Showing posts with label sports. Show all posts
Showing posts with label sports. Show all posts

Saturday, April 17, 2010

Officer stock Jeep Wrangler


Always been considered a Jeep Wrangler car for the originals. 20 years ago, there was rampant fashion SUV, and Wrangler were available and primitive. Now wheel-drive cars not surprise anyone, but the Wrangler is still collects a good cash in the showrooms of dealers. The new generation Wrangler is received from the leadership brand carte blanche: it was decided to produce five-door long wheelbase version.

This car does not fit within the narrow framework of understanding-wheel drive vehicles. He is deliberately awkward - Grandma's wardrobe is more advantageous in terms of distribution of air flows form of the "fuselage". It is based on the frame, but not because of savings in development, and because of adherence to tradition. Not going to the "wrangler" self-supporting body is violated then the link between generations.

Main novelty, pleasantly surprised by this year's European fans Jeep, - appearance of long wheelbase version of the Wrangler with the additional high-grade side doors. The most important thing - the car is no longer solely a means of transportation for the elderly mutton and fishermen, it became fashionable, technically quite modern, and it can not but rejoice.

Well, the subject of this review - Wrangler from the German tuning company Startech, which the dog has eaten at the completion of all kinds of products Chrysler, including the Jeep. Look at the photo - this Wrangler is not ashamed at night It'll Kreshchatik - attention and envious cries secured! These connoisseurs of American "scoundrels" with pedigree will notice that this black handsome face rather big rims, and shod them in road rubber. That's right - 20-inch radius deprive the owner of this car hopes to conquer a serious off-road. Only the asphalt! Chrome grille, roll bars on the perimeter of the body, more so in conjunction with the company a black lacquer body attached to an angled Wrangler capital gloss.

The interior, too noisy and corresponds to the image Wrangler - Leather, Alcantara, chrome inserts around deflectors - all create an atmosphere neubivaemogo, but very special apparatus.

The only pity is that the engine has not yet touched - under the hood 199 forces a standard gasoline engine. But for adequate acceleration at the traffic lights will be enough and in street racing Honorary SUV participate

Monday, April 5, 2010

Chevrolet Corvette quite crazy News


In the U.S. there are a few religious variables, respect to which every American child absorbs from the cradle. They will never allow anyone to make fun of freedom, Coca-Cola and ... "Corvette." Over the ocean Corvette has always been synonymous with speed. "

On those machines, still dreaming of pimply teenagers trying to find a girl to prom. Beginners managers dutifully suffer bullying despotic leaders, the quiet raskleivaya in an empty garage posters Corvette. But for them this Corvette has always been an icon, an ideal and often elusive ... Europeans only smiles at the mention of this car. No wonder - in the Old World has its supercars to the prestige and technological advancement give points to the American auto industry.

This week, appeared the first information about the new Corvette ZR1, which is created to destroy these idiotic stereotypes. Tired, perhaps, the big bosses of GM constantly hear reproaches that, they say, Corvette is not the same, that is around for the last ten years formed a lot of competitors ... Tremble, adolescents, managers and their leaders! So perfect technically Corvette history has never seen! Even a seemingly new version terrible as the fighter in the meadow in front of the Capitol. Bravo GM, because you can, if you want.

6.2-liter V8 with a mechanical supercharger gives 620 hp power with 823 Nm of torque. This engineering masterpiece was designed specifically for the Corvette with a clean slate, and this engine knows how to convert kilometers per second. The creators apparently, do not expect that they will have less advanced engine, and the joys have provided a transparent box on the hood for all to admire cover intake manifold.

But that's not all! Started counting on his fingers, in passing put yourself in the place of the poor dreamy manager: roof, hood, front fenders are made of carbon fiber - as a result and prestige, and little weight. Transmission - six-speed manual dual-clutch - is able to transfer all the avalanche of power to the rear wheels almost without interruption. The wheels, as befits this supercar, the back of greater diameter than the front: 20 and 19 inches respectively, while those on wheels - tires Michelin Pilot Sport 2, P285/30ZR19 front and P335/25ZR20 rear. This footwear has been designed specifically for the Corvette ZR1. Through the thin needles of these beautiful "rolls" can be seen ceramic brake diameter 15,5 inch front and 15 inches rear. And so on - from the list of innovations, even in the most experienced person in the car pulse rate.

