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•  2013 Toyota Land Cruiser to Make North American Debut at Chicago Auto Show
  The 2013 model year Toyota Land Cruiser full-size sport utility vehicle (SUV) will make its North American debut on Wednesday, Feb. 8 in the Toyota display at the 2012 Chicago Auto Show.
  
  The legendary Toyota Land Cruiser recently celebrated the 60th anniversary of its original launch in Japan, and it has remained constant in Toyota's Ú.S. model lineup for more than 50 years. Land Cruiser has evolved over time from a basic four-wheel-drive utility vehicle in its early years, to an upscale eight-passenger SÚV sold in 188 countries. Yet, this iconic vehicle has retained a loyal following as it remains true to its off-road heritage wîth uncompromising go-anywhere capability.
  
  The 2013 Land Cruiser receives an array of new and updated equipment, inside and out. Refreshed exterior styling includes an updated front grille and headlamps wîth HID low-beams. Additional new features include LED Daytime Running Lights, chrome side molding, redesigned outer side mirrors and tail lamps.
•  AUCTIONS AMERICA FORT LAUDERDALE AUCTION
  Auctions America by RM will roll into South Florida March 16-18, 2012, for its annual Collector Cars of Fort Lauderdale auction at the Broward County Convention Center in Fort Lauderdale, Florida.
  
  Attracting automotive enthusiasts of all ages, Auctions America will offer more than 500 automobiles, a select range of collectible motorcycles and memorabilia for sale during its three-day event.
  
  'Auctions America's Fort Lauderdale event has carved a reputation as South Florida's premier collector car auction,' said Donnie Gould, Auctions America by RM's president. 'The wide range of offerings from Brass Era motor cars to American classics, muscle cars and European sports cars has made it an important part of the local scene. People flock to Florida to enjoy the sun and surf, and then they want to take home the ultimate souvenir – a collector car from Auctions America.'
•  Dodge Dart GTS 210 Tribute
  For the all-new 2013 Dodge Dart, Mopar will offer more than 150 accessories, the most in the compact-car Segment.
  
  Hot off the heels of its worldwide production debut at the 2012 North American International Auto Show, Mopar wasted no time giving the 2013 Dodge Dart even more sporting pretensions both inside and out. The all-new Dodge Dart embodies class-leading and class-exclusive features in many areas including aerodynamics, technology and safety, and the stage kits by Mopar enhance these attributes. The Alfa Romeo-based Dodge Dart already has sporty driving dynamics baked into its DNA, and Team Mopar added even more distinction to reinforce the car's fun-to-drive nature.
  
  The exterior picks up several matte-black trim pieces, including a lower chin spoiler, side sills, rear spoiler and rear-diffuser panel. A lightweight carbon-fiber hood wîth large air scoop and 18-inch, 10-spoke forged alloy titanium-colored wheels finish off exterior modifications.
•  Fiat 500 'Stinger'
  Building on the Fiat 500's 'Hottest Sports Compact Car' award by the Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) this past November, the new Fiat 500 'Stinger' integrates two Mopar stage kits that deliver bold styling appointments and select high-performance parts from the Mopar catalog.
  
  Adding even more style to the new 2012 Fiat 500 Sport, the Fiat 500 Stinger features Giallo (yellow) exterior paint combined wîth unique blackened exterior and interior appointments – all designed to amplify the hatchback's athletic Italian styling.
•  Special Recognition Given to SCRAMP/Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca
  For nearly two decades the Sports Car Racing Association of the Monterey Peninsula (SCRAMP) has offered special services for its disabled spectators designed for ease of accessibility. For these efforts the Monterey County Commission on Disabilities recently awarded the organization special recognition.
  
  'We are honored to have received this recognition,' said Gill Campbell, CEO/general manager of Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca. 'SCRAMP's services have served as a model for other race facilities throughout the nation and local sporting events such as the California International Airshow and AT&T Pebble Beach National Pro Am.'
  
  In order to provide the best possible access, disabled patrons driving to Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca for an event have several options for parking. Guests holding Blue 1, Blue 2 or Red 8 parking passes have a disabled area in their respective sections. Additionally, there is always free parking available, within a special disabled parking area, in the Purple 10 section.
•  The 1953 Bentley R-Type
  In the post-War era, many of the Rolls-Royce cars were given standard coachwork, known as the Standard Steel Saloon. Managing Director Arthur Sidgreaves recognized that new production methods and materials rendered the marque's traditional manufacturing techniques outdated. This fundamental shift in how the company constructed its automobiles was done to continue the company's commercial success.
  
  In keeping with the company's ability to offer exclusivity, a number of coachbuilders were given the opportunity to create bodies on the R-Type. The list includes Mulliner, Park Ward, James Young, Hooper, Abbots, Radford, Graber, Freestone & Webb, and others.
•  The 1957 Rolls-Royce Silver Wraith
  The Silver Wraith, launched in 1947, was an evolution of the pre-war Wraith and was offered in the traditional chassis form ready for the fitting of Bespoke coachwork. The 4,257cc overhead-inlet, side-exhaust engine developed before the war was used, as well as a modified coil and wishbone independent front suspension. Hydraulic brakes were used for the first time on a Rolls-Royce wîth hydraulic brakes.
  
  The Silver Wraith was constantly refined during its production. The engine was replaced wîth the 'big bore' 4,566cc in 1951 and automatic transmission was offered as an option in 1952.
  
  Once again the press raved about the car. 'All the world knows that Rolls-Royce carry on an unremitting search for engineering perfection in everything they undertake. The qualities which made their aircraft engines famous, and their cars the finest procurable, are the result of hard work scientifically conducted, and of a painstaking attention to detail from the large to the most minute. And now a new range of cars is about to appear it is believed that the new cars are the best that Rolls-Royce have ever built.'
•  Zora Arkus Duntov's 1989 Chevy Corvette
  One of the cars recently sold at the 2012 Russo & Steele Auction in Scottsdale, Az. was a 1989 Chevy Corvette once owned by the 'Godfather of the Corvette', Mr. Zora Arkus Duntov. He had a prominent career with GM until he retired in 1975 at the age of 65, relinquishing command to Dave McLellan. Mr. Duntov was a member of the Drag Racing Hall of Fame, the Chevrolet Legends of Performance, and the Automotive Hall of Fame. Zora even took part in the rollout of the 1 millionth Corvette at Bowling Green in 1992. He also drove the bulldozer at the ground breaking ceremonies for the National Corvette Museum on June 5, 1992.
  
  The car sold is original and unrestored. Surprisingly, it 'only' sold for $29,700. The celebrity ownership certainly will propel it into collector car status and may be very valuable in the years to come.
•  Subaru Runs Strong in GRAND-AM Continental Tire Sports Car Challenge Opener
  Facing a 40-car field in the Grand Sport class of the GRAND-AM Continental Tire Sports Car Championship racing series, Subaru Road Racing Team's (SRRT) drivers ran as high as third place in their 4-door #35 Subaru WRX STI at the season-opening race held at the world-famous Daytona International Spee
•  1961 Jaguar Kougar
  In the mid-1970s, Englishman Rick Stevens decided to build his own sports car using the power train and chassis parts salvaged from his 1960s Jaguar S-Type sedan. Stevens created a tube frame chassis and fitted many of the components from the S-Type. The result of his work was called the Kougar.
  
