The Fast and Furious

Mercedes-Benz SLK32 AMG

2009-06-03T10:19:00.001-05:00

The Mercedes-Benz SLK32 AMG was one of the fastest Mercedes ever built.
The SLK32 AMG was powered by a 3.2 liter 354 hp V6 engine.
All of the SLK's engines were hand-built by AMG engineers.
The 3.2 liter engine was equipped with an intercooled Lysholm-type "twin-screw" supercharger.
That allowed the V6 to propel the SLK32 from 0 to 60 in around 4.5 seconds and gave it a quarter mile time of 13 seconds at 105 mph.
Even thought it was only offered with automatic transmission, the SLK was competition for the BMW M Roadster and Porsche Boxster S.
The base price of the SLK was around $56,115.

Bentley Continental GT Supersports

2009-05-27T12:17:00.001-05:00

Yes a Bentley.

The Bentley Continental GT Supersports is the first Bentley that can run on gasoline and ethanol.
And the performance is staggering.
This luxury car has a 6.0L W12 twin-turbocharged engine rated at 621 horsepower and it puts out 590 foot pounds of torque.
The GT can pull 0 to 60 in just 3.7 seconds, 0 to 100 in 8.9 seconds and has a top speed of 204 mph.
The power comes at a price in more ways than one.
MPG in the city is 11.5 and highway is 24.4.
I don't know if that's cruising at 200 mph plus or not.

So Go Green!
Save the Earth!
Turn 0 to 60 times in 3.7 seconds and cruise at 200 plus mph!
And you only have to pay $267,000 (base price) to do it!

Ferrari Testarossa F512 M

2009-05-19T11:09:00.002-05:00

The Ferrari Testarossa F512 M is a 12-cylinder mid-engine sports car manufactured by Ferrari.
The F512 M was powered by a 4.9 litre (302 cubic inches) Ferrari Colombo Flat-12 engine.
BTW, the name Testarossa means "red head" in Italian and the car was named that because the cam covers were painted red.
Of course it has a double meaning because Ferrari regularly uses terms related to a female's body when describing the style of their automobiles.
You have to love the Italians!
Anyway, the Flat-12 engine puts out 440 horsepower and 406 foot pounds of torque.
That allows the F512 M go from 0-60 in 4.8 seconds, 0-100 in 10.2 seconds and cover the quarter mile in 12.7 seconds at 112 mph.
The maximum speed of the F512 M is 196 mph.
In 1995, the F512 M retailed for $220,000.

Aston Martin V12 Vanquish

2009-05-11T10:09:00.001-05:00

I did a write up on the Aston Martin V12 Vanquish back in 2007 in relation to the James Bond movie "Die Another Day"
But here is the real world Vanquish.

In 1998, a GT concept car, the Project Vantage, debuted at the North American International Auto Show.
The Vanquish was based on that car.
But the Vanquish S is the real barnstormer.
The Vanquish is powered by a a 5.9 liter 48-valve 60° V12 engine, which puts out 514 horsepower and 425 ft·lbs of torque.
That gave the Vanquish a 0 to 60 time of about 4 seconds and a top speed in the 190-204 mph range.
The base price was around $250,000.

And if that's not enough, Top Speed is reporting the new 2010 Vanquish S may be putting out 550 mph.

BMW E60 M5

2009-04-29T10:42:00.001-05:00

The BMW E60 M5

The BMW E60 M5 is powered by a 305.1 cu in BMW V10 S85 engine.
The massive V-10 under the hood puts out 500 horsepower and 384 foot pounds of torque.
The V-10 allows the E60 to go from 0 to 60 in about 4.1 seconds.
And it gives it a 0-100 time of 10.1 seconds.
It can run a top speed of 155 mph with the electronic speed limiter on, or 193 with the limiter removed.

And if that's not enough for you, German aftermarket tuner G-Power has produced the "G-Power Hurricane M5".
This twin-supercharged BMW packs 730 horsepower and has a top end of 225 mph.

Ferrari 360 Spider

2009-04-17T14:42:00.002-05:00

Launched in 2000, the Ferrari 360 Spider is powered by a mid-mounted 3.6 liter V8 with 400 horsepower, shown off under a glass hood.
This engine allows the Spider to pull a 12.8 second quarter mile at 110.8 miles per hour.
And it gives the Spider a 0 to 60 time of about 4.5 seconds with a top speed of 185 mph.
The Ferrari's fuel economy is 10 mpg city, 16 mpg highway.

I actually found a place where you can rent one online.
How cool is that?

And if renting isn't your style, you can pick one up starting at around $221,720.00.

Ferrari Challenge Stradale

2009-03-30T11:07:00.001-05:00

The Ferrari Challenge Stradale is a variation of the Ferrari 360 Modena.
When the car was created, the designers were thinking 20% track use in mind and 80% road use.
And it shows in the performance.
The Challenge Stradale's 90° F131 V8 engine only puts out about 25 more horses (425) than the Modena, but the car is lighter, giving it a superior power to weight ratio.
It has a 0 to 62 mph time of just 4.1 seconds with a top speed of 183 mph.
(Although the 2008 version is said to pull 0-60 in 3.9 seconds)
The Stradale can pull the quarter mile in about 12.5 seconds at 114.1 mph.

The Audi RS6 5.0 TFSI quattro

2009-03-23T11:02:00.001-05:00

The Audi RS6 5.0 TFSI quattro is the land rocket of the Audi A6 models.
It is powered by an all-aluminum alloy 5.0 liter V10 twin-turbocharged Fuel Stratified Injection (FSI) engine.
The V-10 is rated at 580 horsepower, and 479 foot pounds of torque.
The official performance figures for the RS6 Avant are:
0 to 62 mph in 4.1 seconds.
0 to 124 in 13.1 seconds.
It has an electronically governed top speed of 155.3 mph, but you can get a factory option that bumps that figure up to 192.6 mph.
To keep the V-10 cool, the RS6 needs seven radiators, and four electric cooling fans.
Unfortunately, the RS6 Avant will not be available in the U.S., but a sedan was unveiled in August 2008, and will probably be offered in North America.

2003 Mercedes-Benz CL55 AMG

2009-03-16T09:00:00.000-05:00

While not quite as powerful as the CL65 AMG, the 2003 Mercedes-Benz CL55 AMG was still a force to be reckoned with.
Motor Trend described it as "Arnold Schwarzenegger in an Armani tuxedo".
Powered by a 493 horsepower, supercharged 5.4 liter single overhead cam V-8, the CL55 could turn the quarter mile in 12.38 seconds at 114.45 mph.
The listed top speed of the CL55 was 155 mph, but that's because of the electronic governor that most German manufacturers (except Porsche) place on their cars.

The CL55 was based on the Mercedes-Benz W215 platform and was produced in limited numbers (around 500 in the US) between 2000 and 2002.

The base price of the CL55 was $114,600.
And the fuel economy was 14 mpg in the city and 22 on the highway.

Porsche 996 911 GT2

2009-02-27T11:29:00.001-05:00

The Porsche 996 911 GT2 is perhaps the ultimate 911.
It's powered by a 3.6 liter flat-6 engine with twin variable geometry turbochargers.
This gives the Porsche 520 horses and 500 ft pounds of torque.
And that allows the 3,175 lb car to blast through the quarter mile at 120.6 mph in 11.9 seconds.
As far as acceleration, the GT2 can go from 0 to 60 in 3.6 seconds and 0 to 100 in 7.5 seconds, with a top speed of 204 mph.
You can pick one up for around $180,000.
The fuel economy is a really quite good for a car this quick, 15 mpg city, 22 mpg highway.

Porsche Turbo X50

2009-02-23T09:47:00.001-05:00

The Porsche Turbo X50 is a $17,000 option available for the Porsche 996.
The Porsche 996 was a water-cooled version of the famous air-cooled Porsche 911 sports car.
The X50 package boosted the 996 turbo up to 450 horsepower and 457 pounds of torque.
That allowed the X50 to cover the quarter mile in 11.86 seconds at 119.91 mph, and gave it a 0–60 mph time of about 3.6 seconds.
There were also a few modeling changes in the 996, like wider rear wings and different front lights and bumpers from the Porsche Carrera.
The 996 also had large vents on the front bumper, that were used on the Carrera 4S and Cayenne Turbo.

PS:
We're getting rid of our 1988 Jaguar XJ6 Vanden Plas.
Dont have the time to do restoration on it.
If you wanna take a look, her's the link.....
http://greensboro.craigslist.org/cto/1036831907.html

Mercedes-Benz CL65 AMG

2009-02-19T13:24:00.003-05:00

Comfort, style and speed.
The Mercedes-Benz CL65 AMG is powered by a 6.0 litre V12 BiTurbo engine that puts out 612 horsepower and 737 foot pounds of torque.
That allows this beauty to go from 0 to 60 in 4.2 seconds.
This also gives the CL65 an 11.8 second quarter mile time at 120.9 mph.
It's estimated top speed is 186 mph.
The downside of this car is that the CL65 AMG is made to order in very small numbers.
And for the mundane stuff, the MPG is 11 in the city, and 17 on the highway.
The base price is around $203,700.

2005 Maserati MC12

2009-02-13T12:45:00.002-05:00

This land rocket is powered by an Enzo Ferrari-derived V12 engine (the MC12 is also designed and built on the Enzo Ferrari chassis).
The six-liter (366 cu in) delivers 624 horsepower and 481 pounds of torque.
This gives the MC12 a 0-62 time of 3.8 seconds and a quarter mile time of 11.8 seconds at 123.9 mph.
The top speed of the Maserati MC12 is 205 mph.
So what's bad about the MC12?
No trunk, no rear window, no spare tire and no radio.
No trunk, no rear window, no spare tire and no radio? It sounds like the 65 Rambler I used to have.
Anyway, only 50 of these bad boys were made.
And they all pre-sold for around $774193 dollars.

PS:
We're getting rid of our 1988 Jaguar XJ6 Vanden Plas.
Dont have the time to do restoration on it.
If you wanna take a look, her's the link.....
http://greensboro.craigslist.org/cto/1036831907.html

Ferrari F430 F1

2009-02-08T12:32:00.002-05:00

Another screamer from the Italian automaker Ferrari.
(What a surprise, Ferrari makes fast cars...LOL)
The Ferrari F430 F1 replaced the Ferrari 360 around 2004.
The engine is a Ferrari/Maserati designed 4.3 L V8 that puts out 483 hp and 343 pounds of torque.
This gives the F430 a top speed of 197 mph, and allows it to blast through the quarter mile at 122.8 mph in 11.7 seconds.
The F430 retails for anywhere from $186,925 to $257,456 in the US.
There have been a few special versions produced like the F430 Spider, the F430 Challenge, the F430 GT2, the F430 GT3, the 430 Scuderia and the Scuderia Spider 16M.
Fuel economy for the F430 is around 11 mpg city, and 16 mpg on the highway.

The Ferrari 599 GTB Fiorano

2009-02-03T14:22:00.001-05:00

Another VERY quick car, the Ferrari 599 GTB Fiorano is powered by a 6.0 L (5999 cc, hence the 599 in the name) V12 engine that produces a maximum of 612 horsepower and 448 pounds of torque.
This gives the Ferrari an 11.3 second quarter mile time at 126.4 mph.
Ferrari say's the cars top speed is in excess of 205 mph.
And they list a 0-160 time of 19 seconds.
Mileage?
11 mpg in the city, 15 mpg on the highway.
I wonder if thats at 205 mph?
And on the Tech side, the 599 GTB is the first Ferrari to come with an iPod connection as standard.

The Lamborghini Gallardo LP560-4

2009-01-30T13:47:00.000-05:00

In the world's fastest cars, we've already had two entries, the Lamborghini Murciélago LP640 and the Lamborghini Reventón.
But the Lamborghini Gallardo LP560-4 deserves honorable mention.
This Lambo is powered by a 5.2L V10 (based on the Audi RS6 V10) with FSI direct injection, generating 560 horsepower and 398 ft·lbs of torque.
This allows the LP560-4 to run the quarter mile in 11.2 seconds at 130 mph.

But wait, the Murcielago LP640 can go 0 to 60 in 3.5 seconds, and the LP560-4 can manage 0-60 in 3.3 seconds.......
So is the LP560-4 really faster by .2 seconds?
And the LP640 has a quarter mile time of 11.8 seconds at 126 mph.....
I think I have to change my original post.
It appears the LP560-4 IS faster!

And what does the Lamborghini Gallardo cost?
Around $180,000 to $210,000.

The Ford GT

2009-01-27T13:44:00.003-05:00

The world's 11th fastest production car, the Ford GT was built by the Ford Motor Company from 2003 to 2006.
The Ford GT is powered by an all-aluminum 5.4L Modular V8 powerplant with a Lysholm twin screw-type supercharger.
The engine puts out 550 horsepower and 500 foot-pounds of torque.
This allows the Ford GT to run 0 to 60 in 3.7 seconds and 0-100 in 7.4 seconds.
It also gives the Ford GT an 11.2 second quarter mile time at 131.2 mph.
Because it's electronically limited, the top speed is 212 mph.
And for a 200 mph + car, the fuel economy isnt all that bad, 12 mpg city and 19 mpg highway.
When they were new, they were going for around 120,000 dollars. But since production has stopped, you can probably expect that figure to go up.

The Mosler MT900S

2009-01-20T12:07:00.002-05:00

Okay this is not a widely produced car.
As a matter of fact, unless you are George Lucas (he took delivery of the first street legal one in December 2006), you may not have ever heard of it.
The MT900s is built by Mosler Automotive.
It's powered by a Corvette LS6 V8 with an Eaton supercharger, with a maximum boost pressure of 6.0 psi.
This gives the 346 inch engine 600 bhp and 557 foot pounds of torque.
In real time that allows the MT900S to get from 0 to 60 in about 3.1 seconds, 0 to 100 in 6.5 seconds and 0 to 150 in 13.8 seconds.
And it also enables the MT900S to blast through the traps at 135 mph in 11 seconds.
Base price is about $189,000.
Or you can add around $50,000 and opt for the MT900S Photon, which is 220 pounds lighter than the MT900s and has a few extra goodies.
And you know, the MT900 gets 15 mpg in the city and 22 mpg on the highway.
Thats really not too shabby for a 600 horsepower car.
A Lamborghini Murcielago only gets 8 mpg city and 13 highway.

The Saleen S7 Twin Turbo

2009-01-19T13:23:00.001-05:00

The limited-production, hand-built, high-performance Saleen S7 Twin Turbo was Saleen's first car not based on an existing design.
It was completely developed digitally using tools such as Unigraphics and Rhinoceros 3D.
It may have been born on a computer, but it came to life on the track.
The heart of the S7 is a 427.6 cu inch all-aluminum OHV V8 engine, upgraded with two Garrett turbochargers producing approximately 6 psi of boost.
This gives the S7 750 horsepower and 700 lb·ft of torque.
What does this translate into on the track?
0-60 mph in 3.2 seconds, 0-100 in 6.2 seconds and 0-200 mph (yes, 0-200) in 27 seconds.
This also allows the S7 to blast through the quarter mile in 10.6 seconds and gives it a top speed of 248 mph.
And get this, in 2006, Saleen offered an optional competition package for the S7 Twin Turbo that put the engine output up to 1000 horsepower!
How much will this land rocket set you back?
Around $585,296.

