Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com Autoblog http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/%SiteURL%/media/feedlogo.gif Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com en-us Copyright 2009 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/ Chris Shunk, Sam Abuelsamid and Dan RothThe podcast by the people who obsessively cover the auto industry. <![CDATA[VIDEO: Heffner Performance teases Twin Turbo Audi R8]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/13/video-heffner-performance-teases-twin-turbo-audi-r8/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/13/video-heffner-performance-teases-twin-turbo-audi-r8/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/13/video-heffner-performance-teases-twin-turbo-audi-r8/#comments Filed under: , , , , ,

Heffner Performance Twin Turbo Audi R8 - click above to watch the video

We're starting to see this type of thing more and more. And by "type of thing" we mean dyno teasers, not twin-turbo Audis. Nonetheless, you are staring at the unclothed rump of an Audi R8 with two massive turbochargers sitting on a four-wheel dynometer. And the results are, well, calling them boring to watch would be a polite understatement. However...

The car is by Heffner, and while we find the video a little lacking (you'll see), we must give it up for the soundtrack. Audibly, this is about as good as things get. And what do you get if you let Heffner replumb your R8's engine? How does 536 wheel horsepower on 93 octane sound? Sound like about 640 crank horsepower to us. Watch (or rather, listen to) the video, after the jump. Hat tip to Tony M!

[Source: Heffner Performance]

Continue reading VIDEO: Heffner Performance teases Twin Turbo Audi R8

VIDEO: Heffner Performance teases Twin Turbo Audi R8 originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 13 Nov 2009 16:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> AudiAudi R8AudiR8dynodyno pulldynomometerDynoPullHeffnerHeffner PerformanceHeffner Performance Twin Turbo Audi R8HeffnerPerformanceHeffnerPerformanceTwinTurboAudiR8R8Twin Turbo Audi R8Twin Turbo R8TwinTurboAudiR8TwinTurboR8 Fri, 13 Nov 2009 16:57:00 EST <![CDATA[First Drive: SMS 570X makes 700 hp, gobs more joy]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/12/first-drive-sms-570x-makes-700-hp-gobs-more-joy/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/12/first-drive-sms-570x-makes-700-hp-gobs-more-joy/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/12/first-drive-sms-570x-makes-700-hp-gobs-more-joy/#comments Filed under: , , , ,

SMS 570X - Click above for high-res image gallery

During the course of a wide-ranging, more than two-hour long conversation, we asked racing legend, aftermarket impresario and SMS namesake Steve Saleen what's the single most important thing he wants Autoblog readers to know about not only his new 700-horsepower 570X, but about SMS as a whole. Without missing a beat, Mr. Saleen cocked his head to one side and said, "That we're not a tuning shop. SMS is an Original Equipment Manufacturer."

"We're not a tuner.
SMS is an Original Equipment Manufacturer."
- Steve Saleen
Normally, when the head of a company that takes existing cars and modifies them says something like that, you nod politely and draw your own conclusions. But in the case of Steve Saleen, you err on the side of trust. For one thing, he's been at this for 25 years - in fact, a 1984 Saleen Mustang just sold for $80,000. Compare that price to other 1984 Mustangs. For another, he's the man behind the Saleen S7, a totally bespoke beast of a machine that's one of the most dominant supercar-based race cars ever.

Still, looking at the all-new SMS 570X, it's very hard not to see an aftermarket Dodge Challenger, albeit a heavily modified one. But keep on staring and you'll notice that not only are most of the body panels new, they're actually well constructed. More importantly, they fit together properly. And SMS cars come with actual warranties (three year/36,000 mile for the 570, one year/12,000 for the 570X) and have countless thousands of hours of R&D behind them. But really, it's only once the 570X's hood gets popped that you suddenly realize this ain't no backyard tuner.


Gallery: First Drive: 2009 SMS 570X


Photos copyright (C)2009 Drew Phillips / Weblogs, Inc.

Continue reading First Drive: SMS 570X makes 700 hp, gobs more joy

First Drive: SMS 570X makes 700 hp, gobs more joy originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 12 Nov 2009 11:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 570570XchallengerDodgeDodge ChallengerDodgeChallengerfeaturedfirst driveFirstDrivesaleenSMSSMS 460SMS 460 MustangSMS 460X MustangSMS 570SMS 570XSMS 570X ChallengerSMS 620SMS 620 CamaroSMS 620XSMS 620X CamaroSMS SupercarsSms460Sms460MustangSms460xMustangSms570Sms570xSms570xChallengerSms620Sms620CamaroSms620xSms620xCamaroSmsSupercarssteve saleenSteveSaleen Thu, 12 Nov 2009 11:56:00 EST <![CDATA[First Petty's Garage Challenger heading to Barrett-Jackson]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/11/first-pettys-garage-challenger-heading-to-barrett-jackson/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/11/first-pettys-garage-challenger-heading-to-barrett-jackson/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/11/first-pettys-garage-challenger-heading-to-barrett-jackson/#comments Filed under: , , , , , , , ,


2009 Petty's Garage Dodge Challenger - Click above for high-res image gallery

And with this official decree, let it be known that one custom 2009 Dodge Challenger, painted in a very familiar and regal blue shall be offered for sale to the highest bidder in Arizona in the year of our lord, 2010. The vehicle in question shall serve as a rolling tribute to Richard the 43rd. Long live the King!

