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Lincoln Model KBy 1938 sales of 'big' Lincolns had slowed significantly; only 416 cars were sold that year - spread among 20 body styles from the factory as well as custom body builders.
This is one of only 15 LeBaron convertible sedans sold by Lincoln in 1938. Most significantly, this car is unrestored, with just over 39,000 original miles showing!
Most of the LeBaron convertible sedans were built on Lincoln's long, 145-inch wheelbase chassis, with a division window. Price new was $6,000.
Power was supplied by Lincoln's venerable 414 cubic-inch V-12 that developed 150 horsepower.
One of the Highlights from 2008Incorporating the engineering experience already found in the Corvette Z06's LS7 engine and the new-for-2008 6.2L LS3 of the Corvette, GM Powertain is targeting 100 horsepower per liter for the LS9, or 620 horsepower (462 kW), and approximately 595 lb.-ft. of torque (807 Nm); final SAE-certified power levels will be available in early March 2008.
It is, indeed, the ultimate small-block engine for the ultimate Corvette.
'When you experience the LS9 in the Corvette ZR1, the terms performance and refinement take on a new meaning,' said Tom Stephens, group vice president for GM Powertrain and Quality. 'The LS9 demonstrates an outstanding performance range, with smooth driveability at low speeds, and surprisingly fierce performance when the customer wants more power.'
Super Car WagonThis one-of-a-kind Ferrari, designed by Luigi 'Coco' Chinetti Jr. and Gene Garfinkle, has been driven fewer than 4,000 miles since new. In 2008, it was offered for sale at the 'Quail Lodge, A Sale of Exceptional Motorcars and Automobilia' presented by Bonhams Auction where it was estimated to sell for $400,000 - 500,000. It would leave the auction unsold.
Things that make you go Hmmmm?The Silver Shadow was introduced at the Paris Motor Show in October of 1965. It was a modern vehicle with a deep heritage and a design that was inspired by years of experience. They featured a monocoque construction, independent suspension, and four-wheel disc brakes. It is believed that 20,605 Silver Shadows were constructed from 1965 through 1977.
This particular example is a very unique vehicle; it is the only one that was converted to estate configuration by its original owner. It has spent most of its life in Florida.
Happy HolidaysAs the season comes to an end, it is a great time to reflect on the many special events that occurred throughout the year. One of those events was the Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance, which featured an extensive array of rare and precious Lamborghini's. Lancia and GM's 100 years of business were honored with several categories recognizing their many accomplishments.
Though it happened many months ago, it was immensely enjoyable and worth a second look. Happy Holidays!!
Edo Competition LP710 Audigier Limited EditionIn cooperation with internationally acclaimed designer Christian Audigier, edo competition has pulled out all the stops to create the fastest Lamborghini ever made.
The limited edition edo LP 710, of which only five will be produced, is a vehicle engineered to the highest standards, combined with Christian Audigier's unusual themes and unparalleled sense of color.
For those wishing to follow in the footsteps of international celebrities, there's no way around Christian Audigier. With his luxury clothing label he is setting new standards in the fashion world, exemplified by the sparkling skull and pirate themes adorning his designer pieces. However, Christian Audigier's creativity is not limited to fashion; it also translates to the world of automotive design, as evidenced by this latest cooperative effort.
Thanks to his inexhaustible imaginativeness, the matte black outer skin of the edo LP 710 has been completely restyled. However, it doesn't end there! The redesigned interior is an impressive sight as well. Carrying the creative theme inside, the seats, door panels and center console have been upgraded using his exquisite designs.
StudioTorino CoupeTorinoStudiotorino presents a cultural, non-profit project: the COUPETORINO, a single to-scale model inspired by the iconic Mercedes SL spider.
COUPETORINO will make its debut December 12, 2008 at the 'BESPOKE COACHWORK' exhibit to be held at Turin Gallery as part of the greater event 'Turin World Design Capital 2008'. In cooperation with L'Istituto di Arte Applicata e Design di Torino (IAAD).
As part of the event 'Turin World Design Capital 2008', Studiotorino presents a cultural, non-profit project. The COUPETORINO is a technical and stylistic study aimed at transforming series and off-set automobiles with reliable technical solutions while maintaining the car's identity. With this objective in mind the iconic Mercedes SL spider was chosen as a lone specimen. Its original architectural structure was transformed into a true coupé.
Amongst the various design studies directed by STUDIOTORINO in cooperation with Istituto di Arte Applicata e Design (IAAD) and informally presented to the Mercedes Design Center in Como to Professor Peter Pfeiffer, a more typically Italian coupé style was chosen.
