Friday, November 19, 2010

RPMGO Car Blog

RPMGO Car Blog


M5 & M6 Hurricane RR From G-Power

Posted: 19 Nov 2010 03:50 AM PST

G-Power M5 Hurricane RR

Back in August, German tuning manufacturer G-Power released their version of the BMW M5 that established the World's Fastest Sedan record. It has a top speed of 231 mph (372 km/h), similar to the legendary McLaren F1 launched in the 90s. The M5 Hurricane RR is the reiteration of the RS version that used a 551 kW (750 hp) V10 twin-supercharged engine, which was able to hit a top speed of 228 mph (367.4 km/h).

The M5 HRR received a 6.67% boost in power and was equipped with a 588 kW (800 hp) engine that has a whopping 590l lb-ft (800 Nm) torque. The car is able to reach 100 km/h (62 mph) in just 4.35 seconds and 200 km/h (124 mph) in 9.5 sec. It will need about 25.8 seconds to get to 186 mph (300 km/h).

In order to achieve a respectable 25% space increase for the air volume, G-Power installed generous superchargers. The M5 RR sports 19-inch wheels covered by Michelin Pilot Sport Tires.

The current record might be taken down once the Bugatti 16C Galiber is officially available with its 8.0-liter 16 cylinder engine like the Veyron, but using superchargers (not turbochargers). The Bugatti will most likely be available starting with the second part of 2012.

G-Power M6 Hurricane RR

Recently G-Power came with another great car, the M6 Hurricane RR, based on the BMW M6. It has the same V10 800 PS & 800 Nm engine as the M5 version. Again, G-Power claims that this model is "world’s fastest 4-seat coupe."

Although the coupe is quite heavy at almost 2,000 kg, it will only needs 4.35 seconds to do 0-100 km/h. For 0-200 km/h, the M6 Hurricane RR will need 9.5 seconds. 0-300 km/h is done in 24.9 seconds. This powerful model will roll on G-Power Silverstone Clubsport 20 inch forged rims (10 x 20 in the back, 9 x 20 in the front), covered by the 285/30ZR20 & 255/35ZR20 high performance tires.

For those of you interested in the M6 Hurricane RR, the basic price is €252,100 (including the standard BMW M6 car).

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M5 & M6 Hurricane RR From G-Power

Hamann Rolls Out The Flash Evo M

Posted: 19 Nov 2010 03:22 AM PST

Hamann Flash Evo M

Based on the BMW X5 M, the Hamann Flash EVO M features an aggressive body kit that matches with the extra muscles of this powerful SUV. In the front we have a spoiler that sports LED daytime running lights and generous air intakes that allow a more efficient cooling of the brakes and power unit. The standard bonnet of the X5 M was replaced with a carbon fiber one and the car also got side sill bars, carbon fiber mirror heads, a rear spoiler, side wings for the wheel arches, roof spoiler and fender extensions. In addition to all of these upgrades, the Flash Evo M is equipped with a sport exhaust system that features center-mounted double-pipes which are integrated into the new diffuser.

The most important upgrade over the original model can be found in the engine compartment. The hardware modifications brought by Hamann allow the engine to output 449 kW (610 PS) and an incredible torque of 780 Nm. The standard BMW X5 M has "only" 408 kW (555 PS) and a 680 Nm torque. If this engine upgrade is not enough for most customers, Hamann can fit the SUV with a HM 670 sports kit that offers 493 kW (670 PS) and a 950 Nm torque.

Hamann Flash Evo M

The car now is 30 mm lower thanks to the progressively wound suspension that allows the driver to handle the car better at speeds that can reach 300 km/h. The car will be riding on big 22 or 23-inch light alloy rims. For stopping this fast SUV, Hamann developed a very efficient braking system by using massive 405 mm diameter brake discs for the front wheels and 340 mm diameter brake discs for the wheels in the back. The 6-pot calipers provide the needed delay at the front axle and the 4-pot calipers do the same job on the rear axle. In order to prevent and avoid fading during high stress, the Flash Evo M features flex brake lines.

Moving on in the inside, we find the carbon & stainless-steel sill with the "Hamman" illuminated logo. In addition, you get a nice quilted leather interior stitching and Alcantara. The car comes with "Hamman" floor mats as well as a trunk mat that round up the luxurious interior look.

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Hamann Rolls Out The Flash Evo M

Official : 2011 Kia Optima

Posted: 19 Nov 2010 02:47 AM PST

2011 Kia Optima

Compared to the 2010 model, this new version is $1,000 more expensive but it is definitely worth it as it is a giant step forward in terms of looks, technology and powertrains. Although it is more expensive, it still is cheaper than the 2011 Hyundai Sonata – the Korean cousin.