The World's Fastest Corvette

2009-01-13T13:48:00.000-05:00

In a change from all the high dollar exotic cars I usually feature here, this is a high dollar exotic Chevrolet.
The Chevrolet Corvette C6 ZR1 may be the fastest Corvette ever built.
The ZR1 is powered by a modified LS3 (the LS9) that produces 638 hp and 604 ft.lbs.of torque.
This is largely due to the sixth-generation Eaton TVS R2300 roots 4-lobe supercharger with an intercooler that's mated to the LS9.

What does all this mean in a straight line?
Try 0 to 60 in 3.43 seconds with an estimated top speed of 210 mph.
The Vette can blast through the quarter mile in 10.988 seconds, at 135 mph.
The cost on this little number?
About $115,000.
Not bad compared to some of the other cars we've had on here.

SSC Ultimate Aero TT, Faster Than the Bugatti Veyron?

2009-01-06T13:39:00.000-05:00

The SSC Ultimate Aero TT may be the only rival to the Bugatti Veyron.
In road tests, the SSC turned in a 254.88 mph top speed compared to the 253 mph of the Veyron.
But the Ultimate Aero accelerates from 0-60 mph in 2.78 seconds which is slower than the Veyron's 0-60 in 2.46 seconds.
The engine in the Ultimate Aero model is a supercharged 387.2 cu in (6.35 L) V8 engine rated at 1,183 bhp , with 1,094 ft·lb of torque.
Amazingly, the first production 2007 Ultimate Aero TT car was sold not in a show room, but on eBay for $431,100.
Yes eBay.
And I forgot to mention that the SSC Ultimate Aero TT is built by Shelby SuperCars.
And that NASA (yes NASA) put the car in a wind tunnel testing facility and proved that the SSC Aero could be aerodynamically stable enough to reach speeds up to 273 miles per hour.
And to be as Green as anyone else, this supercar will soon be available in an electrical version.
Of course this SSC will be the fastest electric car on the market, powered by a 500 horsepower electric motor. Yes I said a 500 horsepower ELECTRIC motor.

Why There Have Been No Posts Here

2009-01-06T12:58:00.000-05:00

Since December 15th this blog has been locked by Blogger as a Spam blog.
I have sent numerous requests to have it unlocked to no avail.
I have gone onto the Blogger help group to find tons of other people with locked "non-spam" blogs as well.
I understand the "fuzzy" spam detection and I also understand that Blogger is running behind in unlocking blogs.
But that is the reason nothing has been posted here in almost a month.
I really like this blog (and judging from e-mails a lot of other people do as well) and I hope this is resolved soon.
I hate to keep posting here in fear that one morning the blog will just be gone.
I invite everyone to go over to my other car blog http://themusclecars.blogspot.com/ until this is resolved.
Thank you for stopping by.

Bugatti Veyron, the World's Fastest Bugatti?

2008-12-15T10:10:00.000-05:00

The Bugatti Veyron may not only be the world's fastest Bugatti, it may be right up there as the world's fastest production car period.
This Bugatti Automobiles SAS produced land rocket has some pretty impressive figures.
It's powered by a W-16 engine that basically looks like two V-8s stuck together. As clumsy looking as that may sound, this configuration gives the Veyron 987 horsepower!
Yes that's right, 987. But get this, some people think that figure is low, and that the Veyron actually puts out over 1000!
What does that translate to on the pavement?
Try 0-60 in about 2.46 seconds!
(Yes I know I'm using a lot of exclamation points)
Top Gear and Car and Driver have both verified a top speed of around 253 mph.
And when Road & Track tested it, the Veyron turned the quarter mile in 10.2 seconds at 142.9 mph.
But now for the brutal truth.....
Mileage?
Ummmm.....7 miles to the gallon city, 10 miles to the gallon highway.
Price?
Sit down.
The Veyron lists for $1,600,000.

In the Cosmic scheme of things there is a balance though.
The over a million dollar Bugatti Veyron pulls a 10.2 second quarter mile at 142 mph.
But the 1968 Plymouth S/S Barracuda with a 426 Hemi V8 pulls a 10.5 at 130.
Now if you can just find a 68 Plymouth S/S Barracuda for under a million......

The Worlds Fastest Lamborghini ?

2008-12-03T13:34:00.002-05:00

The worlds fastest Lamborghini may be a toss up.
In one corner we have the Lamborghini Murciélago LP640.
The Murciélago is powered by a 6.5-litre Lamborghini V12 engine.
The Murcielago LP640 can 0 to 60 in 3.5 seconds, 0 to 100 in 8.1 seconds and turn the quarter mile in 11.8 seconds at 126 mph.
It has a top speed of around 219 mph.

It's rival is the Lamborghini Reventón.
The Reventón is powered by the same 6.5-litre Lamborghini V12 engine.
It's 0 to 60 time is the same as the Lamborghini Murciélago LP640 that it's based on.
But with a 1.4 million dollar price tag on the Reventón compared to the $318,800 for the LP640, I'm gonna have to go with the Murciélago.
Not to sound cheap, but shelling out the extra money for the same performance?

The 2000 BMW Z8, the fastest BMW?

2008-11-26T13:43:00.002-05:00

Not counting concept cars like the Nazca, the 2000 BMW Z8 may be the fastest BMW ever produced.
Powered by a 4941 cc(4.9 L)V-8 engine producing 394 bhp, this BMW could cover the quarter mile in 12.6 sec at 112 mph.
It's zero to 60 was 4.2 seconds, and going into hyper drive, it could run 0 to 100 in 10.2 seconds.
The top speed is listed at 155 mph, but I'm guessing it's a tad higher, barring any electronic governors.
The price for blasting around the country side at warp speed?
Around $128,000.
That, of course, is not counting how high your automobile insurance would go up!
The car was featured in the James Bond movie The World Is Not Enough in 1999.

Jaguar XKR S, The World's Fastest Jaguar?

2008-11-19T12:01:00.000-05:00

I know I've done a lot of Jaguars on here, but this is the Superman of Jags.
The Jaguar XKR S is powered by a 4.2 litre all aluminium four cam supercharged V8 engine that delivers around 420 horsepower.
That makes this cat run 60 in 5.2 seconds and gives it a top speed (electronically governed) of 174 mph.
That would make it the fastest Jaguar since the XJ220 supercar.
Unfortunately, The Jaguar XKR-S will be limited to only 200 cars in Europe.
But that's okay, it's retail is around £80,000.
No idea what that is in US dollars.

The Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren

2008-11-11T11:54:00.000-05:00

Is this the fastest Mercedes-Benz ever made?
Probably.
Is it the fastest automatic transmission car in the world?
Possibly.

The SLR (Sport, Leicht, Rennsport) is a limited run (about 500 cars a year) car developed by Mercedes-Benz and McLaren Automotive.
Is this car quick?
Well the power plant is a 5.4-litre (331.9 cu in), supercharged, all aluminum, single overhead camV8 engine.
This little technological marvel puts out around 626 bhp in a 3898 lb car!
In tests conducted by Car and Driver, this sleek little beauty hit 0 to 60 in 3.6 seconds.
The SLR then turned in a quarter mile time of 11.6 seconds at 125 mph.
When Road and Track tested it, they turned 0 to 60 in 3.5 seconds and pulled 0 to 100 mph in 7.5 seconds.
And I remind you, this is with an automatic transmission.

The price for blasting around in this little rocket?
It starts out at around $ 495,000.
Hey, you gotta pay if you wanna play.

The Porsche 997 911 GT2, The Fastest Porsche?

2008-11-07T12:03:00.001-05:00

The Porsche 997 911 GT2 replaced the 996 in 2007.
The GT2 has a 3.6 litre flat-6 engine with twin variable geometry turbochargers that puts out around 523 horsepower.
That's 523 horsepower in a 3175 pound car mind you.
It can run 0 to 60 in about 3.4 seconds.
The GT2 has a top end of around 204 mph.
This little rocket can also turn a quarter mile in approximately 11 seconds at 127 mph.
And this little baby retails for around $191,700.

The Enzo Ferrari, The Fastest Ferrari?

2008-10-28T09:44:00.002-05:00

The Enzo Ferrari is one of the fastest naturally aspirated production cars in the world.
Named after the company's founder, Enzo Ferrari, this beast will go from 0 to 60 in around 3.14 seconds.
It can hit 0 to 100 in 6.6 seconds.
Talk about a Millennium Falcon moment!
And this sleek beauty can turn the quarter mile in around 10 seconds at 130 MPH.
The top speed is a very respectable 230 MPH.
It does all this with a EPA rating (Don't laugh) of 12 mpg in the city, and 18 mpg on the highway.
Hey it's a V-12 after all.

The BMW E63 M6

2008-10-27T13:15:00.000-05:00

Possibly the fastest BMW ever made is the E63 M6.
This " Velvet Hammer"can hit 0 to 60 in about 4.6 seconds.
This land rocket has a speed limiter that keeps it at 155 mph.
BUT, with the limiter removed, the M6 can hit around 205 mph.
With the cool little "power button" the BMW jumps from 399 hp to a full 500 hp!

The Jaguar XJ

2008-10-22T11:00:00.000-05:00

A Jaguar near and dear to my heart, because we have a 1988 XJ6.
The Jaguar XJ was more of a luxury touring car, not the land rockets some Jags were.
They came with the six cylinder and V-12.
But that's not to say the model had no high performance engines.
In 1994 they had a 6.0 L Jaguar V12 engine rated at 318bhp.
In 1995 there was a 326 bhp supercharged version of the straight-6 offered and badged as the XJR.
The X308 Mk II had a 4.0 litre supercharged option that delivered 370 bhp and also a 4.0 that provided 400 bhp.

The Jaguar XF

2008-10-15T09:59:00.001-05:00

The Jaguar XF was launched in the UK in 2008.
It is a mid-size luxury car / sports sedan made by Jaguar, designed to replace the S-Type.
The Jaguar XF won the What Car? (a long-running UK monthly automobile magazine and website) Car of the Year award and the Car of the Year 2008 from What Diesel? magazine.

The base model of the Jaguar XF carries the 3-litre V6 (adapted from the Ford Duratec V6). It also comes with the Jaguar AJ-V8 4.2-litre engine.The standard version produces 300 hp but the supercharged SV8 model produces a very respectable 420 bhp!

The Jaguar 420

2008-10-07T09:14:00.000-05:00

The Jaguar 420 was produced, starting in August 1966 by Jaguar.
It was designed to be the ultimate compact sporting saloon (sedan).

Believe it or not, with its twin carburetor 3.8 liter engine, this boxy looking vehicle could do 0 to 60mph in under 10 seconds, and had a top speed of over 125 mph!

The Jaguar 420 ceased production in September 1968.

The Jaguar S-Type

2008-09-30T08:57:00.000-05:00

The Jaguar S-Type saloon was built by British car manufacturer Jaguar. It was announced in 1963, but actual deliveries didn't begin till 1964.
The S-Type came with the 3.4 or 3.8 L I6 Jaguar XK engine.
Slower and heavier than the Jaguar Mark 2, The S-Type had a better ride.
In the United States, the only engine offered was the 3.8 L engine, until the larger 4.2 L engine was introduced in the Jaguar 420.
The S-Type was replaced in August 1968 with the release of the larger Jaguar XJ6, but the name was brought back in 2000 for the retro-styled mid-range Jaguar S-Type.

Really nice page on the Jaguar 3.8 S-Type:
http://www.webfocus.co.nz/jaguar/

The Jaguar Mark 2

2008-09-22T09:14:00.002-05:00

The Jaguar Mark 2, also known as Mk2, Mk 2 or MkII, is a medium sized saloon (sedan) car built during the 1950s and 1960s by Jaguar.
Rated at over over 200 bhp and with a top speed of about 125 mph, these sedans were often used as police patrol cars. But on the flip side, they were often used as getaway cars by bank robbers.
The Mark 2 was eventually replaced by the XJ6.

The Jaguar Mark 1

2008-09-16T10:28:00.000-05:00

The Jaguar Mark 1 was a saloon car (sedan) produced by Jaguar between the years 1955 and 1959.

Originally known as the 2.4 and 3.4 'Compact' saloons, they have come to be called "Mark 1" to fit with their more famous successor, the Mark 2. They were the company's first "small" saloon since the demise of its 1½ Litre cars in 1949 and were an immediate success, easily outselling the larger Jaguar saloons.

A 2.4 litre saloon with overdrive was tested by the British magazine The Motor in 1956. It was found to have a top speed of 101.5 mph and could accelerate from 0-60 mph (97 km/h) in 14.4 seconds. Not exactly burning up the road compared to other Jags. A fuel consumption of 18.25 miles per imperial gallon (15.20 mpg US) was recorded. The test car cost £1532 including taxes.

They went on to test a 3.4 litre automatic saloon in 1957. This car had a top speed of 119.8 mph (192.8 km/h), acceleration from 0-60 mph (97 km/h) in 11.2 seconds and a fuel consumption of 21.1 miles per imperial gallon (17.6 mpg US) was recorded. The test car cost £1864 including taxes of £622.

Technorati Tags: Jaguar Mark 1 cars automobile automobiles car auto automotive vehicle autos vehicles

Live Out Loud teams up with Jaguar

2008-09-09T15:00:00.000-05:00

Live Out Loud teams up with Jaguar

Live Out Loud magazine has done it again! Pairing up with one of the most respected classic cars, Jaguar, Live Out Loud burst onto the scene this past Sunday and took over the Nelson Mandela Square in Sandton.
Curiosity of passers-by was more than piqued with the impressive sight of 50 vintage cars that were on display, thanks to The Jaguar Club. The club was there to give people a chance to look under the hood and get up-close-and-personal with some of the most beautiful classic cars in the world. Live Out Loud staff were there to explain more about the brand and hold one of our biggest subscriber drives to date. Over 2 000 people stopped to find out more about Live Out Loud and to check out the Jags.
http://www.bizcommunity.com/Article/196/39/28178.html

The Jaguar Mark IV

2008-09-05T08:54:00.000-05:00

The Jaguar Mark IV, pronounced mark four, was a saloon (sedan) car built by Jaguar from 1945 to 1949.
It was a relaunch of a pre World War II model made by SS Cars Ltd from 1936.

Before World War 2 the name Jaguar was the model name given to the complete range of cars built by SS Cars Ltd. The saloons were titled SS Jaguar 1½ litre, 2½ litre or 3½ litre. The two seater sports car was titled the SS Jaguar 100 2½ litre or 3½ litre.

After the war the company name was changed to Jaguar Cars Ltd. While the post war saloons were officially the Jaguar 1½ litre, 2½ litre and the 3½ Litre, the term 'Mark IV' was applied by the trade simply to seperate them from the officially named Mark V.

http://www.saloondata.com/ is an online site that keeps track of all the Classic Jaguar Saloon's still around.

You can also get a ton of info on the early Jags here:
http://www.jag-lovers.org/firstcats/mkiv.php3

Jaguar recalls some XFs for faulty seat belts

2008-08-30T11:44:00.000-05:00

Jaguar recalls some XFs for faulty seat belts

If you have a 2009 Jaguar XF, you should hop down to your dealer to have the rear safety belt assembly looked at. Jaguar is recalling 7,900 of the '09 cars because in an accident the rear occupants might not be properly restrained.
http://www.autoblog.com/2008/08/29/jaguar-recalls-some-xfs-for-faulty-seat-belts/

Now would this have happened when Jaguar was still British owned?