Richard Petty was one of the winningest drivers in stock car history. With a record seven Daytona 500 trophies, 127 poles, 200 overall wins (including a record 27 -- and ten-in-a-row -- races in 1967), and seven championships in his 34-year, 1,185-race career, it's no wonder he's called The King. His legendary Chryslers, Fords and Plymouths bearing the number 43 were mostly built at his race shop in Level Cross, NC. Now all the king's men are working to build on his legacy under the newly formed banner of Petty's Garage.

The company plans to work on "museum-quality" restorations of vintage race cars, custom cars and high performance street machines. To kick off the new business, Petty's Garage has built a 2009 Challenger that will be sold in a Petty Family Foundation charity auction at B-J in January.

Painted in the trademark Petty Blue, it features a 585-hp Hemi 426, Pedders suspension upgrades, Brembo Gran Turismo brakes, a new center exit Corsa exhaust system, plus a Petty's Garage body kit consisting of custom front fascia, rear bumper cover, custom rocker panels and a rear spoiler. The inside gets the royal touch as well, with Petty's Garage branded seats and door panels. We saw the car at SEMA and it's a looker. You can read more details in the press release we've pasted in after the jump and check out the gallery from SEMA as well.


Gallery: Petty's Garage Dodge Challenger


Gallery: SEMA 2009: Petty's Garage Dodge Challenger

Continue reading First Petty's Garage Challenger heading to Barrett-Jackson

First Petty's Garage Challenger heading to Barrett-Jackson originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 11 Nov 2009 19:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> auctionBarrett Jacksonbarrett-jacksonBarrettJacksoncharitycharity auctionCharityAuctiondodgeDodge ChallengerDodgeChallengerLevel CrossLevelCrossPetty Family FoundationPettyFamilyFoundationPettys GaragePettysGarageRichard Pettyrichard petty dodge challengerRichardPettyRichardPettyDodgeChallenger Wed, 11 Nov 2009 19:58:00 EST <![CDATA[TechArt squeezes more power out of Porsche 911 Carrera 4S]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/11/techart-squeezes-more-power-out-of-porsche-911-carrera-4s/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/11/techart-squeezes-more-power-out-of-porsche-911-carrera-4s/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/11/techart-squeezes-more-power-out-of-porsche-911-carrera-4s/#comments Filed under: , , , ,

TechArt Porsche 911 Carrera 4S - Click above for high-res image gallery

In certain circles, the 911 4S is considered the Porsche to get. You got your high-output S motor, the security of all the wheels being driven, a curvaceous (if not swollen) rear end, all the luxuries of home (especially if you tick off "leather air vents" on the options list) but without the crippling price of the Turbo or punishing ride/packaging of the GT3. Obviously, lots of folks feel differently, but if you're going to go down the 4S road, you might want to stop off and pay a visit to TechArt.

The "why" is that using some absolutely gorgeous piping, TechArt has found a way to squeeze 35 more horseponies out of the Carrera 4S's 3.8-liter flat-six, raising the total from 385 to 420. Which is as much power as the original 996 Turbo made. Which, we need not remind you, passed for a supercar just a few short years ago. And the 997 iteration of the 4S weighs about one hundred pounds less than the old Turbo.

But you can't just give the people more power and call it a day. With that maxim in mind, TechArt has gone ahead and crafted up a nice body kit for its 4S. There's a little lip spoiler, some twisted sills and a tastefully done spoiler. Actually, that spoiler does more than just look good - it's got a Gurney flap! That means it's adjustable. TechArt also fussed around with the suspension, crafted some forged light-alloy wheels and even gave the interior a once over, adding better leather and aluminum pedals. You can find all of the details in the press release after the jump. But before than doing that, may we suggest you just trip out on this for a while?


Gallery: TechArt Porsche Carrera 4S


[Source: TechArt]

Continue reading TechArt squeezes more power out of Porsche 911 Carrera 4S

TechArt squeezes more power out of Porsche 911 Carrera 4S originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 11 Nov 2009 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 4S911PorschePorsche 4SPorsche 911Porsche 911 4SPorsche Carrera 4Sporsche tunerPorsche4sPorsche911Porsche9114sPorscheCarrera4sPorscheTunertech artTechArtTechArt Porsche 911 4STechartPorsche9114stuner Wed, 11 Nov 2009 15:00:00 EST <![CDATA[Lumma Design shows bizarre black-and-white BMW M5 with 730 HP]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/10/lumma-design-shows-bizarre-black-and-white-bmw-m5-with-730-hp/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/10/lumma-design-shows-bizarre-black-and-white-bmw-m5-with-730-hp/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/10/lumma-design-shows-bizarre-black-and-white-bmw-m5-with-730-hp/#comments Filed under: , , ,


Lumma Design CLR 730 RS - Click above for high-res image gallery

With its latest creation, the CLR 730 RS, it seems that Lumma Design is making a play for the title of Europe's most garish tuner. However, this two-tone widebody BMW M5 is actually subtle compared to previous Lumma Design models, and we think the title still firmly remains with Mansory.

So what's special about the CLR 730 RS? For starters, 730 horsepower. The 50% increase in chutzpah comes from a set of twin-superchargers courtesy of G-Power, and Lumma Design claims an impressive top speed of 228 mph. Additional performance upgrades come in the form of a sport suspension, six-piston front and four-piston rear brakes, and an upgraded exhaust system.

The candy cane interior of the CLR 730 RS is even more over-the-top than the outside, with a combination of carbon fiber, leather, and suede. It's not really our style, but we would probably be more accepting of it in a more subtle color. We have plenty of high-res photos in the gallery below, and Lumma Design's press release has full details after the jump.


