Nissan GT-R Stage 2 By Jotech Motorsports

Posted on 12.30.2012 12:00 by Aravind

For those who think the 942-horsepower Nissan GT-R Stage 5 by Jotech is a bit too much to handle, the tuner has just finished a project on a GT-R sporting a more restrained Stage 2 kit.

The Stage 2 kit is for owners who want to have some fun tearing the streets while not being as crazy and impractical to drive as its Stage 5 sibling, though we wouldn't exactly call it "civilized." With the Stage 2 kit bringing 735-horsepower to the table, it still packs a mean punch and shames its European rivals horribly.

The Jotech GT-R is able to pump such power thanks to a more open and efficient breathing system. The custom exhaust and intake system includes GReddy stainless-steel resonated mid-pipe, stainless-steel downpipes, GReddy 94 mm titanium exhaust, and 3-inch aluminum air intakes with attached K&N air filters.

The engine management system also gets a shakeup with the map-switching capabilities of the Cob AccessPort and a custom Jotech Dyno/Street Tune by Kenny Tran. Finally, the fuel management system receives upgraded fuel injectors, HKS twin fuel pumps and HKS Iridium spark plugs.

Don't expect any exterior modifications, as this kit has none, but the GT-R's stock look is good enough for us. Actually, it's more fun when onlookers don't know that a beast is lurking under the simple exterior.

For people looking to extract an extra 205 horses out of that twin-turbo 3.8-liter V-6 engine, you'll have to shell out $10,250, which we think is well worth the money if you're looking to burn your next-door neighbor's Lamborghini or Ferrari.

Zero DS ZF6

Posted on 12.30.2012 12:56 by Sulthoni , Serafim

With every year that passes the electric motorcycles gain more and more terrain and in the latest years they managed to be more successful than ever.

The motorcycle is propelled by a highly efficient air-cooled, DC Axial Flux Permanent Magnet motor which is powered by a set of Lithium-Ion Intelligent Power Pack batteries with a life expectancy of from 34,000 to 70,000 miles. The normal recharge time is ranging from two to four hours, but there are also available optional quick charge units which can cut the required recharge time approximately in half. The battery charging may be accomplished via either standard 110V or 220V outlets and the costs of recharging are ranging from $0.21 up to $0.48.

The motorcycle's suspension was especially developed for off road riding, so it can deal with any type of terrain without any problems.

Among the features offered by the motorcycle you'll find a locking front fork assembly, ignition key and high performance compound brake pads.

Hit the jump for more information on the Zero DS ZF6.

Zero DS ZF6 originally appeared on topspeed.com on Sunday, 30 December 2012 12:56 EST.

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Official: 604hp Porsche 993 GT2 Turbo 3.6 Widebody MC600 by Mcchip-dkr

Just like the successor of the 964, the Porsche 993 is the latest model of the classical 911 equipped with boxer engine and air cooling system. Mcchip-dkr company from the North Rhine-Westphalian Mechernich decided to rebuild a Porsche 993 GT2 for one of the closest customers.

Before assembly of the engine, the vehicle was completely gutted and brought the newest state of technology. The Porsche 993 GT2 Turbo 3.6 Widebody MC600, as it is now called, features one 3.6 liter bi-turbo engine with a new engine block and rebuilt K26 turbochargers, designed by one of our partner companies – P TZ Motorsport.

The limited-slip differential comes from Drexler company in Salzweg. 604hp is the start line for usual professional software and maximum torque reaches up to 847Nm. The exhaust system including sport catalysts is produced by CarGraphic. From the same place also come RS rims sizing 10×18 inches on the front and 13×18 inches on the rear axle. Likewise, there is also a KW racing suspension Competition Variant 3 installed.

In the interior of the Porsche besides the safety cage there are also pole position bucket seats by Recaro. Door- and other interior panels are made of carbon. The Stack display is equipped with data recording and a video system. And finally, there is a shift-throw reduction to the shifter and a fire extinguisher has been fitted.

Over 800 hours of work was done and the construction cost were 200,000.

Video: Ferrari 458 Italia Exhaust Note Recorded by GoPro Hero 3

The roaring 4.5 liter V8 engine fitted to the Ferrari 458 Italia redlines at a barely-believable 9,000rpm and produces one of the most intoxicating exhaust notes found on any supercar ever produced.

And in order to capture this exhaust note in its fullest, NM2255 on YouTube fitted a very special red 458 Italia with two GoPro HD Hero 3 cameras.

One is mounted on the rear bumper pointed directly towards the exhausts, while the remaining GoPro is fitted just above the driver's shoulder. It's definitely worth a watch!

Lincoln could develop Mustang-based coupe

Posted on 12.26.2012 20:00 by Simona

We have heard all kind of crazy stuff in the past few months, but this one is by far one of the craziest. It's no secret that Lincoln is working to bring its fame back, but could the company indeed be planning a rear-wheel-drive sports coupe based on the Ford Mustang platform?

