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/<![CDATA[The Phantom Menace: Project Kahn mods the Rolls-Royce Drophead Coupe]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/01/08/the-phantom-menace-project-kahn-mods-the-rolls-royce-drophead-c/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/01/08/the-phantom-menace-project-kahn-mods-the-rolls-royce-drophead-c/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/01/08/the-phantom-menace-project-kahn-mods-the-rolls-royce-drophead-c/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Click above to view Project Kahn's Rolls-Royce Drophead Coupe in high resolution

Few cars epitomize "the good life" quite like the Rolls-Royce Phantom Drophead Coupe. But for some people, good isn't good enough. And for those people, there's Project Kahn, the blingtastic British tuning house which has just debuted its own custom DHC.

Central to Kahn's package are the special Silver Mist rims, specially made for the Rolls. They measure 22 inches in diameter, a steam-rolling 9.5-inches wide and are able to accept the RR hubs that keep themselves right-side-up. The package also includes a polished grille, special elm-wood veneers, embossed headrests, piano-lacquer steering wheel spokes, iPod connectivity and lambs' wool rugs. Kahn's treatment of the exclusive cabriolet adds another $50k to the bottom line, but somehow we doubt that anyone looking to buy a new Rolls these days would be deterred by some extra pocket change.

Gallery: Project Kahn Rolls-Royce DHC

Continue reading The Phantom Menace: Project Kahn mods the Rolls-Royce Drophead Coupe

The Phantom Menace: Project Kahn mods the Rolls-Royce Drophead Coupe originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 08 Jan 2009 15:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dhcdrop head coupedrophead coupeDropheadCoupekahnproject kahnproject kahn rolls-royceProjectKahnProjectKahnRolls-roycerolls roycerolls-roycerolls-royce drophead couperolls-royce phantomRolls-royceDropheadCoupeRolls-roycePhantomRollsRoyceThu, 08 Jan 2009 15:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Nissan GT-R SpecV unveiled!]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/01/07/nissan-gt-r-specv-unveiled/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/01/07/nissan-gt-r-specv-unveiled/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/01/07/nissan-gt-r-specv-unveiled/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,


Click above for a high-res gallery of the Nissan GT-R SpecV

After nearly a year of speculation and spy shots, it's official: the Nissan GT-R SpecV has arrived. The limited edition GT-R is a subtle evolution of the super coupe that's set the world on fire after its introduction last year, and Nissan claims that it offers race car-levels of performance in a street-legal vehicle.

The body mods consist of a carbon fiber rear spoiler, grille and brake ducts, along with an exclusive Ultimate Black Opal paint job. On the inside, a set of carbon fiber Recaro buckets are fitted up front, while the rear seats have been nixed to save a few pounds. Carbon fiber also adorns the center storage box, instrument panel and replaces the majority of the interior trim.

The only substantive engine modification is a new high gear boost controller that increases the amount of compressed oxygen entering the twin-turbo'd 3.8-liter V6 to deliver more torque in mid- to high-range revs. A titanium-coated exhaust and a reworked suspension is fitted underneath, and carbon ceramic brakes hide behind 20-inch NISMO wheels that conspire to reduce unsprung mass and improve braking performance.

Sales begin in Japan at seven pre-selected dealers, with pricing set at 15,750,000 yen. There's no word on whether the GT-R SpecV will make the trek across the Pacific, but we're not holding our breath just yet.

UPDATE: 30 more images added to the gallery below.

Gallery: Nissan GT-R SpecV

Continue reading Nissan GT-R SpecV unveiled!

Nissan GT-R SpecV unveiled! originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 07 Jan 2009 21:16:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breakinggt-rgtrnissannissan gt-r specvnissan gtr specvNissanGt-rSpecvNissanGtrSpecvspec vSpecVWed, 07 Jan 2009 21:16:00 EST<![CDATA[Steve Saleen's plan of attack for 2009]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/01/07/steve-saleens-plan-of-attack-for-2009/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/01/07/steve-saleens-plan-of-attack-for-2009/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/01/07/steve-saleens-plan-of-attack-for-2009/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


Click above for a gallery of the SMS Dodge Challenger

Steve Saleen is bringing back the musclecar wars with the help of the Detroit 3. Not content to modify Ford Mustangs alone, the former head of Saleen, Inc. is branching out into bowtie and Mopar territory as well. His new company, SMS Limited, will take on all three of the new retro rods this year. Under his former eponymous company's banner he had focused primarily on Ford vehicles, but now that Dodge and Chevrolet are getting back into the musclecar game, he figures it's time to expand his reach.