What do you get if you purchase the basic model? You get power window and door locks, USB interface for your iPod and Sirius Satellite. A more expensive trim is the LX, which has a starting price of $20,495. The LX comes equipped with a six-speed automatic transmission, alloy wheels, an eco mode and cruise control. For extra cash, you could get the EX trim that comes with dual zone climate control, eight-way power driver's seat, 17-inch wheels, leather seating surfaces and a neat push-button start.

2011 Kia Optima

For those of you that want a little more muscle under the hood, the 2011 Kia Optima is available with the EX Turbo configuration that offers a powerful 274 hp engine, special interior accents and a redesigned front grille. For this version you have to pay $24, 495, a little more than the Sonata Turbo ($24, 145). The most expensive trim is the SX, with a starting price of $25, 995. For this version you will get a bundle of interior upgrades, LED taillights, HID headlamps, revised lower trim, a sport-tuned suspension and attractive 18-inch rims.

We feel that the most affordable version of the 2011 Kia Optima comes at a reasonable price taking into consideration what it has to offer. If you are wondering about the resale value of this model, you need to know that value experts at ALG, inc. affirm that this new model will retain 53% of its original value after three years which is a considerable 66% increase over the current model.

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Official : 2011 Kia Optima

Fast & Furious : 2012 Nissan GT-R

Posted: 19 Nov 2010 02:08 AM PST

2012 Nissan GT-R

Besides the Murano CrossCabriolet premiere at the Los Angeles Auto Show, the Japanese manufacturer Nissan also presented the 2012 version of its famous GT-R model. What you need to remember about it? Two figures – 530 horsepower and 488 Nm of torque.

530 hp is 45 more in comparison to the original GT-R model and engineers at Nissan say that this boost will allow the car to reach 60 mph in less than three seconds. This horsepower boost was possible courtesy of the twin-turbo packed into the six combustion chambers along with more generous exhaust pipes and a larger inlet.

The list of modifications does not end here as the GT-R will be available with several body modifications like an enlarged front fascia, grill openings, LED running lights plus double rectifier fins. These changes will permit a more efficient air flow to the engine compartment and sweep across front brakes for better cooling. The redesigned rear fascia will lower the GT-R's center of gravity.

2012 Nissan GT-R

All of these aerodynamic improvements made to the car, along with a rear diffuser and underbody trays translate into a coefficient of drag that was reduced to 0.26. The 2012 edition will benefit from Rays wheels, red-trimmed Recaro sport seats and new across-the-range carbon interior highlights. The selection of colors include Gun Metallic, Pearl White, Solid Red as well as a limited edition four-stage metallic Super Silver which will join two new shades: Jet Black and Deep Blue Pearl.

The 2012 Nissan GT-R basic price starts from $89,950 while the Premium and Black Edition models have a standard price from $95,100.

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Fast & Furious : 2012 Nissan GT-R

V12 700 HP Engine From Lamborghini

Posted: 19 Nov 2010 01:39 AM PST

Lamborghini's V12 700 HP Engine

The Italian supercar manufacturer Lamborghini recently revealed new information about its latest and greatest engine – the 6.5-liter V12 that will be able to output a power of 700 hp (515 kW) and 690 Nm of torque. Most likely, this engine will power the Aventador, which will be the replacement of the famous Murcielago model.

Internally known as the L539, this new power plant is naturally aspirated and offers the 700 PS at 8,250 rpm and the 690 Nm torque at 5,500 rpm. This powerful engine was entirely developed by the Italian manufacturer at the Sant'Agata Bolognese facility. The motor features a classic cylinder bank of 60 degrees and sports a very compact design at only 665 mm tall, 848 mm wide and 784 mm in length. The cylinder stroke is 76.5 mm and the bore diameter is 95 mm. Its nitride-hardened crankshaft has a weight of 24.6 kg and the overall weight of the power plant is only 234 kg. This powerful V12 6.5-liter engine features two mufflers (one low-volume; one high-volume) in a single casing.

Lamborghini's V12 700 HP Engine

In addition to this engine development, Lamborghini also created the ISR – Independent Shifting Rods 7-speed transmission. It is a single-clutch gearbox that instantly changes gears thanks to the independent shifting rods. The Italian engineers affirm that in comparison to a dual-clutch gearbox, this ISR gearbox only needs half the time to switch between gears. This newly developed gearbox with its independent shift rods functions very similar to a regular dual-clutch model – one rod is disengaging the current gear while the secondary rod is already engaging the next desired gear.

