Showing posts with label Misc. Auto Shows. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Misc. Auto Shows. Show all posts

Monday, December 21, 2009

Delhi Motor Show: Honda New small Car Concept Premiere


Honda has announced plans to unveil a new small car concept at the 10th Auto Expo automobile show in New Delhi on January 5. Just last week, Toyota made almost the exact same announcement and both Japanese automakers are staying mum on any actual details.


According to The Wall Street Journal, Honda's entry in the hotly-contested market of India is being referred to internally as the "New Small Concept," and while it's intended primarily for emerging markets (think: Tata Nano), the vehicle is being engineered so that it could be sold in other parts of the world.


Interestingly, in addition to the NSC, Honda will also use the Delhi Motor Show to show off its the concept version of its CR-Z hybrid (shown above), originally seen at the Tokyo Motor Show earlier this year. With brochure images already circulating of the production CR-Z, we expect to see the for-sale version premiere as soon as next month's Detroit Auto Show.


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Monday, December 14, 2009

Dubai Motor Show: Kepler Motors Motion Supercar to Debut


Dubai, UAE – December 15, 2009 - Kepler Motors, founded by World Speed Record Holder Russ Wicks, will unveil its groundbreaking MOTION supercar at the tenth annual Dubai International Motor Show, December 16-20. Infusing state-of-the-art automotive engineering and applied science materials with the latest advanced technologies, the MOTION redefines the paradigms of the supercar with unprecedented performance, style, exclusivity, safety and efficiency.


The MOTION sets a new standard with all-wheel drive Dual Powertrain Technology (DPT) which provides a combined 800 hp. Power comes from a 550 hp, modified Ford EcoBoost twin- turbo 3.5-liter V6 driving the rear wheels acting independently of a 250 hp electric motor driving the front wheels. This unique AWD system launches the MOTION to 60 mph under 2.5 seconds with a top speed over 200 mph.


"We're delighted to host the worldwide debut of the Kepler Motors MOTION at the Dubai International Motor Show," said Wicks. "The region has a passion for ultra high performance, limited edition supercars, and presents the ideal platform to showcase the advanced technology and innovative features of the MOTION."


The MOTION is developed from the ground up by a team of hand-picked design engineers, aerodynamicists, product development, and manufacturing specialists and incorporates a number of leading edge technologies such as active suspension, active aerodynamics, launch control and programmable track assistant system.

Lightweight, powerful, balanced and efficient, the MOTION features extensive use of carbon fiber composite materials for its monocoque chassis and body. The light, strong and highly impact-resistant structure provides a two-seat cabin designed to accommodate drivers of above average size, in a stylish, sophisticated and aerodynamically efficient design.


The MOTION uses StopTech's new Continuous Carbon Ceramic (C3) AeroRotors on all four wheels to ensure smooth, fade-free stopping power. Comprising silicon carbide ceramic material reinforced with long, continuous carbon fibers, the unique C3 brake rotor material offers greater mechanical durability and unique heat transfer capabilities when compared to competitive carbon-ceramic rotors.


As only 50 MOTIONs will ever be produced, ownership will go to a small, exclusive and elite group of individuals. Each vehicle will be hand assembled and deliveries will start in 2011.
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Wednesday, December 9, 2009

Donkervoort D8 GT will race its first 24 hour-race in Dubai


Donkervoort Racing ready to race in the 24 Hours of Dubai with special 24-Hours edition of the D8 GT

Lelystad, 8 December 2009 – After obtaining the vice-championship in the FIA GT4 European Cup and the guest race in the Dutch GT4, Donkervoort Racing will participate in the 24 Hours of Dubai in January of 2010. This will be the very first 24-hour race for the Donkervoort D8 GT, which was introduced in 2007 and has been racing since 2008. With the brand new and specially developed 24-hour edition of the D8 GT, famous Dutch race car driver Peter Kox and European GT4 driver Nico Pronk (CH), Stéphane Wintenberger (F) and Denis Donkervoort (NL) will race in this challenging long-distance race on January 14, 15 and 16 at the ultra-modern Dubai Autodrome.