Chevy 2010 EquinoxChevrolet unveiled the all-new 2010 Equinox, a compact crossover that blends distinctive design with outstanding efficiency. A new, 2.4L direct injection engine helps the Equinox deliver expected best-in-segment estimated highway fuel economy of 30 mpg (EPA certification pending) – a 25-percent improvement over the previous model. Chevrolet expects nearly two-thirds of customers will choose the efficient, 2.4L engine.
The new Equinox draws its exterior design inspiration from the Chevrolet Malibu sedan and Traverse crossover; and like those vehicles, the new Equinox complements its styling with attention to detail and unexpected features, according to Ed Peper, GM North America vice president, Chevrolet.
The Equinox makes its world debut at the North American Auto Show in Detroit next month.
Maserati Quattroporte Sport GT SThe new Maserati Quattroporte Sport GT S sets yet another milestone in terms of sportiness in the high performance luxury sedan segment of the automotive market . Conceived and developed as 'a real driving machine in the guise of a luxury sedan ', the Quattroporte Sport GT S is the ultimate expression of Maserati's sportiness in the Quattroporte range.
The technical changes to the new Quattroporte Sport GT S in respect to the Quattroporte S concern four areas:
• the mapping of the V8 4.7 litre engine, with power increased to 323kW;
• the gearshift management software, with new features designed to increase driving enjoyment;
• the front and rear suspension system featuring single-rate dampers, stiffer springs and lower ride height;
• the sports exhaust controlled by pneumatic valves for a deep, throaty and captivating sound.
Imperial CrownIn an effort to establish itself as a legitimate contender in the Cadillac class, Imperial became a stand-alone division of the Chrysler Corporation in 1955. An Imperial-exclusive assembly line was the inspiration for the 1960 ad theme, 'America's Most Carefully Built Car.'
The 1960 Imperial continued to play off the successful 'Forward Look' styling themes introduced in 1957, but rooflines and below-the-beltline body panels were all reshaped. In this carry-over year for Cadillac and Lincoln, the 1960 Imperial was promoted as 'America's Only All-New Luxury Car.' But while the rest of the Chrysler line shifted entirely to 'Unibody' construction, the Imperial retained its 1957-vintage body-on-frame platform.
Powered by a 413 cubic-inch, 350 horsepower, 'Golden Lion' Hemi V8, pushbutton Torque-Flite transmission, and torsion-bar suspension, the mighty Imperial was highly regarded as the 'road car' in the luxury class. A 'jet-age' feature that remains fascinating today is the 'Panelscent' (electroluminescent) instrument lighting. 'Auto-Pilot' cruise control was also introduced in 1960.
Only one Imperial open model was offered in 1960; the Crown Convertible. This Alaskan White example, number 48 of 618 built, rolled off the assembly line on October 7, 1959.
Covini C6W SpiderA Spider Version of the 6-wheeled supercar Covini C6W was unveiled to the public at the 2008 Bologna Motor Show. This mid-engined supercar is backed by a V8 engine capable of producing over 400 horsepower. There is a six-speed manual gearbox and Brembo disc brakes. The most unusual and intriguing aspect of the car is at the front end - its six-wheels.
Along with an open cockpit, the Spyder version introduced a slightly larger tires, new engine cover, and improvements to the engine. If you would like one, you will have to move fast, as just six examples will be created per year.
KTM X-Bow Winter DriftSince the launch of the KTM X-Bow in mid-2008, the radical, lightweight, mid-engined concept with its stunning carbon fibre monocoque has attracted massive interest from both consumers and from the media. It has been bestowed with numerous awards, of which the latest is Top Gear magazine's 'Sportscar of the Year'. Anyone wishing to experience KTM's first sportscar doesn't have to wait until the spring: just in time for the cold season, the open top sportscar has been made winter proof!
The Mercedes-Benz SLR Stirling Moss EditionMercedes-Benz and McLaren are adding the crowning glory to the model family of their highly successful SLR super sports car with a new, uncompromisingly spectacular car. There is neither a roof nor a windscreen to separate the driver and passenger from the outside world; they enjoy unadulterated high-speed excitement with all the attributes of a speedster.
The new SLR Stirling Moss is also characterised by the most sophisticated technology and a breathtaking design which reinterprets the SLR legend. With 478 kW/650 hp the SLR Stirling Moss accelerates its V8 supercharged engine from standstill to 100 km/h in less than 3.5 seconds, and has a top speed of 350 km/h – no other series-production car is at the same time so open and so fast. This extreme concept makes the new high-performance sports car a legitimate bearer of the name of the British motor racing legend and Mille Miglia record-holder Stirling Moss, who drove the legendary Mercedes-Benz SLR racing cars from victory to victory during the 1950s.