We all know how obsessed (in a good way) engineers at Lamborghini are with reducing weight and therefore they did everything to slim down this new gearbox and the result was a very easy 70 kg unit. This new transmission features three driver settings, as follows: Strada, Sport and Corsa. The latter is configured for high-performance driving and includes a launch control function.

We are eager to find out how the new engine and gearbox will perform in what seems to be Lamborghini's next big hit: the Aventador.

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V12 700 HP Engine From Lamborghini

Full Details Of The 2011 Dodge Durango

Posted: 19 Nov 2010 01:14 AM PST

2011 Dodge Durango

Dodge has recently released full information about the facelift 2011 Dodge Durango. Based originally on the Jeep Grand Cherokee, the Durango has a very aggressive appearance with a prominent grille and "coke-bottled" styling. Joe Dehner, who is the chief designer of Dodge: "we took the performance car mantra from our own backyard and applied the formula to Durango. The Durango and Charger were designed at the same time, allowing the bold styling from the Charger to spill over to our all-new three-row SUV."

The basic model, dubbed "Express" is offered with 18-inch alloy wheels, sapphire blue ambient lighting and automatic tri-zone climate control. For more money, you could get the "Crew" version that sports memory seats, an Alpine audio system, a power liftgate and a rear backup camera. For extra money, clients can get a rear-seat entertainment system and GPS navigation.

There is also a sportier version of the Durango, named "R/T" that sports a reduced ride height – lowered 20 mm, massive 20-inch aluminum rims as well as a monotone appearance. Clients can also get a collision warning system, heated seats (front + rear) and leather upholstery, for additional money.

If you prefer a more luxurious ride, Dodge offers the 2011 Durango in the "Citadel" version, which comes with 20-inch chrome wheels, a distinct front grille, heated steering wheel, HID – High Intensity Discharge headlights and perforated Nappa leather seats.

2011 Dodge Durango

Clients can opt from one of the two engines available; a V6 3.6-liter capable of offering 290 hp (216 kW / 294 PS) and a 260 lb-ft (353 Nm) torque. With this engine, the Durango can tow up to 6,200 pounds (2,812 kg) and eats up 16 mpg in the city and 23 mpg on the highway with the rear wheel drive activated. Using the all wheel drive system, it will do 16 mpg in the city and 22 mpg on the highway.

The other power unit is a HEMI 5.7-liter V8 that outputs 360 hp (268 kW / 365 PS) and a massive torque of 390 lb-ft (520 Nm). This powerful HEMI engine will do 14 mpg in the city and 20 mpg on the highway, using the rear wheel drive. For the all wheel drive system, the figures are 13 mpg city and 20 mpg highway.

The 2011 Dodge Durango will begin sales in December at a base price of $29,195 with the destination charge included.

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Full Details Of The 2011 Dodge Durango

Future Small Porsches

Posted: 19 Nov 2010 12:46 AM PST

Possible Porsche Cajun Project Sketch

Officials from the German manufacturer Porsche affirmed at the Los Angeles Auto Show that they are thinking of producing a small SUV and a sports car smaller than the Boxster, with the main purpose of doubling worldwide sales in the next three years. The head of sales and marketing at Porsche AG, Bernhard Maier, confirmed that the company is considering smaller and less expensive automobiles "but we have taken no decision so far".

The small SUV has a code name "Cajun"- which is short for Cayenne Jr. Maier affirmed that the worldwide success of the SUV has given Porsche enough confidence to "investigate if there are other opportunities." The head of sales and marketing also stated that the alternatives would be to develop the Cajun project in-house, share a platform with another VW Group brand or use a partner. He did not confirm the fact that the Cajun will begin production in 2013. He also did not say that this small SUV will be based on the Audi Q5 nor it will share its components.

2011 Porsche Boxster Spyder

Maier affirmed that by creating a smaller less expensive SUV would be a good way for the German manufacturer to increase its revenues and "follow the growth plan of the company." The CEO of VW – Martin Winterkorn affirmed that he wants Porsche to expand its global sales from the current 75,000 units per year to 150,000 by 2014. After 2009 when Porsche failed to take control of VW, the VW Group bought 49, 9 percent of Porsche AG.

Besides the smaller SUV, Porsche has a plan for producing a sports car smaller than the Boxster. Maier affirmed that "if we would be able to find a car that will be best in class and share all the DNA of Porsche." According to reports, this new model will use a new VW Group mid-engine platform that will be used also by the VW Bluesport sports cars that will be launched in 2013. Maier said that there is no timeframe for a decision to create such a model that will possibly increase global revenues.