New developments
All developments and experiences gained during the FIA GT4 European Cup are incorporated into the brand new Donkervoort D8GT(4) 2010. The brake- as well as the fuel system have, among others, been adjusted. However, the adapted hybrid chassis/body with carbon fiber sandwich panels combined with the existing tubular frame construction maybe is the most noteworthy adjustment. Furthermore, the aerodynamics underneath the car were further improved for extra down force. It has resulted in a new rear-diffuser, which has influenced the entire look of the rear of the car at the same time. All in all, these technical innovations have attributed to high expectations for the Donkervoort Racing team for the upcoming 24-hour race in Dubai.


Donkervoort Events
Naturally, Donkervoort Events will also use this special occasion to offer its customers a variety of additional attractive possibilities during and directly after this 24-hour event.

This exciting race-event offers a unique opportunity for Donkervoort-drivers as well as Donkervoort Events customers. Solely as a Donkervoort-supporter or combined with other business objectives, these guests will cheer on the Donkervoort race team and get an exclusive 'inside' look during the race with among others a Meet & Greet with Peter Kox, listening along with the on-board radio contact during the race and access to the Donkervoort VIP Lounge.


But the stay-at-homes are not forgotten either. For in the months of February, March and April the Donkervoort 24 Hour Experience will be offered in the factory in Lelystad (in a limited number). Accompanied by Dutch TV-presenter Bert van den Dool, groups as well as companies will be provided an exclusive look behind the scenes of Donkervoort during the races. Through film-, photo- and on-board footage, but also through live-interviews with one of the race drivers and the head of engineering of Donkervoort Racing, guests will get a unique on the excitement, atmosphere and experiences during the 24 Hours of Dubai 2010.


Source:Donkervoort

Saturday, November 28, 2009

speedART presents the PS9 – based on the new Porsche Panamera


Power kits (just for Turbo engine):
Power kits with 520, 550, 600 and 650 hp up to 890 Nm consits of bigger turbo chargers and intercoolers (just 600 + 650 hp), sport exhaust with sound switch, sport catalysts, sport air filter and ECU update. The 650 hp car accelerates in 3.5 seconds from 0 – 62 mph and the top speed is over 200 mph.

Brakes:
Sport brake system with modular 380 mm discs and 6 piston brake calipers


Sound:
- sport exhaust systems; optional with sound switch control
- sport catalyst (OBD2-compliant) for impressive 8 cylinder sound and more power and torque
- different design twin tail pipes, polished or matt black


Aerodynamic:
fully CAD designed body kit consists of:
- front chin spoiler for more downforce with integrated brake cooling system
- engine hood air outlets
- rear diffuser for enhanced down force and a very sportive design
- rear bumper with air outlets on the side to give the back a racy look and to interrupt the big curves of the factory-provided back
- side skirts for a wide body look
- rear spoiler on rear bonnet for optimized downforce and an impressive styling


Wheels:
- speedART designed three-pieces forged wheel in 22" with 23" center star, type „LSC FORGED" in 9,5 + 11 x 22" with 265/35 and 305/25 ZR22" tyres, many colored versions available


Interior:
- upholstered sport steering wheel with F1-shift paddles (available in 340 mm and 365 mm with aluminium-, wood- or carbon inlays)
- real-carbon body trim in special colours
- colored stiches on door panels and seats (many colors availiable)
- instrument dial plates (many colors availiable)
- design floor mats
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Friday, November 27, 2009

Misc. Auto Shows: 9ff SPEED9


9ff Fahrzeugtechnik in Dortmund / Germany is proud to present the new 9ff Speed9. Beside ours already known "world record car" from our vehicle and refining manufacture, the 9ff GT9 (world's fastest street legal car, top speed 409 km/h, put up on the April, 10th, 2008 in Papenburg / Germany) we now introduce with the new 9ff Speed9 our second independent complete vehicle.

