Technology. Design. Myth" and provides a brief history of the company's former limited edition special series models, beginning with the iconic 250 GTO and continuing with cars like the 1984 GTO, F40, F50, Enzo and of course, LaFerrari. There are other cars part of the exhibition such as the 599XX Evo, GTO Evoluzione, F40 Competizione and the FXX.

A section of the exhibition is reserved for the development process of the LaFerrari, providing details not only about its engineering but also about how the styling came alive. It refers to all the important steps taken during the creation of the supercar, from its initial conception to the finished product. There are two 1:1 models exhibited as well as some of the other designs that Ferrari took into consideration at one point.

The exhibition will be available until September 30.

Nissan Juke n-tec special edition announced

noreply@blogger.com (carfansblog) — Thu, 13 Jun 2013 15:09:00 +0000

Nissan Juke n-tec special edition

Based on Acenta specification

Nissan is introducing the n-tec special edition of the Juke which comes with the firm's new-generation Connect infotainment system.

It's based on the Acenta trim and packs a 5.8-inch color touchscreen display, Bluetooth, satellite-navigation system, as well as support for Google's Send-To-Car technology which the owner can use to plan a journey on a PC/tablet and send the instructions to the car. The navigation system will plan the most optimal route and the owner can specify points of interests.

The crossover rides on 18-inch black/silver alloys and comes with glossy black mirror caps and B-pillars. Eight exterior colors are available, along with three interior cabin shades. The n-tec can be specified with a 1.6-liter naturally-aspirated engine with 117 HP (86 kW) or the 1.6-liter turbocharged DIG-T producing 190 HP (140 kW). There's also a 1.5 dCi diesel generating 110 HP (81 kW) which brings CO2 emissions of 124 g/km.

In terms of gearbox choices, the naturally-aspirated gasoline engine can be linked to a 5-speed manual or an XTRONIC CVT. The front-wheel drive DIG-T model receives a 6-speed manual, while the four-wheel drive variant is offered with an XTRONIC M-CVT transmission with a 6-speed manual mode. The diesel engine is connected exclusively to a 6-speed manual gearbox.

Standard goodies include automatic climate control, reversing camera with color display, auto-lightning, rain-sensing wipers, front fog lights, USB support, along with leather-trimmed steering wheel and gear lever knob.

Jaguar XFR-S

noreply@blogger.com (carfansblog) — Wed, 12 Jun 2013 15:12:00 +0000

Posted on 03.11.2013 16:20 by
Simona

Jaguar certainly knew what it was doing when it presented the XKR-S at the 2011 Geneva Motor Show, as it has stolen the hearts of many car enthusiasts and also proven to everyone that Jag is still capable of developing amazing sports cars. As everyone expected, this was just the beginning of a new series of high-performance sports car. This was confirmed at the 2012 Los Angeles Auto Show, as that R-S lineup has been expanded with the incredible XFR-S.

After we have seen it in many times testing on and outside of Nurburgring, Jaguar has decided to use to finally unveil the new high-performance sports sedan. Unfortunately, supply to U.S. customers will be rather limited and the price will be astronomical.

The problem is that everyone knew what the new XFR-S will bring, especially after the firm's global brand director Adrian Hallmark said in an interview: "'I can confirm there is a project to transfer the upgrades from the XKR-S to the XFR." The question remains: how this upgrades transformed the XFR-S' performance figures?

Updated 03/11/2013: We have added a series of images from the XFR-S’s official debut in Geneva. Check the picture gallery to see how the car looks on the show floor.

Hit the jump to read more about the 2013 Jaguar XFR-S.

Jaguar XFR-S originally appeared on topspeed.com on Monday, 11 March 2013 16:20 EST.

Video: The Alfa Romeo 4C Emits a Mean Exhaust Note

noreply@blogger.com (carfansblog) — Wed, 12 Jun 2013 15:12:00 +0000

Posted on 03.11.2013 17:00 by
Justin Cupler

Alfa Romeo hasn't sold a new car in the U.S. since the 8C and, for the most part, they haven't been missed. But every now and again, even the most conservative of automakers puts out a wild model that we crave here in the States, but we are forced to watch from a distance since they are not typically available here. Fortunately, the 4C is not one that we have to watch from a distance, as all signs point to it making a run in the U.S. market in small quantities - about 2,000 of each version.

The details of the 4C are no secret any longer, as we know it features a 1,750 cc four-cylinder turbocharged powerplant that puts down more than 200 horsepower and hooks up to a dual-clutch automatic transmission. We also know that the drivetrain will launch this sub-1,873-pound sports car to 60 mph in under 5 seconds and up to a 155 mph top speed.