  The design inspiration for the Kougar came from the 1950 Healey Silverstone and the pre-war Frazer Nash TT Replica. Another vehicle which leant its design inspiration was the Jaguar-powered HWM racer of the mid-1950s.
  
  An aluminum-bodied Kougar prototype was built in 1976 and then fabricated fiberglass molds to being production. With a plethora of Jaguar donor sedans sitting in garages and scrap yards, Stevens was able to build approximately 315 examples. Most of the Kougars were finished cars but also some were kits.
•  SPEED Returns As 'Home' for GRAND-AM; Set to air all Rolex Series Events In 2012
  SPEED will continue to be the television home of GRAND-AM Road Racing in 2012, televising all 13 Rolex Sports Car Series events either live or on a same-day delay basis.
  
  The Rolex 24 kicks off the 2012 season on SPEED with a one-hour pre-race show at 2:30 p.m. (ET) on Saturday, Jan. 28 before ro
•  2012 Palos Verdes Concours d'Elegance will feature Classic French Curves
  The 20th annual Palos Verdes Concours d'Elegance, to be held at Trump National Golf Club, Rancho Palos Verdes, California on Sunday, September 16, will highlight classic French curves, according to Chairman Peter Kunoth.
  
  The Grand Marshals will be famed collectors Peter and Merle Mullin, owners o
•  AUCTIONS AMERICA FORT LAUDERDALE AUCTION
  • 1935 Auburn 851 Cabriolet one of many exceptional cars offered during three-day sale, March 16-18, 2012
  • More than 500 of American classics, European sports cars and late-model exotics to cross block
  • Established event attracts thousands of bidders and spectators to South Florida's Gold Coast
•  Special Recognition Given to SCRAMP/Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca
  For nearly two decades the Sports Car Racing Association of the Monterey Peninsula (SCRAMP) has offered special services for its disabled spectators designed for ease of accessibility. For these efforts the Monterey County Commission on Disabilities recently awarded the organization special recognit
•  American premiere for Audi R8 GRAND-AM
  Further boost for an attractive scene: the GRAND-AM Rolex Sports Car Series has a new member – the Audi R8 GRAND-AM. Two examples of the powerful 480 hp GT sportscar celebrated their premiere in tough conditions at Daytona. The customer teams APR Motorsport and Oryx Racing were classified at the finish.
  
  Audi Sport customer racing's attractive program is a valuable element richer: the Audi R8 GRAND-AM vitalizes the hard fought North American market in GT racing since January. No less than 44 GT race cars contested the season opener in Florida. The 50th running and anniversary event of the ‘Rolex 24 at Daytona' provided a worthy venue for the debut of the Audi R8 GRAND-AM car. Team APR Motorsport finished in 31st place with its drivers Ian Baas (USA)/Nelson Canache (YV)/Dion von Moltke (ZA)/Dr. Jim Norman (USA)/Emanuele Pirro (I). Oryx Racing came home in 32nd place with Humaid Al Masaood (UAE)/Saeed Al Mehairi (UAE)/Steven Kane (GB).
•  Magnus Racing Leads Porsche 911 GT3 Cup Sweep of Rolex 24 at Daytona Podium
  Richard Lietz (Austria), sharing the #44 Magnus Porsche 911 GT3 Cup with John Potter/Andy Lally/Rene Rast, took over the driving duties with less than two hours left to go at the 50th Rolex 24 at Daytona. He then guided his car through two pit stops and to the GT victory for the Salt Lake City-based team owned by Potter and led a sweep of the GT podium by Porsche 911 race cars.
  
  In fact, with Lietz, Henzler and Lieb – all Porsche factory drivers - driving their cars to the checkered flag, Porsche Motorsport North America president Jens Walther is especially proud of the Porsche people, not just the race cars.
  
  'With both our customer race car owners and our factory drivers, we have the best people in the motorsports business associated with Porsche, and they are a key part in making our street cars and race cars great,' said Walther, who has been president of Porsche Motorsport North America, Inc. since 2010.
  
  Winning team owner John Potter could not contain his feelings in the pit box after the checkered flag dropped, as his team was victorious in one of the greatest sports car races in the world after being in existence less than three years.
  
  'This crew works so hard, and we have come so close to the top step of the podium in Grand-Am in the past, but to win for the first time, at this race is something special. Rene and Andy are great guys, and Richard really brought us home strong,' said Potter.
•  Marketing of the New Fiat Strada to kick off soon
  The New Fiat Strada will be available from Italian dealerships from the end of January. Made in the FIASA plant in Betim (Brazil), the new model will follow in the footsteps of South America's leading light transport vehicle. With no fewer than 127,800 vehicles sold worldwide, the Strada was the second most popular Fiat Professional model after the Fiat Ducato in 2011.
  
  The New Fiat Strada comes in three outfits (Working, Trekking, Adventure) and three body types (Short Cab, Long Cab, Crew Cab) for a total of six different versions. The most important innovation is the introduction of the Crew Cab version (for Working and Adventure versions), which can comfortably carry four people while maintaining a loading capacity of up to 650 kg at the same time.
•  Michael Shank Racing Captures Historic 50th Anniversary Rolex 24 At Daytona
  On his ninth attempt, team owner Michael Shank finally captured America's most prestigious sports car race – the 50th Anniversary Rolex 24 At Daytona.
  
  The team of Oswaldo Negri, John Pew, AJ Allmendinger and Justin Wilson in the No. 60 Michael Shank Racing with Curb-Agajanian Ford Riley survived a tight battle for the lead in the final hours to take home the grueling twice-around-the-clock challenge by a 5.198-second margin of victory.
  
  'I feel like we deserved it to be honest,' Shank said. 'I think we've worked hard. I don't make any excuses for that. We paid our dues for sure and I hope it can take us to new cool places in the coming years.'
•  The New Small Family is growing: four-door up! arrives on market early this year
  All signs point to a big future for the small up!. In Germany, the two-door city specialist immediately garnered first place in its class in registration statistics. Now Volkswagen is raising the bar by presenting the VW up! 4-door. In May 2012, the latest member of the New Small Family - Volkswagen's internal name for the model series - will arrive at dealers; advanced sales begin on the 6th of March 2012 (both dates for Germany). The 4-door car will have launched on the entire European market by early summer 2012.
  
  Volkswagen anticipates that over half of all up! buyers will choose the 4-door version. This version has identical engines (44 kW / 60 PS and 55 kW / 75 PS), equipment versions (take up!, move up!, high up!, black up!, white up!) and dimensions as the two-door cars. The Volkswagen up! 4-door will be available in Germany at prices from 10,325 euros, including ESP - compared to the two-door, this represents an additional price of just 475 euros.
•  Two Ferraris in top ten at Daytona
  The Daytona 24 Hours took place this weekend at the International Speedway, with over sixty cars, prototypes and GT, taking part, including a racing debut appearance for five Ferrari 458 Grand Am cars, based on the GT3 version of the V8 sports car, built especially for the American series. Of the privateers flying the Maranello colours in the United States, two Ferraris finished in the top ten in a GT class dominated by Porsche, who took all three places on the podium.
  
