Autoblog

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[SEMA 2009: What we didn't get to cover]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/06/sema-2009-what-we-didnt-get-to-cover/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/06/sema-2009-what-we-didnt-get-to-cover/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/06/sema-2009-what-we-didnt-get-to-cover/#comments Filed under: Concept Cars, Motorsports, SEMA Show, Classics, Performance, Etc., Motorcycle, Humor, Specialty, Design/Style, Off-Road

2009 SEMA Show Las Vegas - Click above for high-res image gallery

Every year at SEMA, we fill the week with posts featuring special vehicles and products that we felt were important enough to share. Generally, they are the most newsworthy projects and new model introductions, but sometimes they are just things that caught our eye. When all is said and done, we think we've given all of you a good taste of what's on offer here in the desert.

Of course, there are always things we see and shoot that don't make it into the regular posts from the days we are here. We end up with a few hundred photos of random weirdness and cool stuff that just didn't make it into a dedicated post. That's what this post is for. It's basically a chance to dump some of that random wackiness and wonder that is SEMA into one big bowl and invite you all to take a sip. Click on the gallery below and you'll see race cars, hot rods, muscle cars, motorcycles, wheels and more. None are labeled, but all should provide a unique look at what we saw at SEMA 2009.

Gallery: SEMA 2009: Random sightings

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

SEMA 2009: What we didn't get to cover originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 06 Nov 2009 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> aftermarketcarcarscustomcustom carcustom carsCustomCarCustomCarslas vegasLasVegasSEMAsema 2009Sema showSema2009SemaShow Fri, 06 Nov 2009 19:30:00 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: Aftermarket, SEMA Show, Classics, Performance, Ford

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: 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: Aftermarket, SEMA Show, Classics, Coupe, Performance, Pontiac

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: Ford shows off Healing Heroes Network grand prize Shelby GT500 pair]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/06/sema-2009-ford-shows-off-healing-heroes-network-grand-prize-she/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/06/sema-2009-ford-shows-off-healing-heroes-network-grand-prize-she/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/06/sema-2009-ford-shows-off-healing-heroes-network-grand-prize-she/#comments Filed under: SEMA Show, Classics, Coupe, Performance, Etc., Ford

Healing Heroes Network charity raffle Shelby GT500s - Click above for high-res image gallery

In the Ford booth at SEMA this year, we spotted a matching set of 1967 and 2010 Shelby GT500 Mustangs. White with blue stripes, they looked incredible even in the unflattering lighting of Central Hall. The 1967 example is a verified Shelby original, number 3139 in the Shelby Registry. The 2010 GT is a one-of-a-kind special edition done up in the same Wimbledon White with Guardsman Blue stripes as the old-timer. It has been dubbed the Patriot Edition and features a host of aftermarket changes that make it more closely match its ancestor.

While stopping to check them out we noticed a big sign nearby, telling us they could both be ours. Apparently, this duo is being raffled off to raise funds for the Healing Heroes Network, a charity that benefits injured Veterans. So buying a ticket or 10 is a chance to win these fantastic Shelbys, and support a worthy cause. Sounds like an easy decision to us. If you'd like to donate, buy tickets, or just find out more about the cars, the charity and the auction, check out this website.

Gallery: SEMA 2009: Shelby GT500 duo being raffled for charity

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

SEMA 2009: Ford shows off Healing Heroes Network grand prize Shelby GT500 pair originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 06 Nov 2009 10:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> ford mustangFordMustangGT500Healing Heroes NetworkHealingHeroesNetworkMustangmustang gt500MustangGt500raffleSEMAsema 2009Sema2009shelbyShelby GT500ShelbyGt500 Fri, 06 Nov 2009 10:40:00 EST <![CDATA[SEMA 2009: 1962 Corvette C1-RS is a worthy Goodguys Street Machine of the Year]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/05/sema-2009-1962-corvette-c1-rs-is-a-worthy-goodguys-street-machi/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/05/sema-2009-1962-corvette-c1-rs-is-a-worthy-goodguys-street-machi/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/05/sema-2009-1962-corvette-c1-rs-is-a-worthy-goodguys-street-machi/#comments Filed under: Aftermarket, SEMA Show, Classics, Convertible, Performance, Chevrolet

1962 Chevrolet Corvette C1-RS - Click above for a high-res image gallery

It takes a lot to win the the Goodguys Street Machine of the Year award, but this custom 1962 Corvette convertible you see here easily deserves the honor. The car not only looks incredible, but it posted the fastest time at the Goodguys autocross track as well! Every single one of the body panels on the car has been modified, and the majority of the components are constructed either of aluminum or carbon fiber.

Powering the C1-RS is an LS7 V8 putting out more than 600 horsepower, but we were most impressed with the eight carbon fiber intake trumpets on either side of the engine that bring air into the intake manifold. The interior was beautifully crafted as well, with a custom fabricated aluminum dash and console and Alcantara and leather seats. Check out the high-res gallery below to see all the details yourself, or follow the jump to read more about the car.