The exclusive SLR Stirling Moss rounds off the current SLR family and is limited to 75 units. It is priced at 750,000 euros. The SLR Roadster will cease to be manufactured at the end of May 2009 as planned, and production of the SLR Stirling Moss will commence in June 2009.
Ferrari 125F1, 275F1, 340F1, 375F1Ferrari is the most successful constructor in Formula One's history, but it all started rather humbly. Despite being an elite, high-profile automaker and racing team, Ferrari performed rather unobtrusively in Formula One's first season. Success rarely comes overnight, but the waiting period is dramatically shortened when you have already designed a dominant product in which to take and build off. Enzo Ferrari and Gioacchino Colombo both came into being after helping Alfa Romeo ascend to the top of the grand prix world. This knowledge and experience would help Ferrari be immediately competitive in grand prix racing, but still not enough to break the grip the Alfa 158's had in 1950. Though Ferrari performed well in Formula One's first season, the dominance and the records would have to wait. Ferrari used 1950 to tweak their designs to break Alfa Romeo's hold on the championship and to begin the Ferrari/Formula One legacy.
Ferrari would turn to its model 125 for Formula One's first season. Designed in 1949, the 125 was Ferrari's first single-seater designed specifically for grand prix racing. However, much of the internals of the car had been taken from the 125S sports racer which was designed and built in 1948. The 125F1, as it became known, closely resembled one of Colombo's chassis designs—the Alfa Romeo 158. Of course, the 158 had already proven itself and obviously would have made a good basis for any team looking to be competitive right away and with aspirations for more.
Reiter Engineering Murciélago R-GTThe Lamborghini Murcielago is a suitable car for both road and track and in both arenas it has been successful. Since the Lamborghini has been racing in the FIA GT1 category, Reiter Engineering has decided to build a similar version capable of traveling the streets.
At the 2008 Essen Motor Show, the German firm Reiter Engineering, displayed their road-worthy lightweight track car. The full list of modifications are still unknown, but there are several obvious upgrades. The car is riding on Black O.Z. Racing Wheels, has a carbon-fiber spoiler in the front and a new diffuser and spoiler in the rear. Also in the rear is a set of dual exhaust outlets that are mounted high, near the cars lights.
The car on display at Essen was a prototype - a one-off version to showcase Reiter Engineering's capabilities and their vision of what a true road-going supercar breed from track might resemble.
The 2009 SSC Ultimate AeroAfter holding the 'World's Fastest Production Car' for the past year, the Shelby SuperCars' Ultimate Aero is receiving several refinements for the 2009 model year. The SSC engineering team equipped the 2009 Ultimate Aero with a 15-percent increase in horsepower, a revamped front fascia design, and an array of important interior upgrades. A milestone for the limited-production automobile manufacturer, the new block improves structural integrity and oiling capabilities allowing SSC to boost the power output to 1287 horsepower while improving durability.
Armed with the more powerful new engine, the '09 Ultimate Aero will be able to reach world-record speeds of 270 MPH, raising the benchmark for supercars and pushing the limits of current production car technology. In order to accommodate the '09 Ultimate Aero's unique fuel system requirements, SSC turned to American company Aeromotive to develop a flawless system. The aggressive nose is redesigned with enhanced aerodynamics to accommodate the 2009 Ultimate Aero's higher top speed, and carbon fiber louvers on the side intakes draw in an additional 20% of air into the radiators for improved cooling. The improvement in overall performance will widen the already sizeable gap between the Ultimate Aero and its competitors. The '09 Ultimate Aero also introduces the AeroBrake a rear spoiler system that deploys under braking situations. Finished in carbon fiber, the rear spoilers actuate up an additional 8-inches when the brake pedal is depressed. The speed of the spoiler actuation is set by the amount of brake pedal pressure. The complete AeroBrake system can be disabled by the push of a button, for town driving or situations where braking and downforce assistance are not necessary.
Zenvo ST1 SupercarZenvo Automotive was founded with one goal in mind. To produce a unique hand built supercar. The developing of the prototype started in 2004. The prototype is completed and the car is in the last testing phase. In 2009 Zenvo Automotive will start the series production of the car, Zenvo ST1. It will be a very limited edition and only 15 cars will be built and sold to special approved customers.
The idea behind the car was to hand build a high performance super car which will meet today´s standards but still keep the original and unique feeling of driving a supercar. The car will have excessive power due to both supercharger and turbo, but will still be drivable for everyday use.
The car is 100% build in Denmark and the design is a result of Danish design. The developing and production are taking place in our hyper modern production hall with all the best equipment available. Since we work very tight with most of our partners we try to use local suppliers. This makes us able to communicate better and to follow the developing much closer to obtain the best possible result.