Yeah, we've got all of that stuff covered. What we are concerned with now is how this petite mean machine sounds. Well, omniauto managed to catch this beast on video at the Geneva Motor Show and it gives us an earful of sweet exhaust notes and the ominous whine of the turbocharger.

Have a look and listen to the video above and let us know just how excited it makes you for the 4C's official launch in the U.S.

Ducati 748 Biposto

noreply@blogger.com (carfansblog) — Tue, 11 Jun 2013 15:13:00 +0000

Posted on 03.10.2013 13:07 by Sulthoni
, Serafim

An old Ducati 748 Biposto was auctioned with an estimated price of 3.000- 4.000 (the bike was sold at a final price of 2.925). The motorcycle's specifications included a 748 cc DOHC liquid-cooled Desmo V-twin paired with a six speeds transmission. The bike on offer was an original example in red with gold wheels.

The Ducati 748 was launched in 1995 as the smaller sister to the 916 and eligible to compete in the 600 Supersport class against the 600-cc four-cylinder Japanese racers. It was available as an SP and a dual seat Biposto; the SP generated 104 horsepower at 11,000 rpm, while the Biposto used milder Strada cams and produced 98 horsepower. The SP topped out at 154 mph, the Biposto at 151 mph. A number of riders have observed that the 748 engine is actually sweeter and likes to rev more freely than the torquier 916, which probably accounted for the model's popularity.

Hit the jump for more pictures of the Ducati 748 Biposto.

Ducati 748 Biposto originally appeared on topspeed.com on Sunday, 10 March 2013 13:07 EST.

KTM 250 EXC Six Days

noreply@blogger.com (carfansblog) — Tue, 11 Jun 2013 15:12:00 +0000

Posted on 03.10.2013 14:01 by Sulthoni
, Serafim

The KTM 250 EXC Six Days was carefully prepared to compete in the world's largest enduro competition, the "International Six Days Enduro". The motorcycle needed a pretty special treatment to be able to withstand the punishment of the competition which covers over a thousand offroad kilometers.

Thereby a performance package which includes high-quality special options makes the KTM 250 EXC 2013 fit for this challenge.

Among the KTM 250 EXC Six Days features you'll find the new generation 4CS closed-cartridge fork from WP Suspension, a sporty frame with high quality orange coating, CNC-machined triple clamps (orange anodized), black anodised handlebar with Six Days logo, full rear brake disc (no slots/holes) and a Camel SXS seat. Other features that worth to be mentioned are the exhaust silencer with KTM Six Days anodising (anthracite) and Six Days logo, the Orange radiator grille and the Exclusive Six Days graphics.

Hit the jump for more information on the 2013 KTM 250 EXC Six Days.

KTM 250 EXC Six Days originally appeared on topspeed.com on Sunday, 10 March 2013 14:01 EST.

Citroen C3 Hybrid Air shows its green credentials in Geneva

noreply@blogger.com (carfansblog) — Mon, 10 Jun 2013 15:11:00 +0000

Citroen C3 Hybrid Air at 2013 Geneva Motor Show

C3 facelift also there

Although overlooked by many, the Citroën C3 Hybrid Air is one of the most interesting cars being showcased in Geneva this year.

Presented together with the facelifted C3, the special version of the French supermini utilizes PSA's Hybrid Air powertrain which is scheduled to enter production in 2016 for B-segment models. This revolutionary system consists of a gasoline engine, compressed air, a hydraulic motor-pump and an automatic gearbox featuring an epicyclic gear train.

The French automakers did not go into many details but they say the powertrain can work on gasoline, air or a combination of the two. PSA says that in the Citroën C3 or Peugeot 208 with the Hybrid Air technology would allow the cars to have a fuel consumption of just 2.9 liters / 100 km (81.1 mpg US or 97.4 mpg UK) with CO2 emissions of only 69 g/km. During urban driving, the cars can be utilized in Air mode as zero-emission vehicles for 60-80 percent of the time.

Volkswagen Golf VI R Cabriolet makes public debut in Geneva

noreply@blogger.com (carfansblog) — Mon, 10 Jun 2013 15:11:00 +0000

Volkswagen Golf VI R Cabriolet at 2013 Geneva Motor Show

Late in the game

Volkswagen has brought to Geneva the last version of the sixth-gen Golf represented by the R Cabriolet version.

Showing two different generations of a car in Geneva is something that we rarely see. Besides the Golf VII family (hatchback, estate, GTI) VW is also showcasing the Golf VI-based R Cabriolet.

Scheduled to go on sale this spring, the Golf VI R Cabriolet comes exclusively with a 4-cylinder, 2.0-liter engine connected to a 6-speed DSG. Offering 265 HP (195 kW), the hot cabrio needs 6.4 seconds until 62 mph (100 km/h) and can reach an electronically-limited 155 mph (250 km/h).