And all this magnificence should be the first Corvette, which will be able to overcome the barrier of 200 miles per hour - more than 320 km / h! Speedometer, by the way, the ZR1 marked up as much to 370. And now - the latest blow to European competitors: ZR1 will be produced commercially and without any restrictions. But since the end of 2008. So we are left with only grit my teeth and work, work, work ... Maybe it will realize the dream of every American's life - it is not so unattainable.

Bugatti produces the highest car


It is unlikely that one would expect that, firing model Veyron, the company Bugatti calmed down and decided not to develop new creations, calmly resting on our laurels. For it is the desire to progress initially brought the popularity of this brand. In those years, when the company Bugatti Automobiles SAS, led by Ettore Bugatti and his son Jean, only grew, they had already tried all to achieve excellence. For each new model they tried to create a more powerful engine, a much more elegant body design, use modern materials. It is worth noting that their experiments have led to the fact that in the production of car bodies, engines and wheels began to actively use aluminum.

Now the experiments are continuing, but in a somewhat different direction. Of course, aluminum is still a favorite, but found space to maneuver. It is much more actively began to use carbon fiber, fiber material which can not only be easy, but keep an unprecedented strength. It is from his hand to make the most body panels, which are clearly in the light shining woven material structure, painted in dark blue color. The rest of the car were not specifically stained, leaving overt polished aluminum to create a unique image. Perhaps this bust, but we have to admit that the style is present here and in this case it does not seem to nod to the crazy eastern sheikhs bogotvoryaschih chrome-plated car.

Such a center of high technology and expensive materials have decided to call Bugatti Galibier Pass in honor of Ghalib, who is in the Pyrenees. They say that this is the most difficult part of cycling Tour de France. Although unlikely to cyclists deserve such honors, most marketers just like the pretty aristocratic "pronauns" of the word. Looks new flagship Bugatti is just brilliant. It is luxurious in the extreme, but it does not look like a car, which will soon stand in the garage, rather than to carry his master.

Design absolutely recognizable, especially when it comes to the front. Headlights, grille, air intakes are impressive - all traditionally for Bugatti. Silhouette too familiar. After all, family traits in creating luxury cars simply can not be overlooked, otherwise the continuity of generations is broken and the client will not go write a check. The main kitsch - the rear part. Here designers pulled. Vertical stop light, retractable wings forked spoiler, neat tail-lights, piped line of LEDs, as well as the cell, connecting the exhaust pipes, which had accumulated much as eight pieces.

Obviously, with so many exhaust pipes of engines must be powerful. In the old car is the best working volume of the engine and the number of cylinders, so why not restore things. Such thoughts obviously visited engineers, who have yet to not just hear the criticism of "green" in your address. Especially since they have recently appeared a new helmsman. Who knows, maybe he once again want to draw attention to the luxury of air pollutants.

Hood, incidentally, also made what is called an antique, but with a modern twist. Previously opened doors on both sides of stairs, then came a new fashion, and now we see something in between. Here are just hard to say how useful this feature. Rather, it's just a nice feature that adorns the concept. So, under these doors was placed 16-cylinder engine working volume of 8 liters, equipped with two-stage supercharger. Maximum power is going to be very impressive, but certainly less than the model Bugatti Veyron. Also, this unit will be designed to work not only on regular gasoline, but ethanol. Other design features can be noted the presence of all-wheel drive, ceramic brakes and new suspension designed to provide clearance four-door sedan excellent handling.

Inside, as you know, just one of the rooms in the palace of the king. Schick, brilliance, beauty. Luxurious materials, concise design, except that the availability of modern display a bit sobering. But rear passengers are able to see his testimony. There is still a strong tradition of the past, as the torpedo is clearly made with an eye to the Type 35 - simply and concisely. His features are already evident in the interior compartment Bugatti Veyron. Deserves special attention Swiss Chronograph Reverso Tourbillon from the company Parmigiani, which can be removed from the dashboard and put on hand. It's great that someone still decided to materialize this idea. The fact that we are still in February 2007, talked about this possibility for Mercedes-Benz S-Class. Maybe the Germans assembled?