Dodge MonacoThe Dodge Monaco was produced during two periods of Dodge's history, the first was in 1965 and lasted until 1978. The second time was in 1990 with production lasting on a short while, ending in 1992. When it was first introduced in 1965, the Dodge marque had intended the car to be a personal luxury vehicle aimed at competing with other luxury cars built on a similar platform, such as Pontiac's Grand Prix. It was based on the Polara and Custom 880 two door hardtop coupes and giving unique badging to help differentiate it from its siblings. It was offered as a hardtop coupe and a standard V8 engine that displaced 383 cubic-inches and produced 315 horsepower. Other differences between the Monaco and the cars its was based on were its front grill area and different taillights. The interior featured foam seats in the front and rear, electric clock, remote-control outside rearview mirror, console, three-spoke steering wheel, and padded instrument panel. On the outside, there were special wheel covers with the Monaco name on the front fenders. A variety of options were available, included engine and transmission choices, as well as a host of convenience features.
As was often the case, the Monaco was used in certain export markets such as Canada, where it differed from its domestic version in certain details. In Canada, the car was available in hardtop coupe or convertible bodystyle. The interior featured a dashboard from Plymouth and under the bonnet was either a 318 cubic-inch V8 or the slant six, depending on the customers requests.
Facel VegaThe 1954 Vega is a French made car with a Chrysler V8 engine. The car was a 2+2 luxurious car that was priced out the range of most people. It commanded an exclusive clientele. The back seats did little but provide more room for luggage. The vehicle was heavy but could still reach a top speed of 115 mph. Various Chrysler engines were used and thus the statistics will vary.
Finned alloy drums were used until 1960 when they were replaced by disc brakes.
In 1958 the car received a face-life and re-engineering and was transformed into the HK500. The Vega II followed soon after bringing with it a 383 cubic inch Chrysler V8. During this time, it was regarded as the world's fastest sedan.
Ford EscapeA new powertrain lineup, with a more powerful and fuel-efficient 2.5-liter I-4 engine and a new six-speed automatic transmission, leads the list of enhancements for the 2009 Ford Escape and Mercury Mariner models.
Ford Escape and Mercury Mariner, the popular compact SUVs, boast better fuel economy, thanks to a combination of the new engine and fuel-saving six-speed transmission. Other fuel-efficiency measures, such as refined aerodynamics and new low-rolling-resistance tires, also enhance fuel economy while contributing to a quieter, more refined cabin environment.
Escape and Mariner for 2009 also introduce Easy Fuel™ capless refueling, ambient lighting and standard cruise control. A 3.0-liter V-6 engine with 20 percent more horsepower and a 1 mpg fuel economy improvement also is available.
Standard on all Escape and Mariner models are an anti-lock braking system and Ford's exclusive AdvanceTrac® with RSC® (Roll Stability Control). The only available electronic stability control system with two gyroscopic effect sensors, AdvanceTrac with RSC measures vehicle motion about both the yaw and roll axes.
Ford Motor Company today has more than 80 patents worldwide for this innovative system, which features roll-rate sensing and stability enhancement capability, offering assistance to the driver in maintaining vehicle control during extreme maneuvers. The system automatically engages counter measures to help the driver maintain maximum control and reduce the risk of rollover.
Pontiac Firebird Trans AmProduced by Pontiac, a division of General Motors, the Pontiac Trans Am was based on the Firebird coupe body style and built on the F-body platform.
The last high-performance muscle motor from the original muscle car generation was the Firebird Trans Am with the 455 motor.
In 1971 appearing first as the 455-HO, the 455 motor was introduced.
The SD-455, a unique version of the 455 was offered I n 1973 and lasted one year. Using the leftover components from Pontiac's 366 NASCAR engine, it was built as a full bore racing engine.
With the ability to produce over 540 horsepower, the SD-455 had to be toned down to satisfy the EPA and meet GM's strict horsepower policy which required all GM vehicles to hold the HP under 300.
Volvo S60 Conceptfew days before Christmas, Volvo Cars treats the automotive world to an early unwrapping of a car that will shine bright in the streets for years to come. The Volvo S60 Concept gives the car world a glimpse of what the all-new Volvo S60 is going to look like when it arrives in 2010. 'The all-new S60 will be one of the strongest players in a segment where the competition is razor-sharp,' says Volvo Cars President and CEO Stephen Odell.
The coupe-inspired lines that gave the original S60 its characteristic stance are even more pronounced in the next generation. 'The sporty design gives visual promise of an enthusiastic drive and I can assure you here and now that the all-new S60 will live up to that promise. The driving properties are better than in any previous Volvo. The car's technology will also help you to be a better and safer driver,' says Stephen Odell. The concept car reveals that the Volvo Cars design team is stepping up to the next level in the development of the products' DNA.