Gallery: SEMA 2009: 1962 Chevrolet Corvette C1-RS

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

Continue reading SEMA 2009: 1962 Corvette C1-RS is a worthy Goodguys Street Machine of the Year

SEMA 2009: 1962 Corvette C1-RS is a worthy Goodguys Street Machine of the Year originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 05 Nov 2009 18:37:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 1962 Chevrolet Corvette1962 Chevrolet Corvette C1-RS1962ChevroletCorvette1962ChevroletCorvetteC1-rs2009 Goodguys Street Machine of the Year2009GoodguysStreetMachineOfTheYearChevroletChevrolet CorvetteChevroletCorvetteCorvetteGoodguysGoodguys Street Machine of the YearGoodguysStreetMachineOfTheYearSEMASEMA 2009Sema2009 Thu, 05 Nov 2009 18:37:00 EST <![CDATA[SEMA 2009: Badass Chevy Chevelle isn't as fuelish as it seems]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/05/sema-2009-badass-chevy-chevelle-isnt-as-fuelish-as-it-seems/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/05/sema-2009-badass-chevy-chevelle-isnt-as-fuelish-as-it-seems/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/05/sema-2009-badass-chevy-chevelle-isnt-as-fuelish-as-it-seems/#comments Filed under: Aftermarket, SEMA Show, Classics, Coupe, Performance, Chevrolet, Diesel

1970 Duramax Chevrolet Chevelle custom - Click above for high-res image gallery

The clean exterior of this 1970 Chevrolet Chevelle hides a wicked little secret - if you take a look at the photo above, you'll see what we mean. The bundle of plumbing you see spilling out of the engine bay tells only part of the story - that's no overworked Chevy small block in there, it's a Duramax diesel that has been pushed to new heights thanks to an outrageous custom twin-turbo setup. The stripped-out interior and racing slicks out back show the true purpose of this ride.

The Chevelle was built by Mike Racke and was recognized as one of Popular Hot Rodding magazine's Top Ten Builds this year. We couldn't agree more.

Gallery: SEMA 2009: Duramax Chevelle

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

SEMA 2009: Badass Chevy Chevelle isn't as fuelish as it seems originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 05 Nov 2009 17:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 1970 Chevelle1970 Chevrolet1970 Chevrolet Chevelle1970 Chevy Chevelle1970Chevelle1970Chevrolet1970ChevroletChevelle1970ChevyChevellechevellechevroletChevrolet ChevelleChevroletChevellechevyDuramaxduramax Chevelleduramax drag racerduramax dragsterDuramaxChevelleDuramaxDragRacerDuramaxDragsterMike RackeMikeRackePopular Hot RoddingPopularHotRoddingSEMAsema 2009Sema2009 Thu, 05 Nov 2009 17:40:00 EST <![CDATA[SEMA 2009: Bigfoot still a crowd favorite, 35 years later]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/05/sema-2009-bigfoot-still-a-crowd-favorite-35-years-later/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/05/sema-2009-bigfoot-still-a-crowd-favorite-35-years-later/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/05/sema-2009-bigfoot-still-a-crowd-favorite-35-years-later/#comments Filed under: Aftermarket, SEMA Show, Classics, Truck, Ford, Off-Road

Bigfoot #1 - Click above for high-res image gallery

We distinctly remember 3rd grade. Specifically, sitting in the library once a month during recess. Why would we give up dodgeball and four-square to sit inside and read? Because the new issues of Off Road and 4Wheeler had just dropped and they had stories about Bigfoot! Bearfoot too, and Carzilla - but mostly Bigfoot! Happy days, happy days. And here at this year's SEMA Show, both the original 1975 Bigfoot #1 (the world's first monster truck) and the new-for-2009 Bigfoot (#12 of fifteen Bigfoots) showed up to terrorize the Las Vegas Convention Center's parking lot.

Well, not terrorize - because people love the Bigfoots (Bigfeets?) so very much. But lordy, are these some hella intimidating trucks, even all these years later. Perhaps most notable is that the new Bigfoot is actually a 2008 Ford F-250 body cut to look like a 1979 F-250. Also cool is the 35-year gulf in technology between the two beasts. We could have spent a couple hours standing underneath (no, really!) Bigfoot #12 just admiring the headers. And the gas bypass shocks. And the supercharger, etc. Sadly, the duo of Bigfoots won't be crushing any cars this week. Let's make that double sadly, as this year's SEMA show features many deserving candidates. For more (and better) details, check out pickuptrucks.com's Bigfoot post.

Gallery: SEMA 2009: Bigfoot

SEMA 2009: Bigfoot still a crowd favorite, 35 years later originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 05 Nov 2009 13:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> BigfootF-250F-seriesF150FordFord F-250Ford pickupFordF-250FordPickupMonster jamMonster TruckMonsterJamMonsterTruckSEMASEMA 2009SEMA ShowSema2009SemaShow Thu, 05 Nov 2009 13:40:00 EST <![CDATA[Gullwing America takes on Mercedes' latest supercar, creates SLS Panamericana]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/05/gullwing-america-takes-on-mercedes-latest-supercar-creates-sls/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/05/gullwing-america-takes-on-mercedes-latest-supercar-creates-sls/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/05/gullwing-america-takes-on-mercedes-latest-supercar-creates-sls/#comments Filed under: Aftermarket, Classics, Coupe, Performance, Mercedes-Benz

Gullwing America SLS Panamericana - click above image for high-res gallery

Few cars are as classic and iconic as the original Gullwing, also known as the Mercedes-Benz 300SL. Created by a loophole in racing rules when MB realized that, "Nowhere is it written that a door can only open sideways." Hence, Mercedes was allowed to retain the strength of the 300SL's (as well as the 300SLR's) tubular space frame by hinging the doors from the roof. A legend, as they say, was born.