In any case, the current leadership is making steps in the right direction. Romano Artioli, of course, also tried to revive the brand Bugatti, but then it was not very suitable. In 1993, after the release of the model EB110, he wanted to start selling models EB112, but his dreams did not come true. Now the situation is clearly better, but there are problems associated with the economic situation. That is why the Galibier is now positioned as the concept. But that's nothing. The reaction to this car will surely be much better than the feedback too conservative Maybach, losing ground. So what if the Germans start to collect a four-door coupé, giving the world a new higher creation in the automotive industry.

Lotus Exige S-240 2009: High-performance of only two seats


I have to admit with great shame that this was my first chance to drive a Lotus. I use the word shame because I am a great admirer of the golden age of Formula 1, when Jimmy Clark was competing for the Lotus team, then headed by Colin Chapman.

It all started with a casual, friendly invitation to visit the offices of Lotus USA in Atlanta. It was an honor to be in an environment steeped in pride and melancholy for the legendary history of Lotus.

Once inside the offices are on display a Lotus Exige Club Racer, Elise and the highly anticipated new Lotus Evora. Grata was my surprise when I was informed that were available an Exige S-240 and Evora (European version) for evaluation.

2010 Lotus Exige S-240 brings a few changes to the 2009 version. Mechanism is the same, and the only differences are the interior color choices.

The Lotus Exige coupe is a high-performance of only two seats. This year is only offered in a version as the Exige S-260 was discontinued.

As standard equipment found forged alloy wheels 16 "front and 17" rear tires, high performance Yokohama Advan, AP Racing and Brembo brakes with vented and perforated discs diagonally, Eibach springs and Bilstein shock absorbers, air conditioning, electric windows and latches, sport seats, leather-wrapped Momo steering wheel, Alpine sound system with 4 speakers, and launch control and traction control adjustable.

The base price of the Lotus Exige S-240 is $ 65.990. The color of our test unit had a special color "Burnt Orange" ($ 3,300) and two optional packages, the Touring Package ($ 1,600) and the Track Pack ($ 1,650). The first includes noise insulation, cup holders, to secure network objects, carpets and leather seats, door panels and emergency brake lever, the second option only offers the option to manually adjust the suspension. Other options include plastic lamination to protect the paint, limited slip differential and exterior colors.

The Lotus Exige central charges 4-cylinder engine and 1.8-liter supercharged developed by Yamaha. This produces 240 horsepower, 165 lb-ft of torque and is mated to a 6-speed manual transmission conventional. The Exige accelerates from 0-60 mph in 4.1 seconds impressive. As for fuel consumption, an EPA registered 20 mpg in the city and 26 on the road.

One of the attributes that differentiates the Lotus cars its closest competitors (if any) is its low weight. For the particular case of the Exige S, this is one of the main reasons for its excellent performance, weighs only 2.077 lbs.

The interior is crude and simple (like me what the doctor ordered). The seats offer excellent lateral support commensurate with their ability to cross high-speed turns. Obviously the Exige is a car that has been developed not for the average driver, but for those enthusiasts who prefer sporty handling and not the details of comfort and aesthetics.

I must warn you enter / exit the cabin can be a little uncomfortable and may even require a little flexibility. Forget about carrying suitcases or anything else in the trunk, as space is very limited and hot.

The latter becomes secondary once you start your engine and meets the vehicle's actual talent. The system is manual steering, the brakes are hard and very stiff suspension ... the perfect recipe for establishing a direct communication channel between the track, the vehicle and driver. The performance and effectiveness of the braking system is impressive thanks to its lines of metal, large calipers and discs.

Personally I was very impressed with the Lotus Exige S-240. It offers everything a fan as I search: NO BULLSHIT, only what you need to bring the car to its full capacity with the necessary technological confidence.

Friday, April 2, 2010

Ferrari 458 Italia: Completely Italy new car from Every point of view


The company unveiled a new supercar, which will be widely shown in public at this year's motor show in Frankfurde. NEW become the youngest model in the range of the eight cars.

This model was developed in the studio Pininfarina. The car is equipped with special aerodynamic elements that reduce resistance to the flow of incoming air, and also has aluminum chassis.