We've already profiled the SMS Limited Signature Series Dodge Challenger that Saleen has developed, and talked to Steve about what he had planned for the 2010 Mustang, but now we have a few more details about the SMS versions of the Ford Mustang and Chevy Camaro. For 2009, SMS Limited will not only build the SMS 570 and 570X Challengers, but also the SMS 460 Mustang and later in the year a line of SMS Camaros in their 150,000-square-foot facility in Anaheim, California.

All of the cars will get SMS superchargers, tweaked suspensions, and unique exterior styling elements, and the superchargers are more efficient and provide better cooling than anything they've used before. The company is also putting a new emphasis on upscale interiors, with better materials that should justify the cars' higher sticker prices. SMS Challenger production should begin this month, with 2010 Mustangs starting to show up in the spring. And if all goes according to plan, Camaros should start rolling out by the end of the year. Customers wanting a bit of Saleen magic applied to their musclecars will be able to order them through select Dodge, Ford or Chevrolet dealerships.

[Source: Detroit News]

Steve Saleen's plan of attack for 2009 originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 07 Jan 2009 12:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>saleensms limitedSmsLimitedsteve saleenSteveSaleenWed, 07 Jan 2009 12:31:00 EST<![CDATA[Coming soon: Hamann tuning for the Bentley Continental GT and GT Speed]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/01/05/coming-soon-hamann-tuning-for-the-bentley-continental-gt-and-gt/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/01/05/coming-soon-hamann-tuning-for-the-bentley-continental-gt-and-gt/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/01/05/coming-soon-hamann-tuning-for-the-bentley-continental-gt-and-gt/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Click above for a gallery of the Hamann Bentley Continental GT

No stranger to tuning supercars like the Ferrari 612 Scaglietti and Lamborghini Murcielago LP640, Hamann's most recent addition to its parts catalog is the Bentley Continental GT and and GT Speed. There's no word on what will exactly be available for the brawny two-seater, but judging from the photos it looks like pretty standard Hamann fare. A new body kit consists of a more aggressive front fascia, side skirts, rear wing, and a lower rear fascia that makes room for a new exhaust system with quad tips. Inside, carbon fiber replaces the carefully crafted wood trim. We'll be sure to bring you more details and plenty of photos as soon as Hamann releases them.

Gallery: Hamann Bentley Continental GT



[Source: Hamann]

Coming soon: Hamann tuning for the Bentley Continental GT and GT Speed originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 05 Jan 2009 09:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Mon, 05 Jan 2009 09:33:00 EST<![CDATA[Autogas Chevrolet Matiz Concept = LPG for the masses]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/01/02/autogas-chevrolet-matiz-concept-lpg-for-the-masses/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/01/02/autogas-chevrolet-matiz-concept-lpg-for-the-masses/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/01/02/autogas-chevrolet-matiz-concept-lpg-for-the-masses/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,


Click above for a high-res gallery of the fahgmitgas Matiz LPG Concept

Thanks to a company called fahrmitgas ("go with gas", get it?), our European readers will soon be able to cut their fuel costs to the low, low price of €3 (about $4.20 USD) for every 100 km of driving. Of course, they'll need need to be driving a converted Chevrolet (nee, Daewoo) Matiz converted to LPG, but on the other hand... that's just €3 to go 100 kilometers.

The fahrmitgas Matiz LPG Concept has been put through a suite of bench-tested enhancements in order to be so frugal. Since fahrmitgas is a supplier to Chevrolet, it has intimate knowledge of the Matiz's systems. After installation of the LPG unit and some engine tuning for mid-range power, the company added stop/start, lowered the car a whopping 30 mm, and fitted it with ultra low rolling resistance Hankook Optima 4S tires. A shift light on the center console helps the driver get the most of from his or her LPG.

A liter of gas in Germany is about €1 (@ $1.40 USD), meaning 3 liters/100 km for the LPG Matiz, instead of 5.2 liters/100 km for the petrol Matiz. fahmitgas is looking at a production run, but no timetable or prices have been announced. In the meantime, check out the press release after the jump and the high-res gallery of photos below.