Fast-forward more than fifty years and Mercedes-Benz (via AMG) is about to launch a new gullwing, this time called the SLS AMG. While it's no doubt a great car (553 horsepower tends to do that), some might say it's slightly lacking in the retro SL looks department. Enter Gullwing America (you might remember their updated 300SL) and their new SLS Panamericana.

Created to be a more proper "300SL from the 21st century," the Panamericana consists of seven body pieces including the all important "eyebrows" on top of the fenders. Everything is made from either lightweight aluminum or carbon fiber. Plus, you get those snazzy racing stripes. As well as a swath of Alcantara on the seats set off by contrast stitching. You also get a set of GWA wheels, 19-inchers up front, 20-inches in the rear. While we do like most of what we see, we're honestly not sold on the brows... how about you? Thanks to everyone for the tips!

Gallery: Gullwing America SLS Panamericana

[Source: Gullwing America]

Gullwing America takes on Mercedes' latest supercar, creates SLS Panamericana originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 05 Nov 2009 12:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 300 SL Gullwing300SL300SlGullwingAMGAMG GullwingAmgGullwingGullwingGullwing AmericaGullwing America SLS PanamericanaGullwingAmericaGullwingAmericaSlsPanamericanaMercedesmercedes-benzMercedes-Benz GullwingMercedes-benzGullwingSLSSLS AMGSLS GullwingSLS PanamericanaSlsAmgSlsGullwingSlsPanamericana Thu, 05 Nov 2009 12:40:00 EST <![CDATA[SEMA 2009: Ringbrothers impress with 1964 Ford Fairlane "Afterburner"]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/04/sema-2009-ringbrothers-impress-with-1964-ford-fairlane-afterbu/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/04/sema-2009-ringbrothers-impress-with-1964-ford-fairlane-afterbu/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/04/sema-2009-ringbrothers-impress-with-1964-ford-fairlane-afterbu/#comments Filed under: Aftermarket, SEMA Show, Classics, Performance, Ford

Ringbrothers 1964 Ford Fairlane "Afterburner" - Click above for a high-res image gallery

After seeing some pretty incredible cars built by Ringbrothers over the past few years at SEMA, we couldn't have had higher expectations for their newest vehicle dubbed "Afterburner". Even so, we were absolutely floored by this latest creation after seeing it in person on the show floor.

Based on a 2-door 1964 Ford Fairlane, Afterburner received a full makeover from the Ringbrothers including a carbon fiber hood, fenders, front and rear bumpers, side intakes, and deck lid spoiler. Billet aluminum can be found pretty much everywhere on the car, from the engine bay to the tail lamps to the gas cap. Even the prop rods that hold up the sunshades inside the car are machined 6061 aluminum. The exterior even features three different colors of BASF R-M Diamont paint - Afterburner Red, Agent Orange and Mission Brown. The look is finished off with a set of Forgeline 3-piece wheels.

Under the hood of Afterburner is a Roush 427 IR crate motor, and it's one of the prettiest motors we have ever seen. Listed at 560 horsepower and 540 lb-ft of torque, the 7.0-liter V8 is mated to a Bowler AOD transmission.

We tried to capture all of the details of the car, so enjoy our extensive gallery of high-res photos below.

Gallery: SEMA 2009: Ringbrothers 1964 Ford Fairlane "Afterburner"

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

SEMA 2009: Ringbrothers impress with 1964 Ford Fairlane "Afterburner" originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 04 Nov 2009 15:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> AfterburnerRingbrothersRingbrothers 1964 Ford Fairlane AfterburnerRingbrothers AfterburnerRingbrothers1964FordFairlaneAfterburnerRingbrothersAfterburnerRoush 427 IRRoush427IrSEMASEMA 2009Sema2009 Wed, 04 Nov 2009 15:57:00 EST <![CDATA[SEMA 2009: 427-powered Fiat 500 is the stuff dreams are made of]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/04/sema-2009-427-powered-fiat-500-is-the-stuff-dreams-are-made-of/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/04/sema-2009-427-powered-fiat-500-is-the-stuff-dreams-are-made-of/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/04/sema-2009-427-powered-fiat-500-is-the-stuff-dreams-are-made-of/#comments Filed under: Aftermarket, Motorsports, SEMA Show, Classics, Coupe, Performance, Fiat, Specialty

1959 Fiat 500 Funny Car by Legacy Innovations - Click above for high-res image gallery

Okay, this is so awesome it hurts. The guys at Legacy Innovations took a perfectly lovely but woefully underpowered 1959 Fiat 500 and turned it into a Fiat 7,000. The Fiat 500 is an iconic car, one with tremendous nostalgic charm, but it was never really much good as a car until they redid it a few years ago. So although we might love the little 500, it doesn't provide a very good platform for what the Legacy Innovations guys had in mind for it - namely drag racing.