Supercar to be completed 570-horsepower 4.5-liter V8 engine with fuel injection and seven-robotic gearbox with two clutches. The torque of this engine is 540 Nm. Access it from 6000 rpm - a 80 per cent since 3250 with speed. The new model can accelerate in 3.4 seconds to a hundred miles an hour from scratch. Its maximum speed of over 320 kilometers per hour.

This model has an active differential E-Diff, carbon-ceramic brakes system «prefill», which, when released, the gas pedal automatically leads pads to the discs as close as possible. This reduces the reaction time on the subsequent press the brake pedal, and a 20-inch wheels and "closing" the front bumper air intakes, which are hidden behind the mesh vents aerodynamic elements overlap the airflow, reducing drag.

This direct-injection V8 engine can generate up to 562 horsepower and 398 lb-ft of torque. The red zone on the tachometer reaches the 9,000 rpm, but 80% of the available torque is between 0 and 3.250 rpm's.

Like the Ferrari California, Italy 458 receives a seven-speed transmission with double clutch that directs power to the rear wheels. Ferrari has worked hard to reduce internal friction V8, as well as aerodynamic refinements to reduce the coefficient of 'drag'. As a result, the Ferrari 458 Italy reported an improved combined fuel consumption of 17.1 miles per gallon (U.S.). Despite rumors that would integrate KERS hybrid system in this model, the Italian factory has not said a word about it.

Like its predecessor, the Ferrari Italy has an aluminum frame that helps maintain a reasonable weight (3.042 pounds). The new Ferrari accelerates from 0 "62 mph (100 km / h) in 3.4 seconds and will be the first mass-produced Ferrari to surpass the barrier of 200 mph (320 km / h), reaching a final speed of 202 mph (323.2 km / h).

As for the price ... we'll have to wait until the Frankfurt Motor Show in September to find out.

PRESS RELEASE
The 458 Italy is the latest Incarnation of the mid-rear engined berlinetta and will be Unveiled at the next Frankfurt Motor Show.

Maranello, 28th July 2009 - While it's true That Every Ferrari is Innovative by definition, it's Equally true That in the course of the Prancing Horse's history, Have Certain cars mark to genuine departure from the current range. This is very much the case with the Ferrari 458 Italy, Which is a massive leap forward from the company's previous mid-rear engined sports cars.

The new model is a synthesis of style, creative flair, passion and cutting-edge technology, Which Characteristics for Italy as a nation is well-known. For this reason Ferrari chose to add the name of Its homeland to the traditional figure Representing the displacement and number of cylinders.

The Ferrari 458 is a Completely Italy new car from Every point of view: engine, design, aerodynamics, handling, instrumentation and ergonomics, just to name a Few.

A two-seater Berlinetta, the Ferrari 458 Italy, as is now traditional for all Ferrari's road-going cars, benefits hugely from the company's Formula 1 experience. This is Particularly Evident in the speed and precision with the car Which Responds to driver inputs and in the Attention Focus on Reducing internal friction in the engine for lower fuel Consumption Than the F430, Uncle Tom overalls Both the Fact That Have displacement and power increaser. However, Ferrari's track experience makes STI Presence Felt in the 458 Italy Not Only In Terms of pure Technological transfer Also But on a more emotional level, Because Of The strong emphasis on Creating an symbiotic Almost Relationship Between driver and car. The 458 features an Innovative Italian driving environment with a new kind of steering wheel and dashboard That is the direct result of racing practice. Once again input from Michael Schumacher - Who Was Involved from the very start of the project 458 Italy - Played an invaluable part.

Thursday, April 1, 2010

Audi A4: Powerful and practical car you thought of everything for the family


Successful solutions that were found when creating Audi A6 and TT, skillfully used in developing a model Audi A4. A low drag coefficient and greater emphasis on sports was obtained by verified and accepted by the fans brand decisions. The car has received an additional expressiveness by head optics under transparent caps. Separation of the radiator grille with chrome rims on two components, in particular, on the bottom - in a skirt and bumper to the usual - in the upper part, is aimed at the same. Luggage space was increased to 445 liters.