Apparently yes, at least according to FordInsideNews, who reports that Lincoln is preparing such a model as a "last chance" effort for the company. The model will be initially announced in late 2015 and it will be a 2016 or 2017 model year.

If the rumors are true, the model will feature a slightly larger wheelbase when compared to the Mustang and will be offered with a 2.9-liter EcoBoost V6 engine — a member of the company's Nano engine family.

This new model is currently being developed only as a coupe, but rumors suggest that Lincoln is also considering a rear-wheel drive flagship sedan also based on the next-generation Mustang platform too.

No one is sure what name this coupe will carry, but a Mark Series name seems to be the right one.

We'll keep an eye on this one, as Lincoln is inching closer to the do-or-die phase of its lifespan.

Lincoln could develop Mustang-based coupe originally appeared on topspeed.com on Wednesday, 26 December 2012 20:00 EST.

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Alfa Romeo Sneakily Teases the 4C

Posted on 12.26.2012 20:00 by Justin Cupler

We have all been patiently awaiting more information on the spiritual successor to the 8C Competizione, the Alfa Romeo 4C, but Alfa has kept its information pretty close to its vest. Finally, after much speculation and wondering as to whether this much-anticipated model would ever actually see the light of day, it has been confirmed. Well, sort of.

Alfa has released an image that announces that the Car to end all cars is nigh," which we can only assume points to the 4C's official release. The image also alludes to the fact that this new ride will roll into showrooms sometime in 2013, so the wait will soon be over!

Now, the question remains whether the 4C will make its debut before June and be a 2013 model year in the U.S., or will it arrive a little later as a 2014 model year. There are many more questions surrounding the 4C as well, like what engine will it feature? The concept model featured a relatively modest, yet powerful enough, 1,750 cc four-banger and we wouldn't be surprised to see this 200-plus-horsepower powerplant make its way to production.

We'll keep you updated on its exact debut date once Alfa releases it from its cold, dead fingers... Yeah, Alfa Romeo has no issue keeping secrets.

2014 Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG could get a new V8 4.0-liter turbo

2014 Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG spy photo 05.12.2012 / Automedia

From 450 hp to 600 hp

Reports are indicating the next-gen Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG might get an all-new V8 4.0-liter turbo engine.

The current model is powered by a naturally-aspirated V8 6.3-liter engine producing 450 hp (336 kW), but it could be replaced by a smaller V8 4.0-liter turbocharged engine that will be used in the upcoming SLC. The power unit is set to deliver 450 hp (335 kW) in its standard form but it can generate as much as 600 hp (447 kW).

This engine will also serve as a replacement for the naturally-aspirated V8 5.5-liter in the SLK55 AMG. Aside from the new engine, the 2014 Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG will be offered in RWD and AWD versions, as well as a right-hand drive model.

Honda Accord Coupe 2013

The 2013 Honda Accord Coupe's styling is expressive, sophisticated and premium. Starting in the front, a bold new grille imparts a distinctive and dynamic tension that complements the powerful look of the hood's multiple styling lines. A strong side character line flows through the door handles and flares upward toward the rear of the vehicle to further convey a sense of motion. A deep contour in the rocker panel firmly grounds its visual presence to the road and smartly turns upward to convey a sporty attitude. In the back, the inward slope where the fenders taper into the trunk and C-pillars is designed to convey a powerful, athletic stance from the rear.

Chrysler 300 Motown Edition 2013

Chrysler has announced a new special edition, the 300 Motown Edition in advance of its world premiere at the 2013 North American International Auto Show next month. The new model pays tribute to "the Motor City’s resurgence and determination through Detroit-born style and world-class ingenuity The new 300 Motown Edition will go on sale in the spring of 2013 at a starting price of $32,995.

The Chrysler brand is continuing to build upon the heart, soul and the passion of Detroit with a new 60-second commercial titled “Who We Are.” The commercial showcases the new 2013 Chrysler 300 Motown Edition and features legendary Motown founder and Detroit native Berry Gordy.

The Chrysler 300 Motown features a segment-exclusive ZF eight-speed automatic transmission paired with its award-winning 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6 engine for best-in-class V-6 fuel efficiency with up to an EPA estimated 31 highway mpg. With 292 horsepower on tap and a state-of-the-art transmission design, the Chrysler 300 Motown delivers world-class precision and refinement.

Audi Lane Cross Coupe Concept 2013

The 2013 Audi Lane Cross Coupe is a dual-mode hybrid concept which features an innovative and efficient plug-in hybrid drive based on a specially developed 1.5L three-cylinder TDI and two electric motors with a Fuel consumption of just 1.1L per 100km (213 mpg) and CO2 emissions of just 26 grams per km.