Besides, the new 9ff Speed9 stands completely in the tradition of the legendary Porsche 356 / 1500S Speedster (1955) and the later small series of the Porsche911 Speedster (1989) as well as Porsche 964 Speedster (1993). The new 9ff Speed9 interprets the typical design elements of the Speedster, shortened windscreen as well as an emphatically level vehicle silhouette in a quite new and independent manner. The 9ff Speed9 aerodynamics package, consisting of front apron, rear apron as well as beautifully designed sideskirts underlines the sporty optics of the 9ff Speed9 and optimizes the handling characteristics of this amazing car.

In combination with 9ff typical optimization of the engine technology and chassis technology proves an unforgettable driving experience.


The 9ff Speed9 Bi Turbo engine generates 650 HP / 478 kW and delivers his torque strong as an ox of 890 nm with 2.850 1/min. This is reached by the 9ff F650 VTG turbochargers, 100 cells sports catalytic converter as well as the 9ff stainless steel exhaust manifolds.

Other measures like the 9ff sports air fi lter, the 9ff ECU upgrade and the 9ff sports exhaust system „Speed9 edition" grow the engine on proud 650 HP and 890 nm of torque. The powerful engine will leave open no acceleration wishes and leads in combination with the chassis specially conceived for 9ff Speed9 to a unique driving experience.


The demanding chassis, consisting of adjustable stabilizers in front axle and rear axle, double springs and 4 aluminum spring plates, support sportily ambitious driving. Besides, one can count at any time on the 9ff brake system consists of 380 mm Compound brake discs in combination with the 6-pistons calipers and 9ff brake pads.

The cockpit fascinates by his exquisite and sporty atmosphere. Perfectly sports-car feeling by a dashboard completely upholstered with Alcantara and door interior trim which is lined with a noble combination of Alcantara and leather. Special 9ff Speed9 sports seats and the 9ff sports steering wheel, by choice of the gear variation „Tiptronic" of course with integrated Paddel-Shifts, are components of the interior design. Particularly in the area of the interior creation we realize with pleasure individual and specific customer wishes.


Our 9ff Speed9 is available as a complete vehicle, as well as a rebuilding order on the basis of a Porsche 997 Turbo. In any case, it is a completely unusual vehicle with a special charisma and persuasive road performance and handling characteristics.

Convince yourselves. On „Essen Motor show", Germany from the 28th of November, 2009 to the 6th of December, 2009 the latest product from the house 9ff is presented for the first time to a wide public.

You will fi nd us in the VDAT booth, exhibition hall 10, booth 304.
We are looking forward to see you!


** Porsche and Tiptronic are registered brands Dr. Ing. h.c. F. Porsche AG

9ff Speed9 Bi-Turbo
• 650 HP / 478 kW, 890 Nm
• 9ff sport-exhaust system
• 100cell sport metal catalytic converter
• 9ff exhaust manifolds
• 9ff intercoolers
• 9ff 650 VTG Turbochargers
• Sport air fi lter
• 9ff ECU Upgrade

Exterior
• 9ff „Speed9" Design
• 9ff „Speed9 Aerodynamic" consists of:
• 9ff frontspoiler
• 9ff sideskirts
• 9ff rearspoiler

Interior
• complete 9ff Alcantara / Leather Interior design
• 9ff steering wheel (Paddle Shift with Tiptronic)
• 9ff Speed9 design seats
• Alcantara dash board
• Alcantara / Leather door trim
• 9ff „Speed9" roll cage
• 9ff design instruments with 400km/h display Wheels
• 9ff 19" center-lock wheels
• front 8,5" x 19" - 235/35-ZR 19
• rear 11,0 x 19" - 295/30-ZR 19