Gallery: Fahrmitgas Matiz LPG Concept


[Source: Fahrmitgas]

Continue reading Autogas Chevrolet Matiz Concept = LPG for the masses

Autogas Chevrolet Matiz Concept = LPG for the masses originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 02 Jan 2009 09:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aftermarketalternativeautogaschevrolet matizChevroletMatizdaewoo matizDaewooMatizeurofahrmitgasfuel economyFuelEconomygas mileageGasMileagegreenlpgmatizsubcompacttunerFri, 02 Jan 2009 09:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Heavy Water: Geiger supercharges the HUMMER H3]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/01/02/heavy-water-geiger-supercharges-the-hummer-h3/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/01/02/heavy-water-geiger-supercharges-the-hummer-h3/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/01/02/heavy-water-geiger-supercharges-the-hummer-h3/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Click above to view the supercharged Geiger H3 in our hi-res gallery

Mention the name Geiger to a physicist and you're likely to hear about the man who discovered the atomic nucleus and the meter that bears his name. To automotive tuning fanatics, the name refers to the aftermarket firm that turns lethargic HUMMERs into tarmac-chomping beasts. But we're not so sure the two are that far removed.

Geiger's latest project is another riff on the relatively (and only by comparison) "small" H3, tinkering with the truck's reactor core to pump up its radioactivity. The stock H3 comes with a 3.7-liter inline-five producing a paltry 239 horsepower and 241 little torques, though it is available with a 5.3-liter V8 which still only manage 300hp and 320 lb-ft of twist. Along comes Geiger to fit a supercharger to said eight-cylinder, boosting output to 423 megatons horsepower and 502 lb-ft of torque. So equipped, the 5000-pound Geiger'd Hummer can reach 60 miles-per-hour in an admirable 7 seconds. 380mm discs gripped by six-pot calipers bring it all back to a halt, surrounded by 22-inch wheels bearing 305/40 Continental rubber. The interior, decked out in carbon fiber, is a matter of taste, but we love how Geiger revives classic racing livery: After their custom H2 popped up in a baby-blue and orange Gulf scheme, this H3 brings back the iconic striped white Martini livery popularized by Lancias on the rally circuit and Porsches on the track. Check it out for yourself in the gallery below.

Gallery: Geiger HUMMER H3 V8 Kompressor


[Source: Motor Authority]

Heavy Water: Geiger supercharges the HUMMER H3 originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 02 Jan 2009 08:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aftermarketgeigergeiger h3geiger hummergeiger hummer h3GeigerH3GeigerHummerGeigerHummerH3General MotorsGeneralMotorsh3hummerhummer h3HummerH3MartiniMartini and rossiMartini liveryMartiniAndRossiMartiniLiverytunerFri, 02 Jan 2009 08:29:00 EST<![CDATA[New Jersey Motorsports Park Suing Shelby American Car Club]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/01/01/new-jersey-motorsports-park-suing-shelby-american-car-club/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/01/01/new-jersey-motorsports-park-suing-shelby-american-car-club/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/01/01/new-jersey-motorsports-park-suing-shelby-american-car-club/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,



The hits just keep on coming for the embattled Shelby American Automobile Club. News has quieted down about the contention between Caroll Shelby and the SAAC just in time for Ken Eber, the club's national director, to steer the organization right into another lawsuit. This time, it's New Jersey Motorsports Park suing to recover nearly $116,000 it's been owed since last August. Both parties are trying to work the issue out, but Eber's assertion that the club has reached a verbal agreement on the issue and will be adding an event to the 2009 calendar doesn't jive with the venue's schedule, though Joe Savaro, a co-owner of the park, has indicated a desire to have the Shelby club back.

Even though the park made a concession to allow the SAAC to pay for its use of the track after the event, Eber reportedly left the event early and wouldn't return to settle up. Eber says the club will be back at the park in 2009, and they'll be using whatever proceeds the event generates to make good on outstanding commitments. Let's see, a club that charges each of its reported 5,500 members $57 per year, that works out to $313,500, though the club uses those proceeds to run a decent website and produce a newsletter and magazine, as well as pay a couple of salaries. Perhaps pre-selling tickets might be a better idea this year?