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Future Small Porsches

2011 Toyota Corolla Revealed

Posted: 19 Nov 2010 12:21 AM PST

2011 Toyota Corolla

One of the models exhibited at the Los Angeles Auto Show by Toyota is the 2011 facelift of the popular Toyota Corolla which will go on sale this December in the United States. The most important exterior changes made to the car in comparison with the old version include the fully redesigned front bumper, front lower grille, radiator grille, headlamps, rear bumper, reflex reflector and the rear combination lamp.

The engine that will power the 2011 version is a 1.8-liter four-cylinder DOHC engine with Dual Variable Valve Timing (VVT-i) that will be able to produce 132 bhp (99 kW) and a 128 lb-ft (173 Nm) torque. The gearbox will be either a 5-speed manual or a 4-speed automatic transmission. The car will have a mileage rating of 28 mpg city (8.4 liters / 100 km) and 35 (6.72 liters / 100 km) highway using the manual transmission. Using the 4-speed automatic gearbox, the care will consume 26 mpg in the city and 34 mpg on the highway.

2011 Toyota Corolla

The facelift version will be available in two trim levels – LE and S. The car will benefit from the Star Safety System with stability and traction control. The S version will feature 16-inch wheels in comparison to the LE model which will have standard 15-inch rims.

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2011 Toyota Corolla Revealed

Nissan Murano CrossCabriolet Premiere

Posted: 18 Nov 2010 10:59 PM PST

Nissan Murano CrossCabriolet

The Nissan Murano CrossCabriolet is the world's first AWD crossover convertible and looks very special in our opinion. This cabriolet/convertible SUV is considered by Nissan as the first all-wheel drive crossover convertible. The car is in fact a 2-door, open top configuration of the regular SUV/crossover 4-door Murano. The model comes with a 3.5-liter V6 engine that can output 265 bhp (198 kW) and a maximum torque of 248 lb-ft (336 Nm) linked to an Xtronic CVT gearbox.

The top of the CrossCabriolet is hydraulically operated by an automated latch/unlatch function. With the top down, the trunk space of the Murano CC is 7.6 cubic feet (0.2 cubic meters). Nissan implemented HID – High Intensity Discharge bi-xenon headlights and like the 370Z, the Murano has LED taillights.

Nissan Murano CrossCabriolet

Al Castignetti, who is Nissan's North American vice president and general manager, said in the press release that "this new Murano CrossCabriolet adds an unexpected…element, the ability to make everyday activities more exciting with open air driving". The Japanese manufacturer thinks that this new interesting model provides all of the well-known advantages of a convertible without any of its weak points, like tiny trunk space and lack of flexible usage.

There is a tendency in the North American market to call cars like these crossovers because their construction is car-based, but there are many people who affirm that such SUVs/Crossovers with their top chopped are not very appealing cars to see, but this is their opinion.

The Murano CrossCabriolet from Nissan will start shipping in United States at the beginning of next year. We are very interested to find out if the car will be a hit in terms of sales figures, taking into consideration that it is a rather interesting and unique automobile with a bold design.

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Nissan Murano CrossCabriolet Premiere

Ford Focus Race Car Concept At The L.A. Auto Show

Posted: 18 Nov 2010 10:37 PM PST

Ford Focus Race Car Concept

The Ford Focus Race Car Concept will be the company's team car for the next year's British Touring Car Championship. The Race Car Concept is based upon the 2012 street legal version of the Focus and comes with a 2.0-liter Ecoboost turbocharged motor. Unfortunately not all the tuning specifications were fully revealed, but what we know is that the engines will be producing at least 300 hp (224 kW) in the 2011 BTCC.

The car was developed in close partnership with a few racing tames. Jost Capito, Ford performance vehicle executive said that the car "has resulted in a global racing platform using a common Focus body and a safety cage built to FIA regulations – a competitive platform that can be tailored for regional competition, based on different rules".

Ford Focus Race Car Concept

The Focus Race Car Concept is equipped with a FIA Super 2000 approved roll cage, fire suppression systems, Recaro seats with six-point harnesses attached as well as data and camera systems from AIM. The car sits on 18-inch anthracite wheels that wear Hoosier tires, and 320-milimiter two-piece rotors in front, with racing brake pads for optimal braking. Other performance features are the AST coil-over dampers, adjustable end links and sway bars.

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Ford Focus Race Car Concept At The L.A. Auto Show