Gear Sox
• 6 shift Porsche PDK transmission or
• Tiptronic available

Brakes
• 2 FR Compound discs 380x32mm
• 2 FR 6-pistons callipers
• 1 special set braking pads
• 2 Rear Compound discs 380mm x 28mm Chassis
• adjustable PASH shock absorbers
• coil over springs with adaptors
• aluminium spring plates

Roof
• Softtop and
• Hardtop available
Source:9ff

Monday, November 23, 2009

All-new sporty and dynamic Kia Cadenza makes its debut


'Big step into the future' for Kia's masculine and luxurious sedan
290 ps V6 gasoline engine, plus 6-speed automatic
High-tech features such as 'Welcome' system, cabin mood lighting, keyless entry, engine 'start' button and RPAS reversing sensors

(Seoul) November 24, 2009 – The all-new Kia Cadenza luxury sporty sedan revealed in Korea today (where it is called the K7), will be a 'big step into the future' for Kia when it goes on worldwide sale next year. New Cadenza will make its overseas world premiere at next month's Riyadh Motor Show in Saudi Arabia on 12 December, followed immediately by an appearance at the Dubai Motor Show on 15 December.

The Cadenza name is derived from an Italian musical term used to describe an elaborate, ornamental flourish for a concerto or aria. It perfectly symbolizes the dynamic sedan's striking design philosophy and upscale image. The 4965 mm long Cadenza will take over the role of large luxury sedan for the Kia marque from the 10-year old Opirus ('Amanti' in some markets) and is destined to totally transform Kia's sales performance in the D2 segment.


"With the Cadenza, we have created an all-new, large sedan that will revitalize Kia's fortunes thanks to its exciting appearance, strong performance and luxurious cabin which will guarantee a much broader consumer appeal, attracting thousands of new customers to our brand," commented Mr Hyoung-Keun Lee, President, Kia Motors Corporation.

Under the direction of Kia's Chief Design Officer (CDO), Peter Schreyer, the large sedan design team in Korea was determined to transform every aspect of the brand's range-topping model, to deliver sporty and sleek styling, agile and dynamic performance, exceptional comfort and refinement and competitive high-tech features.

A 'big step into the future' for Kia's sophisticated design

The design team targeted 'stand-out' looks with modernity, while incorporating Kia's evolving design DNA to ensure the new large sedan boasts an appearance that will humble potential rivals. Last April, the team's KND-5 concept car at the Seoul Motor Show revealed just how revolutionary Kia's new large sedan was going to be.


"Our new sedan looks masculine and luxurious," comments Peter Schreyer. "Today, people recognize a Kia at first sight: well balanced proportions, flowing greenhouse and dynamic window graphic plus the big wheels, give this car its confident stance, dignity and elegant personality. The distinctive 'tiger nose' front with its signature grille and headlights are evidence of Kia's new self-confidence. Kia Cadenza is a big step into the future – another quantum leap for Kia," concludes Schreyer.

The traditional three-box sedan shape was retained, but was morphed into a more flowing design with an aerodynamic Cd of just 0.29. The innovative treatment of light is a constant design theme. At the front, second-generation LED position lights are used to define the width of the car and the shape of the headlamps. At the rear, the combination lamp clusters also feature LED position lights which, together with the dual mufflers integrated into the bumper, enhance the new Cadenza's sporty appearance. As an option, a full-length three-part glass Panoramic Roof will be available.


Contemporary looks, premium quality and a unique ambience

Inside, the new Cadenza is every bit as stylish and sophisticated as the exterior promises. The interior is dominated by the treatment of the futuristic 'floating' dashboard that highlights Kia's innovative design approach.

A 'welcome' system turns on the exterior puddle and interior lights to 'greet' the car owner, while the interior mood lighting strip, which runs across the two-tier dashboard and all around the door trims, creates a warm ambience within the vehicle. An additional large mood lamp, which runs down the center of the cabin ceiling, is available.

Dual-zone climate control air-conditioning is standard, and other high-tech 'comfort & convenience' features include keyless entry and an engine 'start' button, RPAS reversing sensors, a reversing safety camera with interior mirror display screen and a powered extension for the driver's seat cushion.