[Source: TheDailyJournal.com]

New Jersey Motorsports Park Suing Shelby American Car Club originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 01 Jan 2009 12:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ken eberKenEbersaacsaac lawsuitSaacLawsuitshelby american automobile clubshelby american automobile club lawsuitshelby clubshelby lawsuitShelbyAmericanAutomobileClubShelbyAmericanAutomobileClubLawsuitShelbyClubShelbyLawsuitThu, 01 Jan 2009 12:55:00 EST<![CDATA[9ff hits the dusty trail with Cayenne Vantage GTR]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/12/31/9ff-hits-the-dusty-trail-with-cayenne-vantage-gtr/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/12/31/9ff-hits-the-dusty-trail-with-cayenne-vantage-gtr/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/12/31/9ff-hits-the-dusty-trail-with-cayenne-vantage-gtr/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Click above for a hi-res gallery of the 9ff Vantage GTR

9ff has established itself as a serious player in the pursuit of toppiling OEM's top-speed records, but the German tuner's range of modifications for Porsches spans the spectrum from mild to wild. Wild, in this case, includes the 9ff Vantage GTR. It's based on the Cayenne SUV and has nothing to do with the 911-rivalling Aston Martin, but the 9ff sport-ute packs a mighty punch. With a whopping 725hp on tap, the Vantage GTR leaves other modified Cayennes in its dust - make that a big cloud of dust - and straight into Gemballa territory, which is an insane place to spend any amount of time.

To match the power output, 9ff has decked out this Cayenne in Tumbler-worthy bodywork and sinister matte black finish, and is apparently even offering a revised front end to replace the stock model's angular headlights with round 911 units. See for yourself in the gallery below.

Gallery: 9ff Porsche Cayenne Vantage GTR


[Source: autoblog.nl via Motorpasion]

9ff hits the dusty trail with Cayenne Vantage GTR originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 31 Dec 2008 19:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>9ff9ff cayenne9ff porsche9ff porsche cayenne9ff porsche cayenne vantage gtr9ff vantage gtr9ffCayenne9ffPorsche9ffPorscheCayenne9ffPorscheCayenneVantageGtr9ffVantageGtrporscheporsche 9ffporsche cayenneporsche cayenne gtrPorsche9ffPorscheCayennePorscheCayenneGtrWed, 31 Dec 2008 19:27:00 EST<![CDATA[Branew to unveil tuner kit for new Nissan 370Z]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/12/31/branew-to-unveil-tuner-kit-for-new-nissan-370z/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/12/31/branew-to-unveil-tuner-kit-for-new-nissan-370z/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/12/31/branew-to-unveil-tuner-kit-for-new-nissan-370z/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Click above for a gallery of the Branew 2009 Nissan 370Z

Nissan sportscars - the Z included - are a popular base for tuners, so it should come as no surprise that, with the newly revised 370Z just revealed, the JDM aftermarket is already lining up with their range of extras. Next up to bat is Branew, the Japanese tuner whose GT-R we spotted at SEMA wearing giant 23-inch rims.

The Branew 370Z offers a remapped ECU, tightened suspension and upgraded brakes, as well as an aero package complete with front spoiler, side skirts, rear diffuser and wing. A variety of wheel options in various unreasonable sizes are also expected to be offered when Branew unveils the full package in January at the Tokyo Auto Salon. In the meantime, you can check out the pair of images in the gallery below.

Gallery: Branew Nissan 370Z


[Source: CarScoop via WCF]

Branew to unveil tuner kit for new Nissan 370Z originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 31 Dec 2008 08:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>370 z370zbranewbranew nissanbranew nissan 370zbranew nissan fairlady zbranew nissan zBranewNissanBranewNissan370zBranewNissanFairladyZBranewNissanZfairlady zFairladyZnissannissan 370znissan fairlady znissan zNissan370zNissanFairladyZNissanZWed, 31 Dec 2008 08:27:00 EST<![CDATA[Give this 550-hp V10 Hartge BMW Z4 a home]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/12/30/give-this-550hp-v10-hartge-bmw-z4-a-home/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/12/30/give-this-550hp-v10-hartge-bmw-z4-a-home/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/12/30/give-this-550hp-v10-hartge-bmw-z4-a-home/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Click above for image gallery of Hartge's V10-powered BMW Z4

Here at Autoblog, we cherish the simple things in life. Like a cold beer on a hot afternoon, spending the holidays with family or stuffing an oversized engine into a little sportscar. It's a time-honored tradition, and this example is no less worthy than any that has come before.