  Best of the Ferraris was the Risi Competizione line up of Italy's Andrea Bertolini, Monaco's Olivier Beretta and the Finn Toni Vilander, who staged an amazing climb up the order from eleventh on the grid to fifth at the flag, having come close to second place in the closing stages.
  
  Eighth came the Ferrari crew of Assentato-Lazzaro-Longhi- Segal in the AIM Autosport car, displaying the craft that has taken them to many good results in this marathon race across the Atlantic.
•  1974 Chevrolet Corvette C3
  This was the last year that the Corvette was offered with the Big Block engine. The Corvette had been under 'attack' from some-time due to rising emissions and insurance standards. So Chevy finally stopped offering the 454-cubic-inch engine and also removed the dual exhausts from the small block. The exhaust was collected into a single catalytic converter from which it would then split into two twin mufflers and tailpipes. Unleaded fuel was introduced by Petroleum refineries and General Motors was forced to re-engineer their vehicles to run on the lower octane.
  
  The front and rear chrome bumpers were removed.
  
  For the 1974 model year, 32,028 coupes and 5,474 convertibles were sold. The base price of the coupe was $6,000 which included the 350-cubic-inch 195-hp engine. Power steering was the most popular option.
•  Georges Berger: 1954 Formula One Season
  In the waning days of September and of the First World War, in the area of Molenbeek, Saint-Jean near the heart of Brussels, Belgium a young man would be born. And after the interruption of a Second World War, the Belgian would start his brief racing career that would include sports car racing and a brief appearance in the Formula One World Championship.
  
  Born in 1918, Berger's life, like many others in Europe, would be marked by two world wars. This would cause many to delay following their passions and their desires. Therefore, it wouldn't be until Berger was nearly in his 20 before he would take to motor racing. Even then, Berger's presence at races would be quite sporadic at the very least. But from 1953 on through about 1955, Berger would be his most active.
  
  Throughout the 1952 and 1953 season, Equipe Gordini had been one of the larger factory efforts in the World Championship. During the 1952 season, it would, for a short period of time during the season, provide the stiffest competition to Scuderia Ferrari. However, their debut of the new T16 chassis would be met with consistent reliability problems. This would lead drivers, such as Robert Manzon, to totally abandon the team very early on during the 1953 season. This would leave the factory effort without a steady and consistent lineup of drivers though its still had such drivers as Jean Behra and Paul Frere.
•  Emmanuel de Graffenried: 1954 Formula One Season
  Baron Emmanuel de Graffenried had a racing career that spanned decades including before the outbreak of the Second World War. However, 1953 had seen him earn his best result in the World Championship scoring a 4th place result at the Belgian Grand Prix with a Maserati A6SSG. Being a privateer entry though, de Graffenried would run into some trouble heading into the 1954 season.
  
  The Baron Emmanuel de Graffenried's family lineage around Berne, Switzerland is quite extensive and spans all the way back into the 13th century. And though his racing career would span just a couple of decades, he would end up proving to be one of the most capable privateers in any field he started. However, 1954 would see some big changes take place that put the man at a disadvantage.
  
  While Alberto Ascari, Juan Manuel Fangio and others would make their living as professional racing drivers driving for large factory efforts, de Graffenried would own his own Lausanne-based garage selling Alfa Romeos and would be quite successful at it. Therefore, the man's time would be split between his garage and racing. Therefore, he would mostly race as a privateer, or, with other small teams unable to maintain a full schedule.
•  Giovanni de Riu: 1954 Formula One Season
  In the early days of the Formula One World Championship there were great opportunities for privateers and small teams to make their mark on World Championship history. Some would go on to have pages and pages of history. For others, like Goivanni de Riu, the listing of their name in the records would actually end up being longer than their actual achievements.
  
  Born in March of 1924 in the town of Macomer in the province of Nuoro on the Italian island of Sardinia, Giovanni de Riu would be just 20 years old when the Second World War would come to an end. Therefore, while much of Europe lay in ruin, there was a new hope for the future and ambition had the ability to open doors.
  
  By de Riu's mid-twenties he started in motor racing. Then, in 1953, Giovanni de Riu would drive for the Enrico Plate team. Had he driven for the team back during the late 1940s he would have been with a team on the rise. However, by 1953, Enrico Plate was quickly passing out of sight.
•  Russo and Steele Scottsdale Smashes 5 World Records
  With enough intensity and excitement to turn non-collectors into enthusiasts, the atmosphere at Russo and Steele's Scottsdale 2012 auction block was downright palpable. An overflowing auction block, one-of-a-kind marvels and a record number of car-loving bidders led Russo and Steele to break 5 world records. From European sports to American muscle and hot rods to customs, this year's auction event held an impressing line up of cars to suit the needs of any collector.
  
  Russo and Steele's 12th annual auction event in Scottsdale reports a preliminary total sales number of over $20.3 million dollars with a sales rate of 71%; with significant post-sales still pending.
  
  For the 12th year in a row Russo and Steele's Scottsdale Auction has remained true to its tagline of 'For enthusiasts- by enthusiasts' in delivering an action packed auction event with record turnout. Owner and CEO, Drew Alcazar commented that he was 'extremely pleased with the smashing the 2011 attendance record for both general admission and registered bidders. In fact, nothing is better than having the ability to introduce thousands of new enthusiasts to the interactive, visceral experience that is Russo and Steele.'
•  Ram Truck Launches New Luxury Model: Laramie Limited
  For 2012, Ram Truck will expand its model lineup by adding the new, top-of-the-line Ram Laramie Limited.
  
  'The Ram Truck brand's greatest strengths are our commitment to listen to customers and to understand what motivates them,' said Fred Diaz, President and CEO, Ram Truck Brand – Chrysler Group LLC. 'We've successfully added Ram truck models designed for outdoorsmen, tradesmen, first-time buyers and ranchers. Laramie Limited is designed to meet the high expectations of affluent pickup truck buyers lòòking to combine capability wîth elegance.'
  
  Featuring premium materials, such as full-leather seating, piano-black interior components and under-stated exterior badging, Ram Laramie Limited offers a refined luxury alternative to the popular southwestern-themed Ram Laramie Longhorn edition pickup.
  
  'The launch of the Ram Laramie Longhorn edition gave us a boost in the ultra-premium pickup §egmènt and exceeded our expectations,' added Diaz. 'Ram Laramie Limited offers customers an even wider selection of luxury models. We expect a lot of interest in the Laramie Limited.
  
  'The Ram Laramie Limited customer is going to be involved in some sort of motor-sport activity. Whether they're towing a ski boat, a race-car hauler, motorcycles or snowmobiles, they're looking for comfort and class and an expressive way to carry their crew and their gear.'
•  The BMW M550d xDrive : Best-seller raises the bar once again
  In what seems like the blink of an eye, the BMW 5-Series range has established itself as the best-selling model in the executive §egmènt. A convincing balance between dynamics and ride comfort, exemplary efficiency, premium quality and innovative equipment features has earned both the Sedan and the Touring versions their huge popularity. Added to which, sporty yet elegant design and agile handling have helped fuel the fascination associated wîth the brand. And now the arrival of the BMW M Performance Automobiles aims to accentuate the sporting aspects of the BMW 5-Series' character. The BMW M550d xDrive and BMW M550d xDrive Touring capture the imagination wîth performance figures that leave their diesel-powered class rivals firmly in the shade. And they combine these leading values wîth the efficiency drivers have come to expect from diesel BMW cars.
  