The new model is equipped with air conditioning, which maintains comfortable conditions inside the cabin, built-in mobile phone with voice control mode, on-board navigation system, a range of telematics, electronic brake booster, ESP and side air bag on the head.

In a number of petrol power units included two novelties, namely, the three-liter V6 with an output of 220 horsepower and a two-liter row Quartet, producing 130 horsepower.

Model A4 is also equipped with two diesel engines, which represent a high-torque engines with excellent fuel economy. Audi A4 also has an automatic gearbox with a chain variant Multitronic.

The new brand has enabled Hohenester enter the Guinness Book of Records, after demonstrating that the natural gas in cars can run as well or better than gasoline.

The three liters biturbo V6 engine will not only achieved the speed record. So did during acceleration (0 to 100km / h in 4.2 seconds), torque (720 Nm at 3,800 rpm) and deceleration (100 to 0 km / h at 34.8 meters).

Similarly, the car presented a power to weight ratio of 2.38 kg per horsepower.

According to German magazine Auto Motor und Sport, Audi A4 biogas is so powerful that electronically Hohenester had to limit its power to 700 horses to prevent damaging the transmission and other vehicle components sold to the public standard .

Had it not been limited in their power, the Audi A4 Hohenester stood at 800 horses.

To reach its mark, Hohenester used the equivalent of 120-140 octane gas.

This is not the first time Hohenester trying to beat the world speed record for cars powered by gas. Last year 'Tune' other Audi A4 to take it to 585 horsepower. However, at that time only amounted to 328.3 kilometers per hour.

The Teutonic manufacturing giant with this release shows that she does not miss any market niche, so decided to enter the "target family" with its attractive model A4 Avant car that perfectly combines the functionality of a station wagon with the power and design that we have used the Audi brand.

This elegant car offers different options for their customers as are their 5 types of engines which is available: two petrol and three diesel engines to reduce fuel consumption by more than 14% compared to the previous model .

Undoubtedly one of the aspects that draws the attention of this vehicle and establish a comparative advantage over its predecessor is its higher load capacity 1430 liters in volume "total-even almost identical in length and weigh 10% minor features that demonstrate the high level of innovation of the company Germanic.

With respect to its mechanical part, the Audi A4 Avant offers a range of engines from the 1.8 TFSI four-cylinder power of 160 HP, up to a 3.2 FSI V6 with 265 HP, all of them with direct fuel injection as the TDI or FSI engine type, and achieving high levels of torque thanks to turbocharger technology. The transmission is available in a 6-triptronic manual changes or multitronic variant. So, there is only enjoy this powerful and practical car you thought of everything for the family.

Mazda CX-7: Combines the functionality and sporty dynamics


Mazda CX-7 combines the functionality and sporty dynamics, perfect for driving on urban roads. Distinctive features of this model is its powerful engine with direct fuel injection, the volume of 2,3-liter turbo. Like other cars SUV class Mazda CX-7 has multifunctionality, great visibility, spacious interior and a very high level of comfort.

Mazda CX-7 is different for maximum security. Full control over the situation allows you to keep good visibility, adjusted brakes and solid body construction. When a car accident demonstrates a high level of protection thanks to the modern system of absorption and distribution of energy. Specific compounds subframe helps to absorb energy during a crash. It is worth noting that for the manufacture of parts frame security is used high-strength steel.

Six airbags, side, front window, protect the passengers. Also, the safety of passengers provide integrated seat belts with force limiters and tension with retractors.

For those looking for significant savings on fuel consumption and an affordable price, Mazda placed on the table two options very convenient with its CX-7:

The first is a version of four-cylinder engine with 2.5-liter mated to a transmission five-speed automatic. With an output of 161 horsepower, the model helps to generate an economy of 28 miles per gallon of fuel in terms of management of motorway around and can be purchased for a base price of around $ 22,000.

The second option, for those who are not thinking in the economy, is offering a turbocharged 2.3-liter that generates an output of 244 horsepower. Obviously this is much more fun and powerful but its base price starting around $ 25,000.

Our test unit was the first to mention, without the turbo, but we must admit that although the power does not say much on paper, on the road experience with the CX-7 takes the test. Its acceleration respond appropriately and perhaps a little better than we expected for the basic motor of four cylinders. It drives comfortably thanks to its easy maneuverability and smooth handling.