Evidently unsatisfied with the S54B32 inline-six powering the top-of-the-line Z4 M, one European enthusiast dropped in the 5.0-liter V10 from the M5 and M6 into his little Z4. But even the stock 507 horses from the high-revving ten wasn't enough for this Bimmerphile, so he went with Hartge's 550-hp version, complemented by the tuner's own 20-inch rims, but, worryingly, no sign of upgraded brakes to go with the 200+ extra horsepower. The converted roadster cost €170k new, but is now on the market for under €98k (tax in), or about $138,000 in American greenbacks. A hefty sum for sure, but can you really put a price on 0-60 in under 4?

Gallery: Hartge V10 BMW Z4


[Source: Autogespot via CarScoop]

Give this 550-hp V10 Hartge BMW Z4 a home originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 30 Dec 2008 12:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bmw z4BmwZ4hartge bmwhartge bmw z4hartge bmw z4 v10hartge v10HartgeBmwHartgeBmwZ4HartgeBmwZ4V10HartgeV10Tue, 30 Dec 2008 12:31:00 EST<![CDATA[Power Enterprises developing Nissan GT-R twin-charger system]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/12/29/power-enterprises-developing-twin-charger-system-for-the-nissan/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/12/29/power-enterprises-developing-twin-charger-system-for-the-nissan/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/12/29/power-enterprises-developing-twin-charger-system-for-the-nissan/#commentsFiled under: , ,



If the Nissan GT-R's 478 horsepower twin-turbo engine isn't powerful enough for you, the tuners at Power Enterprises has some hardware to put Godzilla over the top. PE has two kits available and a third coming to the Tokyo Auto Salon in January. The 35GTR 560 (as in 560 hp) kit features a PE P-Map ECU, PWR Air Impulse II air filters and an upgraded intake kit. The 35GTR 600 kit has the above upgrades, plus upgraded wastegate actuators and a Supersonic Titanium 89 mm exhaust.

For those among the GT-R crowd that could simply never have enough power, Power Enterprises is also working on a twin-charger setup that adds twin superchargers to the mix. the Four Charger System adds a pair of Rotrex C30-94 superchargers to bump the power quotient to 650 ponies. More importantly, the superchargers should provide nearly limitless mid-range torque, making turbo lag a non-issue. We're guessing track day would be a hell of a lot of fun with that setup, and we'd imagine that a twin-turbo, twin-supercharged GT-R would sound something like Doc's time-traveling locomotive from Back to the Future. We'll be on the lookout for more twin-charger details closer to the Tokyo Auto Salon on January 9.

[Source: GT-R Blog]

Power Enterprises developing Nissan GT-R twin-charger system originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 29 Dec 2008 13:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>GT-Rtwin superchargerstwin-chargerTwinSuperchargersMon, 29 Dec 2008 13:57:00 EST<![CDATA[First Drive: Hurst HEMI Challenger]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/12/29/first-drive-hurst-hemi-challenger/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/12/29/first-drive-hurst-hemi-challenger/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/12/29/first-drive-hurst-hemi-challenger/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,


Click above for a high-res image gallery of the Hurst HEMI Challenger

Cars-n-Coffee is a weekly gathering of automobilia in Irvine, California at Ford's former Premier Auto Group parking lot. Every Saturday morning from 6AM, Ferraris, Jaguars, Lamborghinis, Porsches, '50s hot rods, Mercedes, Camaros, you name it, rumble their way into the lot. On one recent overcast morning, Autoblog headed down to the dawn soiree, having been offered a drive in the Hurst HEMI Challenger. Although 6AM is closer to our bedtime than it is to reveille, we stayed up and paid a visit to the Challenger, hoping to find out if it had any hope of being a champion. Follow the jump for the story.

Gallery: First Drive: 2009 Hurst Hemi Challenger


Photos copyright (C)2008 Drew Phillips / Weblogs, Inc.