'The concept car's exterior gives a clear indication of what customers can expect of the all-new S60. On the inside we've been even more daring - there the focus has been on creating a vision of the future in the slightly longer perspective,' says Volvo Cars Design Director Steve Mattin.
Mercedes-Benz BlueZERO ConceptCurrent challenges such as growing worldwide mobility requirements, declining crude oil reserves and increasingly stringent exhaust emission regulations are making the electric car more and more a focus of public attention. Thanks above all to major advances in battery technology, electric drive is seen as a promising answer to the question of how individual mobility can be made sustainable.
Battery-electric drive systems offer a wealth of advantages in this respect: they provide a high level of torque, are compact and quiet, run extremely efficiently and with zero local emissions, and they operate without the need for fossil fuels. However, it is not currently possible to fulfil all mobility requirements with a single electric vehicle concept. Those who drive predominantly or even exclusively in urban areas do not place as much emphasis on vehicle range but very much like the idea of lower noise levels and emissions. For such customers, a battery-electric vehicle is an attractive solution.
Those who also wish to cover long distances on country roads and motorways combined with low noise levels, no local emissions and short refuelling times have a viable alternative in the shape of the fuel-cell electric vehicle. This technology clearly shows the way ahead in terms of sustainable mobility after the 'crude oil age' but requires a hydrogen-fuel-supply infrastructure. The beneficial combination of maximum range, fast energy storage on board from an existing infrastructure as well as noiseless and locally emission-free mobility in urban areas is offered by a battery vehicle with range extender.
RARE BUGATTI AND HISTORIC 'YELLOW PERIL' RACE CAR JOIN STARTING LINE-UP FOR RM'S ‘AUTOMOBILES OF AMELIA ISLAND' AUCTION EVENTRM Auctions will lift the gavel on an unprecedented selection of the world's finest vintage motor cars when their highly anticipated Automobiles of Amelia Island event returns to The Ritz-Carlton, Amelia Island, March 14th, 2009.
A permanent and popular fixture on the annual auto events calendar since 1999, the single-day auction event coincides with the famed Amelia Island Concours d'Elegance to make for an ultimate motoring weekend for auto enthusiasts.
Early consignments for the 2009 event include an historic 1927 Bugatti Type 51, the legendary 1911 Oldsmobile Autocrat ‘Yellow Peril' Race Car and an ultra-rare and innovative 1954 Packard Panther-Daytona Roadster Concept.
Rinspeed iChange ConceptWorld premiere at the Geneva International Motor Show (March 5th thru March 15th 2009): with the 'iChange' the Swiss designers of Rinspeed present a '1-2-3-seater' powered by a 130kw-electric motor. The concept car's striking body structure adapts via 'electronic trick-tail' to the number of passengers: while the sporty and streamlined teardrop shape seats only the driver, two more passengers may join him once the car's rear end has risen as if by magic. In the blink of an eye the full-blooded sports car turns into a compact sportsvan.
With the Rinspeed 'iChange' the automotive jack-of-all-trades Frank M. Rinderknecht and his partners aim to provide thought-provoking impulses for the automobile industry: 'Thinking about variability and the constantly changing energy demand, we have created an extremely flexible vehicle.' The result is a zero-emission car featuring both extremely low weight and aerodynamic drag, thus further reducing the power consumption.
The New BMW Z4The classic roadster is back – more powerful and more stylish than ever before. It is the BMW Z4, the only car in its segment combining classic roadster proportions with a seating position moved close to the rear axle, rear-wheel drive, with a retractable hardtop.
The new BMW Z4 offers all the driving pleasure of a BMW Roadster with particularly refined and stylish flair. Driving with the roof down, this two-seater offers a refreshingly intense experience of the sunshine and the wind rushing by – and driving with the hardtop closed it provides all the comfort of a sporting coupe in the premium segment. So through this diversity and wide range of qualities, the new BMW Z4 is the re-birth of the roadster.
The design of the new Z4 comes out through classic details interpreted in new, up-to-date style. This outstanding two-seater offers a unique combination of elegance, agility, and supreme comfort. The aluminum shells of the two-piece lightweight hardtop come to rest in the roof compartment, saving maximum space in the process. Even with the roof closed, the new Z4 retains the proportions typical of a genuine roadster.