Although New Cadenza is shorter than the Opirus, the extended wheelbase (up by 45 mm to 2845 mm), additional exterior width and more compact rear suspension, come together to ensure that the interior offers occupants more space than the old model.

Less weight, more performance and better fuel-economy for new sedan

Kia's new front-wheel drive 'Type-N' platform makes its first appearance in Cadenza and will be utilized in other Kia models in the future. The lighter (and stronger) bodyshell, together with all-new suspension systems, helped Cadenza to achieve a weight loss of up to 130 kg, compared with the previous Opirus – even though the new model has numerous additional features.

As part of Kia's drive to increase sales in the large sedan segment, the new Cadenza will be manufactured with a total of three gasoline engines – with different engines being available around the world to best suit local legal requirements. Power outputs will range from 165 ps to 290 ps and all models will feature front-wheel drive and Kia's all-new six-speed automatic transmission.

Driving up sales and market share with an all-new product

"Despite the current global economic uncertainties, we are confident that the new Kia Cadenza will substantially increase Kia's share of this segment in Korea and around the world," concluded President Lee.

Manufacturing of the new Cadenza sedan will start at Kia's Hwasung facility in this month for the domestic market and in January 2010 for export markets. Export sales in the General Markets* (excluding North America and Europe), will begin during March 2010 and in China in June 2010.


TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS [ EXPORT MARKETS ] - NOVEMBER 2009

New Kia Cadenza

Body & Chassis
Four-door, five-seater sedan, with all-steel unitary construction bodyshell. Powered by transversely-mounted V6 gasoline engine driving the front wheels.

Engine
3.5-litre / 290 ps [ Middle East & General Markets ]
Type 'Lambda II' Quad-OHC, six-cylinder in V, with dual CVVT
Max power 290 ps (213 kW) @ 6600 rpm
Max torque 338 Nm (34.5 kg.m) @ 5000 rpm

Transmission
Automatic 6-sp with fully auto & sequential manual modes

Suspension & Damping
Front Fully independent by MacPherson Struts.
Rear Fully independent by Multi-Link rear axle.

Steering
Type Hydraulic power-assisted rack and pinion
Gearing 2.94 turns lock-to-lock with 11.08 metres turning circle

Brakes
Front / Rear 300 x 28 mm ventilated discs / 284 x 10 mm solid discs


Wheels & Tyres
Standard LX Alloy 16 in x 6.5J 215/65 R16 tires
Standard EX* Alloy 17 in x 7.0J 225/55 R17 tires
*Optional on LX

DIMENSIONS
Exterior (mm)
Overall length 4965 Overall width* 1850
Overall height 1475 Wheelbase 2845

Capacities
Fuel tank 70 litres Luggage (SAE) 451 litres

Weights (kg)
Curb weight (min.) 1575 Gross weight 2065

Performance
Top speed / kph 230 0-to-100 kph (sec) 7.2

Fuel Economy
Combined cycle 9.36 (litres / 100 km)*
CO2 223 g/km*
*Manufacturer's estimated figure
Source:Kia

Saturday, November 21, 2009

Spyker relocating vehicle assembly to the UK


Spyker Cars N.V., manufacturer of exclusive premium sports cars, announces today that it will relocate vehicle assembly to its supplier, CPP (Manufacturing) Ltd, UK.

By relocating its assembly lines from Zeewolde to Coventry, Spyker will achieve considerable improvements in efficiency and substantial cost-reductions. The relocation is expected to be completed by the end of this year.


Of the 135 Spyker employees in the Netherlands, approximately 45 jobs will be directly affected. A full social plan will be prepared in consultation with the trade unions, and Spyker will work with the trade unions to assist the employees concerned in finding a new job. Engineering, Corporate staff functions, Sales, After-Sales, Marketing and "Spyker Squadron", the company's Works' GT race team, will remain in Zeewolde. Management will continue its efforts to reduce costs and further headcount reduction may not be excluded.