Jaguar XK60

2008-08-29T10:56:00.000-05:00

To celebrate the 60th anniversary of the launch of the XK120, Jaguar is launching a special series of the current XK for the UK market – the aptly named XK60.
XK60s will be built from July 2008 and include 20-inch Senta alloy wheels, a sporty alloy gear knob and selector-gate surround, plus distinctive body enhancements: a new front spoiler and rear valance panel, chrome-finished side vents and bright upper and lower front grille meshes, special tailpipe finishers and appliqués on both sides of the car.

The Jaguar XK , part 3

2008-08-25T12:37:00.002-05:00

In Europe the 4.2-S was unveiled at Geneva on March 1, 2005. This was the last XK to be rolled out that was based upon the original 1996 design. Features for the 4.2-S Four included new exterior and interior colours and two distinct veneer options for the instrument panel, polished door treadplates with chequered-flag emblems and embossed, leather-edged floor mats. The revised white Jaguar badge on the bonnet also feature chequered accents. New 19" Atlas wheels plus cross-drilled Brembo brake discs, red wheel badges and red brake calipers were also fitted.
Jaguar also produced a concept car called the XKR-R which was very similar to the production XKR, but boasting a more powerful 450 bhp (340 kW) engine, a manual gearbox, a limited-slip differential and improved handling. The naming convention is similar to that of the S-Type R special edition. Unlike the S-Type R, it will never be realised on a Mk.1 XK chassis although a model of the same name could appear on the Mk.2 XK later this year.

The Jaguar XK , part 2

2008-08-23T10:01:00.001-05:00

Both the XK8 and XKR are electronically limited to a maximum of 155 mph, lower than the top speed of its predecessor. The XK8 heralded a change in direction for the company, resulting in the S-Type and X-Type.

The XK8 and XKR come standard with 18-inch alloy wheels, and 19 and 20-inch wheels are available for additional cost. A navigation system and self-leveling xenon headlamps come standard with the XKR and as options for the XK8. Jaguar's Adaptive Cruise Control is an optional feature available on both models. Both come with all-leather interior, burl walnut trim, and side airbags. Jeremy Clarkson, during a Top Gear, a UK motoring magazine/TV show, test-drive, likened the interior of the original XK8 to sitting inside Blenheim Palace. In 2005 the grille design of the XKR was refreshed.

Only 600 XKR Silverstones were made, in celebration of Jaguar's return to F1 racing in 2001. It featured a Platinum paint finish, high-performance package (with the same engine as the standard XKR, but improved transmission, suspension and brakes), 20" Silver BBS "Detroit" wheels and a custom interior.

Built to celebrate the centenary of Jaguar's founder, 500 'XKR 100' coupés and 500 convertibles were made in 2002. The XKR 100 featured an Anthracite paint finish, Recaro seats, 20-inch BBS alloys, Brembo brakes, and custom interior.

The convertible-only Portfolios were produced in 2004 exclusively for the US market. Of the Portfolio models, 100 featured unique Red paint with matching Recaro sports seats and interior, whilst the remaining 100 had Blue paintwork and interiors.

There is also a 2008 Portfolio model planned which will be available worldwide, featuring the most powerful brakes featured on any production-line Jaguar.

The Jaguar XK

2008-08-21T15:05:00.001-05:00

The Jaguar XK series (XK8 and XKR) is a grand tourer produced by British carmaker Jaguar since 1996. The car was introduced in Geneva Motor Show on March 5th 1996. It is the replacement of the XJS, and is available as a coupé and convertible. Currently in its second generation, the XK8 was the first 8 cylinder vehicle produced by Jaguar, when the Jaguar AJ-V8 engine was introduced.
The 1997 XK8 (project code X100) was available in coupé or convertible body styles and with either a supercharged 370 hp (276 kW) or naturally aspirated 290 hp (216 kW) engine. The supercharged variant is known as the XKR. The first-generation XK series shares its platform with the Aston Martin DB7. Both cars are derived from the Jaguar XJS, though the platform has been extensively changed.

Jaguar and Lotus to develop biofuel engine

2008-08-14T09:07:00.002-05:00

Jaguar and Lotus to develop biofuel engine

Luxury car manufacturer Jaguar and Lotus Engineering are to partner for the development of an advanced internal combustion engine optimised to run on bioalcohol fuels. According to Automotive News Europe the two will work on a single cylinder engine project known as Omnivore, in conjunction with Belfast University.

http://www.timesofmalta.com/articles/view/20080814/business/jaguar-and-lotus-to-develop-biofuel-engine

2010 Jaguar XFR Spied!

2008-08-11T10:55:00.002-05:00

TheCarConnection.com's spies have scored some new shots of the Jaguar XFR, caught testing in Death Valley.
The higher-performance XF gets a revised, vented hood, and a more aggressive front air-dam to signal its arrival. A new side sill accentuates the XF's lower flared character line, resulting in a more menacing stance, augmented by the large wheels and performance-minded brake package with cross-drilled rotors. The rear valance has also been changed to accommodate the XFR's new quad exhaust set-up.

Read the full article and see the pictures here:
http://blogs.thecarconnection.com/blogs/marty_blog/2009/2010-jaguar-xfr-spied/

Jaguar XJ-S, part 4

2008-08-05T11:44:00.003-05:00

lynchauto.net/_wsn/page3.html

Having been in production for over 20 years, the Jaguar XJS today can vary in price from $400 - $700 for an older coupe, to over $38,000 for a late V-12 Convertible.
In the United States, the coupes can be had in rough shape on a regular basis for $800 - $1,000 and convertibles bring anywhere from $4,000 - $15,000 depending on year and condition.
In the UK the best of the market is often considered by enthusiasts to be the mid-80's coupes. The rare 6.0 liter cars usually command a premium price in the US market with a 6.0 liter convertible bringing top dollar.

Jaguar XJ-S, part 3

2008-07-25T11:15:00.000-05:00

The XJ-S was re-engineered in 1991 and renamed XJS, with a convertible waiting one year. The rear windows were enlarged, though the flying buttresses stayed, as designer Geoff Lawson argued that they were part of the car's character. The car got a new 4-litre version of the AJ6, and the V12 was upped to 6 litres in 1993/1994 (227 kW (304 hp)). At the same time the car benefited from a revision to the rear brakes, they were now fitted with outboard rear disc brakes, instead of the more complicated inboard items on previous models. With the introduction of the 6.0L V12, the transmission was also updated to a GM 4L80E with a 4th gear overdrive. These changes begin the "face-lift" for the aging XJS. A 2+2 convertible was also introduced, as was a customized insignia line. In 1994 the car received more aerodynamic front and rear bumper fascias, which completed the face-lift. 1994 was the only year the 6 cylinder with 5 speed manual transmission XJS was exported to the United States. Exact production figures are unknown, though it is likely there are fewer than 10. In 1995 substantial revisions were made to the 4-litre AJ6 engine which became the 4.0L AJ16 with coil on plug ignition being the most noticeable change. The car was discontinued in 1996, after 21 years in production. It was replaced by the XK8.

Jaguar XJ-S, part 2

2008-07-16T09:51:00.003-05:00

From July 1981 on, XJ-S got the new High-Efficiency engine for much better economy; as a by-product, power was increased to 220 kW (295 hp) or 196 kW (263 hp) in North America. ( Yes, better economy AND 295 hp!) Also the XJ-S received changes to its exterior and interior (new five-spoke alloy wheels, chrome inserts on the upper part of the bumpers, wood inserts on dashboard and door cappings). In 1982, the new V12 XJ-S won first and second at the RAC Tourist Trophy race at Silverstone.

Throughout the life of the XJS, British company Lynx sold a high-quality four-seat full convertible conversion. Lynx also produced 67 hand-built two-door estate/shooting brake/station wagon versions of the XJS marketed under the name of "Lynx Eventer". The Eventer was a very elegant model, which succeeded in the overall design because it removed the flying butresses, incorporating them into the estate design. Jaguar were urged to market their own version but never did. Most Eventers are believed to still exist although build quality, especially on the early versions, was at best variable. ( Strange looking, but still very cool)

Jaguar XJ-S

2008-07-10T10:31:00.002-05:00

The Jaguar XJ-S, later the Jaguar XJS, was a luxury grand tourer produced by Jaguar. The XJ-S replaced the legendary E-Type (or XK-E) in September 1975, and was based on the XJ saloon. It was developed as the XK-F, though it was very different in character from its predecessor. Although it never had quite the same sporting image, the XJ-S was a competent grand tourer, and more aerodynamic than the E-Type. The last XJS was produced on April 4, 1996, with the XK8 taking its place.

First, the XJ-S appeared in 1975 as a 1976 model. Power came from the Jaguar V-12 with a choice of a manual or automatic transmission, but the manual was soon dropped. V-12 automobiles were unusual at the time, with notable others coming from Italian luxury sports car makers Lamborghini and Ferrari. The specifications of the XJ-S compared well with both Italian cars; it was able to accelerate to 60 mph (97 km/h) in 8.9 seconds and reach 142 mph (229 km/h). The first series of XJ-S cars had a Borg-Warner Model 12 transmission with a cast iron case and a bolt-on bell-housing. In 1979 GM Turbo-Hydromatic 400 transmissions were fitted. The TH400 transmission was an all aluminum alloy case with an integrated non-detachable bell-housing.

Jaguar's timing was not good; the car was launched in the wake of a fuel crisis, and the market for a 5.3-litre V12 grand tourer was very small. The styling was also the subject of criticism, including the "flying buttresses" behind the windows.

Jaguar seized promotional opportunities with the television series The New Avengers and Return of the Saint. The New Avengers featured Mike Gambit (Gareth Hunt) who drove an XJ-S. Reliability issues meant that three XJ-S cars were used. Return of the Saint saw Simon Templar (played by Ian Ogilvy) driving an early XJ-S with the number plate "ST 1". Miniature versions were made by Corgi and proved popular. A decade and a half before, Jaguar had turned down the producers of the earlier Saint series when approached about the E-type; the producers had instead used a Volvo P1800.

Responding to criticisms that the XJ-S was not a worthy E-type successor, Pininfarina revealed a sporty show car in 1978 based on XJ-S mechanicals and called Jaguar XJSpider. The car never went into production.

Jaguar Lightweight E-type

2008-07-02T10:18:00.001-05:00

Jaguar Lightweight E-type

This was an evolution of the Low Drag Coupé. This Jaguar made extensive use of aluminium alloy in the body panels and other components. However, with at least one exception, it remained an open-top car in like the D-type to which this car is a more direct successor than the production E-type which is more of a GT than a sports car. The cars used a tuned version of the production 3.8 litre Jaguar engine with 300 bhp (224 kW)) output rather than the 265 bhp (198 kW) produced by the "ordinary" version. At least one car is known to have been fitted with fuel-injection.

The cars were entered in various races but, unlike the C-Type and D-Type racing cars, they did not win at Le Mans or Sebring.

Bob Jane won the 1963 Australian GT Championship at the wheel of an E Type.

The Jaguar E-type was very successful in SCCA Production sports car racing with Group44 and Bob Tullius taking the B-Production championship with a Series-3 V12 racer in 1975. A few years later, Gran-Turismo Jaguar from Cleveland Ohio campaigned a 4.2 L 6 cylinder FHC racer in SCCA production series and in 1980, won the National Championship in the SCCA C-Production Class defeating a fully funded factory Nissan Z-car team with Paul Newman.

Jaguar E- Type, Low Drag Coupé (1962)

2008-06-25T10:39:00.000-05:00

Jaguar E- Type, Low Drag Coupé (1962)

After the introduction of the E-type, Jaguar wanted to investigate the possibility of building a car more in the spirit of the D-type racer from which elements of the E-type's styling and design were derived. One car was built to test the concept designed as a coupé as its monocoque design could only be made rigid enough for racing by using the "stressed skin" principle. Previous Jaguar racers were built as open-top cars because they were based on ladder frame designs with independent chassis and bodies. Unlike the steel production E-types the LDC used lightweight aluminium. Sayer kept the original tub with lighter outer panels riveted and glued to it. The front steel sub frame remained intact, the windshield was given a more pronounced slope and the rear hatch welded shut. Rear brake cooling ducts were located next to the rear windows,and the interior trim was discarded, with only insulation around the transmission tunnel. With the exception of the windscreen, all cockpit glass was plexi. A tuned version of Jaguars 3.8 litre engine with a wide angle cylinder-head design tested on the "D" type racers was used. Air management became a major problem and, although much sexier looking and certainly faster than a production "E" type, the car was never competitive: the faster it went, the more it wanted to do what its design dictated: take off.

The one and only test bed car was completed in summer of 1962 but was sold a year later to Jaguar racing driver Dick Protheroe who raced it extensively and eventually sold it. Since then it has passed through the hands of several collectors on both sides of the Atlantic and now is believed to reside in the private collection of the current Viscount Cowdray.

The Jaguar E-type (1971-1975)

2008-06-05T08:01:00.003-05:00

A new 5.3 L 12-cylinder Jaguar V12 engine was introduced, with uprated brakes and standard power steering. The short wheelbase FHC body style was discontinued and the V-12 was available only as a convertible and 2+2 coupe. The convertible used the longer-wheelbase 2+2 floorpan. It is easily identifiable by the aggressive, slatted front grill in place of the mouth of earlier cars, flared wheel arches and a badge on the rear that proclaims it to be a V12. There were also a very limited number of 4.2 litre six cylinder Series 3 E-Types built. These were featured in the initial sales literature. It is believed these are the rarest of all E-types of any remaining.

The Jaguar E-type (1966-1971)

2008-05-26T10:05:00.002-05:00

The series 2 E-type Jaguar ran from 1966 to 1971.
Open headlights without glass covers, a wrap-around rear bumper, re-positioned and larger front indicators and taillights below the bumpers, better cooling aided by an enlarged "mouth" and twin electric fans, and uprated brakes are hallmarks of Series 2 E-type cars. De-tuned in US, but still with triple SUs in the UK, the engine is easily identified visually by the change from smooth polished cam covers to a more industrial 'ribbed' appearance. Late Series 1½ cars also had ribbed cam covers. The interior and dashboard were also redesigned, with flick switches being substituted for rocker switches that met U.S health and safety regulations. The dashboard switches also lost their symmetrical layout. New seats were fitted, which purists claim lacked the style of the originals but were certainly more comfortable. Air conditioning and power steering were available as factory options. It was available in FHC, OTS, and 2+2 versions.

The Jaguar E-type

2008-05-12T08:44:00.002-05:00

The Jaguar E-type or XK-E was manufactured by Jaguar between the years of 1961 and 1974. The E-type revolutionized sports car design, with performance, handling and looks ahead of its time. It was priced well below competing models, helping it to high sales for a high performance car. In excess of 70,000 E-types were sold over 14 years.

It is often referred to as the E-Type Jag.

In March 2008, the Jaguar E-type ranked first in Daily Telegraph list of the "100 most beautiful cars" of all time. In 2004, Sports Car International named this car number one on the list of Top Sports Cars of the 1960s.

The Series 1 was introduced in March 1961, using the triple SU carburetted 3.8 litre 6-cylinder Jaguar XK6 engine from the XK150S. The first 500 cars built had flat floors and external hood latches. These cars are rare and more valuable. After that, the floors were dished to provide more leg room and the twin hood latches moved to inside the car. The 3.8 litre engine was increased to 4.2 litres in late 1964.

All E-Types featured independent rear suspension with torsion bar front ends, and power-assisted disc brakes. Jaguar was the first auto manufacturer to equip cars with disc brakes as standard.