Continue reading First Drive: Hurst HEMI Challenger

First Drive: Hurst HEMI Challenger originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 29 Dec 2008 11:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aftermarketcars and coffeeCarsAndCoffeechallengerdodge challengerDodgeChallengerfeaturedfirst driveFirstDrivehursthurst hemi challengerHurstHemiChallengersematunerMon, 29 Dec 2008 11:57:00 EST<![CDATA[New Hirsch aero upgrades for Saab 9-3]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/12/28/new-hirsch-aero-upgrades-for-saab-9-3/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/12/28/new-hirsch-aero-upgrades-for-saab-9-3/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/12/28/new-hirsch-aero-upgrades-for-saab-9-3/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


Click above for a gallery of the Hirsch Performance kit for the Saab 9-3 Aero

Swiss tuner Hirsch has created a full body kit in carbon for the Saab 9-3 Aero sedan, convertible, and SportCombi. To do the best job of improving aerodynamics, reducing drag, and making the car look good, they enlisted the help of Saab's "master aerodynamicist" Håkan Danielsson and his team, as well as Taras Czornyj, who was the lead exterior designer on the 9-3 SportCombi.

What they came up with out front was a 3-piece upper mesh grille, a larger front spoiler with integrated splitters, and a lower mesh grille that increases airflow to the intercooler. Shaped side skirts lead the way to a rear diffuser and a larger rear spoiler on the sedan and convertible. For the SportCombi, Hirsch designed a hatch spoiler almost good enough for the WRC.

The hand-laminated carbon fiber parts are UV-coated, have been wind tunnel tested, and also tested and homologated for safety by the Royal Netherlands Motor Vehicle Authority. That means, according to Hirsch, that the parts are approved for fitment in all markets. The kit is only for the Aero trim level, and the price is listed as "on request," but based on the prices of the individual parts, don't expect much change if you hand over €1,500 -- and that's not including the wheels.

Gallery: Hirsch Performance Kit for Saab 9-3 Aero


[Source: Hirsch via turboNines]

New Hirsch aero upgrades for Saab 9-3 originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 28 Dec 2008 10:35:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>9-39-3 convertible9-3 sportcombi9-3Convertible9-3Sportcombiaftermarketconvertiblehirschsaabsaab 9-3saab 9-3 aerosaab 9-3 sportcombiSaab9-3Saab9-3AeroSaab9-3SportcombisedantunerwagonSun, 28 Dec 2008 10:35:00 EST<![CDATA[One more for the road: Reiter Engineering builds Gallardo GT3 for the street]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/12/26/one-more-for-the-road-reiter-engineering-builds-gallardo-gt3-fo/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/12/26/one-more-for-the-road-reiter-engineering-builds-gallardo-gt3-fo/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/12/26/one-more-for-the-road-reiter-engineering-builds-gallardo-gt3-fo/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Click above for a gallery of the Reiter Engineering Gallardo GT3 Strada

Turning road cars into race cars and then back into road cars seems to be Reiter Engineering's new specialty. The factory-supported Lamborghini race team, which also recently built a street-legal variant of their Murcielago R-GT that competes in the FIA GT1 and European Le Mans Series, is now offering a road version of their Gallardo GT3 racecar. Based off the standard Gallardo with the 5.0L V10, the "Strada" features carbon fiber bodywork including fenders that have been widened 60mm, a new front fascia with "shark" style air ducts, side skirts and a large carbon fiber wing at the rear. A single large center-mounted exhaust system reduces weight by nine kg and added an extra ten horsepower, while new three-piece alloy wheels are wrapped with ultra sticky Michelin Pilot Sport 2 rubber. The interior stays relatively stock, although the stock seats have been replaced with leather-covered racing units. While we wouldn't say the result is subtle, it's definitely one of the cleaner designs we've seen.

Gallery: Reiter Engineering Gallardo GT3 Strada



[Source: Reiter Engineering]

One more for the road: Reiter Engineering builds Gallardo GT3 for the street originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 26 Dec 2008 19:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>LamborghiniLamborghini GallardoLamborghini Gallardo GT3LamborghiniGallardoLamborghiniGallardoGt3Reiter EngineeringReiter Engineering Gallardo GT3Reiter Engineering Gallardo GT3 StradaReiterEngineeringReiterEngineeringGallardoGt3ReiterEngineeringGallardoGt3StradaFri, 26 Dec 2008 19:58:00 EST<![CDATA[New ings N Spec kit for Evo has a deviated septum]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/12/26/new-ings-n-spec-kit-for-evo-has-a-deviated-septum/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/12/26/new-ings-n-spec-kit-for-evo-has-a-deviated-septum/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/12/26/new-ings-n-spec-kit-for-evo-has-a-deviated-septum/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Click above for a gallery of the Ings Lancer Evo X body kit

Japanese tuning house Ings has prepared a kit for the Lancer Evo X consisting of a front bumper and a Z-Power Wing. The bumper houses not only the odd-ified upper intake, it also wears new canards, brake ducts, and intercooler shrouds. The Ing site has little to say about the kit, but it looks to have been tuned on a race-tested car. If you're keen, you can order the bumper here in either fiberglass or hybrid aero, a combination of urethane and fiberglass. It won't be available for a few months, so you'll have to be happy with the pics in the gallery below for now.