Gallery: Lumma Design CLR 730 RS



[Source: Lumma Design]

Continue reading Lumma Design shows bizarre black-and-white BMW M5 with 730 HP

Lumma Design shows bizarre black-and-white BMW M5 with 730 HP originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 10 Nov 2009 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> aftermarketBimmerBMWBMW M5BMW TunerBmwM5BmwTunerlummaLumma DesignLumma Design BMW M5Lumma Design CLR 730 RSLummaDesignLummaDesignBmwM5LummaDesignClr730RsM5tuner Tue, 10 Nov 2009 19:30:00 EST <![CDATA[Besting Prodrive: Autodelta unveils tuned Alfa Brera S and 159 J4 3.2 Compressore at MPH09]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/09/besting-prodrive-autodelta-unveils-tuned-alfa-brera-s-and-159-j/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/09/besting-prodrive-autodelta-unveils-tuned-alfa-brera-s-and-159-j/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/09/besting-prodrive-autodelta-unveils-tuned-alfa-brera-s-and-159-j/#comments Filed under: , , , , ,


Autodelta Alfa Romeo Brera S and 159 J4 3.2 Compressore - Click above for high-res image gallery

Alfa Romeo has proven itself capable of crafting some of the most achingly beautiful automotive works of art on the road today. Unfortunately, their driving dynamics and performance numbers rarely seem to cash the checks written by their sumptuous bodywork. Nowhere is that schism more evident than with the Brera, a fantastically angular design with disappointing dynamics.

That's where aftermarket tuners come in. Over a year ago, Alfa teamed up with Prodrive to create the Brera S. The venerable British house of motorsport tightened up the suspension and steering and yanked out the heavy all-wheel-drive system to bring the sport coupe's drive closer to the aggressive level of its styling. Some evidently felt the result was a good starting point, but that it needed a little more oomph, prompting Autodelta to join the fight with the Brera S 3.2 Compressore.

By bolting a supercharger to the 260-horsepower, 3.2-liter V6 and remapping its ECU, Autodelta - one of the world's foremost Alfa tuners - has coaxed out an impressive 347 stallions. But while removing the all-wheel-drive system helped shave 220 pounds off the Brera's curb weight, the London-based tuning house felt it needed a substitute, so they've fitted a limited-slip differential to handle the extra power. They'll also soften the suspension a touch from Prodrive's hard line at a client's request.

Customers looking for the convenience of a four-door can also get most of the same modifications in the form of the Autodelta J4 3.2 C, based on the 159 sedan. Both models were unveiled in London at MPH09, the live-action auto show where Autodelta exhibits its latest offerings each year. Follow the jump for all the details in the press release and have a stroll through the photos in the high-resolution image gallery below.


Gallery: Autodelta Alfa Romeo Brera S and 159 J4 3.2 Compressore


[Source: Autodelta]

Continue reading Besting Prodrive: Autodelta unveils tuned Alfa Brera S and 159 J4 3.2 Compressore at MPH09

Besting Prodrive: Autodelta unveils tuned Alfa Brera S and 159 J4 3.2 Compressore at MPH09 originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 09 Nov 2009 19:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> alfaalfa 159alfa breraalfa prodrivealfa romeoalfa romeo 159alfa romeo breraalfa romeo brera sAlfa159AlfaBreraAlfaProdriveAlfaRomeoAlfaRomeo159AlfaRomeoBreraAlfaRomeoBreraSauto deltaautodeltaautodelta 159autodelta alfaautodelta alfa romeoautodelta alfa romeo brera s 3.2 compressoreautodelta alfa romeo j4 3.2 compressoreautodelta j4autodelta j4 3.2 compressoreAutodelta159AutodeltaAlfaAutodeltaAlfaRomeoAutodeltaAlfaRomeoBreraS3.2CompressoreAutodeltaAlfaRomeoJ43.2CompressoreAutodeltaJ4AutodeltaJ43.2CompressorecompressoreMPHMPH 09MPH09prodrive alfa romeoprodrive brera sProdriveAlfaRomeoProdriveBreraS Mon, 09 Nov 2009 19:20:00 EST <![CDATA[Très Exclusif: French Abarth importer creates special edition Cinquecento]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/09/tres-exclusif-french-abarth-importer-creates-special-edition-50/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/09/tres-exclusif-french-abarth-importer-creates-special-edition-50/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/09/tres-exclusif-french-abarth-importer-creates-special-edition-50/#comments Filed under: , , ,


Fiat 500 Abarth SpeedGrey par Neubauer - Click above for high-res image gallery

The Fiat 500 Abarth is a pretty sweet little retro rocket all on its own, but the Italian automaker's performance division hasn't stopped churning out a seemingly endless stream of special editions, from the Opening Edition to the 695 Tributo Ferrari. We can now add to that list the 500 Abarth SpeedGrey by Neubauer.

Unlike the Competizione edition made specially for the Dutch market, the SpeedGrey is actually an undertaking of Neubauer, the official Abarth distributor for France. Starting with the up-rated EsseEsse spec, the Neubauer edition gets a special Monza exhaust system for an extra five horses (boosting output up to 165), a pair of Sabelt bucket seats, tinted windows, Blue&Me navigation system and special Maserati gray paint job. Looks pretty sweet, but Neubauer will only be making 10 examples exclusively for the French market, so we'll just have to bide our time until the stock hot hatch arrives Stateside.