The Series 1 can be recognized by glass covered headlights (up to 1967), small "mouth" opening at the front, signal lights and tail-lights above bumpers and exhaust tips under the license plate in the rear.

3.8 litre cars have leather-upholstered bucket seats, an aluminum-trimmed centre instrument panel and console (changed to vinyl and leather in 1963), and a 4-speed gearbox that lacks synchromesh for 1st gear ("Moss box"). 4.2 litre cars have more comfortable seats, improved brakes and electrical systems, and an all-synchromesh 4-speed gearbox. 4.2 litre cars also have a badge on the boot proclaiming "Jaguar 4.2 Litre E-type" (3.8 cars have a simple "Jaguar" badge). Optional extras included Chrome Wire wheels and a detachable hard top for the Open Two Seater.

A 2+2 version of the coupe was added in 1966. The 2+2 offered the option of an automatic transmission. The body is slightly longer and the roof angles are different. The roadster remained a strict two-seater.

There was a transitional series of cars built in 1967-68, unofficially called "Series 1½", which are externally similar to Series 1 cars. Because of the American pressure the new features were open headlights, different switches, and some de-tuning (with a downgrade of twin Zenith-Stromberg carbs from the original triple SU carbs) for US models. Some Series 1½ cars also have twin cooling fans and adjustable seat backs. Series 2 features were gradually introduced into the Series 1, creating the unofficial Series 1½ cars, but always with the Series 1 body style.

The Jaguar XK150

2008-04-28T07:32:00.002-05:00

The Jaguar XK150 was a sports car produced by Jaguar between 1957 and 1961. It replaced the previous XK140.

Jaguar XK150Initially it was available in Fixed Head Coupe (FHC) and Drop Head Coupe (DHC) versions. The Open Two Seater (OTS) Roadster model was not launched until 1958. Token rear seats were fitted in the coupes.

Although having a family resemblance to the XK120 and XK140, the XK150 was radically modernized. For the first time a one piece windscreen was used and the wing line no longer dropped as much over the doors. The bonnet was widened and opened down to the wings and on the OTS the bulkhead was moved back to make it about 4 inches (102 mm) longer. The car was available at various times in Red, Pearl Grey, White, Indigo Blue, Claret, Cots wold Blue, Black, Mist Grey, Sherwood Green, Carmen Red, British racing Green, Cornish grey and Imperial Maroon.

Inside the car the walnut dashboard went, to be replaced by one trimmed in leather. On the early Drop Head Coupes, an aluminum center dash panel with an X pattern engraving was fitted which looked similar to the early 3.8 E-type. It was discontinued after June 1958. The doors were thinner giving more interior space.

The standard engine, the same as fitted to the XK140, was the 3.4 litre DOHC Jaguar straight-6 rated at 180 SAE bhp at 5750 rpm but most cars were fitted with the SE engine that had a modified cylinder head with larger exhaust valves rated at 210 SAE bhp at 5500 rpm. Twin 1.75 inch SU HD6 carburettors were fitted. In 1958 the S model was launched with three 2 inch SU HD8 carburettors and a straight ports cylinder head giving a claimed 250 SAE bhp. The engine capacity was increased in 1958 to 3.8 liters by increasing the bore. Claimed output was now 220 bhp for the standard and 265 SAE bhp for the S version.

Four-wheel disc brakes appeared for the first time although it was theoretically possible to order a car with drums. Either wire wheels or disc wheels could be specified. Suspension and chassis were very similar to that on the XK140. Steering was by rack and pinion; power steering was not offered.

Production totaled 2265 Roadsters, 4445 Fixed Head Coupes and 2672 Drop Head Coupes.

technorati tags: Jaguar XK150, car, car parts, cars, classic cars, cool cars, Daimler Motor Company, fast cars, hot cars, jaguar, muscle cars, sports cars, Tata Motors

The Jaguar XK140

2008-04-21T08:38:00.002-05:00

The Jaguar XK140 was a sports car manufactured by Jaguar between 1954 and 1957. Upgrades over its predecessor, the XK120, included better brakes, rack and pinion steering, and modern tube type shock absorbers instead of the older lever arm design. The name referred to its 140 mph (225 km/h) top speed. The XK140 continued to feature the famous Jaguar XK engine with the SE mods from the XK120 as standard, now delivering 190 bhp (142 kW) at 5750 rpm. The special C-Type cylinder head was also carried through from the XK120 catalogue as an option, providing 210 bhp (157 kW).

With the introduction of the XK140 in late 1954 (all sold as 1955 models), the primary visual change was the more substantial front and rear bumpers, with large overriders. Another new feature was the provision of modern flashing direction indicators, operated by a separate switch on the dash. The twin amber lights positioned above the front bumper helped to distinguish the XK140 - until XK120 owners started installing the same equipment. The front grill was the same size as the grill on the XK120, but was now a one piece cast unit with fewer, thicker vertical slats. Above the grill was the Jaguar mascot, and a chrome strip which extended back over the bonnet. This strip continued down the centre of the boot (trunk) lid, where it contained a red shield with the words 'Winner Le Mans 1951-3' inscribed in gold.

The interior was also more comfortable for taller occupants with the addition of 3 inches (76 mm) in length. This was achieved by moving the engine forward which allowed the firewall and dash location to be relocated as well. The new arrangement left no room for the XK120 battery compartment, and the single battery was now repositioned low down inside the wing on the inlet side, making it almost impossible to replace.

In 1956, the XK140 was the first Jaguar sports car to be offered with an automatic transmission. As with the XK120, the availability of wire wheels and dual exhausts were options although most cars imported into the United States had wire wheels. Cars with disc wheels continued to be offered with spats closing the rear wheel arch. The XK140 was available in three body styles. A Roadster or OTS (Open Two Seater) which had a light canvas top assembly that when lowered fitted behind the seats and thus completely disappeared inside the body. The interior of the Roadster was very sparse with no wood embellishments, but with a leather dash. Just like the XK120 Roadster, the XK140 OTS or Roadster had removable canvas and plastic side curtains on light alloy doors. The DHC or Drop Head Coupe had a more substantial padded top that when lowered sat above and outside the body of the car, it also had a fixed windscreen (unlike the removeable windscren of the OTS). The DHC also had roll up windows and a very elegant veneered dash, both of which featured on the FHC or Fixed Head Coupe as well. As a gesture to practicality, a jump seat was added to both coupe models.

technorati tags: Jaguar XK140, car, car parts, cars, classic cars, cool cars, Daimler Motor Company, fast cars, hot cars, jaguar, muscle cars, sports cars, Tata Motors

The Jaguar XK120

2008-04-09T11:29:00.001-05:00

The Jaguar XK120 was a sports car manufactured by Jaguar Cars Limited between 1948 and 1954. It was the first post-war sports car from the brand, succeeding the SS 100 which ended production in 1940 after the start of World War II in Britain. The XK120 was launched at the 1948 London Motor Show as a test bed and show vehicle to highlight the new Jaguar XK engine. The car caused a sensation, which persuaded William Lyons to put it into production as a standard model.

The first cars manufactured in 1948 and 1949 had hand built aluminium bodies on an ash frame. Jaguar built 240 of these alloy bodied cars prior to moving to a more mass production XK120 in order to meet the demand for this popular model. With the 1950 model year a production version had a steel pressed body with alloy doors, bonnet, and trunk skin. Other features included torsion bar front suspension, and a removable windscreen.

Power came from a dual overhead cam 3.4 L straight-6 engine, Jaguar's famous XK engine. With an alloy cylinder head and twin side draft SU carburators, the XK engine was very advanced for a mass produced unit, developing 160 bhp with the standard 8:1 compression ratio. A 7:1 low compression version of the engine was also available to cope with low quality fuel. This same basic design of the XK engine was used in 3.8L and 4.2L versions into the late 1980s.

The XK120 name referred to the vehicle's impressive 120 mph (193 km/h) top speed - even faster with the windscreen removed - and at the time of its launch it was the world's fastest standard production car. It was available as a coupé (FHC or Fixed Head Coupe, introduced in 1951), convertible (DHC or Drop Head Coupe, 1953), or the original roadster (OTS or Open Two Seater). An XK120 FHC can claim the first import win in NASCAR when it won NASCAR's first road race at Linden Airport, New Jersey, June 13th, 1954 with Al Keller at the wheel. Earlier in the year, on 31 January / 1 February, an XK120 Coupe driven by Mrs D Anderson, Chas Swinburne and Bill Pitt had won the first 24 hour car race to be held in Australia, the 1954 Mt. Druitt 24 Hours Road Race.

The Roadster had a very light weight canvas top and removable side curtains screwed to the doors, which had no external handle - to open them you reached through the screen to pull a cord on the inside. It also had a removeable windscreen, which could be removed so that "aeroscreens" could be fitted. The DHC or Drop Head Coupe had a padded top and roll up windows. Both the FHC and DHC had an elegant wood veneer dash, whereas the roadster's was leather. All models were manufactured with spats to cover the back wheel arch which enhanced the streamlined look, but when optional (from 1951) wire wheels were fitted, the spats had to be removed to make room for the hub spinners. There was also an M version (called SE for Special Equipment in England) which included increased power, stiffer suspension, dual exhaust, and wire wheels.

An OTS roadster with all weather gear in place tested by The Motor magazine in 1949 had a top speed of 124.6 mph (200.5 km/h) and could accelerate from 0-60 mph (97 km/h) in 10.0 seconds. A fuel consumption of 19.8 miles per imperial gallon (14.3 L/100 km/16.5 mpg US) was recorded. The test car cost £1263 including taxes.

technorati tags:jaguar ,cars,sports cars, exotic cars, classic car,porsche sports car,search sports car,porsche sports

Jaguar

2008-03-29T12:08:00.002-05:00

And now a car brand that is near and dear to my heart.
(Cause I own one...LOL)
Jaguar.

Jaguar Cars Limited is a luxury car manufacturer, based at Whitley, Coventry, with two UK production plants at Castle Bromwich, Birmingham and Halewood, Merseyside. It was founded as the Swallow Sidecar Company in Blackpool in 1922, changing to SS Cars Ltd in 1934 in Coventry, and finally becoming Jaguar Cars Ltd in 1945, followed by several subsequent changes of ownership.

The name is pronounced "jag-u-ar" with the term "Jag" being used colloquially.

Although many media reports stated that on 2008-03-26, Jaguar and Land-Rover became owned by the Indian company, Tata Motors, the Ford Motor Company and Tata Motors stated, in press releases on the same day, that the sale is not due for completion until the second quarter of 2008.

It is understood that Ford Motor Company Ltd. will not retain any shareholding in either the Jaguar or Land-Rover companies, unlike Aston Martin where on its sale a small shareholding was retained; the total sum to be paid in cash by Tata Motors is approximately US $ 2.3 billion, Ford will then contribute up to US $600 million to the Jaguar Land Rover pension plans.

Jaguar Cars holds Royal Warrants from HM Queen Elizabeth II and HRH Prince Charles.

Founded as the Swallow Sidecar Company in 1922, by two motorcycle enthusiasts, William Lyons and William Walmsley, the SS Jaguar name first appeared on a 2.5 litre saloon in 1935. The Jaguar name was given to the entire company in 1945.

Jaguar made its name in the 1950s with a series of elegantly-styled sports cars and luxury saloons. The company bought the Daimler Motor Company (not to be confused with Daimler-Benz), in 1960 from Birmingham Small Arms Company (BSA). From the late 1960s, Daimler was used as a brand name for Jaguar's most luxurious saloons.

The Lamborghini Reventón

2008-03-23T11:31:00.005-05:00

Lamborghini Reventón is a mid-engined sports car that debuted at the 2007 Frankfurt Auto Show. It is currently the most powerful and expensive Lamborghini road car to date, costing one million euro. The official press release states that only 20 will be built (and one for the Lamborghini Museum). The exterior styling was inspired by the F-22 Raptor. Although the exterior is partially new, almost the entire mechanics (including the engine) are taken directly from the Murciélago LP640.

Initial reports suggest that the 6.5 litre V12 may receive a power boost of approximately 15 kilowatts (20 horsepower), bringing the new ouput close to 490 kW (650 horsepower). In spite of this, and the car's carbon fibre components, the Reventón accelerates to 100 km/h (62 mph) in the same time as the Murciélago LP640 (3.4 seconds).

The instrument panel in the Reventón comprises three TFT liquid crystal displays (LCDs) with two different display modes. The instruments are housed in a structure milled from a solid aluminum block, protected by a carbon fiber casing. The G-Force-Meter is completely new and it is one of the talking points of the Reventón. It displays the dynamic drive forces, longitudinal acceleration during acceleration and braking, as well as transversal acceleration around bends. These forces are represented by the movement of an indicator on a graduated 3D grid depending on the direction and intensity of the acceleration. Formula One teams also use a similar device to analyze dynamic forces.

By simply pressing a button, the driver can switch to the second, quasi-analogical display, where there are the usual circular instruments; speedometer and tachometer. The G-Force-Meter still remains at the center of this display mode.

Lamborghini has also picked up some of parent company Audi's design language. For the first time, Lamborghini incorporated daylight running lights with the headlamps of the Reventón. Seven Light Emitting Diodes (LEDs) at each headlamp flank the Bi-Xenon main beam and they stay lit whenever the car is in movement. Due to the high temperatures in the rear lower part of the car, special heatproof LEDs are used for the indicator and hazard lights, stoplights and rear lights with a triple arrow optical effect.

The Reventón is named after a fighting bull according to recent Lamborghini tradition. The car's namesake, owned by the Don Rodríguez family, is best known for killing famed bullfighter Félix Guzmán in 1943. Reventón means "explosion" or "burst" in Spanish, when used as a noun.; in automotive terms, it means "blowout, flat tire" when used as a noun. When it was used as the name of a bull, however, it was intended to be interpreted as an adjective a quality or property of that bull in particular. Then Reventón means "he who is used to making things burst".

The Lamborghini Gallardo

2008-03-17T09:32:00.001-05:00

The Lamborghini Gallardo is a sports car built by Lamborghini. The Gallardo is Lamborghini's most-produced model to date, with 5,000 built in the first three years of production. It is less expensive than Lamborghini's larger, more powerful Murciélago.

The car is named after a famous breed of fighting bull. The Spanish word gallardo translates into "gallant".

The Gallardo was designed as a competitor to the Ferrari 360, and now competes with its replacement, the Ferrari F430. The Gallardo has a rear-biased all-wheel drive system which differentiates it from its rear-wheel drive competitors. Lamborghini's parent company Audi is renowned for its Quattro AWD system, however Lamborghini uses a system of its own.

Unlike the Countach, Diablo, and Murciélago models, the Gallardo does not have scissor doors.

The Gallardo was designed by Luc Donckerwolke, who won the 2003 Red Dot Award for the design of both the 2003 Gallardo and 2002 Murciélago.

At current U.S. prices, a 2008 Lamborghini Gallardo coupe costs USD $186,250 - $222,800, while a 2008 Lamborghini Gallardo spyder costs USD $201,595 - $263,595.

As at March 2008, the Gallardo is the only model to use the Lamborghini V10 engine.

The Gallardo offers two choices of transmissions, a conventional (H-Box) six-speed manual transmission, and an advanced six-speed electro-hydraulically controlled 'semi-automatic single-clutch sequential manual', which Lamborghini abbreviates to "E-gear". The "E-gear" allows the driver to make shifts much faster than a manual transmission would, however with this option one sacrifices a certain measure of control that the manual transmission would offer. The driver shifts up and down via paddles behind the steering wheel, and does not need to manually actuate the clutch.