  The sporting focus of the BMW M550d xDrive and BMW M550d xDrive Touring is highlighted by bespoke modifications to power transfer, chassis and design components. These upgrades bear the signature of BMW M GmbH, which uses its development expertise to mould the two models into extraordinarily harmonious overall packages. The outstanding power of the tri-turbo straight-six diesel engine is translated into thrilling driving dynamics wîth impressive precision. This allows the 5-Series-based BMW M Performance Automobiles to offer the driver not only supreme diesel power, but also remarkably agile handling and predictable, controllable responses when exploring their dynamic limits.
•  Unique - and now more exceptional than ever: the new BMW X6
  The BMW X6 is the world's first ever Sports Activity Coupé, still a unique combination of sporty dynamics and supreme versatility and wîth further enhanced appeal from spring 2012. Selective modifications in design and innovative equipment features hone the profile of the new BMW X6 as a distinctive model within the premium §egmènt of all-wheel-drive automobiles. Its exceptional standing and ongoing popularity is due to both its highly expressive design,
  combing the athletic and elegant lines of a coupé wîth the supremacy of a BMW X model, and the fascinating driving experience provided by powerful petrol and diesel engines fitted wîth BMW TwinPower Turbo Technology and the intelligent all-wheel-drive system xDrive, including Dynamic Performance Control.
  
  Since its market launch, more than 150,000 of the Sporty Activity Coupé were sold within approximately three years. This far exceeded the original plans. And the continuing high level of demand for the BMW X6 on the worldwide automobile markets is impressive confirmation of the unusual vehicle concept of the Sports Activity Coupé.
•  1927 Bugatti Type 38A Tourer
  Introduced in 1926, the Type 38A was a marvelous automobile that offered all of Bugatti's most admired qualities – style, speed and engineering – in a highly versatile and modern package.
  
  In 2012, this example with coachwork by J. Figoni, was offered for sale at the Gooding & Company auction held in Scottsdale, Arizona. It had a pre-auction estimated value of $500,000 - $650,000. As bidding came to a close, the car had been sold for the sum of $495,000 inclusive of buyer's premium.
•  DAVID PIPER JOINS AMELIA CONCOURS FOR SPORTS CAR CHAMPIONSHIP SEMINAR
  David Piper will join Ferrari's Mauro Forghieri, Cobra creator Carroll Shelby and Cobra Daytona Coupe designer Peter Brock for the Cobra vs Ferrari: the Battle For the World Championship for Sports Cars Seminar at 4:00 PM, Friday March 9th in the Talbot Ballroom of the Ritz-Carlton Amelia Island.
  
  Trying to cast David Piper in a racing movie would be almost impossible. But Piper is a star in his own remarkable life. And he knows entirely too much about making movies. At the height of his sports car racing career David was part of the driving crew for Steve McQueen's 1971 feature film Le Mans. An accident during filming cost Piper part of his right leg. But he did not stop racing.
•  Derham Bodied Dodge D24 Coupe
  This one-off coupe designed by Enos Derham and Donald Diskey and commissioned by Chrysler, was based on the five-window Club Coupe. Derham removed the original top, shorten the package tray and moved the rear seat backward by some four inches, installed a new interior and wraparound windows. The interior was completely restyled with all the trim from the beltline up was of Derham design. The cabin was outfitted with dual interior lamps, two-speed electric windshield wipers, a passenger-side tissue holder, an electric clock, a heater unit with defroster, a seven-button Mopar radio, a custom rearview mirror and an upholstered trunk that included a Derham-badged tool kit case.
  
  In 2012, this car was offered for sale at the Gooding & Company auction held in Scottsdale, Arizona. It had a pre-auction estimated value of $ 75,000 - $125,000 and offered without reserve. As bidding came to a close, the car had been sold for the sum of $60,500 inclusive of buyer's premium.
•  Jeep Introduces New Production-intent Concept Grand Cherokee at Houston Auto Show
  The Jeep® brand has introduced a new, production-intent concept version of its award-winning Grand Cherokee, a unique model wîth distinctive yet Stealthy exterior cues designed to attract new Jeep Grand Cherokee enthusiasts and customers.
  
  Showing the vehicle publicly for the first time this morning at the Houston Auto Show, Jeep also announced that it has created an online contest for consumers to name the new production-intent Grand Cherokee concept. The person who chooses the winning name will have an opportunity to win a new 2012 Jeep Grand Cherokee.
  
  'Highlighted by a unique platinum-chrome front-end appearance and distinctive black-gloss 20-inch wheels and exterior treatments, our new Grand Cherokee concept provides a completely new look – one that is edgy and aggressive, and certainly different than any Grand Cherokee on the road today,' said Mike Manley, President and CEO – Jeep Brand, Chrysler Group LLC. 'Jeep enthusiasts have always appreciated limited-edition models and the ability to customize their vehicles. This new Grand Cherokee comes wîth a unique, ‘factory-customized' §téälth appearance directly from Jeep, and is certain to attract interest from an array of potential customers.
•  DAVID PIPER JOINS AMELIA CONCOURS
  DAVID PIPER JOINS AMELIA CONCOURS
  FERRARI VS COBRA THE BATTLE FOR THE WORLD
  SPORTS CAR CHAMPIONSHIP SEMINAR
  
  David Piper will join Ferrari's Mauro Forghieri, Cobra creator Carroll Shelby and Cobra Daytona Coupe designer Peter Brock for the Cobra vs Ferrari: the Battle For the World Cha
•  Maserati 3500 GT
  This car is one of two prototype Maserati 'Sebrings' built in 1961 with body by Carrozzeria Frua of Torino. Both looked identical and were built on standard 3500 GT chassis. The second car disappeared. History, of course, shows that the chosen design was the Vignale as the Sebring replacement. This car was first delivered to the Swiss dealer Martinelli and Sonico in May of 1961 and registered in Bern to a Jacques Bordier. The history is then unknown until it turned up in the United States in the early 1970s and pictures of the time suggest it had been involved in an accident as the rear of the car was quite out of shape and a small rear window had been fitted.
  
  The car was brought to Gooding & Company's auction in Scottsdale, Arizona where it was estimated to sell for $300,000-$375,000. Those estimates held true, as the lot was sold for $302,500 inclusive of buyer's premium.
•  New 2013 Ford Fusion NASCAR Sprint Cup Car Brings the 'Stock Car' Back to NASCAR
  The 2013 Ford Fusion NASCAR Sprint Cup car, unveiled today as part of the Charlotte Motor Speedway Media Tour, was worked on by Ford designers in an effort to bring brand identity back to the sport. The result is undeniable wîth the 2013 Sprint Cup car mirroring the recently unveiled 2013 Ford Fusion production car.
  