Gallery: Fiat 500 Abarth SpeedGrey par Neubauer


[Source: Neubauer]

Très Exclusif: French Abarth importer creates special edition Cinquecento originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 09 Nov 2009 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> abarthfiatfiat 500fiat 500 abarthfiat abarthFiat500Fiat500AbarthFiatAbarthfranceneubauerneubauer abarthNeubauerAbarth Mon, 09 Nov 2009 08:00:00 EST <![CDATA[SEMA 2009 Worst of Show: This car stinks...]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/08/sema-2009-worst-of-show-this-car-stinks/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/08/sema-2009-worst-of-show-this-car-stinks/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/08/sema-2009-worst-of-show-this-car-stinks/#comments Filed under: , , , ,

Worst of Show - Click above image for hi-res gallery

Stinks. You might think that we're talking about the overall design of this shockingly orange scissor-door/scissor-trunk Dodge Charger R/T. Or the build quality, what with panel gaps that you can insert your index finger into, wheels so large the tie-rods can't hold them and the world's saddest piece of vinyl covering the trunk's goofy hinge. You might even be under the impression that we're referring to the poor Charger's taillights, which set a new SEMA low. But you'd be mistaken. While this poor, 26-inch dubbed Charger has no doubt been beaten to death with the SEMA stick, we're actually talking about its odor. Quite literally, it smells like synthetic cat urine.

The why and the how of this particular example of aftermarket hubris and wretched, mindless - and let's not forget pointless - excess don't really matter now, as the poor thing will spend the next 15 years quietly rotting in the side yard of some shop in Joliet, Illinois waiting to either shrug off this mortal coil or get turned into a fine LeMons car right around 2025 - whichever comes first. Despite the poor design and execution, the pointy end of our query-arrow is pointed straight at the heart of where the offending aroma came from. Did they finish off the interior with a nice shellacking of formaldehyde? Or, is this rough, slouching-towards-Bethlehem beast already sleeping outside, doors scissored up with cats as tenants? Who knows. But it's easily the Worst of Show; a sad, unfortunate offering at an otherwise entertaining and action-packed event.


Gallery: SEMA 2009: Stinking Scissor Trunk Charger

SEMA 2009 Worst of Show: This car stinks... originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 08 Nov 2009 20:04:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> ChargerCharger RTChargerRtDodgeDodge ChargerDodge Charger RTDodgeChargerDodgeChargerRtSEMASEMA 2009SEMA ShowSema2009SemaShow Sun, 08 Nov 2009 20:04:00 EST <![CDATA[SEMA 2009: Gran Turismo Best in Show is the Trans-Cammer Mustang]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/07/sema-2009-gran-turismo-best-in-show-is-the-trans-cammer-mustang/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/07/sema-2009-gran-turismo-best-in-show-is-the-trans-cammer-mustang/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/07/sema-2009-gran-turismo-best-in-show-is-the-trans-cammer-mustang/#comments Filed under: , , , ,


Philip Koenen's "Trans-Cammer" 1970 Ford Mustang. Click above for high-res image gallery

Phillip Koenen brought a really gorgeous, miles-deep-black, 1970 Mustang to SEMA and came away with another fine piece of hardware:The Gran Turismo Best in Show award. For the past several years, Sony Computer Entertainment America has hosted these awards, which honor some of the coolest cars at SEMA.

Koenen's SOHC 427-powered "Trans-Cammer" snagged the Best Hot Rod award in addition to winning Best in Show. Gran Turismo creator Kazunori Yamauchi awarded the trophy himself at the awards ceremony, which rocked The Palms' Rain nightclub Wednesday night. In addition to the the trophy, Koenen's beloved "Trans-Cammer" Mustang wins the right to be featured in a future installment of the Gran Turismo series.

Other Gran Turismo Award winners included Scott Bailey and Tony Vanillo's Ford F-250 Unlimited 2 Class short-course race truck in the Best Truck/SUV category; Chris Rado's World Racing Unlimited front-wheel-drive time attack Scion TC as Best Asian Import; KC Howet's 2009 Underground Racing Lamborghini LP560-4TT in Best European Import; and Nicholas Ashby's Moment Carbon Camaro for Best Domestic Automobile. Sounds like a dream garage to us. Follow the jump to read the official press release, and don't forget to check out the gallery as well.


Gallery: SEMA 2009: 1970 Trans-Cammer Mustang


Photos copyright (C)2009 Frank Filipponio/Weblogs, Inc.

Continue reading SEMA 2009: Gran Turismo Best in Show is the Trans-Cammer Mustang

SEMA 2009: Gran Turismo Best in Show is the Trans-Cammer Mustang originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 07 Nov 2009 10:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 1970 Ford Mustang1970 Mustang1970FordMustang1970MustangChris RadoChrisRadogran turismogran turismo awardsGranTurismoGranTurismoAwardsKazunori YamauchiKazunoriYamauchiKC HowetKcHowetKoenenMustangNicholas AshbyNicholasAshbyPhillip KoenenPhillipKoenenScott BaileyScottBaileySEMAsema 2009Sema2009Tony VanilloTonyVanilloTrans CammerTrans Cammer Ford MustangTrans-CammerTrans-Cammer Ford MustangTrans-Cammer MustangTrans-cammerFordMustangTrans-cammerMustangTransCammerTransCammer Ford MustangTranscammerFordMustang Sat, 07 Nov 2009 10:33:00 EST <![CDATA[Laptop steering wheel desk is real. And real funny.]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/07/laptop-steering-wheel-desk-is-real-and-real-funny/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/07/laptop-steering-wheel-desk-is-real-and-real-funny/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/07/laptop-steering-wheel-desk-is-real-and-real-funny/#comments Filed under: , ,

Laptop DeskYou know, when we're driving along, eating buffalo wings and trying to manage a Super Slurpee while playing Cooking Dash on the iPhone, it sure would be helpful to have a place to keep all that stuff organized. Thankfully, there's the Laptop Steering Wheel Desk, which accomplishes all of the above AND finally gives us a place to keep our bleu cheese and celery sticks, to boot. (You see, our cupholders are already occupied by french fries.) This "Why didn't I think of that?" stroke of genius slides right around your steering wheel, which it uses as an anchor for your much-needed flat surface.