The Audi R8 sports car, launched in early 2007, is based on the Gallardo platform, and uses a 4.2 litre V8 in place of the Gallardo's V10 to avoid competing directly with the Gallardo.

For the 2008 model year, an onboard computer, iPod connectivity with USB, heated mirrors, Q-citura stitching that originally could only be found on the Nera model, and a beige soft-top on the Spyder, were added to the Gallardo.

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Lamborghini Murciélago, part 4

2008-03-15T08:48:00.001-05:00

The Lamborghini Murciélago R-GT is a race-only version of the Murciélago, developed jointly with Reiter Engineering and Audi Sport. It has rear-wheel drive unlike the standard Murciélago to comply with the FIA, ACO, and JAF rules. The car retains the standard Murciélago V12, but has air restrictors to manage power. Its acceleration and top speed are highly dependent on the gearing selected for a particular race track.

In March 2006 at the Super GT Suzuka 500 km, a Murcielago R-GT specifically built for Super GT (and rebadged RG-1) for the Japanese Lamborghini Owners Club (JLOC) recorded the first win ever for a Murcielago when they earned a win in the GT300 class. In March 2007 in the FIA GT Championship, the All-Inkl.com Racing Murciélago won the Zhuhai 2 Hours.

In December 2006, Reiter Engineering tested an upgraded Murcielago R-GT LM, featuring redesigned body work and a new rear wing with less drag.

Kobe Bryant's wife Vanessa is the only person in the world to own a converted automatic Murciélago. The car was given to her as a gift by her husband, but upon realizing she could not drive a manual transmission, Kobe Bryant had the car converted to an automatic. The estimated cost of the car after conversion and customization was US$400,000.
German tuner Hamann Motorsport produced a one-off LP640 Roadster with enhanced aerodynamic components, new rear silencer, new wheels and some interior enhancements.
In the first season of Bullrun, a game show, Team 10 raced with a Murciélago.

A Lamborghini Miura concept car was presented at the Museum of Television & Radio on January 5, 2006 alongside the Los Angeles Auto Show, though it was not present at the show itself. Instead, the Miura officially debuted at the North American International Auto Show two weeks later. It was the first design by new Lamborghini chief, Walter de'Silva, and commemorates the 1966 introduction of the original Miura in Geneva.

Lamborghini president and CEO Stephan Winkelmann has denied the concept will return the Miura to production, saying “The Miura was a celebration of our history, but Lamborghini is about the future. Retro design is not what we are here for. So we won’t do the Miura.”

Lamborghini's own Reventón is a mid-engined sports car that debuted at the 2007 Frankfurt Auto Show. It will be the most powerful and expensive Lamborghini to date, costing one million euro. The official press release states that only 20 will be built, but it is rumoured that the total number could be 100. The exterior styling was inspired by the F-22 Raptor. Although the exterior is partially new, almost the entire mechanics (including the engine) are taken directly from the Murciélago LP640.

Lamborghini Murciélago, part 3

2008-03-14T09:55:00.003-05:00

LP stands for Longitudinale Posteriore, referring to the longitudinally-mounted, 6.5 L V12 engine, capable of producing up to 633 bhp (472 kW) at 8000 rpm. Along with a new six-speed manual transmission, which can come in Lamborghini's optional paddle shift "E-gear" package, the LP640 can go from 0 to 100 km/h in just 3.4 seconds: 0.4 of a second quicker than the previous Murciélago. The LP640 is accommodated by an electronic Launch control device called "Thrust."

The new Lamborghini Murciélago LP640 Roadster was presented on the 2006 Los Angeles Autoshow. It features the same engine as the LP640 coupé and replaces the 6.2 Liter Murciélago Roadster. The only design changes were oil cooling vents behind the air intakes, interior changes, and a reinforced body.

Presented at the Paris International Autoshow, the Lamborghini Murciélago LP640 Versace is a special edition version of the LP640 Coupé, with all the same performance features. The only difference is the two tone white-black trim, shown on both the exterior and interior of the car. However, Lamborghini de Spa have also built 1 black LP640 & LP640 Roadster. It also features custom Versace leather seating and a Gianni Versace logo plaque inside the vehicle. The Versace material costs $10,000 per seat.

In late 2003, Lamborghini announced a special 40th Anniversary Edition of the Murciélago, following in the footsteps of their Countach and Diablo Anniversary Editions. The limited production run of 50 vehicles featured enhancements including a limited-edition body color, carbon-fiber exterior detailing, upgraded wheels , a new revamped exhaust system, and a 40th Anniversary numbered plaque displayed along the side. The interior featured a new leather trim and additional electronic features.

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Lamborghini Murciélago, part 2

2008-03-11T08:38:00.003-05:00

The name Murciélago, means "bat" in Spanish, comes from a bull that survived 24 sword strokes in an 1879 fight at the arena of Córdoba, and fought with such passion and spirit that the matador chose to spare its life, a rare honor. In another Lamborghini tie-in, the bull was later presented as a gift to Don Antonio Miura, who was a noted breeder and whose bull ranch the Lamborghini Miura was named after, and went on to sire a line of famous fighting bulls.

The LP640 version was first shown at the Geneva Motor Show in March 2006, as a facelift for the coupé version. It features a 6.5 Liter engine, now producing 631 bhp (471 kW), improving performance substantially. Like the base Murciélago, the engine is mounted "backwards", with the transmission in front of the engine and the differential behind it, instead of a transaxle normally seen on mid-engine cars. There were also a few minor external changes, primarily to the low air intakes.

The front and rear bumpers have been reshaped to channel air more efficiently, and the new exhaust has been shaped into the rear diffuser to minimize aerodynamic lift. The air intake on the left side has been enlarged to accommodate the feeding of the oil cooler. The car's body is made up of steel and carbon fiber, while underneath a revised suspension has been added to keep up with the car's performance. It also has an all-wheel-drive system that normally distributes 70% of the torque to the rear wheels, but can allocate up to 100% to either end depending on where the grip is running out. There are also new 18-inch (460 mm) Hermera alloy wheels running huge 335/30 tires at the rear. The LP640 retains the original car's scissor-opening doors. The LP640 coupè U.S. MSRP rests at $318,800.

Inside the LP640, the seating has been reshaped to accommodate greater headroom, while an upgraded instrument panel is flanked by an improved stereo system.

The LP640's optional equipment includes ceramic brakes for swifter braking, chrome paddle shifters, and a glass engine cover which shows off the LP640's 6.5 Liter V12 engine.

A special edition version of the Murciélago LP640 was introduced at the Paris Motor Show. The Versace edition features a customized all-white exterior and a matching white interior. However, a 1-of-a-kind black LP640 Versace and LP640 Roadster Versace were also presented by the factory.

Lamborghini announced the LP640 Roadster version at the 2006 LA Auto Show.

Lamborghini Murciélago

2008-03-03T10:18:00.000-05:00

The Lamborghini Murciélago is a sports car produced by Italian automaker Automobili Lamborghini S.p.A. and designed by Luc Donckerwolke. It was introduced in 2002 as the successor to the Diablo. The Murciélago is a two-door, two-seat coupé. To celebrate the company's 40 years in operation, 50 special edition Murciélagos were built during the autumn of 2003. An open-top version called the Murciélago Roadster was introduced in 2004 for the 2005 model year. The roadster features similar performance to the coupé with a more aggressive rear flank, as well as a considerably higher price tag.

The Murciélago sports a 6.2 Liter version of the legendary Lamborghini V12 engine, a six-speed manual or six-speed sequential automatic transmission, and four-wheel drive. It also has a rear spoiler that can be raised to an angle of 70 degrees, side mirrors that fold in to improve aerodynamics, and side scoops that automatically open to the needed size to let in just the right amount of air needed to cool its engine. The 2008 car's fuel economy is 8 mpg (U.S.) (29 L/100 km) city and 13 mpg (U.S.) freeway, making it the least efficient 2008 car for city driving, according to the EPA.

The coupé's base price is US $313,000, which is US $107,000 more than its smaller sibling, the Lamborghini Gallardo.

In 2006 the Murciélago's engine was replaced by a stronger 6.5-liter engine and the car's name was changed to Murciélago LP640. For the 2007 model year Lamborghini did the same with the roadster model, which is now called Murciélago LP640 Roadster. Both versions received a minor facelift.

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Lamborghini Diablo, part 6

2008-03-01T11:31:00.001-05:00

The GTR is the rarest Diablo model with the the most extreme design, with a top speed supposedly up to 210mph (338km/h). Only 30 units were produced, all in the VT 6.0 facelift design, at an initial price point of over $300,000. Not much else is known about the GTR model.

After Audi AG took over Lamborghini from its former South East Asian owners in 1998, Mycom and VPower, they set out to make major revisions to the Diablo so that it could continue to provide revenue while its replacement was developed. The VT 6.0 was their first (and last) truly intensive redesign of the car, meaning that it was more than just a cosmetic update to the existing model. Heavy styling changes both inside and out were made; the front bumper, air intakes and nose as well as the entire dashboard, seats and switchgear were changed and improved. Displacing 6.0 litres and based on the motor that powered the Diablo GT, which in itself was essentially a modified version of the 5.7, the motor had updated ECU software in addition to new intake and exhaust systems and a refined variable valve timing system with slightly less aggressive camshafts than had been used in the earlier versions.

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Lamborghini Diablo, part 5

2008-02-29T08:06:00.002-05:00

The Lamborghini Diablo GT (Gran Turismo) is a high-performance sports car built by Italian automaker Lamborghini in 1999. The Diablo GT was only and officially sold in Europe. Eighty models were built. The Diablo GT's price is estimate at $300,000.

As the SV (Sport Veloce) was already a near race-ready version of the Diablo, the limited run GT model went even further in the same direction. It boasted a modified version of the V12 engine, bored out to 6.0 litres and producing 575 hp (429 kW), while enlarged brakes, an improved and lower-riding suspension and owner-specific gearing were other mechanical changes. More aggressive bodywork with flared fenders and wider wheels was introduced.

Lamborghini Diablo GT combines a new construction technology with a new design. Almost all the body parts are made of carbon fibre, excluding the roof and the doors only. Front bumper of new design, with integrated air intakes for the new front mounted oil cooler and for the brakes. Rear bumper of new design, "wing shaped". Front fenders of new design, matching the larger front track. Front bonnet of new design, with integrated air outlet from the oil cooler. Engine bonnet of new design, incorporating the engine dynamic air intake.

Diablo GT's 6 litre V12 engine, particularly conceived for superior performance (max power 567 hp (423 kW) at 7300 rpm, max torque 630 N·m (465 ft·lbf) at 5500 rpm). The Multi-throttles intake manifold ("individual intake system": one throttle unit per each cylinder), with improved runners for high flow coefficients. GT's new intake and exhaust camshafts, tuned to achieve very high charge efficiency at medium-high engine speeds. Diablo GT's intake variable valve timing system (derived from the well proven system already used on Diablos model year '98 and '99) in order to guarantee good charge efficiency and then good torque not only at high but also at low engine speeds. The dynamic air inlet duct upstream the intake plenum for additional improvements of charge density and then engine power with the increasing of car speed aluminum construction (as Lamborghini's tradition) with magnesium intake manifold and cylinder head covers titanium connecting rods and lighter crankshaft.

The brake and the ABS systems are derived from the well proven high performance systems of the Diablo range with self ventilated large diameter discs (355 mm front, 335 mm rear) with high performance calipers and last generation ABS system. For Lamborghini Diablo GT even better performances are achieved, all because of the reduced car weight.

Most components in the interior are constructed of carbon fibre. Racing seats, racing 4 point safety belts, sports steering wheel and general sports trimming, leather and alcantara upholstery, carbon fibre parts "in sight", are elements that add to the already sporty feel. The air conditioning system is standard equipment to maintain a high comfort level. A dual air bag system is available as an option. As of the International Automobil Show of Frankfurt (September 1999), an optional rear wing mounted camera system became available to assist with reversing. The system comes complete with a display on the centre console which can also be used for GPS navigation.

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Lamborghini Diablo, part 4

2008-02-28T09:27:00.002-05:00

The second version of the VT coupé and roadster added mostly cosmetic and styling changes. The cars now featured the SV's exposed headlamps (Borrowed from the Nissan 300zx 1990-96, and Used under licence) , new wheels and a newly redesigned dashboard. On the mechanical side, larger brakes, the addition of ABS brakes and a new variable valve timing system on the 5.7-litre V12 were the only mechanical updates. Power output increased to 530 hp (395 kW), The standard 0-100Kmh time was 3.8 seconds but if you rev up to 6000 Rpm and sidestep the clutch you can launch it in 3.6 seconds.. Despite the money Lamborghini had spent making the updates, the "Version 2" VTs were discontinued after only one year of production.

Just like the updated versions of the VT coupé and roadster, the 1999 model year SV's changes were primarily limited to cosmetics. It received slight bodywork updates (keeping the exposed headlamps), new wheels and larger brakes in addition to the new VVT-equipped, 530 hp (395 kW) engine. The 1999 Diablos also gained a new dashboard. Instead of the traditional flat dashboard with a separate upright instrument binnacle, as on so many Italian supercars, the new dash was of a more fluid, wave shaped design. A thin strip of black glass runs the length of the dash, and instruments lights such as main beam, headlight operation and low fuel warning appear within this strip. The concept was inspired by Bang & Olufsen Hi-Fi products.

Otherwise, the 1999 Diablo remained fundamentally unchanged. Like the updated VT, it was produced only as a production model for the 1999 model year. A limited edition 2000 model was produced, available only in metallic silver - most of these cars are in the United States.

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Lamborghini Diablo, part 3

2008-02-19T11:32:00.001-05:00

The SV or "Sport Veloce" variant of the Diablo was an optional add-on package to the base car. It lacked the VT's all-wheel-drive system and electronic suspension, but it featured the VT's revised dashboard and larger brakes, a new 3-piece adjustable spoiler and was powered by a modified version of the 5.7-litre V12 producing 510 hp (380 kW). The car's air intakes were slightly differently shaped, and from 1999 onwards the vehicle had exposed headlamps as opposed to the pop-up units previous versions used.

Tuning company Koenig-Specials of Germany produced a tuned variant of the SV featuring further suspension modifications, massive brakes and a twin-turbocharger system, boosting the car's output to over 800 hp (597 kW).

Unveiled at the 1996 Geneva Salon, the SVR variant is a lightweight competition version of the SV, built for its pro-am one make series known as Diablo Supertrophy, which was intended to run for three years, with its inaugural round held as the support race to the 1996 24 Hours of Le Mans.

The SVR is 191kg less than the SV (1385kg) and boasts 540 hp (403 kW), mainly of a revised fuel injection timing and is the first Diablo to use variable valve timing. There are numerous noticeable cosmetic differences, the covered lights or sometimes is used in place of its usual retractable headlights. Other cosmetic differences includes, a deeper front spoiler, side skirts and a redesigned rear valance. Also the most visible modification is a fully adjustable rear aerofoil, lightweight acrylic side windows is used in place of a glass items and a set of 18-inch OZ Racing one-piece hollow spoke cast magnesium wheels Each car sold, came with a seasons factory support and an entry to the one-make series. All repairs and maintenance was carried out by Lamborghini themselves.

The series first title winner was BPR regular, Thomas Bscher, who became involved with the business side of the brand in later years. In total, 31 versions of this model have been produced altogether. Only a few of these have been modified for road use.