Gallery: ings Tuned Mitsubishi Lancer Evo 10


[Source: Ings]

New ings N Spec kit for Evo has a deviated septum originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 26 Dec 2008 16:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aftermarketevo xEvoXingslancer evo xLancerEvoXmitsubishimitsubishi lancer evo xMitsubishiLancerEvoXtunerFri, 26 Dec 2008 16:03:00 EST<![CDATA[edo competition and Audigier combine for limited edition designer Lambo]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/12/22/edo-competition-and-audigier-combine-for-limited-edition-designe/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/12/22/edo-competition-and-audigier-combine-for-limited-edition-designe/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/12/22/edo-competition-and-audigier-combine-for-limited-edition-designe/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Click above for a high-res gallery of the edo competition Murcielago LP710 Audigier Edition

What happens when you combine a flamboyant Italian supercar with celebrity fashion designer Christian Audigier? You get... this. German tuner edo competition has teamed up with the clothing icon for a limited run of Murcielagos that feature custom design themes chosen by each customer. This ensures that each car is a one-off while simulaneously proving -- yet again -- that taste and income are mutually exclusive.

On the positive side, the Lambo's been fitted with a completely new exhaust system along with more aggressive camshafts, upgraded cylinder heads, and a high-flow air filter that bumps output above the 700-hp mark. A new single disc clutch helps transmit the power to all four wheels, although edo also offers a conversion to rear wheel drive that shaves off nearly 90 pounds. Pricing gets a cue from the designer clothing industry, coming in at just over $690,000, nearly double the MSRP of a standard LP640. Full details on the Audigier Edition Murcielago in the press release following the jump.

Gallery: edo competition Murcielago LP710 Audigier Edition

Continue reading edo competition and Audigier combine for limited edition designer Lambo

edo competition and Audigier combine for limited edition designer Lambo originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 22 Dec 2008 21:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Christian AudigierChristianAudigieredo competitionEdoCompetitionlamborghinilamborghini murcielagoLamborghiniMurcielagomurcielagoMon, 22 Dec 2008 21:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Alpina teases with sketch of next B7 sedan]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/12/22/alpina-teases-with-sketch-of-next-b7-sedan/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/12/22/alpina-teases-with-sketch-of-next-b7-sedan/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/12/22/alpina-teases-with-sketch-of-next-b7-sedan/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



This is a sketch of the coming Alpina B7, to be based on the new BMW 750i. Outside, there won't be much happening -- nor necessary -- beyond Alpina's new front lip, rear wing and trademark wheels. Inside, Alpina might have some minor cluster mods in store, but we wouldn't expect too much change there, either. As with the 2007 B7 and its 500 hp and 4.8-second 0-60 time, we figure the engine and suspension will be heavily redressed on this next version. Alpina could opt for the centrifugal supercharger routine again, but whatever they do will surely put healthy distance between the B7 and the 400 hp of the donor car's 4.4-liter V8. The B7 might also get BMW's rumored 8-speed transmission. It will definitely get a stratospheric price tag.

[Source: Next Autos]

Alpina teases with sketch of next B7 sedan originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 22 Dec 2008 14:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>650ialpinaalpina b7AlpinaB7b7bmwbmw 750iBmw750isedanssports sedanSportsSedantunersMon, 22 Dec 2008 14:01:00 EST<![CDATA[G-Power takes 4-door sedan top speed record with M5 Hurricane RS]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/12/22/g-power-takes-4-door-sedan-top-speed-record-with-m5-hurricane-rs/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/12/22/g-power-takes-4-door-sedan-top-speed-record-with-m5-hurricane-rs/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/12/22/g-power-takes-4-door-sedan-top-speed-record-with-m5-hurricane-rs/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Click above for a high-res gallery of the G-Power BMW M5 Hurricane RS