It can be fitted with 18- or 19-inch wheels and benefits from a 25mm lowered suspension. Other goodies include chrome-tipped exhausts, side sill extensions, LED daytime running lights and bi-xenon headlights. The cabin has four individual sport seats and a fully electric insulated top which can be raised in 11s and lowered in 9.5s at speeds of up to 18 mph (29 km/h).

Brabus B63S 730 2013

noreply@blogger.com (carfansblog) — Sat, 08 Jun 2013 15:11:00 +0000

Brabus has unveiled its upgrade program for the 2014 Mercedes-Benz CLS 63 AMG, call the B63S 730, at the 2013 Geneva Motor Show.

Video: Chevrolet Corvette Stingray Convertible in Geneva

noreply@blogger.com (carfansblog) — Sat, 08 Jun 2013 15:11:00 +0000

Posted on 03.8.2013 07:00 by
Simona

The other day at the Geneva Motor Show, Chevrolet unveiled the convertible version for the new Corvette Stingray. Unfortunately, the maker decided to only show us a series of images for the sports convertible, but no video.

Lucky for us though, YouTube user, Marchettino, was in Geneva and he shot some very nice frames of the new Stingray Convertible. Along with the convertible version, you will also see the new Stingray coupe version that made its European debut in Geneva.

Both models are powered by a 6.2-liter V-8 engine that delivers a estimated total of 450 horsepower and 450 pound-feet of torque. The sprint from 0 to 60 mph will be made in less than four seconds and, since the convertible version received no structural reinforcements, both models share almost identical power-to-weight ratios.

Watch the video and see if the new Stingray looks better on the show’s floor that it does on the pictures released by GM.

2013 Chevrolet COPO Camaro limited to 69 units, priced at 86,000 USD

noreply@blogger.com (carfansblog) — Fri, 07 Jun 2013 15:11:00 +0000

2013 Chevrolet COPO Camaro

Clients to be identified starting Monday

Chevrolet has announced they will make 69 units of the 2013 COPO Camaro and clients will be identified starting next week.

Last year they built the same amount of cars, even though orders exceeded 3,000 requests. The 2013MY has a starting price of 86,000 USD and will be available with two all-new engines, along with a new manual gearbox.

The entry-level engine is a 350-cubic-inch producing 325 hp (242 kW), followed by a 396-cubic-inch rated at 375 hp (279 kW) and the range-topping 427 cubic-inch generating 425 hp (317 kW). As standard, all engines benefit from a high-feature fuel-injection system with a new Holley HP EFI electronic control unit taking care of the engine management. The rear axle gearing will be optimized for each car.

Some of the changes over the 2012MY include dedicated racing wiring harness, a "heritage" grille, updated interior with new switch panel and different carpet, revised front springs, transmission cooler integrated with the radiator and standard-production (non-HID) headlamps. The car can be had in five colors and with graphic options with engine-size call-outs.

Note: Those who want to purchase the model will have to sign up on the COPO Camaro Mailing List at chevroletperformance.com today. More info is available in the attached press release.

Audi and Marvel team up once again for Iron Man 3

noreply@blogger.com (carfansblog) — Fri, 07 Jun 2013 15:11:00 +0000

Audi R8 e-tron from Iron Man 3

Featuring R8 e-tron and S7 Sportback

Audi and Marvel are continuing their collaboration for Iron Man 3 which will showcase the R8 e-tron prototype.

For the latest installment in the Iron Man franchise Tony Stark (played by Robert Downey Jr.) will be driving the Audi R8 e-tron, while Virginia "Pepper" Potts (played by Gwyneth Paltrow) is behind the wheel of an Audi S7 Sportback.

In the first two movies various other Audi models were used, such as the R8, R8 Spyder, A8, S5 and Q7. The third iteration of the series will arrive in theaters on May 3, 2013. Recent rumors are indicating a fourth movie is already planned.

As a reminder, for last year's The Avengers movie Marvel made the switch from Audi to Honda by using an Acura NSX.

Hyundai i20 WRC 2014

noreply@blogger.com (carfansblog) — Thu, 06 Jun 2013 15:12:00 +0000

Hyundai has unveiled an updated Hyundai i20 WRC at the 2013 Geneva Motor Show. The race car is set to be used in the forthcoming FIA World Rally Championship. The upgrades are the result of collaborative work between Hyundai’s R&D facility in Namyang, Korea and the newly formed Hyundai Motorsport GmbH in Alzenau, Germany, headed up by veteran WRC man Michel Nandan.

Mansory Gronos Mercedes G63 G65 AMG 2013

noreply@blogger.com (carfansblog) — Thu, 06 Jun 2013 15:12:00 +0000

Mansory has created the new master of eight and twelve cylinders in lavish carbon handiwork. Mansory will be unveiling the creation, based on the Mercedes-Benz G 63 AMG and G 65 AMG model, called the Mansory Gronos at the 2013 Geneva Motor Show.