Victor R. Muller, CEO of Spyker Cars stated: "In these challenging times, a small manufacturer like Spyker has to find ways to reduce costs as well as improve its efficiency. By relocating vehicle assembly to CPP (Manufacturing), which was Spyker's very first contracting partner at the inception of our company in 2000 and has been one of our most trusted partners ever since, we secure the future of our business".


"With approximately half of our vehicles' parts and components sourced in the UK, and virtually all key suppliers being located there, moving closer to our suppliers and engineering partners will result in substantial savings and tangible efficiency improvements".

"We realise that jobs will be affected in the Netherlands but we believe this move is necessary under the current economic circumstances and is in the best interest of the company and all of its stakeholders," he added.


Brendan O'Toole, Managing Director of CPP (Manufacturing), stated: "We have worked closely with Spyker since 2000 when we built their very first prototype chassis, and have grown with Spyker to become one of the leading low-volume manufacturers in the industry. We will maintain the highest standards of quality in the assembly of Spyker vehicles, while at the same time achieving significant cost reductions and operational efficiencies for Spyker".
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Wednesday, November 18, 2009

New Racing Version for International GT Sport


Stuttgart. Following the Porsche 911 GT3 Cup, Dr. Ing. h.c. F. Porsche AG, Stuttgart, is entering yet another racing car in the 2010 motorsport season: The 911 GT3 R will be raced in series based on the international FIA GT3 regulations, thus succeeding the 911 GT3 Cup S. The main focus in developing this new model was on even better drivability and even easier handling.

The 911 GT3 R is powered by a four-litre six-cylinder boxer engine delivering maximum output of 480 bhp (353 kW) transmitted to the rear axle by a sequential six-speed dog gearbox.


The starting point in developing the 911 GT3 R weighing just 1,200 kg or 2,646 lb was the Porsche 911 GT3 Cup presented in September for one-make cup racing. Thanks to its increase in engine size by 0.2 litres, the GT3 R offers 30 bhp more than the Cup model. Both cars are based on the extra-wide body of the 911 GT3 RS street-legal sports car.

An anti-lock brake system (ABS), traction control and an e-gas with "throttle-blip" function make it much easier to get used to this new GT3 racing car than its predecessor, meaning that the new model is also more appropriate for the ambitious amateur racing driver.


Flared wheel arches added on to the body both front and rear bear clear testimony to the wider track than on the former model. And like all second-generation versions of the 911, the new 911 GT3 R also comes with striking LED rear light clusters.

The Porsche 911 GT3 R is making its world debut on 14 January 2010 at the Birmingham Motor Show. The car is built by Porsche's Motorsport Department at the Weissach Development Centre and will be delivered to Customer Teams the world over as of spring 2010. The base price of the Porsche 911 GT3 R is 279,000 euros plus local sales tax/VAT.
Source: Porsche

Friday, October 16, 2009

Noble founder working on new 650-horsepower supercar?


Like the Noble M12, it will be built in South Africa, and like the newer Noble M600, it will incorporate a Graziano six-speed manual. But Lee says he wants to learn from what he calls previous mistakes and keep production numbers low, amounting to a maximum of 100 units each year. Beyond that, Lee says his new project will offer between 400 and 650 horsepower, weigh less than 1200 kg (2,645 pounds) and cost no more than £100,000 (~$160k) even in top spec. That's one hell of a compelling package, and we can't wait to see what it can do.


Lee Noble may be known best for his eponymous sportscar firm, but the British designer has experience that extends beyond the small company that bears his name. Before forming Noble Automotive, he penned such greats as the Ascari Ecosse and the record-setting Ultima GTR, to say nothing of the Rossion Q1 and Salica GT spawned from his design. Now he's sold his company and is going it alone once again with a new initiative, details of which have just begun to emerge.