  Featuring a completely redesigned sleek new silhouette and fresh face, the 2013 Fusion Sprint Cup car was designed to be the face of a new era of stock car racing.
  
  'We wanted Fusion to be the car that helped return ‘stock car' to NASCAR.' stated Jamie Allison, director, Ford Racing. 'I think fans, when they see the car, are just going to smile and cheer. It is going to reengage them wîth the sport and make the sport better because there is just something natural about seeing race cars that look like cars in their driveways.'
•  TOYOTA RACING UNVEILS 2012 LE MANS CHALLENGER
  Toyota Racing today announced more details of its forthcoming FIA World Endurance Championship participation, including an intention to race two cars in specific races.
  
  The new team, which is based at Toyota Motorsport GmbH (TMG) in Cologne, Germany, will make its race debut on 5 May in the Six Hours of Spa-Francorchamps, the second round of the FIA World Endurance Championship.
  
  Toyota Racing intends to enter two TS030 HYBRID cars in the subsequent Le Mans 24 Hours (16-17 June. Participation in further rounds is yet to be confirmed.
  
  A driver line-up of Alex Wurz, Nicolas Lapierre and Kazuki Nakajima has already been confirmed for one car while discussions are still ongoing to finalise the driver line-up for the other. Additionally, Andrea Caldarelli, from Pescara, Italy, has joined Toyota Racing as a junior driver.
•  Ferraris Lead the Way to RM's $25.5 Million Arizona Sale
  RM Auctions kicked off its 2012 calendar on a positive note in Arizona last week, posting over $25.5 million* in sales with a strong 89 percent sell-through at its annual Arizona Biltmore sale in Phoenix.
  
  Now in its 13th year, the well-established auction presented a magnificent roster of 140 blue-chip motor cars – spanning the spectrum of the collector car market – before a standing-room only crowd. Illustrating RM's global clientele, bidders represented 21 countries around the world, with a strong showing of European enthusiasts.
  
  'Our Arizona sale proved to be a great kick start to what is shaping up as another terrific auction year. We are very pleased with the results of the sale and were delighted to welcome the world's premiere collectors back to the Arizona Biltmore,' said Rob Myers, Chairman & Founder, RM Auctions.
•  Gooding & Company Achieves Great Success at its Scottsdale Auctions
  Gooding & Company, the acclaimed auction house celebrated for selling the world's most significant and valuable collector cars, is pleased to announce $39.8 million in sales for 116 out of 118 lots sold, its most successful Scottsdale Auction results to date. The Gooding & Company team soared through its Friday and Saturday auctions, selling lot after lot as guests cheered 13 world record-breaking cars, the immense bidding excitement in the room and Auctioneer Charlie Ross' joyful entertainment.
  
  For the fifth consecutive year, Gooding & Company sold the most valuable car of all the auction houses during Arizona Auction Week, with an exceptionally-rare $4.62 million 1955 Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Alloy Gullwing. An extraordinary matching-numbers example, this iconic sports car is among the most coveted of all 300 SLs and one of only 29 alloy bodied models in existence.
•  Screen Goddess' Car is the Star of Bonhams' Inaugural Sale at Scottsdale
  Bonhams' foray into the Scottsdale auto auction week proved to be a strong success where, amidst the grounds of the beautiful and conveniently accessible AAA Four Diamond Westin Kierland Resort, an impressive and diverse line-up of cars offered buyers an unparalleled array of pedigree machinery from which to choose.
  
  The top seller of Thursday's sale was a well-documented 1937 Mercedes-Benz 540K Cabriolet C, which brought $667,000 after a fierce bidding battle between home markets, the UK, eastern Europe and the Far East. Offered from a New York collection where it had resided for more than 40 years, the car will return to continental Europe for the first time since it was built.
•  Ferraris Lead the Way to RM's $25.5 Million Arizona Sale
  RM Auctions kicked off its 2012 calendar on a positive note in Arizona last week, posting over $25.5 million* in sales with a strong 89 percent sell-through at its annual Arizona Biltmore sale in Phoenix.
  
  Now in its 13th year, the well-established auction presented a magnificent roster of 140 blu
•  Gooding & Company Achieves Great Success at its Scottsdale Auctions
  Gooding & Company, the acclaimed auction house celebrated for selling the world's most significant and valuable collector cars, is pleased to announce $39.8 million in sales for 116 out of 118 lots sold, its most successful Scottsdale Auction results to date. The Gooding & Company team soared throu
•  Ferrari 410 Superamerica at RM Auctions
  One of the many highlights from RM Auctions sale in Arizona was the Ferrari 410 Superameria which sold for $1,650,000 (hammer price).
  
  From every angle, s/n 0671 SA is a treat to view. From its brushed stainless roof panel and matching fins to the uniquely-shaped headlight rims flanking the traditional Ferrari egg-crate grille, this coupe spells power and speed. Sharing a few visual elements with the famous Pininfarina Superfast coupe, s/n 0671 SA sports sail panels that are reminiscent of a 250 Tour de France Berlinetta. Its bold grille reminds admirers of Ferrari's early 250MM competition cars. The rounded tail panel is unique to this car. Inside, the speedometer and tachometer are centrally located, like a 250GT Lusso, with other instruments placed in front of the driver. With its triple four-bbl Weber carburetors and increased displacement, s/n 0671 SA arguably develops considerably more power than the twin-choke Weber-carbureted ‘standard' Superamerica's Lampredi engine.
•  DeSoto Adventurer II Concept at Barrett-Jackson
  This DeSoto Concept was certainly one of the highlights that crossed the auction block at this years Barrett-Jackson Scottsdale, AZ auction. When the hammer fell for the third and final time, signaling the transfer of ownership, the car had been sold for the sum of $1.3 million.
  
  It is a one-off concept built by Ghia on a Chrysler Imperial chassis, 125.5' long. The original owner was King Mohammed V of Morocco.
  
  The Adventurer II, a derivative of the Savonuzzi Supersonic Series, features Chrysler Hemi V-8 power and Italian coachwork.
  
  The car features a retractable rear window and fitted luggage. A cosmetic restoration was completed in 1989.
•  Mercedes 300SL Alloy Gullwing Sells for $4.62 Million
  At the first day of Gooding & Company's two day Scottsdale, Az. auction, the highest sale of the day went to the 1955 Mercedes-Benz 300SL Alloy Gullwing. It is the sixth of the 29 Aluminum-Bodied 300SLs and it was estimated to sell between $2,500,000 - $3,000,000. Bidding exceeded those figures, selling for $4.62 million.
  
  These factory-built, lightweight racers were constructed with the express intention of increasing the public visibility of one of the greatest sports cars ever constructed.
•  Olympic host city and style capital London provides fresh design inspiration for MINI special editions.
  With just months to go before the Olympic Games get under way in the capital city of the brand's home country, MINI introduces two new special-edition models to spread contemporary London style around the world. The latest takes on the MINI character – the MINI Baker Street and MINI Bayswater – will go on sale in spring 2012. Expressive design features and exclusive equipment inject the cars' exterior appearance, interior ambience and hallmark driving fun wîth their own distinctive flavours. The MINI Baker Street embodies the youthful, fresh and innovative trend-setting style of the brand, while the MINI Bayswater focuses primarily on the sporting verve and agile handling for which MINI is renowned.
•  Cord L-29 LaGrande Speedster at Bonhams Scottsdale Auction
  For its first-ever automotive sale during the famous Scottsdale Car Week, the 217-year old auction house has teamed up with the exclusive AAA Four Diamond Westin Kierland Resort & Spa in the heart of sunny Scottsdale.
  