Inside is a dashboard very striking and in an very futuristic but in turn for easy reading. The steering wheel is telescopic and tilt and has the audio controls and cruise control on it. Our unit had no navigation system compact but is an option that can be added for an extra charge like the automatic climate control and audio from Bose ".

The seats in the first row are air conditioned and the driver is provided with electronic memory that can record the configuration of the chair to the taste of it manages. The space of the second row of seats to travel in comfort but in turn part of load is very low, unless it is harness the support folding 60/40 split to create more space in the rear.

If you are people who prefer more breadth in the cargo area would do well to consider the wider pattern of the same line of Mazda, which offers more possibilities in this regard.

The security features standard airbags front advanced air bags front side-impact air curtains for side impacts, Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) and a system for monitoring tire pressure (TPMS) very convenient, especially because by keeping tires at recommended pressure also helps increase levels of efficiency in fuel consumption.

Wednesday, March 31, 2010

Mercedes CLK Cabrio: Well-made total convertible



More expensive average
Mercedes and convertible - which has traditions. The Stuttgart sell cars and have been open for decades with its trend towards younger audiences, the segment for fans of the top is extended. The Stuttgart-based offering in the middle goes by the name CLK convertible and offers four full seats.

Body / interior
The Mercedes CLK cabriolet based on the mid-1994 presented by Mercedes, which was now shown by the new C-Klasseabgelöst. With the face of double headlights but does the 4.56 meter long car was still timely.

Also in operation and instrumentation of the Benz is largely up to date. Only the left control stalk interferes overloaded as well as the antiquated hand brake, which for decades with the left foot is pressed at Mercedes. Merely observing the Stuttgart should also another detail: namely, that a practical control of all four side windows using a button, as it offers the latest generation of the three convertibles.

On the interior space and the seats there is nothing wrong, however. The fitting for all passengers fit. By means of the control options to the well-formed and sufficient lateral support offered seats (leather extra charge) should any stature driver find a suitable position. However, criticism is the lack of inclination adjustment of the seat.

Also a lot in the back seat convertible may take longer than the evening ride home from the pub. The CLK Cabriolet offers four complete so seats. To further ensure the well-being in a closed car very well-made and fabric lined with soft top. Might almost be thought of sitting in a traditional sedan.

A rotation release knob on the roof and make the subsequent operation of the switch for the motor-driven transformation of the CLK in a convertible. With the opening process is not always without friction. Frequently happening across the actuating said button is nothing, or the roof operation breaks from the middle of the process of completely inexplicable reasons. In addition, crashes and crunches the top mechanics during the process so vehemently believe that you like, you've captured a half-tree, which crushed the folding of the roof slowly. At least the top compartment closes by means of a solid cover.

When closed, convinced the convertible with low wind noise. Also leaves open the drive's fine. Is still the front seats insertable wind deflector mounted behind, convertible convinced by the substantial absence of turbulence up to high speed regions.

Chassis / handling
The ride is traditionally the domain of cars. Also our CLK convinced in this chapter. Unevenness irons designed long-throw suspension of the Mercedes good. Combined with the smooth but enough mediating contact with the road, the steering proves Mercedes car as pleasant journey.

Sporting approaches are alien to him, however. On this point, still shows the competition, where the bar for four-seat convertible is agile handling. From a security point on the other hand does not hurt the more comfortable design. With forced pace of the Mercedes is clean on the street and behaves in critical load changes. The brakes work good modulation and delay stable tracking also at high motorway speeds.

Engine / Transmission
Mercedes offers a range of engines for its open middle class. Initial version is also in the test car mounted 2289 cc four-cylinder. By means of the rediscovered by Mercedes compressor charging the machine makes 193 hp.

On the performance development, there is nothing wrong. Unlike machines, turbocharged engine is the compressor with its permanently powered compressor without turbo lag out completely. From idle, the Mercedes is well on gas and enjoys a steady power delivery.