Listen, steering is overrated anyway, right? Actually, the official product description on Amazon.com says, "For safety reasons, never use this product while driving." But come on, we're excellent drivers. We're pretty sure we can handle this. Based on the user reviers, others have found this device to be exceedingly convenient. Some of the user-submitted photos suggest that the Laptop Steering Wheel Desk may indeed be troublesome in the hands of less experienced drivers, but we remain skeptical. We think we'll put one in the shopping cart with that Three Wolf Moon T-Shirt we've been eying. Then, when it arrives, we're hunting for a drive-thru pizzeria. Thanks for the tips, everyone!

[Source: Amazon.com]

Laptop steering wheel desk is real. And real funny. originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 07 Nov 2009 09:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> buffalo wings are awesomeBuffaloWingsAreAwesomecompletely safeCompletelySafedistracted drivingDistractedDrivinglaptop steering wheel deskLaptopSteeringWheelDesksteering wheel deskSteeringWheelDesk Sat, 07 Nov 2009 09:01:00 EST <![CDATA[SEMA 2009: Galpin builds custom '69 Mustang right on the show floor]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/06/sema-2009-galpin-builds-custom-69-mustang-right-on-the-show-fl/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/06/sema-2009-galpin-builds-custom-69-mustang-right-on-the-show-fl/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/06/sema-2009-galpin-builds-custom-69-mustang-right-on-the-show-fl/#comments Filed under: , , , ,


Galpin Auto Sports '69 Mustang build - Click above for high-res image gallery

While those of us in the media walked around the show floor at SEMA looking for the cool, the crazy, and the just plain awesome, there were people doing actual work. Real work. No, we're not talking about the security people that wouldn't let us in the show before 9:00am no matter how we tried to convince them, nor the food vendors charging $40 for a lousy pizza. We're talking about the guys at Galpin Auto Sports who spent each day of the show building a custom 1969 Ford Mustang from scratch.

The Mustang started off at the start of the show in literally thousands of pieces, and every time we walked by, we could see that the car was just a little bit closer to completion. The 427ci V8 was already in the Mustang the last time we saw it, and while we left before we could see the car completed, everyone at GAS seemed pretty confident that it would be finished by the time the show ended this afternoon. From the looks of all of the individual pieces, the end product should be pretty cool looking. Check out our high-res gallery below to see just how many parts it takes to build a '69 Mustang.


Gallery: SEMA 2009: Galpin '69 Mustang Build


Photos copyright (C)2009 Drew Phillips / Weblogs, Inc.

SEMA 2009: Galpin builds custom '69 Mustang right on the show floor originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 06 Nov 2009 16:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 1969 Ford Mustang1969FordMustangFordFord MustangFordMustangGalpinGalpin Auto SportsGalpin FordGalpinAutoSportsGalpinFordMustangSEMASEMA 2009Sema2009 Fri, 06 Nov 2009 16:57:00 EST <![CDATA[SEMA 2009: Knee-high tri-axle pickup by Air-Zenith is down and (not so) dirty]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/06/sema-2009-knee-high-tri-axle-pickup-by-air-zenith-is-down-and/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/06/sema-2009-knee-high-tri-axle-pickup-by-air-zenith-is-down-and/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/06/sema-2009-knee-high-tri-axle-pickup-by-air-zenith-is-down-and/#comments Filed under: , , , ,


Air-Zenith custom pickup - Click above for high-res image gallery

We're not exactly sure what this used to be in its former life, but it all kinds of cool in its current iteration. Just knee-high to a Hobbit, this six-wheel convertible was parked in the shadow of Bigfoot and we almost tripped over it.

We were able to locate an Air-Zenith banner on the windshield, however, we couldn't find any other info. But really, what else do you need to know? Air-Zenith is the same group that dropped the drag pickup we saw at SEMA 2008. That one might have been quicker, but this one has a cool bike in the bed!


Gallery: SEMA 2009: Knee-high tri-axle AirXenith pickup truck


Photos copyright (C)2009 Frank Filipponio/Weblogs, Inc.

SEMA 2009: Knee-high tri-axle pickup by Air-Zenith is down and (not so) dirty originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 06 Nov 2009 16:39:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> Air-ZenithAir-Zenith pickupAir-Zenith slammed pickupAir-zenithPickupAir-zenithSlammedPickupairbagairbrushbaggedflame jobFlameJobflamesPickuppickup truckPickupTruckSEMAsema 2009Sema2009triple-axle Fri, 06 Nov 2009 16:39:00 EST <![CDATA[SEMA 2009: 1951 Henry J gasser is a 7-second blast from the past]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/06/sema-2009-1951-henry-j-gasser-is-a-7-second-blast-from-the-past/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/06/sema-2009-1951-henry-j-gasser-is-a-7-second-blast-from-the-past/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/06/sema-2009-1951-henry-j-gasser-is-a-7-second-blast-from-the-past/#comments Filed under: , , , ,


1951 Kaiser Henry J - Click above for high-res image gallery

Here's another black beauty that caught our attention in the halls of SEMA 2009. It's a 1951 Kaiser Henry J owned and raced by Chris Beanes of California.