Lincoln MKC

Posted on 12.20.2012 13:00 by Simona

Rumors about a possible smaller Lincoln crossover are being circulating for quite some time now, and now it has been confirmed that Lincoln will be unveiling a first concept version at the 2013 Detroit Auto Show. The model is rumored to be called MKC and will be based on the same platform as the Ford Escape.

This will be just one of the four new Lincoln plans to launch between now and 2014 - next to a new MKZ, a new version of the larger MKS and the replacement for the Navigator SUV. The MKC will share most of its design elements with the recently announced MKZ, including the new horizontal grille. Under the hood Lincoln will be offering several different powertrain options, almost certainly including the Ford 2.0-liter EcoBoost and a smaller 1.6-liter turbocharged EcoBoost.

The model will go on sale sometime in 2014 and will take on models like Buick Encore and BMW X1.

Note: 2013 Lincoln MKZ pictured here.

Lincoln MKC originally appeared on topspeed.com on Thursday, 20 December 2012 13:00 EST.

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Chrysler 300 Motown Edition

Posted on 12.20.2012 14:00 by Simona

Chrysler has announced the launch of the special 300 Motown Edition - a new model that pays tribute to "the Motor City's resurgence and determination through Detroit-born style and world-class ingenuity." The new 300 Motown Edition will go on sale in the spring of 2013 at a starting price of $32,995.

On the exterior the new special edition will be identified by bright chrome front and rear fascia accents, mirror caps, door handles and daylight-opening surround. Mopar has added is special bright chrome grille with seven sculpted horizontal blades and a new set of 20" polished "heritage" design aluminum wheels. Customers can choose between four exterior colors: Bright White, Gloss Black, Deep Cherry Red and new Jazz Blue, each of them combined with black "Motown" fender badges.

For the interior Chrysler has combined a black trim environment with leather seats in Pearl White Nappa leather featuring "Motown" logo on the front seat-backs. The center stack, instrument panel, steering wheel, gauge cluster and door panel elements are being offered in Piano Black and as a contrasting element Chrysler added authentic Black Olive Ash wood trim and satin silver finished accents.

Under the hood the model keeps the usual 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6 engine with an output of 292 horsepower and combined with a ZF eight-speed automatic transmission.

Chrysler 300 Motown Edition originally appeared on topspeed.com on Thursday, 20 December 2012 14:00 EST.

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Render: Rolls-Royce Jonckheere Aerodynamic Coupe II by Ugur Sahin

Automotive designer Ugur Sahin recently created an updated and futuristic version of the Rolls-Royce Jonckheere Aerodynamic Coupe originally created back in 1935.

Jonckheere Works in Belgium were the geniuses behind the original car and although Jonckheere is only just surviving, Ugur Sahin was given the call to reinvigorate the car and help bring it into the 21st century.

The overall shape of the Rolls Royce Jonckheere has been maintained into Sahin's latest creation, but some modern elements have also been implemented including the larger front grille and LED daytime-running lights up front.

Similarly, new taillights have been implemented in this styling exercise, and despite these relatively small changes and the slight modifications to the stance and shape of the car, the car is relatively unchanged yet still manages to look futuristic in 2012.

Ugur Sahin is currently looking for investors to help him create an one-off concept, so if you're interested be sure to get in contact with him!

2013 Chevrolet Corvette ZR1 Sets New Laguna Seca lap Record

Even before the SRT Viper GTS was introduced, we knew that SRT wanted to create a supercar to compete with Chevrolet's most powerful and fastest production car ever made, the Corvette ZR1.

However, the rather outdated Covette ZR1 has already got an upper hand over the new Viper, after Motor Trend tester and pro racing driver, Randy Pobst thrashed the ZR1 around Laguna Seca in just 1:33.70, eclipsing the previous record set by Chris Winkler of 1:33.99 in a 2010 Dodge Viper ACR.

However, when Pobst was put into the SRT Viper GTS in the same conditions, he could only achieve a 1:35.77 almost a full two seconds behind the ZR1. Even though the new Viper was slower than the ZR1, its lap time also puts it above the Ferrari 458 Italia, Lexus LFA and even the Nissan GT-R.

This result prompted none other than SRT boss Ralph Gilles to claim state “There is a lot more left in the car, Randy has always struggled with the Viper”. “We’ve tested both cars at several tracks and never seen a gap like that. Many drivers needlessly fear the Viper," he concluded.

Hopefully Motor Trend will release a video of the laps in the coming weeks.

BMW F10 5-Series on 20 Inch SM7 Strasse Forged Wheels

Wheels manufacturer from Florida Strasse Forged fitted a BMW 5 Series F10 with their SM7 concave wheels.

The three-piece lightweight wheels with aerospace precise forging come in brushed centers, hidden hardware option, chrome lips and silver inner barrels all complementing the white body.

The wheels size 20×9 inches up front and 20×10.5 inches outback. Strasse Forged then finished off with a photoshoot revealing the BMW's new stance as shown below.