Lamborghini Diablo, part 2

2008-02-13T12:42:00.003-05:00

A lightened, hard-edged racing variant of the standard Diablo, the SE30 was sold in limited numbers during 1994 to celebrate Lamborghini's 30th anniversary. The 'SE' stands for Special Edition.

In total just 150 cars were made, eight of which were right hand drive (RHD). In 1995 Lamborghini introduced the SE30 Jota; the Jota was produced from the Lamborghini factory but SE30 owners also had the option of having Lamborghini upgrade their SE30 to Jota specifications. The Jota upgrade consisted of two roof mounted air scoops, a re-tuned L.I.E. chip and a six-speed all-synchromesh gearbox if the Diablo was made at the Lamborghini factory. With these upgrades in place the Diablo SE30 Jota could produce 595 bhp, 72 more than the SE30's 523 bhp. In total only 28 Jota upgrade kits were made but 1 of these was not installed. Contradictory to this, it is believed that only 12 Jotas were actually made (10 in LHD, 2 in RHD); this figure may have come from the number of models made by Lamborghini itself. As an interesting side note about the Jota, Jay Kay (lead singer of Jamiroquai), featured the sound of this car in the intro to a track, called "Travelling without moving" on the band's album of the same name.

The car went without most of the Diablo's standard equipment, meaning that it was devoid of a radio, air-conditioning or sound insulation and featured carbon fiber molded seats, helping to make it 125 kilograms lighter than the standard car. Lamborghini chose to do without the VT's advanced electronic suspension or all-wheel-drive systems, but the car did get an advanced adjustment system controlled with an interior dial that could instantaneously adjust the stiffness of the car's front and rear anti-roll bars. They also enlarged the brake discs of all four wheels, but the car still lacked ABS.

Lamborghini Diablo, part 1

2008-01-29T09:07:00.000-05:00

The Lamborghini Diablo was a high-performance midengined sportscar built by Italian automaker Lamborghini between 1990 and 2001.

Lamborghini began developing the Diablo (which means "Devil" in Spanish) in 1985 as a replacement for the Countach model, introducing it for sale on January 21, 1990 at a base price of USD 240,000. Power came from a 5.7-litre, 48-valve version of the legendary Lamborghini V12 featuring dual overhead cams and computer-controlled multi-point fuel injection, producing a maximum output of 492 hp (367 kW) and 427 ft·lbf (579 N·m) of torque. The vehicle could reach 60 mph in slightly over 4 seconds, with a top speed of 202 mph (325 km/h). The Diablo was originally rear-wheel drive and the engine was mid-mounted to aid its weight balance.

Even at over $240,000, the vehicle was somewhat spartan, featuring only basic radio functions (with optional CD playback) along with manual windows, adjustable but unpowered seats and no anti-lock brakes, mostly to minimize the vehicle's already high curb weight. A few options were available, including having the driver's seat molded specifically for the buyer, a rear spoiler, a factory fitted luggage set (priced at $2,600) and an exclusive Breguet clock for the dash (priced at $10,500).

Diablo VT coupeAfter three years of making minor adjustments to the Diablo, Lamborghini decided in 1993 that a second, even more specialized version of the car could add new customers to the brand. Starting with the basic Diablo platform, Lamborghini engineers added a viscous-coupling type all-wheel-drive system, an improved power steering system, resized front wheels and tires chosen to work better with the all-wheel-drive system, four-piston Brembo brake calipers, an updated dashboard design and a new computerized suspension system featuring aggressively tuned Koni shock absorbers. The suspension system could be left in "auto" mode where it was controlled entirely by the computer, or any of four separate "modes" could be manually selected by the driver via buttons in the cabin. The vehicle still lacked ABS brakes. Lamborghini had presented an open-topped concept version of the VT (Viscous Traction) at the 1992 Geneva Auto Show alongside the coupé when the car debuted there, but it was another 3 years before the model saw production. Other than its removable Targa-style carbon fiber roof panel, the vehicle was essentially identical to the coupé, with only a few minor styling differences, mainly in regards to the tail lights between the two models.

In order to bring additional publicity to their pro-am series in 1997, there was a roadster version of the SVR, called VT Roadster R, despite being based on a SVR chassis with everything that its racecar variant has and lacking the four wheel drive system of the VT.

Lamborghini LM002

2008-01-18T11:51:00.001-05:00

The Lamborghini LM002 is an SUV that was built by the Lamborghini automobile company between 1986 and 1993. It was unofficially known as the Rambo. 301 LM002s were built, including 60 LM/American special equipment vehicles.

The LM002 was an unusual departure for Lamborghini who, at the time, was primarily known for high-performance grand tourers and supercars, despite its origins as a tractor manufacturer.

Lamborghini built its first military vehicle, a prototype vehicle codenamed the "Cheetah", in 1977. Lamborghini had designed the vehicle with hopes of selling it to the US military. The original Cheetah prototype had a rear-mounted Chrysler V8 engine. The prototype was destroyed during testing by the US military. This led Lamborghini to develop the LM001, which was very similar to the Cheetah, but had an AMC V8 engine.

It was finally determined that the engine being mounted in the rear caused too many unfavorable handling characteristics in an offroad vehicle, and the LMA002 was built with an entirely new chassis, moving the engine (now the V12 out of the Countach) to the front. After much testing and altering of the prototype, it was finally given a serial number and became the first LM002. The production model was unveiled in an early 1986 Brussels Auto Show

Lovingly dubbed the "Rambo-Lambo", its aggressive styling and powerful engine made it a success for Lamborghini. Civilian models were outfitted with a full luxury package, including full leather trim, tinted power windows, air conditioning, and a premium stereo mounted in a roof console. In order to meet the vehicle's tire needs, Lamborghini commissioned Pirelli to create the Pirelli Scorpion tires with custom, run-flat, tread designs. These were made specifically for the LM and were offered in two different tread designs, one for mixed use and the other for sand use only. These tires could be run virtually flat without risk and were the only rubbers available to compete with the desert heat, the loading and the speeds that the LM could inflict on them.

The civilian version was often marketed toward rich Saudi sheiks because of its incomparable performance in the desert due to the Scorpion tires, an oversized radiator, and a large air cleaner which sat on top of 6 weber carburators.

The military version of the LM002 omitted some of the luxuries, and featured additions including mounting points for machine guns. The Saudi Arabian army ordered 40, each with the roof able to be opened like a hatch over the rear seats. Libyan leader Muammar al-Qaddafi reportedly ordered 100 of them for the use of Libya's military.

In 1988 Lamborghini sent an LM002 to a team of special engineers with the intention of making it capable of participating in the Paris Dakar Rally. They stripped it of anything that added unnecessary weight and gave it an upgraded suspension, engine modifications which brought it to 600 hp (450 kW), full roll cage, plexiglas windows, and GPS equipment. Unfortunately, the money ran out before it could be officially be entered in competition, although it did participate in the Rallye des Pharaons in Egypt and another in Greece, both times driven by Sandro Munari.

Near the end of the LM002's production, a Turin based autoshop owner created a one-off "Estate" version by enclosing the back area and raising the roof. This added significantly to the interior room.

On July 18, 2004, at a US military base near Baqubah, the American Military used a LM002 that had belonged to Uday Hussein to simulate the effects of a car bomb. The LM002 was destroyed during the test.

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Lamborghini Jalpa

2008-01-14T09:16:00.000-05:00

The Lamborghini Jalpa , pronounced in the Spanish "HAL-pah", was a car produced by the Italian automaker Lamborghini from 1981 to 1988. The Jalpa was a development of the earlier Silhouette, but was rather more successful; a total of 419 examples were sold. The Jalpa was intended to fill a role as a more "affordable" Lamborghini, being much cheaper than the Countach. Instead of the big car's V12, the Jalpa was fitted with a transversely-mounted 3.5 litre V8 that developed 255 hp. The bodywork was designed and built by Bertone.

The name Jalpa came from a famous breed of fighting bulls, Ferruccio Lamborghini having a liking for bulls and being a Taurus he gave most Lamborghini cars bullfighting-related names.

Compared to the Countach, the Jalpa was much easier to drive, having better visibility and being more tractable in heavy traffic and at slow speeds. At night, however, there were many distracting internal reflections (a common curse of the Italian low-volume car).

Originally the plastic components (bumpers, air intakes and engine cover) were black, and the car carried over the rectangular taillights of the Silhouette. In 1984, however, the plastic became body-colored, and round taillights were fitted.

In 1988, after falling sales, the new owners, Chrysler, decided to end Jalpa production.

The official top speed of the Jalpa was 146 mph but higher speeds have been claimed. The weight with all fluids is 3322 lb. The Jalpa is 43.9 inches (112 cm) tall.

Following the Chrysler takeover Lamborghini product programs general manager Jack Stavana fitted a Jalpa V8 into a Dodge Daytona, linked to an AWD system designed by Carroll Shelby and called it the "Decepzione". Despite its performance, the project was never followed up due to the car having just 1.5 inches (38.1 mm) of ground clearance, necessitated by the comparatively tall engine block.

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Lamborghini Silhouette

2008-01-13T15:28:00.000-05:00

The Lamborghini Silhouette was a mid-engine rear drive sports car made in small numbers by Lamborghini between 1976 and 1979. The Silhouette began as a styling exercise by noted Italian carrozzeria Bertone. It was based on the earlier Lamborghini Urraco but was distinguished from the Uracco by more angular styling. The Silhouette was the first Lamborghini to employ a targa top roof. The Silhouette later evolved into the similar looking but more successful Lamborghini Jalpa. The car had a 3 litre V8 engine mounted transversely behind the driver. Of the 55 of these cars built, 31 are currently known to exist.

Afterwards once the car stopped production it was named and was the only Lamborghini to be named after the project stopped it is also known to be the car which inspired the very popular car of today such as LP640, Murcialago, Gallardo and the upcoming Lamborghini SS 2500.

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The Lamborghini Countach, part 7

2008-01-04T13:51:00.000-05:00

In 1975, Walter Wolf, a wealthy Canadian businessman and owner of the Wolf F1 Racing team in the 1970s, purchased an LP400; however, he was not satisfied with the LP400's engine and asked Dallara, the chief engineer of Lamborghini at that time and the founder of the Italian F1 racing team Scuderia Italia in the early 1990s, to create a special high-power version of Countach. It was the "code NO 1120148" Walter Wolf special with the original "5" engine from the Countach prototype which produced 447 hp / 7900 rpm and reached a supposed maximum speed of 315 km/h (195.7 mph). This model also featured the upgraded wheels, Pirelli P7 tires, large fender flares, and front and rear spoilers of the LP400S model. It was painted in red, with black fender flares, and was designated "LP500S" like the standard Countach model from the 1980s, and was the stepping stone that led to this later production model. This first Walter Wolf car is currently located in Japan. Two other Wolf Countaches were produced, one painted blue, NO 1120202 (currently in Germany) and one navy blue, NO 1121210. (This machine was owned by Mr. Wolf for a long time, but was eventually sold.)

In 1984 Rod Ladret of Ladret Design Studio located in Alberta Canada began producing and marketing a replica of the Countach. The form for the kit was sculpted from plaster and then a fiberglass mold was made of the form. The kits and cars Ladret design Studio built included a tube frame chassis with an American V8 power plant. Ladret Design Studio built 141 of these replicas and the industrial clients who purchased his fiberglass forms have built several thousand over the past two decades. As of 2007 there are still several companies building kits based on Ladret's forms built in 1984. In 1993 Ladret ceased manufacturing the Countach replica and moved on to other projects.

From around 1985 until the late 1990s several companies replicated the Countach to various degrees of success. In 1985, Gary Thompson and Pete Jackson hired a real Countach from an up-market Manchester car hire company and took a glass fiber mold of it. This mold resulted in a number of UK-based manufacturers producing their own Countach replicas. A few were able to produce remarkably good replicas, including Paul Lawrenson of Prova Cars, Sienna Cars, Phil Cheetham of Mirage replicas, and Brightwheel replicas. Ultimately, none of these companies survived.

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The Lamborghini Countach, part 6

2007-12-20T10:25:00.000-05:00

Named to honor the company's 25 year anniversary in 1988, the 25th Anniversary Countach was mechanically very similar to the 5000QV but sported much changed styling. The rear 'air boxes' were restyled and enlarged, while the vents behind them were changed so that they ran front to back instead of side to side. In addition, a new air dam and side skirting, both with air intakes, were fitted, and the taillights were restyled to be narrower, with body-colored panels replacing the upper and lower parts of the previous large taillights. The styling changes were unpopular with many, particularly since the intakes had strakes in them that appeared to mimic those on the Ferrari Testarossa, but they improved the engine's cooling, a problem the Countach had always struggled with. It also featured 345/35R15 tires; the widest tires available on a production car at the time. The Anniversary was produced through 1990 when it was replaced by the Lamborghini Diablo.

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The Lamborghini Countach, part 5

2007-12-18T08:53:00.000-05:00

In 1985 the Countach's engine was improved again, bored and stroked to 5.2 liters and given four valves per cylinder (quattrovalvole in Italian). The carburetors were moved from the sides to the top of the engine for better breathing - unfortunately this created a hump on the engine deck, reducing the already poor rear visibility to almost nothing. Some body panels were also replaced by Kevlar. In later versions of the engine, the carburetors were replaced with fuel-injection.

For the first time, a US specification model was produced by the factory, with styling changes to allow bumpers to meet US federal standards (large, bulky bumpers were used that, to many people, ruined the smooth lines of the car). Although this change was the most notable on the exterior, the most prominent change under the hood was the use of Bosch K-Jetronic fuel injection, rather than the six Weber carburetors used in the Euro-spec model.

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The Lamborghini Countach, part 4

2007-12-09T11:35:00.000-05:00

In 1978, a new LP400S model was introduced. Though the engine was slightly upgraded from the LP400 model, the most radical changes were in the exterior, where the tires were replaced with much wider Pirelli P7 units, and fiberglass wheel arch extensions were added, giving the car the fundamental look it kept until the end of its production run. An optional V-shaped spoiler was available over the rear deck, which, while improving high-speed stability, reduced the top speed by at least 10 MPH. Most owners ordered the wing. Dynamically, the LP400S was a better car, the wider tires making it more stable in cornering. Aesthetically, some prefer the slick lines of the original while others prefer the more aggressive lines of the later vehicles, beginning with the LP400S. The standard emblems ("Lamborghini" and "Countach") were kept at the rear, but an angular "S" emblem was added after the "Countach" on the right side.

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The Lamborghini Countach, part 3

2007-12-08T13:06:00.000-05:00

The rear wheels of the Countach were driven by a traditional Lamborghini V12 engine mounted longitudinally with a mid-engined configuration. For better weight distribution, the engine is pointed 'backwards'; the output shaft is at the front, and the gearbox is in front of the engine, the driveshaft running back through the engine's sump to a differential at the rear. Although originally planned as a 5 liter powerplant, the first production cars used the Lamborghini Miura's 4 liter engine. Later advances increased the displacement to 5 liters and then (in the "Quattrovalvole" model) 5.2 L with four valves per cylinder.

All Lamborghini Countaches were equipped with six Weber carburetors until the arrival of the 5000QV model, at which time the car became available in America, and used Bosch K-Jetronic fuel injection. The European models, however, continued to use the carburetors until the arrival of the Lamborghini Diablo, which replaced the legendary Countach.

The Countach used a skin of aircraft-grade aluminum over a tubular space frame, as in a racing car. This is expensive to build but is immensely strong and very light (in spite of its size, the car weighs approximately 1500 kg (3300 lb)). The underbody tray was fiberglass.