For all the hype about supercars' top speeds, the statistic is generally good for nothing more than bragging rights. The likelihood that your Bugatti Veyron will ever meet up with an SSC Ultimate Aero on the street is next to none, and even if you did, good luck trying to find a place to safely exceed 250 mph. Peak velocity seems even less important when it comes to sedans, but that doesn't stop various tuners from chasing the title of world's fastest four-door. Brabus has long held the title, first with E V12 that hit 206 mph in 1996 and most recently upping that mark to later upping the mark to 227.23 mph with the CLS "Rocket". With that number set in their sights, BMW tuner G-Power took an upgraded version of their M5 Hurricane to the ATP High-Seed test track in Papenburg, Germany last month hoping to set a new record. That they did, eclipsing the Rocket's top speed with a best run of 228.4 mph. Lest Brabus seek to take back the title, G-Power claims that they can improve on the number by increasing the boost from the twin superchargers mounted to the BMW's V10. More info on G-Power's new record following the jump.

Gallery: G-Power M5 Hurricane RS

Continue reading G-Power takes 4-door sedan top speed record with M5 Hurricane RS

G-Power takes 4-door sedan top speed record with M5 Hurricane RS originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 22 Dec 2008 09:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BMWBMW M5BmwM5G-PowerG-Power BMW M5G-Power M5 HurricaneG-Power M5 Hurricane RSG-powerBmwM5G-powerM5HurricaneG-powerM5HurricaneRsM5Mon, 22 Dec 2008 09:29:00 EST<![CDATA[Czech it: Innotech does Chevrolet Corvette]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/12/21/czech-it-innotech-does-chevrolet-corvette/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/12/21/czech-it-innotech-does-chevrolet-corvette/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/12/21/czech-it-innotech-does-chevrolet-corvette/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Click above for a high-res gallery of the Innotech Chevrolet Corvette


The last time we heard the name Innotech was back in 2000 when the independent Czech manufacturer introduced the Mysterro, a quirky supercar with a carbon fiber and kevlar body and a Corvette V8 amidships. While the company planned a production run of 25, only one was ever built and we hadn't heard from them since. Until now.

Innotech has announced a new styling package for the C6 Corvette with additional upgrade options for the interior, brakes, wheels, suspension and engine. The design has a heavy influence from both classic and modern Italian automobiles, particularly with the front end and the flying buttresses similar to that of the Ferrari 599 GTB Fiorano (itself borrowing heavily from vintage Prancing Horses). A speedster will follow shortly, as will Z06 and ZR1 versions. Follow the jump for the press release and check out the high-res gallery below.

Gallery: Innotech Chevrolet Corvette


[Source: Innotech]

Continue reading Czech it: Innotech does Chevrolet Corvette

Czech it: Innotech does Chevrolet Corvette originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 21 Dec 2008 20:04:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>C6ChevroletChevyCorvetteczechczech carczech republicCzechCarCzechRepublicInnotechInnotech Chevrolet CorvetteInnotech CorvetteInnotechChevroletCorvetteInnotechCorvetteSun, 21 Dec 2008 20:04:00 EST<![CDATA[Mansory builds mysterious Bugatti Veyron Vincero]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/12/19/mansory-builds-mysterious-bugatti-veyron-vincero/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/12/19/mansory-builds-mysterious-bugatti-veyron-vincero/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/12/19/mansory-builds-mysterious-bugatti-veyron-vincero/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Click above for a high-res gallery of the Bugatti Veyron Vincero by Mansory

We're convinced the Bugatti Veyron has to have the highest ratio of variants per total production -- Ford Mustang included. There's the Sang Noir, a first and second version of the Hermes, Pur Sang, Grand Sport, and now the Vincero built by Mansory. Not much is known about the car since no information is listed on the tuner's web site, but United Arab Emirates exotic car dealer Prestige Cars has posted the car for sale, listing it as one of three built. Looking at the photos, the Vincero features a carbon fiber hood and engine cover, new black wheels, and an interior that has been reupholstered in black and white with carbon fiber trim. It's not everyone's taste, but we definitely wouldn't kick it out of the garage.

Gallery: Mansory Bugatti Veyron Vincero

[Source: Prestige Cars via Autogetspot]

Mansory builds mysterious Bugatti Veyron Vincero originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 19 Dec 2008 19:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BugattiBugatti VeyronBugattiVeyronMansoryMansory Bugatti VeyronMansory Bugatti Veyron VinceroMansoryBugattiVeyronMansoryBugattiVeyronVinceroFri, 19 Dec 2008 19:29:00 EST