To ensure driving pleasure, the new BMW Z4 is offered with two inline-6 engine displacing 3.0 liters: 300 hp in the BMW Z4 sDrive35i and 255 hp in the BMW Z4 sDrive30i ensure truly outstanding acceleration and response at all times.- RARE BUGATTI AND HISTORIC 'YELLOW PERIL' RACE CAR JOIN STARTING LINE-UP FOR RM'S ‘AUTOMOBILES OF AMELIA ISLAND' AUCTION EVENTRM Auctions has announced a rare 1927 Bugatti Type 51 and a one-of-a-kind 1911 Oldsmobile Autocrat ‘Yellow Peril' race car as two early highlights for their ‘Automobiles of Amelia Island' auction event, March 14th, 2009 in Florida. Additional highlights include an innovative 1954 Packard Panther-
Eastern Division AACA National Fall MeetThe Eastern Division AACA National Fall Meet takes place each year during the 1st full week in October. The Hershey Region began hosting the show in 1955 and has done so each year since then.
The meet is located in beautiful Hershey, PA on the Hershey park and Giant Center parking lots and surrounding grounds. The show is considered one of the largest antique automobile shows and flea markets in the United States.
It consists of over 9,000 flea market spaces, over 1,000 car corral spaces, and approximately 1,500 show cars. Each year the show attracts visitors from all over the United States and many countries throughout the world. Some of the most unusual cars and parts can be found at Hershey. If you love antique cars, Hershey is the place to be.
Audi R8 5.2 FSI QuattroAudi is launching the next variant of its top-of-the-line model. With the R8, the brand has established itself at the forefront of high-end sports cars from the very start - and now comes the R8 V10. Its 5.2-liter, ten-cylinder engine churns out 386 kW (525 hp) and 530 Nm (390.91 lb-ft) of torque, which makes for breathtaking performance. With superior Audi technologies such as quattro all-wheel drive, the lightweight aluminum body, the innovative all-LED headlights, and its striking design, the R8 V10 takes pole position against the competition.
The R8 V10 is the result of cumulative know-how from Audi's string of Le Mans victories. Its naturally aspirated engine combines racing technology such as dry sump lubrication with FSI gasoline direct injection. The ten-cylinder design is the perfect synthesis for impressive top performance, mighty pulling power, and low weight. Starting in 2009, this engine will also prove its potential on the world's racetracks - in the new R8 racing car Audi is developing for customer teams in conformance with the GT3 rules.
The V10 engine in the production sports car will be almost identical in construction to the one in the racing version. Its displacement is 5,204 cc, at 6,500 rpm it delivers 530 Nm (390.91 lb-ft) of torque, at 8,000 rpm its power tops out at 386 kW (525 hp).
GOODING & COMPANY ANNOUNCES INITIAL CONSIGNMENTS FOR SCOTTSDALE AUCTION ON JANUARY 17, 2009Gooding & Company's Upcoming Auction to Feature 1937 Talbot Lago, Pebble Beach Best of Show Winning 1932 Daimler Double Six and 1933 Isotta Fraschini
Gooding & Company is delighted to announce the early consignments for its second annual Scottsdale auction, which will be held on January 17, 2009. In keeping with the tremendous $64+ million results from its Pebble Beach auction, Gooding & Company is offering a prime selection of rare and exceptional automobiles. More than 70 cars are anticipated to cross the auction block including the 1999 Pebble Beach Best-of-Show Winning 1932 Daimler Double Six Sport Saloon, a 1937 Talbot Lago Teardrop Coupe and a 1933 Isotta Fraschini 8A used in the film Giant starring James Dean.
'This year we are pleased to offer automobiles for many levels of collectors with values under $100,000 and over $3 million. We want to fill the void in the auction market place with a broader range of vehicles of the highest quality in their categories,' said David Gooding, president and CEO of Gooding & Company. 'Our 2008 Scottsdale auction was so well received by our clients and the city of Scottsdale that we are looking forward to more record-breaking results this coming January.'
Talbot-Lago T26CObscured by the haze of the Alfa Romeo 158's dominance of the first three places in Formula One's first season was a car from France that made its statement from the other side of the spectrum. While the 158s of the Alfa Romeo SpA team would utilize their superior horsepower and disappear into the distance, the Talbot-Lago exercised a different strategy reminiscent of the tale 'The Tortoise and the Hare'. Although often overlooked because it didn't have the power of many other cars it competed against, the Talbot-Lago T26C forced teams to think beyond power and speed. In its own way, the T26C helped define what a successful race car was and is.
It is the philosophy of most automakers that investing, if able, in motoracing will also benefit production cars. This was the viewpoint of Anthony Lago when he took over SA Automobiles Talbot. In that day and age, building a car and then entering it in some races to be tested and beat up was the equivalent of today's car companies and their vast proving grounds. In fact, Lago used his experiences designing and building grand prix cars to then apply that technology to the company's road cars. Lago started out building and designing the grand prix cars around the parts and features that worked or showed promise.
by Jeremy McMullen
Yenko ChevelleDon Yenko began transplanting engines into the Chevrolet Corvair in 1965 and into the Camaro in 1967. The Yenko Chevelle was produced for only one year - 1969.