Easy fix though. They broke out the torches and gutted it. They basically removed all of the weak stuff and replaced it with a full-on 4130 chrome molly tube chassis, hinged the body in true Funny Car fashion and dropped in a 725-HP 427 small block. The body was kept relatively stock, save for the hood cutout, but they still managed to mount a pair of Hoosier slicks in back and still had room for wheelie bars that extend out far enough to effectively double the length of their little 500.

No word on how quick this baby is in the quarter, but we bet it's quick enough to embarrass just about anything else coming out of Italy. It's cars like this that make the trip to SEMA totally worthwhile.

Gallery: SEMA 2009: 1959 Fiat 500 by Legacy Innovations

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

SEMA 2009: 427-powered Fiat 500 is the stuff dreams are made of originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 04 Nov 2009 12:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 427 Fiat427 Fiat 500427Fiat427Fiat500FiatFiat 500Fiat 500 drag racerFiat 500 dragsterFiat500Fiat500DragRacerFiat500DragsterSEMAsema 2009Sema2009 Wed, 04 Nov 2009 12:40:00 EST <![CDATA[They still make that? VW Golf Mk1 ends production after 25 years]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/04/they-still-make-that-vw-golf-mk1-ends-production-after-25-years/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/04/they-still-make-that-vw-golf-mk1-ends-production-after-25-years/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/04/they-still-make-that-vw-golf-mk1-ends-production-after-25-years/#comments Filed under: Classics, Plants/Manufacturing, Hatchback, Volkswagen

Volkswagen CitiGolf - Click above for high-res image gallery

The original Volkswagen Golf Mk1 arrived as a replacement to the Volkswagen Beetle way back in 1974. Sold in the States as the Volkswagen Rabbit, the early front-wheel-drive hatchback had a transverse-mounted (water-cooled) 1.5-liter four-cylinder rated at just 70 horsepower. It was good for a 93 mph top speed and nearly 38 miles per gallon. While the standard Rabbit was rather ho-hum, the late-to-arrive Mk1 "GTI" ushered in the hot-hatch movement with its 90-horsepower 1.8-liter four-cylinder, slick manual transmission, and upgraded suspension. It was a seriously cool car.

In 1984, Volkswagen introduced the Golf Mk2. As the successor was bigger, wider, and more expensive than the original - and customers may have been turned-off by the "improvements" - VW chose to continue the Mk1 production and sell it as the low-cost Econo Golf, or CitiGolf.

Over the past 25 years, more than 500,000 units of the venerable Mk1 have rolled out of a South African assembly plant for sale in markets abroad. Variants have been fitted with a wide range of engine choices (both gasoline and diesel), from 1.1-liters up to 1.8-liters of displacement. Transmissions have included 4- and 5-speed manuals, plus the (obviously outdated) 3-speed automatic. Lacking nearly all of today's necessary safety equipment (a driver's airbag was eventually fitted), time finally caught up with the CitiGolf this summer and the South African plant was closed in late August.

Interesting side note: the tooling used to build the CitiGolf all these years in South Africa was reportedly originally used to make the Rabbit at Volkswagen's Westmoreland plant in Pennsylvania. Thanks for the tip, Doug!

Gallery: Volkswagen CitiGolf

[Source: in4ride]

They still make that? VW Golf Mk1 ends production after 25 years originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 04 Nov 2009 10:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> closeEndingFirst-genGolfJettaMk1ProductionRabbitSouth AfricaSouthAfricaVolkswagen GolfVolkswagen Mk1Volkswagen RabbitVolkswagenGolfVolkswagenMk1VolkswagenRabbitVW Mk1VwMk1 Wed, 04 Nov 2009 10:20:00 EST <![CDATA[SEMA 2009: Honda uses vintage iron to announce return to grassroots racing]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/03/sema-2009-honda-uses-vintage-iron-to-announce-return-to-grassro/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/03/sema-2009-honda-uses-vintage-iron-to-announce-return-to-grassro/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/03/sema-2009-honda-uses-vintage-iron-to-announce-return-to-grassro/#comments Filed under: Motorsports, SEMA Show, Classics, Performance, Honda

1974 "Tokyo Joe" Honda Civic 1200 Racecar - Click above for high-res image gallery

Honda is using SEMA to show off their 2010 vehicles and the accessories available for each. It's also using the show to signal its return to grassroots racing, displaying several vintage racers and production cars alongside their descendants. Although we're covering the entire Mugen-accessorized 2010 lineup elsewhere, we didn't want to miss a chance to talk about three little cars at the back of the booth that had us drooling.