Running in A/Gas, this gloss-free gasser can storm the quarter in the mid-7s at better than 174 MPH. We read somewhere that it's powered by a Chevy 400 that's backed by a four-speed transmission, but other than that we don't have a lot more details. What we do have are a few pics in the gallery below that hopefully capture the magic of this nostalgic dragster.


Gallery: SEMA 2009: 1951 Henry J gasser


Photos copyright (C)2009 Frank Filipponio/Weblogs, Inc.

SEMA 2009: 1951 Henry J gasser is a 7-second blast from the past originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 06 Nov 2009 16:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 1951 Henry J1951 Kaiser1951 Kaiser Henry J1951HenryJ1951Kaiser1951KaiserHenryJAGasChris BeanesChrisBeanesdrag racerdrag racingDragRacerDragRacingdragstergasserHenry JHenryJkaiserKaiser Henry JKaiserHenryJnostalgiaSEMASEMA 2009:sema showSema2009:SemaShow Fri, 06 Nov 2009 16:20:00 EST <![CDATA[SEMA 2009: The rest of the best at the Ford display]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/06/sema-2009-the-rest-of-the-best-at-the-ford-display/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/06/sema-2009-the-rest-of-the-best-at-the-ford-display/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/06/sema-2009-the-rest-of-the-best-at-the-ford-display/#comments Filed under: , ,


The rest of the Ford display - Click above for high-res image gallery

SEMA is an interesting show. We go in knowing full well that 60-75% of the cars we'll be walking past and/or covering are just trash. Sorry if this bombshell offends anyone, but your Chrysler 300C doesn't need 26-inch hoops, nor seventy gallons of sparkle orange paint. Or diamonds. But, as Doyle Brunson might say if he covered cars instead of being the Godfather of Texas Hold 'Em, that's SEMA.

We mention this in the "other Fords" post because some of these custom FoMoCos look fantastic, or at least pretty good. But 60-75% of them, well, we're not entirely sold. Let's start with the good. Despite the two-tone paint job, we're pretty darn smitten with the Fusion T4 by MRT above. More cars need big old intercoolers taking up the whole lower fascia. And while they might be an inch (or three) too big, the wheels are nice. And that white Lincoln MKS? Nice.

But then you got the other cars contained in this here gallery, and... um.... we like the Lincoln MKT, because well, we just like MKTs. But we're not sold on the Focus upgrades, especially since Ford saw fit to bring a Euro Focus RS to the show. Game, set, outmatched. And don't even get us started on the Edge they've cooked up here. Specifically, the wing on the back. No really - see for yourself.


Gallery: SEMA 2009: The rest of the Ford display


Photos copyright (C)2009 Drew Phillips / Weblogs, Inc.

SEMA 2009: The rest of the best at the Ford display originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 06 Nov 2009 15:39:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> EdgeFlexFocusFocus RSFocusRsFordford edgeford focusford fusionFord Transit ConnectFordEdgeFordFocusFordFusionFordTransitConnectFusionLincolnLincoln MKSlincoln MKTLincolnMksLincolnMktSEMASEMA 2009SEMA ShowSema2009SemaShowTransit ConnectTransitConnect Fri, 06 Nov 2009 15:39:00 EST <![CDATA[SEMA 2009: The Chevrolet Camaro 'splosion!!!]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/06/sema-2009-the-chevrolet-camaro-splosion/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/06/sema-2009-the-chevrolet-camaro-splosion/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/06/sema-2009-the-chevrolet-camaro-splosion/#comments Filed under: , , , ,


Every 2010 Chevrolet Camaro we could find at SEMA - Click above for high-res image gallery

In past years at SEMA, there has always been a single vehicle that seems to be the most popular at the show. Last year, it was the Dodge Challenger and Nissan GTR, but there weren't enough to be overwhelming.

This year, the 2010 Chevrolet Camaro came and infested the Las Vegas convention center like a muscle car cockroach. We couldn't seem to take ten steps without running into one, and by the end of the day, we had witnessed just about every way a Camaro could be customized. You want Lambo doors? You got 'em. How about slammed? Sure. Green? Yellow? Gold? Matte Blue? How about a convertible? Make it two. How about wide? Or ever wider. Engine swaps? Don't get us started. Try an LS7 or even an LS9. If forced induction is your thing, there were both turbocharged and supercharged Camaros. If you'd rather have a Pontiac, there were not one but two different Trans-Am conversions. Tuners like Callaway, Lingenfelter, Hurst, and Hennessey all brought out turnkey versions. There were pace car Camaros, drifter Camaros, movie theme Camaros, anniversary edition Camaros and charity auction Camaros.

To say the least, we've had our fill of Camaros for a long time. Still, we couldn't leave Las Vegas without sharing it all with you, so enjoy through the 100+ shot photo gallery below of every 2010 Camaro saw at SEMA.


Gallery: SEMA 2009: Camaro 'splosion


Photos copyright (C)2009 Drew Phillips / Weblogs, Inc.