The Gronos bears completely newly designed bodywork made from ultra-light carbon. It gets several cabon fiber body parts like the roof, the mirror housings and the decorative trims. A custom exhaust system, different front spoiler with LED daytime running lights, spare wheel cover made of carbon fibre and revised rear spoiler are also installed. Also multiple layers of paint in Magic Yellow color cover the bonnet.

Mansory has completely reworked the eight-cylinder bi-turbo engine of the AMG and installed genuine motor racing components. Engine pistons, connecting rods, rod bearings, crankshaft, crank, the cylinder head and many other parts now meet the high demands of Kourosh Mansory. The Gronos reaches an impressive 840 hp (618 kW) instead of 544 hp (400 kW), while the maximum torque is raised to an electronically-limited 1000 Nm.

Hamann brings BMW M6 Mirr6r to Geneva [video]

noreply@blogger.com (carfansblog) — Wed, 05 Jun 2013 15:11:00 +0000

New aero kit

German tuner Hamann has brought its BMW M6 Mirr6r to this year's Geneva Motor Show.

Based on the latest BMW M6 Coupe, this custom version has received a new aerodynamic package with wider wings, rear spoiler, air intakes, side skirts and a built-in carbon fiber rear diffuser. The latter works together with the carbon fiber rear spoiler to guarantee an optimal airflow. We should mention the diffuser houses two stainless steel tailpipes on both sides.

The vehicle sits on 21-inch Unique Forged Formula or Edition Race alloy wheels with Vredestein Ultrac Vorti R tires measuring 265/30 ZR21 front and 305/25 ZR21 rear. The suspension has received sport springs that bring the M6 Coupe closer to the ground by 35mm.

As for the interior cabin, Hamann used a lot of Alcantara and they installed aluminum pedals and foot rest. Illuminated chrome trims as well as other types of materials are also available upon request.

2013 KTM X-BOW GT races into Geneva

noreply@blogger.com (carfansblog) — Wed, 05 Jun 2013 15:11:00 +0000

2013 KTM X-BOW GT at 2013 Geneva Motor Show

Based on X-BOW R

KTM unveiled yesterday in Geneva the X-BOW GT which is already available on order from 72,500 EUR.

It's based on the KTM X-BOW R and comes with a road-legal soft-top which they say is easy to install. The GT version also features a baggage system providing approximately 50 liters of storage space. Various colors and PowerParts components are available upon request at an additional cost.

Power comes from an inline-four 2.0-liter gasoline engine with turbocharging, direct injection and an intercooler capable of providing 285 HP (210 kW) at 6,400 rpm and 420 Nm (310 lb-ft) of torque at 3,200 rpm. Those ponies are sent to the rear wheels via a six-speed manual gearbox, enabling the X-BOW GT to reach 62 mph (100 km/h) in 4.2 seconds and a top speed of 144 mph (231 km/h).

The vehicle is 3738mm long, 1915mm wide and 1202mm tall, with a 2430mm wheelbase and an 847 kg (1,867 lbs) weight. It rides on 17-inch front wheels with 205/40 tires and 18-inch rear alloys shod in 255/35 rubbers. KTM says the X-BOW GT has a fuel consumption of 8.3 liters / 100 km (28.3 mpg US / 34 mpg UK) with CO2 emissions of 189 g/km.

2013 Seat Leon SC publicly revealed in Geneva

noreply@blogger.com (carfansblog) — Tue, 04 Jun 2013 15:12:00 +0000

2013 Seat Leon SC at 2013 Geneva Motor Show

Arriving in dealerships in July

The three-door version of the new Seat Leon has made its first public appearance this week in Geneva.

Compared to its five-door sibling, the Leon SC's wheelbase is 35mm shorter measuring 2600mm. It comes with a significantly more sharply raked roofline while overall the car is 4.23 meters long.

This design takes cues from Seat's previous concepts such as the IBE, IBL and IBX. Seat says it's the lightest vehicle in its class and is 110 kg (242 lbs) lighter than its predecessor, as well as 20 kg (44 lbs) lighter than the hatchback.

It has the same 380-liter cargo capacity as the regular model and a new profile for the rear three-quarter windows. The rear shoulders are broader in the SC model while over the wheel arches there are sharper blisters. The Spanish marque mentions the model has been redesigned entirely from the A-pillars back.

Scheduled to arrive in dealerships this July, the 2013 Seat Leon SC will have the same engine lineup as the five-door model with outputs varying from 105 HP (77 kW) to 184 HP (135 kW). Based on the VW Group's MQB platform, the new Leon SC will be manufactured at the firm's Martorell factory in Barcelona.