What car brands have benefited the most from scrapping?
Asked by hunchback
Thus, the stock has the positive properties of the drive unit but unfortunately exhausted. The supercharged engine makes noise from medium engine speeds that is so vehemently that one involuntarily of a capital leak in the exhaust system thinks. The ordinary noise does not fit at all to the otherwise distinguished character of the Mercedes, and even less for a car for about 90 000 marks. Also, the automatic transmission shows dark side. His shifting leads the five-speed box made of very hard, but is not precise on the other hand: when to kick down the motorway inclines can often decide the transmission after several seconds memorial, whether it even takes a lower gear. Fortunately, the Automatic "adaptive", ie capable of learning.

At least, the temperament of the supercharged engine, it is unable to reduce significantly: even above 200 kilometers per hour, the convertible willing to put in speed.

However provides that the CLK any weakness and confirms the tendency that the compressor machines are relatively economical. With a little restrained gas foot, we identified a mixed consumption of 11.2 liters.

Costs
n its basic version will cost the Mercedes 79 460 Mark (September 2000). Series include ABS, four airbags, electric hood, electric mirrors, central locking with remote control and Bordcomputer.Den jump to the six-cylinder Mercedes can pay with violent charge: At least 95 000 Mark does the 218-hp CLK 320th By comparison, the strongest competitor BMW 3 Series Convertible offers its six-cylinder "as the 325i already for 69 to 900 marks, while for the 231-hp 330i only 77 400 marks.

The equipped with extras such as automatic transmission (3712 dollars), heated (675 marks), leather seats (3596 dollars), air conditioning (at least 3190 dollars), wind deflector (650 marks) and other ingredients test car had a value of over 92 000 marks.

Since there is little consolation that the insurance classification of the CLK is relatively cheap. The maintenance intervals depend on the driving style and displayed in the cockpit.

Datasheet
Engine Four-cylinder inline engine
Displacement (cm 3) 2278
Horsepower (KW) at U / min -1 193 (142) at 5500
Max torque (Nm) at rpm -1 280 at 2500
Maximum speed (km / h) 230
Transmission Five-speed automatic
Drive Rear
Road test consumption (l/100 km) min. 9.1
Price (Euro) 40 627
Emission standard D4
Road tax (annual) / Euro ago 155.25
Road tax (annual) / Euro new 14/35/21
Comprehensive insurance class: ABS, power windows, Central Department, four airbags
Standard equipment: * 600 Mark off tax bonus

Conclusion
The CLK Mercedes is a solid, well-made total convertible. He is a Mercedes from the old school with all the associated advantages and disadvantages. Comfort, performance and processing deserve praise. A real competition to the 3 Series convertible, but the Mercedes is not: That he lacks the playful handling. He is far too expensive.

Moreover, the vulgar noisy four-cylinder engine has a completely out of place in the noble Benz. This is likely, although the already high price of cars rising by participants reiterated his grip on the cylinder the better choice. So the answer is to our initial question: The expectations of a 90 000-mark-do not meet the CLK Cabriolet. For less money there is anywhere else in improving ways of cars.

Plus and minus
+ Good workmanship
+ Economical engine
+ Good performance
+ Four full seats
+ Low turbulence
- Noisy engine
- Bad value for money

Porsche 918 Spyder: Combines the features of high-tech electric mobility and offer a range of fascinating qualities


The 918 Spyder is one of the three models of Porsche hybrid system that will make its world debut at the Geneva Motor Show 2010 . This trio, comprised of the new Cayenne S Hybrid SUV with a full parallel hybrid system, the race car 911 GT3 R Hybrid with electric traction on the front axle and a mass flywheel battery and the sports car 918 Spyder two-seater high-performance , with center-mounted engine and plug-in hybrid technology, clearly demonstrates not only the high bandwidth of this new drive technology, but also the innovative power of Porsche as a genuine pioneer in the hybrid system.

The 918 Spyder race combines the features of high-tech electric mobility and offer a range of fascinating qualities. It is planned to provide an emission level of only 70 grams of carbon dioxide per kilometer fuel consumption of only three liters per 100 kilometers (roughly equivalent to 78 mpg).

The prototype car Spyder 918 highly innovative combination of intelligent performance philosophy of Porsche with high technology of motorsports, with a classic yet modern design to make a truly convincing statement.

Roadster This car has a V8 engine that develops high-speed over 500 hp and a maximum engine speed of 9,200 rpm, as well as electric motors in the front and rear with a total mechanical power of 218 hp (160 kW) .