SEMA 2009: The Chevrolet Camaro 'splosion!!! originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 06 Nov 2009 15:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2010 Chevrolet Camaro2010ChevroletCamaroCamaroChevroletSEMASEMA 2009SEMA showSema2009SemaShow Fri, 06 Nov 2009 15:20:00 EST <![CDATA[SEMA 2009: Pinkee's ignites lust for a Pontiac Firebird]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/06/sema-2009-pinkees-ignites-lust-for-a-firebird/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/06/sema-2009-pinkees-ignites-lust-for-a-firebird/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/06/sema-2009-pinkees-ignites-lust-for-a-firebird/#comments Filed under: , , , , ,


1977 Pontiac FireBird by Pinkee's Rod Shop - Click above for high-res image gallery

This year's SEMA show might have been a bit smaller than in years past, but there were certainly some heavy hitters in the crowd that proved the old "quality, not quantity" adage. Take, for instance, this super-clean, super-fine 1977 Pontiac Firebird. Like the Ringbrothers "Afterburner" Fairlane and the Goodguys Street Machine of the Year 1962 Corvette C1-RS, the look is modern, yet definitely retro. Dreamed up by hot rod artist Jimmy Smith, it was crafted to life by Pinkee's Rod Shop of Windsor, Colorado.

It has a smooth-as-glass appearance with its gloss black paint dripping off its shaved and streamlined form. Elegantly simple billet wheels, naked headlamps and a restyled rear complete the exterior look. The interior hasn't been forgotten either, as it is fully custom and equally straightforward. The same can be said for the engine bay, which looks like a surgical O.R., with its LS7 engine resting neatly in a fully customized bay. It was easily one of our favorite cars at this year's show.


Gallery: SEMA 2009: Pinkee's FireBird


Photos copyright (C)2009 Frank Filipponio/Weblogs, Inc.

SEMA 2009: Pinkee's ignites lust for a Pontiac Firebird originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 06 Nov 2009 14:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> FirebirdPinkeesPinkees FirebirdPinkees Rod ShopPinkeesFirebirdPinkeesRodShoppontiacpontiac firebirdPontiacFirebirdSEMAsema 2009Sema2009show carShowCartrans-amtransam Fri, 06 Nov 2009 14:20:00 EST <![CDATA[SEMA 2009: Blackout Bentley balances the bad]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/06/sema-2009-blackout-bentley-balances-the-bad/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/06/sema-2009-blackout-bentley-balances-the-bad/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/06/sema-2009-blackout-bentley-balances-the-bad/#comments Filed under: , , , ,


2008 Bentley Continental custom - Click above for high-res image gallery

It seems that matte black is the new black this year at SEMA, especially if you broaden if to gray and slip bare carbon fiber into the category. This particular application of said coloring resides on a sinister looking Bentley Continental GT.

Besides the satin paint, it's wearing a Premier 4509 Limited Widebody kit that, to this blogger's eyes at least, might have been a better choice for Bentley's own SuperSports. The interior has a nicely contrasting saddle and black design, with diamond-stitched suede inserts on the seats. It's a very cool looking car, but just as fun is the sign on the booth: "Nutek Wheels -- We make private label wheels... and we speak English!" Not exactly politically correct, but eye-catching to say the least.


Gallery: SEMA 2009: Blackout Bentley


Photos copyright (C)2009 Frank Filipponio/Weblogs, Inc.

SEMA 2009: Blackout Bentley balances the bad originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 06 Nov 2009 13:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> bentleybentley continentalBentley Continental GTbentley continental supersportsBentleyContinentalBentleyContinentalGtBentleyContinentalSupersportscontinentalcontinental gtContinentalGtNutekPremier 4509 LimitedPremier4509LimitedSEMAsema 2009SEMA showsema show 2009Sema2009SemaShowSemaShow2009 Fri, 06 Nov 2009 13:59:00 EST <![CDATA[SEMA 2009: Meguiars Wraptivo brings vinyl car wraps to the masses]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/06/sema-2009-meguiars-wraptivo-brings-vinyl-car-wraps-to-the-masse/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/06/sema-2009-meguiars-wraptivo-brings-vinyl-car-wraps-to-the-masse/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/06/sema-2009-meguiars-wraptivo-brings-vinyl-car-wraps-to-the-masse/#comments Filed under: , ,

Meguiars Wraptivo - Click above for high-res image gallery

When we think of vinyl wraps, we usually picture flat-billed baseball caps worn by tattooed dude-bros driving lifted pickups with the latest energy drink plastered on the sides. Or budget Bubbles. Or Fast and Furious poseurs. But we've always seen the potential for enthusiasts looking for an alternative to costly paint jobs or to cover a neglected exterior in an all-new hue. The only problem: Cost. The average full vinyl wrap can set you back between $3,000 and $10,000 depending on the size and application - and if you're looking for a custom theme, the cost of a graphic artist can push that price even higher. Recognizing this financial hurtle, Meguiars is partnering with 3M to offer a customizable, budget solution for the cash-strapped among us, and we're almost ready to pull the trigger.

Announced this week at SEMA, Wraptivo will allow owners to create a vinyl wrap online - with custom graphics and textures - have it shipped to a licensed retailer and installed in four-to-six hours. Wraptivo expects to offer wraps for around 25 vehicles initially, with plans to grow its model base over the next several months after it launches later this year. Wraptivo hasn't released pricing yet, but we're told to expect something in the $1,000 to $1,700 realm with up to a three-year warranty.

To show off its new system at SEMA, Wraptivo had a Scion xB on hand in a two-tone, pixelated black and white/brushed metal design along with a last-gen Ford Mustang that was wrapped, stripped and rewrapped each day based on designs attendees created on computers at the stand. The results spanned the spectrum from impressive to lame (check the gallery), but we're excited by the possibilities and may even put it to the test on one of our own vehicles in the very near future. We might even have you vote on the color scheme. We're thinking matte green, but Lieberman wants pink camo. That guy has no taste. Hit the jump for the official details.