A mint 1971 N600, with its original, yellowed window sticker shows how far we've all come. At $1,395 the N600 cost just about a-buck-a-pound and its 598 cc air-cooled two-cylinder put out just 36 hp, but that was enough to get it to 80 MPH and still return 40 MPG. The N600 was also the car that introduced Americans to Honda automobiles, and firmly established Honda's reputation for frugality and fun.

Next to the N600 sat "Tokyo Joe," the 1974 Bolus & Snopes Civic 1200 racecar that scored six SCCA GT5 championships between 1985 and 1990. It was campaigned by American Honda employee Bob Boileau and once held the title of "World's Fastest Civic" when it was clocked at 146.698 MPH on the Talladega Superspeedway back in 1976. It also looked like it might move the frugal/fun ratio for Hondas a little to the other side of the equation.

Balancing both nicely was the spotless 1984 Mugen CRX prototype. Using a host of parts developed by Mugen, the car showed the performance possibilities inherent in the CRX platform. The Mugen sported a body kit designed for high speed stability, engine mods, a thoroughly reworked suspension, and meatier (but still just) 13-inch tires. A real throwback to the early days of Honda road and racing machines.

Gallery: SEMA 2009: Vintage Honda Racers

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

[Source: Honda]

Continue reading SEMA 2009: Honda uses vintage iron to announce return to grassroots racing

SEMA 2009: Honda uses vintage iron to announce return to grassroots racing originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 03 Nov 2009 18:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> hondaHonda CRXhonda motorsporthonda motorsportshonda racingHondaCrxHondaMotorsportHondaMotorsportsHondaRacingmugenMugen CRXMugenCrxSEMAsema 2009Sema2009 Tue, 03 Nov 2009 18:20:00 EST <![CDATA[SEMA 2009: Ford EcoBoost '34 Hot Rod rocks a V6 in style]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/03/ford-ecoboost-34-hot-rod-sema-2009/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/03/ford-ecoboost-34-hot-rod-sema-2009/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/03/ford-ecoboost-34-hot-rod-sema-2009/#comments Filed under: Aftermarket, SEMA Show, Classics, Ford

1934 Ford EcoBoost Hot Rod - Click above for a high-res image gallery

Putting modern engines into old cars isn't anything new, but this '34 3-window coupe in the Ford display isn't like anything we've ever seen before. Detroit Street Rods has wedged the 3.5L EcoBoost V6 underneath the hood, making it the first rear-drive application for the twin-turbocharged engine. Packing 400 horsepower and 400 lb-ft torque, this little coupe has the potential to surprise quite a few people at stoplights.

Perhaps the most impressive aspect of the car is how the engine is packaged. The dual Honeywell turbochargers have been moved to the front of the motor among various aluminum tubing routing air and exhaust gases, and a single, large exhaust cone exits above the front fender on each side of the car. It's not a rumbling V8, but it looks just as good and is just as fast too. You can read more details about the car in the press release after the jump, or check out our high-res gallery below.

Gallery: SEMA 2009: 1934 Ford EcoBoost Hot Rod

Continue reading SEMA 2009: Ford EcoBoost '34 Hot Rod rocks a V6 in style

SEMA 2009: Ford EcoBoost '34 Hot Rod rocks a V6 in style originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 03 Nov 2009 16:37:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 1934 Ford 3-Window Coupe1934 Ford 3-Window Coupe EcoBoost Hot Rod1934 Ford EcoBoost Hot Rod1934Ford3-windowCoupe1934Ford3-windowCoupeEcoboostHotRod1934FordEcoboostHotRodEcoBoostEcoBoost V6EcoboostV6FordSEMASEMA 2009Sema2009 Tue, 03 Nov 2009 16:37:00 EST <![CDATA[Classic Recreations to begin building Shelby GT500CR]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/03/classic-recreations-to-begin-building-shelby-gt500cr/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/03/classic-recreations-to-begin-building-shelby-gt500cr/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/03/classic-recreations-to-begin-building-shelby-gt500cr/#comments Filed under: Aftermarket, Classics, Coupe, Performance

Classic Recreations Shelby GT500CR - Click above for high-res image gallery

Yes friends, that Shelby. As in Carroll Shelby. And the racing, muscle car building legend has agreed to permit Classic Recreations to relaunch a continuation version of one of America's most iconic performance cars, the 1967-68 Shelby GT500 Mustang. Before we get too much further, allow us to remind you that Classic Recreations is the shop behind Eleanor, the car that prompted our own Jonathon Ramsey to comment, "Eleanor is the hottest piece of car we've spent a weekend with in quite some time." Trust us, that's high praise.

Details and exact specifications are, well, fuzzy for the time being. But rest easy, as Classic Recreations owner Jason Engal claims, It retains the most iconic Shelby elements everyone loves with modern performance and supercar level horsepower." As Eleanor puts out anywhere between 535 and 770 horsepower, you can expect the GT500CR to do at least that. Maybe more important to Shelby fans is that each car, "[W]ill leave the shop with an official Shelby serial number, badges and will be included in the official Shelby Worldwide Registry." This of course includes Carroll's all-important signature on the rocker panel. More when we know more.

Update: It's official. Release posted after the jump.