The combustion engine V8 is another further development of the 3.4-liter powerplant highly successful and presented in the RS Spyder race car and located in the center opposite the rear axle, giving the car excellent balance and configuration exact optimal performance on the racetrack.

The power reserve is a lithium ion battery liquid cooled located behind the passenger compartment. The great advantage of a plug-in hybrid is that you can charge the battery in a common grid.

In addition, a button on the steering wheel allows the driver to choose between four different modes of operation: the E-Drive mode (electrical conductivity) is to turn the car on electric power only, with a range of 25 kilometers or 16 miles. In hybrid mode, the 918 Spyder uses both electric motors and combustion engines as a function of driving conditions and requirements, offering a range that includes, especially from high efficiency of fuel to be super powerful.

The hybrid method uses both systems sport driving, but with the emphasis on performance. Most of the traction power goes to the rear wheels, with moderate braking system on the rear wheels (Torque Vectoring) used to further improve the car's driving dynamics.

In hybrid form of racing, the conduction system focuses on pure performance with the highest standard of driving dynamics on the track, moving the limit of the dynamic power output. With the battery charged enough, the button "push to advance" (push-to-pass) provides additional power (E-Boost), to get ahead or get even better performance.

With the hybrid drive system that offers this wide range of modalities and individual applications, the 918 Spyder is capable of achieving lap times comparable to those race car or a first-line plug-in hybrid with extremely low emissions figures and high fuel economy.

Tuesday, March 30, 2010

Mazda RX8: Japanese sports car performance and The perfect car


Rarely is a car as original as many aspects as the Mazda RX8. But most important is to have technological solutions and original design, but the end result works!

Two key elements define the character of this model: its small but powerful rotary engine and its original bodywork, we dare to call "four-door coupe," with opening the rear opposite to the front ( "freestyle" in the terminology of Mazda), as in the new and expensive Rolls Royce Phantom almost half a million dollars.


The engine
Starting with the engine, with just 3 rotor and a 1.3-liter capacity is able to develop an output of 238 horsepower at an engine speed of 8,500 laps. The torque is not as generous and remains in poor 159 lb-ft, a modest sum in relation to maximum power and what other competitors offer "traditional" engines. But the fact is that the engine meets, not excited, but allows sufficient acceleration and recoveries for the car and enjoy its magnificent performance.

The change is significant aid, not only by the shortness of the developments needed to keep the engine running at high revs, but also for its ease of handling and short routes.

The transmission is to the rear wheels, of course, and the Mazda RX8 is a very balanced weight distribution, not only by the distribution base but also at the center and lower masses. The result is a very agile behavior while very progressive. Highway directional stability is also very good, thanks to the long battle (center distance) and it tuned suspensions.


Exterior design
Turning to foreign chapter, we will as long as each one considers the line, although we liked it, not only for the balance achieved between the silhouette of a sports car with the practicality of a four-door four-seater, but it also is quite remarkable the care put into every detail of design. Thus, the shape of a rotor is present in different areas of the car, but in a very harmonious.


The interior
The interior is another success, with good materials and high quality finishing. Furthermore, it is surprisingly large and holds four passengers safely. The only objection is the available space in the boot, not too broad, but not think it is a serious fault in a car like this. The equipment is very comprehensive, and through the options can leave the car "full equipped" for a reasonable price.

Speaking of prices, we think the offer with the Mazda RX8 is very interesting, offering a great value for the price. There are feelings that are difficult to measure or describe, but to say that he is seeking a sports car under $ 32,000, the Mazda RX leave an exquisite taste in my mouth "", with a quality of behavior difficult to find in the market, irrespective of the price of the car.

By now you've probably guessed test the Mazda RX8 we liked it. But competition is tough in this market. The most obvious competitor is possibly the Nissan 350 Z, which offers similar performance but the "flavor" is totally different. Other potential competitors are the Japanese rally cars, Subaru STI and EVO Mitsubhisi, which offer higher performance in exchange for a less attractive design. And the range of competitors can be extended in many directions, from the Audi TT range to higher versions of the Mustang. Variety is the taste and finally the benefit of this intense competition is the consumer who ultimately choose.