Gallery: SEMA 2009: Meguiars Wraptivo


Photos copyright (C)2009 Damon Lavrinc / Drew Phillips / Weblogs, Inc.

Continue reading SEMA 2009: Meguiars Wraptivo brings vinyl car wraps to the masses

SEMA 2009: Meguiars Wraptivo brings vinyl car wraps to the masses originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 06 Nov 2009 13:39:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> car wrapsCarWrapsMeguiarsMeguiars wraptivoMeguiarsWraptivomeguires wraptivoMeguiresWraptivosemasema 2009sema showSema2009SemaShowsponsor carsSponsorCarssponsored carsSponsoredCarsvehicle wrapsVehicleWrapswraptivo Fri, 06 Nov 2009 13:39:00 EST <![CDATA[SEMA 2009: We expected a Camaro Convertible, but got two]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/06/sema-2009-we-expected-a-camaro-convertible-but-got-two/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/06/sema-2009-we-expected-a-camaro-convertible-but-got-two/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/06/sema-2009-we-expected-a-camaro-convertible-but-got-two/#comments Filed under: , , , ,


2010 Chevrolet Camaro Convertible by Drop Top Customs - Click above for high-res image gallery

When we received the press release from Drop Top Customs saying that they would be bringing a Camaro convertible to SEMA, we could hardly contain ourselves. Ever since the Camaro Concept was first shown some way too many years ago, we've been expecting a droptop version as well. General Motors has had a lot on their plate lately and we consider ourselves lucky that we've even got the coupe now. With things starting to change at the top within the GM brass though, we fully expect things to change at the top of this classic bit of American iron as well.

Right now, unfortunately, a genuine factory convertible isn't available, so it's up to the aftermarket to fill that need. Drop Top's droptop looked like a decent attempt from the early pics but we wanted to see it in person before we really signed off on it. We knew it would be here at SEMA but it took us a while to find it. The odd thing is that we found another Camaro convertible first. We eventually found the Drop Top, which you see above, though too.

The yellow car looked pretty much like the photos we had seen earlier, except that it was real and sitting in front of us finally. The conversion seems really well done. We know it's hard for any aftermarket firm to match the level of development that the automaker itself can do, but these guys are experts at building chop-top vehicles. If you have to have a Camaro convertible and you simply cannot wait for Chevy to produce one of their own, then this might be a good option. Of course there is at least one other option as well, as we found out when we canvassed the show's North Hall.

A black Camaro convertible was also on display, featuring a large chrome grille and Forgiato wheels. This conversion was done by Newport Convertible and seems roughly as good as the Drop Top job. The top mechanism looks like it fits pretty low in the rear deck and the materials seem top notch, just like on the yellow car. Newport didn't have a full boot fitted, but it looked professional, functional, and aesthetically pleasing. We didn't get a chance to see either with their tops up (or in motion), however, so we still need to reserve final judgment. In the meantime, just know that there are now two convertible Camaro options for those who absolutely, positively need a Camaro convertible today. Check out our high-res gallery below.


Gallery: SEMA 2009: Camaro convertible conversions


Photos copyright (C)2009 Frank Filipponio/Weblogs, Inc.

SEMA 2009: We expected a Camaro Convertible, but got two originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 06 Nov 2009 12:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2010 Camaro2010 Chevrolet2010 Chevrolet Camaro2010 Chevy2010 Chevy Camaro2010Camaro2010Chevrolet2010ChevroletCamaro2010Chevy2010ChevyCamaroCamaroCamaro ConvertibleCamaroConvertiblechevroletChevrolet CamaroChevrolet Camaro ConvertibleChevroletCamaroChevroletCamaroConvertiblechevyChevy Camarochevy camaro convertibleChevyCamaroChevyCamaroConvertibleSEMAsema 2009Sema2009 Fri, 06 Nov 2009 12:40:00 EST <![CDATA[SEMA 2009: Ford Taurus puts on a good SHO]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/06/sema-2009-ford-taurus-puts-on-a-good-sho/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/06/sema-2009-ford-taurus-puts-on-a-good-sho/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/06/sema-2009-ford-taurus-puts-on-a-good-sho/#comments Filed under: , , , ,


Ford Taurus Concepts at the 2009 SEMA Show - Click above for high-res image gallery

We didn't expect much from Ford's new fulls-size four-door at this year's SEMA show, but the quartet of Taurus Concepts were actually pretty impressive. The design lends itself better to customization than we might've thought, and we wouldn't be surprised to see quite a few owners personalizing the look of their cars.

The favorite Taurus around the Autoblog camp seemed to be the SHO built by Mobsteel with its sinister Jet Black paint, subtle body kit, and a 400 horsepower version of the EcoBoost V6. We also (surprisingly) liked the one built by Funkmaster Flex, along with the clean and simple SHO from MRT-Direct. You can see all four cars in our gallery of live photos below.


Gallery: SEMA 2009: Ford Taurus Concepts


Photos copyright (C)2009 Drew Phillips / Weblogs, Inc.

SEMA 2009: Ford Taurus puts on a good SHO originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 06 Nov 2009 11:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2010 Ford Taurus2010 Ford Taurus SHO2010FordTaurus2010FordTaurusShoFordFord TaurusFord Taurus SHOFordTaurusFordTaurusShoMobsteelMRT-DirectSEMASEMA 2009Sema showSema2009SemaShowSHOTaurusTaurus SHOTaurusSho Fri, 06 Nov 2009 11:20:00 EST