Yenko used the Central Office Production Order (COPO) to get around General Motors policy against engines larger than 396 cubic-inches being factory-installed in mid-sized cars. The COPO allowed unusual combinations by way of special order and disregarded company policy if enough units were ordered.
Of the 320 total COPO-ordered Chevelles, Don Yenko built only 99 with his Super Car package. These cars had a 427 cubic-inch engine producing 450 horsepower and were based on the standard Malibu. They included a high performance camshaft, a four-barrel Holley carburetor and a choice of a Muncie four-speed or Turbo-HydraMatic transmission. A heavy-duty suspension, power disc brakes and a blacked-out grille were also part of the Yenko Super Car package.
Only 35 Yenko Chevelles are known to exist today. This is one of only 14 to be painted Monaco Orange, a non-Malibu color.- Talbot-Lago T26CObscured by the haze of the Alfa Romeo 158's dominance of the first three places in Formula One's first season was a car from France that made its statement from the other side of the spectrum. While the 158s of the Alfa Romeo SpA team would utilize their superior horsepower and disappear into the d
Glenmoor Gathering of Significant AutomobilesFor over a decade, the Glenmoor Country Club of Canton, Ohio has played host to the 'Glenmoor Gathering of Significant Automobiles.' It is a breath-taking location with 381 acres of well manicured greenery, a par 72 championship Jack Nicklaus Signature Golf Course, world-class European Health Spa and fitness facilities, Olympic-size swimming pool, tennis courts and a beauty salon. A long and elegant driveway leads visitors to the clubhouse, a 167,000 square foot Gothic-style building that is as inviting as it is impressive. Located behind the building is the golf course and the location for the concours d'elegance.
'When life gives you lemons, make lemonade.' This popular phrase typically means when life deals something sour, turn it sweet or to make the best of a poor situation. This is what the organizers of this years Glenmoor Gathering were faced with when rain on Friday and Saturday made their picturesque golf course show field impossible to drive upon on Sunday. So, organizers looked to the front of the clubhouse, trading greenery for concrete. With precious little time, the driveway and two adjacent parking lots became the new location for the event.
This year's event celebrated GM's Centennial, sixty years of the Porsche Sports-Car Company, and the Ford Model T. With nearly 30 classes, the selection was very diverse covering the vintage to the exotic, from motorcycles to customs, and from concepts to muscle cars. Though the rain had scared away several scheduled exhibitors, the classes were well fielded and the new show location was more than adequate to provide the necessary real-estate required to house these masterpieces.
Bentley 3-Litre Speed ModelA Bentley similar to this car won at LeMans in 1924 and won again in 1927. In 1924, it was the fastest car on the course - achieving a speed of 100 miles per hour on the straightaway.
This Bentley is equipped with its original nine foot, nine-inch Speed chassis, with original crankcase and gearbox. Originally built as three-liter automobile, it now sports the larger 4.5-liter cylinder blocks.
The car had spent its entire life in the United Kingdom until acquired by the current owner in August 2008. The original owner was W.T. Grant of distillery fame.
Dual-Ghia Sports CarDual Motors only existed for eight years, but in that time, the marque was able to combine the essence of Virgil Exner's uniquely American design with Ghia's hand built Italian coachwork. These flamboyant cars were based on a modified Dodge chassis with a 315 cubic-inch V8. Unfortunately, the cost to build a Dual Ghia exceeded the selling price, and less than 200 were built. Many were owned by celebrities such as Frank Sinatra and Dean Martin.
In the early 1950's, Chrysler designer Virgil Exner had created a series of striking 'Firearrow' concept cars crafted by Italian coachbuilder Ghia. Eugene Casaroll - who owned Dual Motors Corporation - bought the rights to the Firearrow design. By 1956, Casaroll's first car, the Dual-Ghia, was in production. Casaroll built about 100 Dual-Ghias through 1958 priced at $7,646.
Perforamnce was excellent, especially in the cars powered by the high performance, Dodge Hemi D-500, a 315 cubic-inch V8. Out of the cars produced, only 32 are believed to still exist. Over 1,500 man-hours were said to have been lavished on each car before it left the factory. Reportedly, Ronald Regan owned one, which he lost in a high-stakes poker game with then-President Lyndon Johnson.
Alfa Romeo SpA 158/50by Jeremy McMullen
The last couple of years I have been detailing the new cars for the Formula One season. Quite often in motorsports it is easy to look at new technology as exactly that…new. But often, the new technologies are based upon past innovations. At other times, old innovations actually re-appear as though brand-new, but actually only redesigned, improved upon, or utilized in a different way to make it seem new.