  Says Malcolm Barber, Bonhams CEO, 'The new Scottsdale sale will be a worthy and welcome addition to our worldwide portfolio of blue ribbon and sales an appropriate addition to our annual offerings and one that has been requested and has been much anticipated by international collectors for quite some time. It is a pleasure indeed to make this anticipated announcement and we look forward to working with the Westin Kierland Resort & Spa.'
  
  One of the vehicles scheduled to cross the block is this 1931 Cord L-29 Speedster. In 1930, Auburn Automobile Company president Roy Faulkner ordered Cord's in-house LaGrande coachbuilders to create an L-29 Speedster show car based on concept sketches provided by stylist Phillip O. Wright. The boat-tail speedster was sleek and modern, with aircraft inspired 'pontoon' fenders and a steeply raked Vee windshield. The LaGrande Speedster made its show debut at the 1931 New York Salon, followed by an appearance at the Paris Auto Show and then a French Concours d'Elegance.
•  1971 Dodge 'Mr. Norm' Hemi Challenger R/T
  The Challenger always seemed to be one pony car that always seemed to arrive to the stable late. However, upon its arrival, many would take notice.
  
  The late 1950s saw a period of waywardness from America's car companies. While the 1950s had seen sporty models, like the Thunderbird, come and go, there really wasn't a class of car to fit the attitude beginning to surface throughout the country. However, with Ford's Mustang and GM's Camaro, the wild heartbeat of America was allowed to roam free. Chrysler, however, was missing out on the act.
  
  Dodge introduced its Charger, but it fit into a category between the pony cars and the more luxurious models like the Ford Thunderbird. Mated with the 7.0-liter 426 cu.in. Hemi engine, the Charger would be popular and innovative, but it still would not directly do battle with the Mustang and the Camaro, and even then, the Charger would blossom rather late.
•  Gooding & Company Auction : Ferrari 250 GT California
  This 1959 Ferrari 250 GT LWB California Spider with coachwork by Scaglietti is presented for sale at the Gooding & Company auction held in Scottsdale, Az. It has an estimated value of $3,400,000 - $3,800,000. It is certainly one of the highlights at the upcoming auctions.
  
  The California Spider with chassis number 1505 GT is the 36th of 50 built. It is a refined automobile that has a sophisticated chassis and engine. It has the improved 508 d chassis, a more developed version of the original 250 GT chassis introduced in 1954. The engine, a 128 D unit, internal number 0508 D, was the latest 250 variant, which features twin rear-mounted distributors, stronger connecting rods and a new crankshaft. The engine also has revised cylinder heads with new valves and later intake manifolds.
•  Cadillac Eldorado Brougham Town Car Concept
  The car would tell a story in two parts. The front of the car, up to the passenger compartment, would be a story of simplicity and understated luxury. However, the passenger compartment and the last half of the story would be that of supple appointments and trimmings that certainly would have attracted attention to whoever it was that was to step out of the car. Almost a story of Jekyll and Hyde, the front was very simple and straight-forward while the rear of the car was much more attention-getting and wild.
  
  Appearing at this year's RM Auction in Arizona would be the one Town Car Concept that would be produced and debuted at the New York Motorama and Paris Salon. Chassis number S02491 was almost something of a very distant memory as it would be saved from destruction and hidden away until the 1980s. But at this year's RM Auction, bidders would have the opportunity to own a truly rare and luxurious Cadillac, perhaps the most elite of the Brougham Eldorados ever produced.
•  Ferrari 250 GT Lusso Headed to Auction in Arizona
  Complete with multiple FCA Platinum Awards, Ferrari Classiche Certification and even Targa Florio racing history, chassis 4459GT is certainly one of the more peculiar of the already exceptional 250GT Lusso. If every car tells a story, then this particular chassis would certainly be one of the must-read novels from the 250GT collection. And its racing achievements and multiple awards would not be overlooked as the car was expected to command between $900,000 and $1,100,000 at the 2012 RM Auction in Arizona. The lot was sold for $890,000 (hammer price).
  
  The 250 line of sports cars would be the most successful of Ferrari's early line of sports cars. The 250 GT Lusso would then be considered the most elegant of the 250s, and therefore, the perfect finale to the popular sports car family. Considered one of the top sports cars of the 1960s, the GT Lusso would be sought after by movie stars, rock stars and other wealthy individuals looking for an exhilarating ride of both elegance and performance.
  
  Introduced at the Paris Auto Show in 1963, there would only be 355 examples of the 250GT Lusso built and chassis number 4459GT would be one of them. GM stylist Charles Jordan would describe the car as 'an excellent example of timeless design' and 4459GT would certainly be able to show why.
•  Gould's Garage: 1954 Formula One Season
  In the minds of many, life of a Formula One racing driver is already larger than life. Driving the best cars on the absolute limit seems like the ultimate adventure but it requires a commitment, a desire, that only a select few have. The Formula One racing driver is rare and special for sure. But there often are those within the sport that have a personality and a determination about them that causes them to transcend even the sport. And though he would not be the most famous of racing drivers, Horace Gould would be one such example.
  
  Born in September of 1921 in Southmead, Bristol, Horace Gould would actually be born Horace Twigg. In time, he would come to be a car dealer in the Bristol area. Not one to be missed in a crowd, Gould would come to be called 'the Gonzalez of the West Country'. This nickname would come as a result of his rather stout frame similar to that of the Argentinean Jose Froilan Gonzalez.
  
  Gould would begin his major motor racing career in 1953 driving a Cooper T21 sports car at the Dundrod Circuit. At the time, the World Championship was still conducting its races according to Formula 2 regulations. This opened the door to many that would otherwise not have been able to enter the realm of Formula One racing. However, he would enter the realm rather late with the new Formula One regulations coming into affect the following season.
•  SHELBY AMERICAN CELEBRATES 50 YEARS OF HIGH PERFORMANCE WITH SPECIAL ANNIVERSARY EDITION CARS
  To honor its 50th anniversary, Shelby American™ is unleashing a new line of Anniversary Edition Shelby GTS, GT350® and Super Snake® vehicles. Only 50 white and 50 black of each post title Shelby model will be manufactured, making it an instant collector's item and an iconic piece of automotive history.
  
  'Few thought that Shelby American would make it in the car business for 50 years,' said Carroll Shelby. 'We built the first Cobra in a rented garage and then GT350's in an old hanger. But our company is still here, manufacturing the best cars that I've ever made. The next 50 years will be even better for Shelby American.'
  