A single prototype was built, the LP500 (the 500 standing for the 5 L displacement of the engine which was intended to be used). Painted bright sunflower yellow, the car was a stunner at the Geneva Motor Show in 1971. Sporting Gandini's original design concepts, the car's design needed extensive modification for production. In particular, the small air intake ducts on the car's rear shoulders proved insufficient to cool the engine, and large 'air box' scoops were added in that position. Large NACA ducts were added on the sides to give additional air. The experimental car was also constructed of aluminum honeycomb sheeting among other things, which was dropped for production.

The car did not survive; it was sacrificed in a crash test to gain European type approval, even though its construction method was utterly unlike production vehicles.

The first 4.0-liter production Countach was delivered to an Australian in 1974. The first recorded person to own the LP400 was D. Milne, who was a member of the Australian Defence Force Transport Corps.[citation needed] Externally, little had altered from the final form of the prototype except at the rear, where conventional lights replaced the futuristic light clusters of the prototype. The styling had become rather more aggressive than Gandini's original conception, with the required large air scoops and vents to keep the car from overheating, but the overall shape was still very sleek. The original LP400 rode on the quite narrow tires of the time, but their narrowness and the slick styling meant that this version had the lowest drag coefficient of any Countach model and possibly the highest top speed. Many people like the looks of this clean, fresh original model the most of all the Countach variants, and indeed it is simple, with smooth lines and few decorations. Even the emblems at the rear simply read "lamborghini" and "Countach", with no engine displacement or valve arrangement clutter as is found on more modern cars.

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The Lamborghini Countach, part 2

2007-12-07T11:11:00.000-05:00

The Countach was styled by Marcello Gandini of the Bertone design studio, the same designer and studio that designed the Miura. Gandini was then a young, inexperienced designer—not very experienced in the practical, ergonomic aspects of automobile design, but at the same time unhindered by them. He produced a quite striking design. The Countach shape was wide and low (42.1 inches), but not very long. Its angular and wedge-shaped body was made almost entirely of flat, trapezoidal panels. There were curves, notably the smoothly coke-bottle wing line, but the overall appearance was sharp.

The doors, a Countach trademark, were of a 'scissors' fashion—hinged at the front with horizontal hinges, so that the doors lifted up and tilted forwards. This was partly for style, but just as much because the width of the car made conventional doors impossible to use in an even slightly confined space. Care needed to be taken, though, in opening the doors with a low roof overhead. (With the car's poor rear visibility and wide sills, this led to drivers adopting a method of reversing the car for parking by opening the door, sitting on the sill and reversing while looking over the back of the car from outside.)

Aerodynamics, however, were still unfortunately unable to match the sleek looks of the car.

The pure style of the prototype was progressively enhanced or cluttered (depending on one's point of view) by the evolution of the car to improve its performance, handling, tractability, and ability to meet mandated requirements. This began with the first production model, which included several vents which were found to be necessary to cool the engine adequately. These included the iconic NACA duct on the door and rear fender of each side of the car. The car design changes ended with a large engine vent directly behind the driver, reducing the rearview. Later additions, including fender flares, spoilers, carburetor covers, and bumpers, progressively changed the aesthetic values of the car.

The Countach's styling and visual impression caused it to become an icon of great design to almost everyone except automotive engineers. The superior performance characteristics of later Lamborghini models (such as the Diablo, or the Murciélago) appealed to performance car drivers and engineers, but they never had the originality or outrageousness that gave the Countach its distinction. The different impressions left by the various Lamborghini models have generated numerous debates and disagreements over what constitutes 'classic' or 'great' automotive design (elegant looks and style, vs. technical and engineering superiority).

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The Lamborghini Countach, part 1

2007-12-02T11:36:00.000-05:00

The Lamborghini Countach was a supercar produced by Italian automaker Lamborghini from 1974 to 1990. It popularized, but did not pioneer, the wedge-shaped, sharply angled look popular in many high performance cars since. It also popularized the "cabin-forward" design concept that pushes the passenger compartment forward in order to accommodate a larger engine.

The word countach is an exclamation of astonishment in the local Piedmontese language - generally used by men on seeing an extremely beautiful woman. While the term is considered untranslatable, it can be considered the verbal equivalent of a Wolf Whistle.

The name stuck when Nuccio Bertone first saw "Project 112" in his studio. The prototype was introduced to the world at the 1971 Geneva Motor Show. Most previous Lamborghini car names were associated with bulls and bullfighting.

In 2004, Sports Car International named this car number three on the list of Top Sports Cars of the 1970s, and it was listed as number ten on their list of Top Sports Cars of the 1980s.

Despite the fact that the car has been discontinued for 17 years, it still enjoys a massive fan following this day.

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The Lamborghini Urraco

2007-11-28T11:27:00.000-05:00

The Lamborghini Urraco was a sports car manufactured by Italian automaker Lamborghini in the 1970s. It was introduced at the Turin auto show in 1970 but wasn't available to buyers until 1973.

The car was a 2+2 coupé with body designed by Marcello Gandini, at the time working for Carrozzeria Bertone. Rather than being another supercar, like the Lamborghini Miura, the Urraco was more affordable, an alternative to the pricier Ferrari Dino and Maserati Merak.

When production ended in 1979, 791 Urracos had been built. Twenty-one of these were labelled Urraco P111 for the American market. In order to comply with American regulations, these cars had larger front bumpers and less horsepower. The other Urraco versions were the Urraco P200, Urraco P250 and Urraco P300 with 2 litre, 2.5 litre, and 3 litre V-8 respectively.

Both the Lamborghini Silhouette, with its detachable roof panel, and its successor Lamborghini Jalpa, with a 3.5 litre V-8 engine, were based upon the Urraco.

A black Urraco was featured in a December 2005 episode of the BBC television show Top Gear. The supercar was purchased by James May (used) for less than £10,000, and was in mechanically awful condition. Eventually succumbing to complete electrical failure, the car was then believed to have been sold on to a dealer in London for £5,000.

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The Lamborghini Jarama

2007-11-05T10:55:00.000-05:00

Lamborghini Jarama is a sports coupé which was built by Lamborghini between 1970 and 1976. It was designed by Bertone designer Marcello Gandini. It was named after the Jarama racing circuit near Madrid, Spain (which is in turn named after the Jarama river).

In 1970, Lamborghini had to redesign the Islero to meet new United States safety and emissions regulations. The new car was built on a shortened version of the same platform as the Espada. Two different models were made, the original GT (1970-1973) model having 350 bhp V12, and the GTS (1973-1976) with its output upped to 365 bhp. Also, with the GTS there were a few minor body modifications and power assisted steering, removable roof panels, and an automatic transmission became available as options. A total of 327 Jaramas were built.

Ferruccio Lamborghini's personal Jarama GTS is on display at the official Lamborghini museum.

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The Lamborghini Islero

2007-10-10T11:52:00.000-05:00

The Lamborghini Islero is a sports car produced by Italian automaker Lamborghini between 1968 and 1969. It was the replacement for the 400GT and featured the Lamborghini V12 engine. The car debuted at the 1968 Geneva Auto Show.

The Islero (pronounced "eez-LEHR-oh") was named after a Miura bull that killed famed matador Manuel Rodriguez "Manolete" on August 28, 1947. (Lamborghini also produced a car named the Miura, from 1966 to 1973.)

Since Carrozzeria Touring, the company that designed Lamborghini's chassis, was bankrupt, Carrozzeria Marazzi was the next logical choice as it was funded by Mario Marazzi, an old employee of Touring. The design was essentially a rebody of the 400GT, but the track was altered to allow for wider tires and while the Islero's body suffered from a lack of proper fit between the panels, its good outward visibility, roomier interior, and much improved soundproofing made it an improvement over previous models. It had a 325 hp (242 kW) 4.0 L V12 engine, a five-speed transmission, fully independent suspension, and disc brakes. Its top speed was rated at 250 km/h (155 mph). Only 125 Isleros were built.

An updated Islero, dubbed the Islero S, was released in 1969. The engine in this model was tuned to 350 hp (261 kW), but the torque remained the same. There were quite a few styling changes, including brightwork blind slots on the front fenders, an enlarged hood scoop (which supplied air to the interior of the car, not the engine), slightly flared fendered, tinted windows, round side-marker lights (instead of teardrops on the original), and a fixed section in the door windows. Various other changes included larger brake discs, revised rear suspension and revamped dashboard and interior. The top speed of the S improved to 260 km/h (162 mph). Only 100 examples of the Islero S were built, bringing the production total of the Islero nameplate to 225 cars. Ferruccio Lamborghini himself drove an Islero during that era.

The Lamborghini Espada

2007-10-09T11:23:00.000-05:00

The Lamborghini Espada is a grand tourer which was built by Italian car manufacturer Lamborghini between 1968 and 1978.

Based on the Marzal show car, displayed at the 1967 Geneva Auto Show, and the Bertone Pirana, a radically rebodied Jaguar E-type. It was to fill the spot of a true four seat car in Lamborghini's lineup, which already included the 400GT and Miura. 1217 cars were made, making it the most successful Lamborghini model at the time.

The car was designed by Marcello Gandini of Bertone. The name "Espada" means "sword" in Spanish, referring to the sword that bullfighters use to kill the bulls.

The Espada was originally fitted with a 4L 325 bhp (242 kW) V12 engine, fully independent suspension and four wheel disc brakes. Most transmissions were manual, and the Espada also introduced one of the first automatic transmissions able to absorb the torque of a large sporting V12. It had unusual gearing, with 3 ratios: drive, 1 and reverse.

During its 10 year production the car underwent some changes, and three different models were produced. These were the S1 (1968-1970), the S2 (1970-1972) and the S3 (1972-1978). Each model featured engine power improvements, but only minor details were changed with the exterior design. The interior was altered dramatically between each model. An all new dashboard and steering wheel was installed for the S2, and the interior was again revamped for the S3. In 1970, power assisted steering was offered as an option, and in 1974 an automatic transmission was also offered. In 1975 impact bumpers had to be installed to meet United States safety requirements, and some people consider cars produced with them to be the S4, but Lamborghini did not officially change the designation. Near the end of the Espada's life, Bertone designed a four door prototype, which was never put into production.

In 1999, a new version of the Espada was rumored to be in the works, but it was right at the time Lamborghini wanted to concentrate on a Diablo successor, so little became of the idea aside from a few drawings

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The Lamborghini Miura

2007-10-05T12:59:00.000-05:00

The Lamborghini Miura is a sports car built in Italy by Lamborghini between 1966 and 1973. A mid-engined layout had been used successfully in competition, including by the Ford GT40 and Ferrari 250 LM at Le Mans. De Tomaso had produced a road car with this layout, the Vallelunga, but otherwise cars designed for the road were almost uniformly front-engined, rear drive vehicles. The Miura was a trendsetter, the one that made the mid-engined layout de rigueur among two-seater high performance supercars. It is named after the Spanish ranch Miura, whose bulls have a proverbial attack instinct.

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The Lamborghini 400GT

2007-10-01T11:53:00.000-05:00

The Lamborghini 400GT 2+2 was a 2+2-seated sports car from the Italian manufacturer Lamborghini, successor to the 350GT. First presented at the 1966 Geneva Auto Show.

Compared to its predecessor the engine was enlarged to 3929 cc (240 c.i.), increasing the power to 320 bhp (239 kW). The 400GT 2+2 was actually a different body from the 350GT, with a longer wheelbase, different roofline, and some sheetmetal changes throughout the car. The larger body shape enabled the +2 seating to be installed in the rear, where the 350GT only had room for luggage or +1 seating. The bodywork was designed by Carrozzeria Touring. The 400GT 2+2 also had a Lamborghini designed gearbox, with Porsche style synchromesh on all gears, which greatly improved the drivetrain.

There was a variant of the 350GT with the 4L V12 fitted to it, which was called the 400GT. Only 23 of these smaller coupes were built, three of which had desirable aluminium bodywork.

A total of 247 units were built from 1966 to 1968, when it was replaced with the Islero.

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The Lamborghini 350GT

2007-09-27T11:54:00.000-05:00

By sabrebIade
The Lamborghini 350GT was the first production car by Lamborghini, first shown at the Turin Motor Show in 1963.

The car featured a 3.5 litre quad-cam V-12 engine (hence its designation), independent rear suspension (while Ferrari still used live rear axles) and a controversial 2+1 semi-fastback body by Carrozzeria Touring of Milan.

The 350GT generally drew high praises at the time for its flexible and high-revving engine, its stable cornering, even on rough surfaces, and its high level of finish. 120 copies were built from 1963 to 1966.

It has a top speed of 149mph and can accelerate to 60mph in 6.8 seconds.

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The Lamborghini 350 GTV

2007-09-26T14:56:00.000-05:00

The Lamborghini 350 GTV was the prototype and forerunner of the later 350 GT (Lamborghini´s first production model).

It featured a controversial semi-fastback body design by Franco Scaglione, which was modified for series production by Carrozzeria Touring, and Lamborghini's own 3.5 liter V-12 engine. The car was presented to the public on the 1963 Turin Auto Show.

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Lamborghini

2007-09-17T11:56:00.000-05:00

By sabrebIade
Lamborghini.
I like the way the word just rolls off your lips.
Like Eva Longoria or Ricardo Montalban.
But Lamborghini conjures images of rocket sleds that look like they're going 100 mph just sitting still.
Space ships, no FIGHTER space ships that only lack wings......sometimes.

Automobili Lamborghini S.p.A., commonly referred to as Lamborghini, is an Italian manufacturer of high performance sports cars (supercar) based in the small Italian village of Sant'Agata Bolognese, near Bologna. Lamborghini is now a subsidiary of German car manufacturer Audi AG, which is in turn a subsidiary of Volkswagen. Lamborghini is the main counterpart to Ferrari in the Italian sports car business. The company was founded in 1963 by businessman Ferruccio Lamborghini (April 28, 1916–February 20, 1993), who owned a successful tractor factory, Lamborghini Trattori S.p.A..

As told by Ferruccio Lamborghini's son, Ferruccio Lamborghini went to meet Enzo Ferrari at the Ferrari factory to complain about the quality of the clutch in the Ferrari 250 GT he owned. Enzo Ferrari sent him away telling him to go and drive tractors because he was not able to drive cars.
( Now how cool is that? The whole company was born from an insult!)
Lamborghini went back to his factory, had his Ferrari's clutch dismantled and realized that the clutch manufacturer was the same who supplied the clutches for his tractors. In his warehouse he found a spare part which he thought suitable, and when it was installed the problem was solved.

Ferruccio decided that his car was to have a V12 engine, and enlisted the services of talented engineer Giotto Bizzarrini, who had previously worked on a Ferrari V12. The new engine had 4 cams, a short stroke and 2 big bore valves per cylinder, and developed a surprising 350 horsepower (260 kW). The engine featured aluminium construction, with a crankshaft supported by seven main bearings, forged aluminium pistons, and camshafts with their own half-engine-speed sprocket and silent chain. The car the engine was mounted in was designed by Franco Scaglione's Scaglione-Touring.

This Lamborghini 350GTV prototype began making public appearances in 1963, starting with the Turin Auto Show. Sales of the production model, known as the 350GT, began the following year with great success, with over 130 examples sold. Born under the sign of the Taurus, Ferruccio Lamborghini used the bull as the badge by which to mark his new automobile.