Gallery: Classic Recreations Shelby GT500CR

Continue reading Classic Recreations to begin building Shelby GT500CR

Classic Recreations to begin building Shelby GT500CR originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 03 Nov 2009 11:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> Carroll ShelbyCarrollShelbyClassic RecreationsClassic Recreations GT500CRClassic Recreations Shelby GT500CRClassicRecreationsClassicRecreationsGt500crClassicRecreationsShelbyGt500crFord MustangFordMustangMustangShelbyShelby GT500ShelbyGt500Shleby GT500CRShlebyGt500cr Tue, 03 Nov 2009 11:03:00 EST <![CDATA[Another One From the Vault: BMW E39 M5 Wagon]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/01/another-one-from-the-vault-bmw-e39-m5-wagon/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/01/another-one-from-the-vault-bmw-e39-m5-wagon/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/01/another-one-from-the-vault-bmw-e39-m5-wagon/#comments Filed under: Classics, Performance, Wagon, Europe, BMW, Luxury

BMW E39 M5 Touring - Click above image for hi-res gallery

It seems to be raining apocryphal BMW M cars that have been sitting in cold storage. And in a way, it has! On Thursday, we saw the mind-boggling, hyper-cool E34 M5 Convertible that BMW stashed away for twenty long years. Today's car isn't nearly as crypto (meaning we've seen pictures of it before), but in a way it's much, much cooler.

We posited that perhaps the E34 M5 is in fact the best M car of all. Well, here's the truth -- the E39 M5 is the one we want, hands down, 100%. We were just waxing poetical. E39 M5, every time over here, boss. Why? With that big fat 400 horsepower V8 and those conservative duds, the E39 is still the ultimate M sleeper. Er, that is, it would be if not for the E39 M5 Wagon.

Yes that's right, an M Wagon. Many of you who bothered to click through the E34 M5 convertible gallery noticed the M5 Wagon (or "Touring" as BMW calls the 5-door in a lame attempt to mask its wagonness) just sitting there. We were going to say something, but, you know how it is -- pics or it didn't happen. Anyhoo, the story goes that BMW wanted to build the E39 M5 Wagon but some issue with the rear axle misbehaving led them to decide that the car just wouldn't be up to M Division snuff. And the plug was pulled.

So there you have it. And now we come to the part in the story where we come fully clean and admit that the M Coupe is our actual favorite ever M car. Unless that M8 shows its face...

Gallery: BMW E39 M5 Wagon

[Source: BMW Blog]

Another One From the Vault: BMW E39 M5 Wagon originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 01 Nov 2009 10:39:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> BMWBMW E39 M5 TouringBMW E39 M5 WagonBMW M5BMW M5 TouringBMW M5 WagonBmwE39M5TouringBmwE39M5WagonBmwM5BmwM5TouringBmwM5WagonE39 M5E39 M5 TouringE39 M5 WagonE39M5E39M5TouringE39M5Wagon Sun, 01 Nov 2009 10:39:00 EST <![CDATA[SEMA Preview: Adam Carolla unveiling latest Ringbrothers project - "Afterburner"]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/30/sema-preview-adam-carolla-unveiling-latest-ringbrothers-project/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/30/sema-preview-adam-carolla-unveiling-latest-ringbrothers-project/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/30/sema-preview-adam-carolla-unveiling-latest-ringbrothers-project/#comments Filed under: Aftermarket, SEMA Show, Classics, Performance, Ford

Ringbrothers 1964 "Afterburner" Ford Fairlane - Click above for a high-res image gallery

If you've followed our SEMA coverage the last few years then you've heard of the Ringbrothers. We've had a close eye on the talented siblings ever since the debut of their 1967 Reactor Mustang at the Roush booth a few years ago. It was and still is one of the most impressive custom cars we've ever seen. Last year they wowed us with their 1969 Razor Camaro, which earned them the Street Machine of the Year award for the second straight year.

How do the Ringbrothers plan to top these two terrific muscle cars? With a 1964 Ford Fairlane nicknamed "Afterburner" due to debut on the first day of the show next week. We don't know much about the Fairlane right now, but we fully believe our high expectations will be met. Car buff and comedian Adam Carolla will be on hand to introduce the car, and naturally, we'll be there with cameras in hand, so check back next week for all the details.

[Source: Motorator.com]

SEMA Preview: Adam Carolla unveiling latest Ringbrothers project - "Afterburner" originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 30 Oct 2009 16:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 1964 Ford Fairlane1964FordFairlaneFairlaneFordFord FairlaneFordFairlaneRingbrothersRingbrothers AfterburnerRingbrothersAfterburnerSEMASEMA 2009Sema2009 Fri, 30 Oct 2009 16:58:00 EST <![CDATA[UK adventurer challenges Clarkson to cross Sahara in 1937 Austin 7 Ruby]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/29/uk-adventurer-challenges-clarkson-to-cross-sahara-in-1937-austin/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/29/uk-adventurer-challenges-clarkson-to-cross-sahara-in-1937-austin/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/29/uk-adventurer-challenges-clarkson-to-cross-sahara-in-1937-austin/#comments Filed under: Classics, UK

Now we're talking! If there's one thing we're in favor of its pushing cars to their breaking point. See LeMons. But what about pushing cars past their breaking point? Like across Africa? That's exactly what British journalist and adventurer Brian Milton did in 1968 when he took a 1937 Austin 7 Ruby and drove it across the Sahara Desert to meet his fiancee.