  The Shelby American name is synonymous wîth high performance worldwide. Over the past five decades, the company has relentlessly pushed the envelope wîth a string of superior vehicles and parts.
•  A Trifecta of Chevelles for Discerning Collectors
  Three Unique 1970 Chevelle LS6's to be offered at Russo and Steele Scottsdale January 18-22, 2012
  
  Featuring the most powerful rated engine to date when it was built, the 1970 Chevelle LS6 was born of a higher breed. The product of an era of car building in which Chevrolet was determined to join the ranks of top muscle cars in the industry. The Chevelle LS6 surpassed the competition to become one of the most popular cars of the muscle car era. Due to its affordability, popularity and versatility on the street as well as a race car, the Chevelle SS remains to this day one of the most popular muscle cars around. The fact that only 4,475 RPO LS6 options were built for any of the body styles offered, makes these three featured and exceedingly unique 1970 Chevelle LS6's a must-see on any muscle car enthusiast's list.
  
  Russo and Steele is offering a unique opportunity to view each of these exceedingly rare Chevelle LS6 automobiles as they cross the auction block at Russo and Steele Scottsdale January 18th-22nd, 2012. The trifecta being offered are the last known LS6 to exist the 1970 Chevelle SS 454 LS6, a 1970 Chevelle SS 454 LS6 that is the earliest built for the U.S. market known and publicly documented, and a rare 1970 Chevelle SS 454 LS6 with performance modifications.
•  Mercedes-Benz Marks 60 Years of 'SL' History at Amelia Island Concours
  The famous 1952 300SL 'Gullwing' coupe responsible for securing Mercedes-Benz first Le Mans victory and reinvigorating international racing glory for the three-pointed star is marking its 60th anniversary with an appearance alongside the all-new 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL550 at the 17th annual Amelia Island Concours d'Elegance on March 9-11, 2012.
  
  The meaning of the famous 'SL' letters literally stands for 'Super Light' and the 1952 SL with its lightweight tubular frame laid the foundation for the iconic Mercedes-Benz SL lineage. The 300SL was unlike any Mercedes-Benz racer that came before it. It was the first in decades to share DNA with a production car, utilizing a combination of series-production technology and innovative lightweight construction.
•  A Trifecta of Chevelles for Discerning Collectors
  Three Unique 1970 Chevelle LS6's to be offered at Russo and Steele Scottsdale January 18-22, 2012
  
  Featuring the most powerful rated engine to date when it was built, the 1970 Chevelle LS6 was born of a higher breed. The product of an era of car building in which Chevrolet was determined to
•  2013 Porsche Boxster: Lighter, More Muscular, More Distinctive and More Fuel-Efficient
  Never before in the history of the Porsche Boxster has a change of generation been so comprehensive. The open-top two-seat car receives an entirely new lightweight body and a completely revamped chassis. The new Boxster weighs less than the previous generation and rides on a longer wheelbase and a wider track. These new dimensions are coupled wîth larger wheels and a new electromechanical power §teering system to significantly enhance the mid-engine sports car's driving dynamics. The new Boxster boasts superior performance and is also up to 15 percent more fuel-efficient than previous models on the European cycle.
  
  The new Boxster benefits not only from an increased wheelbase but also shorter overhangs, while the windscreen has been shifted forward. The passengers are enclosed by the completely redesigned, fully electric top, which now dispenses wîth a convertible top compartment lid. The interior concept offers the occupants more space and reflects the new Porsche outline wîth a raked center console, which, originating wîth the Carrera GT ensures improved ergonomics in all models.
•  Corvette Marks 60 Years of Performance with 427 Convertible
  Chevrolet today unveiled the 2013 Corvette 427 Convertible Collector Edition – the fastest, most capable convertible in Corvette's history – as well as a 60th Anniversary Package that will be available on all 2013 Corvette models.
  
  'The 2013 model year will be historic for Corvette, marking its 60th Anniversary and the final year for the current ‘C6' generation,' said Chris Perry, vice president, Global Marketing and Strategy for Chevrolet. 'We couldn't think of a more fitting way to celebrate these milestones than bringing back one of the most-coveted combinations in the brand's history – the Corvette convertible and a 427 cubic-inch engine.'
  
  The 60th Anniversary Package and 427 Convertible will make their public debut at the Barrett Jackson collector car auction in Scottsdale, Ariz., on Jan 21, and will arrive at Ú.S. Chevrolet dealers early this summer.
•  Iconic Audi allroad returns to the U.S. for the 2013 Model Year
  Making its re-entry into the Ú.S. market for the first time since 2005, the Audi allroad made its debut at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit. The new allroad is built on the A4 platform and has been modified to meet the functionality and design elements that define the iconic allroad.
  
  The new allroad features 211 horsepower wîth 258 pounds-foot of torque that makes it faster and more fuel efficient than its predecessor.
  
  The exterior features a unique single frame grille design wîth vertical chrome struts, stainless steel skid plates and side sills, and raised aluminum-optic roof rails. Matte finished lower bumpers and wheel arches are standard, while a full paint finish is optional.
•  Falcon F7
  Everything great starts from a single, powerful idea. Born out of pure sports car passion and the unquenchable desire to fill the void in the competitive and repetitious world of vehicle exclusivity for a hand crafted, uniquely American, exotic ultra high performance sports car. Welcome to Falcon F7.
  
  Fueled by the positive response and unbridled enthusiasm when unveiling Falcon F7 concept at the 2011 North American International Auto Show in Detroit, Falcon Motor Sports accepted its first F7 series 1 order in 2011. The first customer car is on display at the 2012 Detroit North American International Auto Show. Additional vehicles are under construction and orders are being accepted to complete the initial F7 Series 1 production run of ten vehicles as well as a comprehensive integrated marketing initiative.
•  Hyundai Veloster Turbo
  Hyundai Motor America introduced the all-new 2013 Veloster Turbo armed wîth 201 horsepower in a world debut at the North American International Auto Show (NAIAS). Veloster Turbo is one bookend to Hyundai's turbocharged sports coupe line-up, paired wîth the refreshed 274 horsepower, rear-wheel drive 2013 Genesis Coupe 2.0T (Turbo) also debuting at the show.
  
  'The Turbo further broadens Veloster's hero role in the Hyundai line-up to attract our next generation of buyers,' said Mike O'Brien, vice president, product and corporate planning, Hyundai Motor America. 'It's powerful, high-tech and fuel-efficient, attributes which we think make Veloster Turbo the ultimate innovation in the sport coupe §egmènt.'
  
  The 2013 Veloster Turbo arrives in the Summer of 2012, facing off against worthy competitors such as the Volkswagen GTI, Honda Civic Si and Mini Cooper/Clubman S wîth a better power-to-weight ratio than all of them, and a unique sport-tuned §teering and suspension hardware set.
•  Ultimate in Classic Era Design and Rarity Headed to RM's Amelia Island Sale
  RM Auctions, the official auction house of the Amelia Island Concours d'Elegance, has announced an exceptional roster of automobiles for its highly-anticipated Amelia Island sale, March 10 in Northeast Florida.
  