Each year it is the focus and the goal of each team to improve upon the previous year, but each year is the result of lessons learned and improvements upon technologies over the years. And so, I will start a new series of articles that will take a look back into the history of Formula One with the goal of detailing the teams and the innovations of the past and how they were employed and influenced subsequent chassis designs. To start, I will look at the team and the car that swept the top three spots in the 1950 World Championship, the first official year of Formula One.
At the time, the World Championship was composed of seven races. Yet, there were many other races that were run during that year but that didn't count. The seven race calendar, at this time, included the Indianapolis 500 and, interestingly enough, was the only race on the schedule not won by the dominant Alfa Romeo 158 Alfetta and the Alfa Romeo SpA team. Johnnie Parsons was able to take the checkered flag at Indy to break up what was sheer dominance by two drivers of the same team—Giuseppe 'Nino' Farina and Juan Manuel Fangio.
Audi A5 / S5 CabrioletDynamic and wonderful to look at, the new A5 Cabriolet is a real Audi, and an especially exciting one at that. The four-seater with the fabric top combines a sporty character with the fascination of open-top driving, refined comfort, and great everyday utility. Seven powerful engines, an agile suspension and a wide range of high-end options make the new Audi model the most attractive mid-range convertible. The top-of-the-line model of Audi's new family of convertibles is the S5 Cabriolet. The engine of the S5 Cabriolet is the newly developed, supercharged three-liter V6 with gasoline direct injection. Prices start at EUR 37,300 for the 1.8 TFSI with 118 kW (160 hp) and six-speed manual transmission. Delivery of the first A5 Cabriolet models will begin in the second quarter of 2009.
Like all open-top Audi models, the new A5 Cabriolet too has a classic fabric top - which endows it with a striking silhouette of dynamic elegance. The lightweight softtop opens in 15 seconds - and closes in 17 seconds. The fully automatic open/close drive comes as standard. An acoustic top is optionally available, which reduces wind noise almost to the hardtop level.
Nissan NV2500 ConceptThe Nissan NV2500 Concept is, as its dimensions suggest, a multi-tasker of large order. One of the largest concept vehicles Nissan has ever produced, the NV2500 Concept, offers fresh design and fresh thinking – including a 3-Zone interior and flexible utility and storage solutions.
Not only does the NV2500 Concept provide an original take on Commercial Vehicle (CV) design, it also provides a preview of Nissan's entry into the CV market in North America. With Nissan CVs already sold in 73 percent of the world's markets, including Japan, China, Mexico, Europe, South America, Australia and the Middle East among others, Nissan will enter the CV business in North America in 2010.
The line will incorporate three all-new products in three years, as well as products from the global stable. As a result, in the mid-term, Nissan will offer a multi-segment CV lineup up to class 5 gross vehicle weight ratings (GVWR).
Photo Update : Ferrari CaliforniaIn line with Ferrari tradition, the new model also features several innovations. Apart from its folding hard top, these include the original 2+ concept which guarantees exceptional versatility of use in the rear of the car. The California's 4,300 cc V8 engine features direct fuel injection and a 'flat' crankshaft. It generates 460 CV at 7,500 rpm with a torque curve that enhances vehicle dynamics and provides maximum driving pleasure which is typical for Ferrari.
The Toyota TF108If there is one team in Formula One that is the most paradoxical it would have to be the Toyota team. Year after year Ferrari and McLaren-Mercedes throw hundreds of millions of dollars into their team and prove to be an almost unbeatable one-two punch. Toyota invests probably as much or more, and yet, a celebration like no other breaks out when the team merely gets on the podium. Toyota has proven to be the worst return on investment—amazing given the company's passenger cars. Toyota has been the exception—money doesn't translate into success. This has to be the most confusing thing. It isn't that they don't have the resources. The problem has to lie someplace else.
Since the debut of the team back in 2002 and until 2007 the team has only been able to amass 163 points. Now of course there have been teams that have been around for longer in Formula One's history that would have loved to have scored that many points. But to truly get an idea how justified Toyota's critics are some more numbers are needed to put things in the correct perspective.
Granted, both McLaren-Mercedes and Ferrari have been around for much longer and that pays dividends when developing a winning team. However, Toyota is throwing as much money at their team, if not more, than these two championship winning teams. So, it only takes a comparison of Toyota to McLaren-Mercedes and Ferrari during the period of 2002—2007 to get an idea of how bad things really are. From 2002—2007, Toyota, as a team, has accounted for a total of 163 points. During that same period McLaren-Mercedes earned 568, with the 2007 points total being thrown out due to a cheating scandal. To really put things in the proper perspective Toyota has only to be compared with Ferrari. From 2002—2007, Ferrari has amassed a total of 1,146 points! Clearly, money helps make any team successful. But, it's how that money is invested that makes all the difference.
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