Mr. Milton has written a book about his forty-one year old adventure entitled Alexa -- the Life and Death of an Austin 7 Ruby. And to our ears, it sounds wonderful:

"I motored 1,800 miles on rough track across the Sahara... I reached a Nigeria that was wracked by civil war... I survived. But alas, my Austin 7 did not. We crashed once and ran out of water twice in the Sahara. I drove 2,000 miles on three pistons and 900 miles without brakes, lights, shock absorbers or starting motor or handle."

Mr. Milton has sent a copy of Alexa to none other than Jeremy "Torques" Clarkson, asking the Top Gear star to go on and recreate his 1968 adventure. While some might argue that driving a Lancia Beta Coupe across the desert might get Jezza off the hook, we'd totally watch him and May and Hammond kill themselves in something as dodgy as an Austin 7. Interested in reading about Brian Milton's adventure? Alexa can be purchased right here.

[Source: East London Advertiser]

UK adventurer challenges Clarkson to cross Sahara in 1937 Austin 7 Ruby originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 29 Oct 2009 18:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> AfricaAustin 7Austin 7 RubyAustin7Austin7RubyBrian MiltonBrianMiltonJames MayJamesMayJeremy ClarksonJeremyClarksonJezzaRichard HaRichardHaSaharaTop GearTopGear Thu, 29 Oct 2009 18:02:00 EST <![CDATA[REPORT: BMW builds E34 M5 Convertible, keeps it secret for 20 long years]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/29/bmw-builds-e34-m5-convertible-keeps-it-secret-for-20-long-years/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/29/bmw-builds-e34-m5-convertible-keeps-it-secret-for-20-long-years/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/29/bmw-builds-e34-m5-convertible-keeps-it-secret-for-20-long-years/#comments Filed under: Classics, Convertible, Performance, Europe, BMW

BMW E34 M5 Convertible - Click above image for high-res gallery

Amongst M Division cognoscenti there rages an eternal debate concerning what's the best ever BMW M car. To the casual Bavarian-enthusiast the answer is quite simple: E39 M5. However, strong cases can be made for both the E30 M3 and the OG E28 M5, which featured the M1's race-bred 3.5-liter straight-six. In fact, there's a whole subculture of folks that feel a car's not really a BMW (let alone an M) without an inline-six. With that said, the E34 M5 is a pretty compelling candidate for best ever M car, as is the M1. Oddly, no one ever advocates in favor of the E60 M5. Moving on...

Think about it now -- the E34 M5 is the last of the totally hand built M cars. Sometimes one worker made an entire car, though usually the cars were built by specific teams. In fact, BMW test engineers could tell which person (or people) had built each individual car. That's pretty nifty. Only thing is, all those doors. And that roof! Who needs it? Sadly, it was only with the introduction of the E63 M6 that the big M cars got back to just two doors and a drop top. Or was it?

Turns out that back in the late '80s BMW built a convertible E34 M5 and they've kept it under lock and key for the past 20 years until showing it to a select group of journalists during a 25 years of M5 celebration. Based of the E34 chassis, the convertible version featured lengthened doors and was actually all set to go into production.

But then, just one week before its introduction at Geneva (they'd booked space for the car and everything), BMW pulled the plug and canceled the M5 convertible, fearing demand for non-M5 convertibles would cut into the highly profitable 3 Series convertible sales. Too bad, as this thing looks sweet. Also, if BMW pulls the long-rumored-though-(maybe)-never-built M8 out from some dark corner of the storage bin, well, we'll be pretty upset. Yet thrilled at the same time.

Gallery: BMW E34 M5 Convertible

[Source: Autocar]

REPORT: BMW builds E34 M5 Convertible, keeps it secret for 20 long years originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 29 Oct 2009 15:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> BMWBMW E34BMW E34 M5BMW E34 M5 ConvertibleBMW M5BMW M5 ConvertibleBmwE34BmwE34M5BmwE34M5ConvertibleBmwM5BmwM5ConvertibleE28 M5E28M5E39 M5E39M5M5M5 ConvertibleM5ConvertibleM8 Thu, 29 Oct 2009 15:57:00 EST <![CDATA[Three Mercedes-Benz Hitler cars on sale for $9 million [w/VIDEO]]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/29/three-mercedes-benz-hitler-cars-on-sale-for-9-million-w-video/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/29/three-mercedes-benz-hitler-cars-on-sale-for-9-million-w-video/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/29/three-mercedes-benz-hitler-cars-on-sale-for-9-million-w-video/#comments Filed under: Classics, Europe, Mercedes-Benz, Specialty

Hitler's Mercedes-Benz G4 W-131 Radio Car - click above image for hi-res gallery

Got $9,000,000 burning a hole in your pocket? If so, have we got an offer for you. Not one, not two, but three Mercedes-Benz G4 W-131 six-wheelers are up for grabs. Interesting, the cars have been appraised at $3.3 million each, so $9 million is basically a million dollars off! There is one catch, however. You're going to have to forever be explaining to people why you spend nine million bucks on three of Hitler's old cars.