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The Porsche Roxster

2007-09-13T15:54:00.002-05:00

Our last Porsche is the " Black Triangle" of Porsche....
The Porsche Roxster is a rumoured mid-size luxury crossover SUV to be released by German automaker Porsche for the 2009 or 2010 model year. It will be built with many components of the Audi Q5 SUV. As a mid-sizer, it will be the second Porsche SUV, after the full-size Porsche Cayenne.
The Roxster has been denied and confirmed on the web over and over.
So I guess we'll just have to wait.

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The Porsche GT1

2007-09-12T11:14:00.000-05:00

The Porsche GT1 is the successor to Porsche Carrera GT rumoured to be released in 2009. As originally reported by Autocar The GT1 will feature new as well as technologies previously developed for the Porsche Carrera GT. Testing of engines for the GT1 have already begun, although it is unclear whether Porsche will decide to use a modified version of the Carrera GT or Cayenne S's V8 powerplant.

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The Porsche Panamera

2007-09-11T11:27:00.000-05:00

The Porsche Panamera is a four-door, four-seat sedan, currently still in concept stages, set to be launched in 2009. It will be front engined and rear wheel drive and powered by a modified version of the 4.5 L V8 found in the Cayenne, equipped with the FSI system invented by Volkswagen (Porsche and Volkswagen collaborated on the Cayenne/Touareg sport utility vehicle platform). Base spec models will be engineered with a 3.6 litre V6 found in the upcoming 2008 facelifted Cayenne, and there is even a hybrid version in the pipeline. Rumours suggest that the V10 engine from Porsche's limited-run Carrera GT supercar may be offered as well, although this is still extremely unlikely given the expense of manufacturing the engine and that Porsche does not currently have a facility capable of producing a suitable number of the V10 per year. A rumour is also around that the V12 diesel from the Audi Q7 could make it into the Panamera.

The final assembly of the vehicles will take place in Leipzig. Engines will be assembled in Stuttgart, and the car's painted body will come from the Volkswagen facility in Hanover.

The Panamera is generally considered to be the long-awaited fruit of their 989 concept from the late 1980s; some argue that it also presents itself as a suitable successor to the 2-doored 928, although some amount of debate surrounds this. It will be marketed as a direct competitor to automobiles such as the Mercedes-Benz CLS 55 AMG and Maserati Quattroporte and (to a lesser degree) a less expensive alternative to vehicles such as the Bentley Continental GT, Ferrari 612 Scaglietti and Aston Martin Rapide. It is the first V8-engined sports car built by Porsche since 1995, when the 928 was discontinued and will be produced in the new plant at Leipzig alongside the Cayenne. The vehicle has been caught testing at the Nürburgring and the original sketches are a little more sleek than the taped up model spied testing

Artist renderings of the car already distributed by Porsche show a low-slung, four-door sports car with narrow side windows and flowing lines. However spy shots of the Porsche Panamera testing at the Nürburgring show a more blunt car than the artists renderings.

The Panamera's name is derived, like the Porsche Carrera line, from the Carrera Panamericana race. Earlier prototypes of four-door sedans such as the 1991 Porsche 989 prototype or the even earlier 4 door 911 based prototype, never went into production.

On the 20th of April 2007 a spy video of the Porsche Panamera became available on the net.

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The Porsche Cayman

2007-09-06T16:31:00.001-05:00

The Porsche Cayman is a mid-engined 2-seat sports car produced by Porsche AG of Germany. First launched in the 2006 model year, the Cayman is the coupé version of the second generation Porsche Boxster convertible. Like the Boxster, the Cayman is assembled in Finland by Valmet Automotive.

The performance of the Cayman S approaches that of Porsche's flagship sports car, the 911 Carrera. Rally legend Walter Röhrl lapped the Nürburgring Nordschleife track in a Cayman S equipped with optional 19" wheels, PCCB, and PASM in a time of 8 minutes, 11 seconds. The time for a standard Cayman S, as published by the manufacturer, was 8 minutes, 20 seconds. In contrast, Röhrl recorded 8 minutes, 15 seconds in a 911 Carrera. The similarity in performance between the two cars has led to speculation about whether the Cayman S will cannibalize sales of the Carrera, as the basic Carrera's recommended retail price in the United States is $12,400 higher than that of the Cayman S.

A Cayman prepared and run by privateers Jürgen and Uwe Alzen finished fourth overall (of 220 entrants) in the 2007 running of the Nürburgring 24 Hour race, ahead of two flagship Porsche 997 GT3 RSR's, a 997 GT3 Cup, and a 996 GT3 Cup. Another two privateer Caymans, entered by CSR and MSpeed, finished 22nd and 117th overall, respectively. Porsche disclaims support for the Cayman teams, while supporting some or all of the 997 teams.

A performance car feature which is not available from Porsche for the Cayman is limited slip differential (LSD). Some commentators have speculated that LSD is not offered, even as an option, because the Cayman S's performance would then be too close to the 911 Carrera. Several tuning companies offer Cayman buyers the ability to retrofit a LSD.

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Porsche Carrera GT

2007-09-03T11:04:00.001-05:00

The Porsche Carrera GT was a supercar manufactured by Porsche in Germany.

The Carrera GT's development can be traced back to a Porsche successor to the 911 GT1-98 and LMP1-98 racing cars that had ended after the 1998, partially due to FIA and ACO rule changes. Porsche at the time had planned on a new Le Mans prototype for 1999. The car was initially intended to use a turbocharged flat-6, but was later redesigned to use a new V10 engine, pushing the project back to planned competition in 2000. The V10 was a unit secretly built by Porsche for the Footwork Formula One team in 1992, but later shelved. The engine was resurrected for the Le Mans prototype and increased in size to 5.5 litres. Unfortunately the project was cancelled after 2 days of testing for the first car, in mid-1999, mostly due to Porsche's wish to build the Cayenne SUV with involvement from Volkswagen and Audi, thus requiring engineering expertise to be pulled from the motorsports division. It was also speculated that VW-Audi chairman Ferdinand Piëch wanted Audi's new Le Mans Prototype, the Audi R8 not to face competition from Porsche in 2000.

Porsche did keep part of the project alive by using the 5.5L V10 from the prototype in a concept car shown at the 2000 Geneva Motor Show, mainly in an attempt to draw attention to their display. Surprising interest in the vehicle and an influx of revenue provided from the Cayenne helped Porsche decide to produce the car, and development started on a road-legal version that would be produced in small numbers at Porsche's new manufacturing facility in Leipzig. Porsche started a production run of Carrera GTs in 2004, shipping the units with an MSRP of $440,000 USD and a dealer invoice price of approximately $414,800 USD. In addition, the delivery charge could be as much as $5,000 USD. The first Carrera GT went on sale in the US on Jan 31, 2004.

Originally a production run of 1,500 cars was planned. But Porsche announced in August, 2005 that it would not continue production of the Carrera GT through 2006. Porsche wisely announced that this discontinuation was due to changing airbag regulations in the US and not highly disappointing sales. However, the diminishing sales volumes, high dealer inventory levels, and dealer discounts below MSRP were widely reported by the automotive press to be the true factors driving an early end to the production run

As of May 6, 2006, 1,270 GT's had been manufactured, with 604 being sold in the United States and dozens sitting on dealer showroom floors.

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The Porsche Cayenne

2007-08-31T11:56:00.000-05:00

The Porsche Cayenne is a mid-size luxury SUV produced by the German automaker Porsche since 2002, and North American sales began in 2003. It is the first V8 engined vehicle built by Porsche since 1995, when the Porsche 928 was discontinued. Sales of the Cayenne have been strong, with 100,000 sold as of June 2005, becoming Porsche's best-selling vehicle in North America. 40% of Cayenne sales are in North America. Sales slowed by 2006. The Cayenne was skipped for the 2007 model year, but has been redesigned for 2008. The 2008 model with feature a 4.8L V-8 engine with two turbochargers producing 500 hp and 516 lb./ft. of torque reaching an estimated top speed of 171 mph.

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The Porsche Boxster, part 3

2007-08-28T14:34:00.000-05:00

The second generation of the Boxster (internally known as the 987) made its debut at the 2004 Paris Motor Show alongside the new 911 (997). The car became available for model year 2005.

In appearance the car remains very similar to the previous generation. The most obvious styling change is to the headlights, which now have a profile similar to those of the Carrera GT, Porsche's mid-engined supercar. The intake vents on the sides of the Boxster are now larger, with more pronounced horizontal slats and are coloured metallic silver, irrespective of the paint colour on the rest of the car. The wheel arches have been enlarged to allow wheels up to 19 inches in diameter, a first for the Boxster series. The most significant updates from the 986 series are in the interior, with a more prominent circular theme evident in the instrument cluster and cooling vents. Porsche claims that the 987 Boxster shares only 20% of its components with its predecessor, despite their being almost identical from the outside. The base engine is a 2.7 L 176 kW (240 hp) flat-6, with the Boxster S getting a 3.2 L 206 kW (280 hp) engine. The Cayman series is derived from the 987.

For the 2007 model year the base Boxster received a revised engine featuring VarioCam Plus to provide a 5 hp boost (245 hp; the same as the Cayman). The Boxster S engine was upgraded from 3.2L to 3.4L, resulting in the production of 15 more hp (295 hp; the same as the Cayman S). These upgrades made the Boxster series and the Cayman series equivalent in terms of horsepower.

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The Porsche Boxster, part 2

2007-08-22T10:57:00.000-05:00

The styling of the Boxster is owed to former "Style Porsche" department head Harm Lagaay. His Boxster design study and the production Boxster stimulated a commercial turnaround for Porsche after several difficult years of falling sales.

The first generation of the Boxster whose visual appearance was heavily inspired by the Porsche Spyder and Speedster as well as the Porsche 550 Spyder. The Boxster was released ahead of the release of its big brother, the 996 model 911. Through consultation with Toyota, Porsche greatly decreased the cost of manufacture, and introduced large scale sharing of components between its models. The 986 Boxster had the same bonnet (hood), front wings (fenders), and distinctive 'fried-egg' headlight units as the 996. Its original 2.5L M96 engine shared its architecture with the 3.4L M96 engine used in the original 996, and was the first application of a completely water-cooled engine in a series production, non-front-engined Porsche. The combination of the new Boxster / 911 styling and the reduced build costs through component sharing are widely believed to have saved Porsche from being acquired by another car company, although it is argued that the strong front-end resemblance between the 911 and the less expensive Boxster may have deterred potential buyers of the 996.

The M96 is used in all 986/987 Boxsters, and most of the 996/997 range (except the GT3/GT2 and Turbo, which are based on the GT1 racing engine). The M96 is a horizontally opposed ("flat") six-cylinder layout. This layout is one of only four common engine layouts that have a natural engine balance, the others being the straight six (as used in many of BMW's engines); the flat 12; and the V12. This gives the engine a characteristic smoothness throughout the rev range. The flat six is also an inherently low engine. Its placement immediately ahead of the rear axle offers the Boxster excellent balance, a low center of gravity, and renowned neutral handling characteristics. Early production M96 engines had a small but significant number of engine failures due to cracked cylinder liners, but since a minor redesign in 2000 these problems have been resolved.

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The Porsche Boxster

2007-08-21T12:08:00.000-05:00

The Porsche Boxster is a mid-engined roadster built by Porsche. The Boxster is Porsche's first vehicle designed from the beginning as a roadster; all previous Porsche convertibles were based on hardtop coupes.

The first-generation Boxster (the 986) was introduced in late 1996 as a 1997 model; it was powered by a 2.5 litre flat six-cylinder engine. In 2000, the new Boxster S variant was introduced with a larger 3.2 litre motor, and the base model received a more powerful 2.7 litre engine. In 2003, styling and engine output was upgraded on both variants.

In 2005, further updates were substantial enough that Porsche internally identified the Boxster as a new 987 model. The 987s were more powerful than the 986s; engine output increased yet further in 2007, when both Boxster models received the motors from the corresponding Porsche Cayman variants.

Production of the 986 began at the former Porsche 928 facility in Stuttgart, Germany in 1996. Valmet also manufactures Boxsters under contract to Porsche at a facility in Uusikaupunki, Finland. The Boxster was Porsche's biggest volume seller from its introduction in model year 1997 until the company introduced the Cayenne utility vehicle in model year 2003.

The Boxster's name is a combination of the word "boxer", referring to the vehicle's horizontally-opposed or "boxer" engine, and the word "roadster", referring to the vehicle's convertible top.

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The Porsche 968, part 2

2007-08-20T11:07:00.000-05:00

The 968's styling somewhat resembled the 928 although it looks considerably more like a blend of the Type 993 911, which did not appear until the end of the 968's production and a 944 S2. Like the 944, the 968 was sold as both a coupe and a convertible. Much of the 968's chassis was carried over from the 944S2, which in itself shared many components with the 944 Turbo (internally numbered 951). Borrowed components include the Brembo-sourced 4-piston brake calipers on all four wheels, aluminum semi-trailing arms and aluminum front A-arms, used in a Macpherson strut arrangement. The steel unibody structure was also very similar to the previous models. Porsche, however, maintained that "fully 80% of the car is new".

A street-legal race variant, dubbed Club Sport, appeared later on with a stripped-out interior including racing seats, revised suspension, and larger wheels and tyres, but was offered only in Europe. A UK-only version called 968 Sport, a Club Sport model with some comfort features added back in, was produced in 1994 and 1995. Porsche briefly produced a turbocharged version called Turbo S—15 were produced in total, and again the car was only sold in Europe. The 968 Turbo S was capable (in 1993) of 0–60 mph in 4.7 s and top speeds approaching 180 mph (290 km/h). A race variant called 968 Turbo RS was added as well; only 4 were produced.

There were approximately 2000 cabriolets and 2000 coupes imported to the United States between 1992 and 1995.

The 968 was Porsche's last new front-engined vehicle before the introduction of the Cayenne SUV in 2003. It was sold alongside the 928 GTS through 1995 when both models were dropped. As of 2006, Porsche has not yet built another front-engined sports car.

The Porsche 968 Cabriolet was featured in the 1994 film Beverly Hills Cop III starring Eddie Murphy. In the film Murphy "borrows" the car from an unsuspecting gentleman who assumed Murphy's character, Axel Foley, was a valet at the restaurant.

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The Porsche 968

2007-08-14T09:33:00.000-05:00

The Porsche 968 was an automobile sold by Porsche AG of Germany from 1992 to 1995 and marketed as the replacement for the Porsche 944. When production ceased in the 1995 model year, it represented the end of a line started almost 20 years earlier with the introduction of the Porsche 924.

The 968 actually started development as a 944 "S3", set to replace the "S2" variant that Porsche had introduced in 1989. However, so many of the 944's components were modified or replaced entirely during development stages that Porsche chose to introduce the variant as a new model, hence the 968 nameplate. Production was moved from the VW-Audi plant in Neckarsulm (where the 924 and 944 had been manufactured under contract to Porsche), to Porsche's own factory in Zuffenhausen.

The new model was powered by an updated version of the 944's straight-4 engine, now displacing 3.0 L and producing 240 PS (236 hp/177 kW). Changes to the 968's power train also included the VarioCam variable valve timing system, newly-optimized induction and exhaust systems, a dual-mass flywheel, and updated engine management electronics. The 968's engine was the second-largest 4-cylinder ever offered in a production car, and the most powerful naturally-aspirated 4-cylinder engine ever sold in a production automobile up to that time. A new 6-speed manual transmission was offered, as well as a dual-mode Tiptronic automatic.

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