The guru of small-batch supercars has yet to give his new project a name, but you can expect the format to follow the same formula as his previous works. That means a lightweight, mid-engine frame with a minimum of electronic nannies.


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Sunday, August 16, 2009

Monterey 2009: The Aston Martin One-77 is an overdose of "low and mean"


We found the Aston Martin One-77 tucked between hospitality tables like a manta ray brooding within a coral reef -- as if it were grudgingly consenting to being looked at. With a roofline that sits about four inches lower than a DBS, the minimal height and exceptional girth combine with a slew of pronounced features to create one angry car.


Yet it does possess its moments of soft beauty: the engine bay is a case of stupendous craftsmanship and the carbon fiber rear suspension weaving its way through leather-trimmed panels is nothing short of delicious. Inside, the car is minutely detailed, and everything other than the white-backed center console gauges elicits a "Yes" from our hearts. Even better: there's still time to get one.


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Monterey 2009: Spyker C8 Aileron Spyder debuts

01-spyker-c8-aileron-spyder-live

Based off the all-new Aileron that debuted at the Geneva Motor Show earlier this year (replacing the original C8 after a successful nine-year run), the Spyder version stays true to its predecessor with a frameless windshield and a flowing profile that doesn't disrupt the more angular, aircraft-inspired theme of the coupe.

03-spyker-c8-aileron-spyder-live

Like the original C8, Spyker developed the Aileron to be a convertible from the onset, so little if any modifications have been made to ready the Spyder for drop-top duty. The chassis carries over unchanged, as does the drivetrain – an Audi-sourced 400+ hp 4.2-liter with a choice of either a six-speed manual or automatic gearbox (with paddle shifters) – along with the massive AP brakes and 19-inch Aeroblade wheels. And if the inside of the Aileron wasn't enough of a masterpiece to begin with, Spyker has teamed up with ultra-high-end stereo purveyors Kharma to offer a new infotainment system that will add another level of excess to the already excessive interior. Expect sales to begin later this, with around 50 percent of all Spyders winding up on U.S. shores.

04-spyker-c8-aileron-spyder-live

Spyker deals in the ultimate four-wheeled fashion accessories, so it's fitting that the automaker debuted it's next-generation drop-top – the C8 Aileron Spyder – to the primped and bedazzled throngs in Monterey.

06-spyker-c8-aileron-spyder-live

Ahead of the CNC-machined aluminum luggage rack and integrated roll-bars, a tonneau cover houses a soft-top (available in eight colors) and glass window that's deployed using an electric/hydraulic system and latched with a single mechanism.

07-spyker-c8-aileron-spyder-live

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Sunday, August 2, 2009

Meadowbrook Concours 2009: 1967 Ferrari Dino 206 Competizione by Pininfarina


The name James Glickenhaus should be familiar to Autoblog readers. He is, of course, the gentlemen who commissioned the marvelous Enzo-derived Ferrari P4/5 several years ago. He's also the kind of wealthy car collector who most, if not all members, of Autoblog would choose to be in that alternate universe where we are all wealthy car collectors.


That is to say, Glickenhaus doesn't just squirrel away his incredibly rare cars in a climate-controlled warehouse; he takes 'em out an drives 'em as God (and the Italians) intended.


One of Glickenhaus's more recent acquisitions is the 1967 Ferrari Dino 206 Competizione by Pininfarina. The diminutive gull-wing concept was built by Ferrari and its styling partner Pininfarina in 1967 as a design study and an experiment in aerodynamics. It was never intended for production, but lessons learned from it were eventually applied to other cars.


The Dino 206 Competizione lived in the Pininfarina museum for more than three decades until 2007 when, after several years of pestering, the design house finally agreed to sell it to Glickenhaus.


It won best in class here at Meadow Brook against some strong competition, including Glickenhaus's own 1967 Ferrari 330 P3/4 Spyder and a wonderful Austin Healey 3000. And yes, Glickenhaus told us he drives this one-of-a-kind machine regularly.
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