Yes, that Hitler. Who, despite his innumerable faults, did in fact have great taste in cars. Not only did Der Fuhrer typically ride around in the oh-so-beautiful Mercedes-Benz 540K, but he instructed Ferdinand Porsche to go on and steal the Tatra T97 from the Czechs, turning the design into the Volkswagen Beetle. When Dr. Porsche voiced his concern about a Tatra lawsuit, Hitler reassured the good doctor that he'd "settle the matter," which Hitler did by invading Czechoslovakia. Curiously, good taste in cars seems to be a trait shared with other scumbag genocidal dictators -- Idi Amin owned seven Citroen SMs!

The three Mercedes up for sale are three of eight Hitler-owned G4s, that were stashed around Deutschland at his various castles. Only fifty-seven G4 W-131s were ever made, total. Here we have a convertible parade car for Hitler and Eva Braun (blue), a luggage car that could quickly be converted into an ambulance (gray) and a radio car so Hitler could order the invasion of Yugoslavia whenever the mood struck his fancy (black). The cars have six-wheels and are quite truckish because Hitler spent a lot of time rolling through the bombed out streets of cities he'd just blitzkrieged.

The three G4 W-131s actually do have some nifty Nazi tech, like 5.0 or 5.4-liter straight eight motors shared (though not supercharged) with the aforementioned 540K, four driven rear wheels with locking diffs and self sealing tires. And both the luggage car and radio car are (probably) the only examples ever built. Furthermore, the luggage car was used in Hogan's Heroes. However, how you'd ever get past the stigma of the original owner is beyond us. Video after the jump.

Gallery: Adolf Hitler Mercedes-Benz G4 W-131

[Source: World War Cars via KREM]

Continue reading Three Mercedes-Benz Hitler cars on sale for $9 million [w/VIDEO]

Three Mercedes-Benz Hitler cars on sale for $9 million [w/VIDEO] originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 29 Oct 2009 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> Adolf HItlerAdolfHitlerEva BruanEvaBruang4G4 W-131G4W-131HitlerMercedesMercedes-BenzMercedes-Benz G4Mercedes-Benz G4 W-131Mercedes-Benz G4 W-131 Luggage CarMercedes-Benz G4 W-131 Parade CarMercedes-Benz G4 W-131 Radio CarMercedes-benzG4Mercedes-benzG4W-131Mercedes-benzG4W-131LuggageCarMercedes-benzG4W-131ParadeCarMercedes-benzG4W-131RadioCar Thu, 29 Oct 2009 11:30:00 EST <![CDATA[SEMA Preview: Ford stuffs 400-hp EcoBoost motor in '34 Hot Rod]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/28/sema-preview-ford-stuffs-400-hp-ecoboost-motor-in-34-hot-rod/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/28/sema-preview-ford-stuffs-400-hp-ecoboost-motor-in-34-hot-rod/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/28/sema-preview-ford-stuffs-400-hp-ecoboost-motor-in-34-hot-rod/#comments Filed under: Aftermarket, SEMA Show, Classics, Coupe, Performance, Ford

1934 Ford 3-Window Coupe EcoBoost Hot Rod - Click above for a high-res image gallery

Oh, how times are changin'. Gone are the days of stuffing a Ford Racing crate motor into any and every Blue Oval show car at SEMA. It's all about the boost now... or at least EcoBoost. As part of their "Driving Green" initiative at this year's SEMA Show, Ford will be displaying a 1934 3-Window Coupe fitted with the twin-turbo V6 to create a blend of classic styling with modern performance and efficiency.

Built by Detroit Street Rods, the '34 Coupe is actually the first rear-drive application of the EcoBoost motor. The dual Honeywell turbochargers had to be repositioned to allow the 3.5-liter V6 to fit into the engine bay, but the rest of the motor is in production trim and pumps out 400 horsepower and an equal amount of torque. An all new replica steel body ensures that the coupe is quite a looker and you can read more details in the press release after the jump, and check back next week for live photos of the car as part of our full SEMA coverage.

Gallery: 1934 Ford 3-Window Coupe EcoBoost Hot Rod

[Source: Ford]

Continue reading SEMA Preview: Ford stuffs 400-hp EcoBoost motor in '34 Hot Rod

SEMA Preview: Ford stuffs 400-hp EcoBoost motor in '34 Hot Rod originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 28 Oct 2009 17:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 1934 Ford 3-Window Coupe1934 Ford 3-Window Coupe EcoBoost Hot Rod1934 Ford EcoBoost Hot Rod1934Ford3-windowCoupe1934Ford3-windowCoupeEcoboostHotRod1934FordEcoboostHotRodEcoBoostFordFord EcoBoost Hot RodFordEcoboostHotRodSEMASEMA 2009Sema2009 Wed, 28 Oct 2009 17:40:00 EST