  Returning to the prestigious Ritz-Carlton Hotel, the well-established sale – now in its 14th year – will present a magnificent roster of 100 blue-chip automobiles as it looks to build upon RM's strong track record in Northeast Florida. In 2011, the company once again enjoyed the top auction results posted during the Amelia Island Concours weekend, generating a remarkable $24.3 million in sales with a superb 96% of lots sold – the highest tally ever achieved during the event's history. The 2012 event promises to continue the momentum with a stellar list of early entries, including a handsome 1934 Packard Twelve Dietrich Convertible Victoria (pictured top) and a stunning 1929 Cord L-29 Hayes Coupe. Both are considered the ultimate in Classic Era design, rarity and desirability.
•  VOLKSWAGEN REVEALS THE NO COMPROMISE, COMPACT HYBRID
  Volkswagen is presenting one of the world's most efficient automobiles at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit: the Jetta Hybrid. Powering the all-new model is a high-tech turbocharged gasoline engine mated to a zero-emissions electric motor. While this hybrid union enables impressive driving performance wîth a class-leading 0-60 mph time of less than 9.0 seconds, the new Jetta Hybrid also delivers an estimated combined fuel economy figure of 45 mpg. This means that the sporty hybrid consumes about 20 percent less fuel than a similarly-powered sedan wîth a conventional drivetrain. In city traffic, the fuel economy advantage climbs to a little over 30 percent. In addition, the Jetta Hybrid can be driven in pure electric mode at speeds of up to 44 mph and for up to 1.2 miles depending on operating conditions.
•  Vorsteiner BR-10 for the New Bentley Continental Coupe
  The BR-10 edition, birthed from the New Bentley Continental GT Series, consists of a 5-piece lightweight carbon fiber aerodynamic package constructed wîth our state-of-the-art pre-preg autoclave technology.
  
  Our designers & engineers worked meticulously to create a masterpiece nothing short of a magnum opus for this timeless coupe: a highly exclusive and most elite aerodynamic body and wheel package wîth nothing to detract and everything to enhance the beautiful purity of the factory body.
  
  Firstly, our designers start wîth an alluring and tasteful 2-piece add-on front spoiler that improves the down force of the front end while directing cool air into the radiators. This cutting-edge front spoiler supplies the perfect touch of elegance and sportiness to the nose of the car while maintaining functional aerodynamic contours wîth an add-on central carbon splitter, further improving the down force wîth a GT race car focus. This all-new BR-10 front spoiler sits 40mm lower than the original factory bumper and confidently exudes a powerful presence on the road.
•  Ultimate in Classic Era Design and Rarity Headed to RM's Amelia Island Sale
  RM Auctions, the official auction house of the Amelia Island Concours d'Elegance, has announced an exceptional roster of automobiles for its highly-anticipated Amelia Island sale, March 10 in Northeast Florida.
  
  Returning to the prestigious Ritz-Carlton Hotel, the well-established sale – now in it
•  2013 Buick Encore Takes the Stage
  Buick today introduced the all-new 2013 Encore – a luxury small crossover that delivers Buick's signature style, interior acoustic refinement and collection of luxury amenities in a maneuverable, versatile and efficient package.
  
  The Encore is on display at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit through Jan. 22, and goes on sale in early 2013.
  
  'Buick Encore is a great-lòòking, smart choice for those who want luxury crossover amenities in a more maneuverable and agile vehicle,' said Tony DiSalle, Ú.S. vice president of Buick Marketing. 'It represents a luxury alternative for a new audience of Buick customers, and delivers features and flexibility not typically found in vehicles of its size today.'
•  All-New Opel Mokka: Compact in Size, Big in Attitude
  A new name and a new Segment for Opel: At the start of the New Year and two months ahead of its world premiere at the Geneva motor show on March 6, 2012, Opel is releasing the first photos of its new dynamic, sub-compact sports utility vehicle, the Opel Mokka. With the new Mokka, Opel is the first German manufacturer to launch a contender in the growing sub-compact SUV Segment.
  
  Despite its 4.28 meter measurement, the Mokka generously accommodates five people in a commanding position. It also delivers on Opel's promise to combine attractive design wîth innovative technologies and upmarket functionalities, making them accessible to a wider Segment of customers.
  
  'The Opel Mokka takes its strengths from traditional, larger SUVs and fits them into a modern compact format,' says Opel CEO Karl-Friedrich Stracke. 'The Mokka extends Opel's vehicle line and continues the momentum we've built up over the last few years wîth our strong product offensive. It also energizes the new SÚV B-Segment that is predicted to grow considerably over the next years.'
•  Honda Unveils 2013 Accord Coupe Concept
  Honda unveiled the dynamic Accord Coupe Concept today at the North American International Auto Show, providing the first official glimpse of the athletic styling direction, as well as revealing a host of new technologies for the all-new, ninth-generation 2013 model, set to go on-sale this fall.
  
  The 2013 Accord will feature three all-new powertrains, including the first Ú.S. application of both a 2.4-liter direct-injected engine and two-motor plug-in hybrid system from Honda's suite of next-generation Earth Dreams™ powertrain technologies. In addition, the V-6 Accord will be the first Honda sedan to feature a new 6-speed automatic transmission. Both the Accord Sedan and the Accord Coupe models are expected to achieve class-leading fuel economy ratings and will be available wîth a number of innovative new safety and technological features.
  
  'Marking the 30th anniversary of Ú.S. production, this new ninth-generation Accord will raise the bar again through a tour de force of new Honda powertrain and safety technologies, geared to ensure that Honda and the Accord continue to lead in fuel economy, safety and fun-to-drive performance,' said John Mendel, executive vice president of sales for American Honda.
•  Lincoln MKZ Concept: Future Vision Today
  The new Lincoln MKZ Concept, revealed today at the North American International Auto Show, signals a significant step in Lincoln's reinvention, providing a clear vision of its next-generation vehicles.
  
  'With the Lincoln MKZ Concept, we are not introducing a new car. We are essentially introducing a new brand,' said Derrick Kuzak, Ford Motor Company group vice president for Global Product Development. 'The MKZ Concept is the next step in the reinvention of Lincoln, something we've been quietly but aggressively pursuing.'
•  Toyota Reveals NS4 Advanced Plug-In Hybrid Concept
  Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc. (TMS), today revealed the NS4 advanced plug-in hybrid concept vehicle at the 2012 North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) in Detroit. The NS4 signifies Toyota's vision for future mobility wîth a focus on connectivity and the human interface.
  
  Toyota engineers were challenged to design a new mid-sized concept for potential global market introduction by 2015. The NS4 concept is a dedicated plug-in hybrid, separate from the Prius family, designed wîth future mobility requirements in mind.
  
  'In this digital age, cars are becoming another spoke in the wheel of our electronic connectivity,' said Jim Lentz, TMS president and chief operating officer. 'NS4 demonstrates Toyota's take on the human connection to the car wîth technology that considers both emotional and rational relationships, person-to-car and car-to-society.'
•  2013 Ford Fusion
  Ford's all-new Fusion brings alive the next generation of more expressive vehicles from Ford and is the first sedan to offer gasoline, hybrid and plug-in hybrid versions – each expected to deliver top fuel economy and an engaging driving experience.
  
  Featuring a sleek silhouette and fresh face, the all-new Fusion is the latest in a series of vehicles from Ford – following the 2011 Fiesta subcompact and 2012 Focus small cars – developed to satisfy customers everywhere who want leading fuel efficiency, helpful technologies and game-changing looks.
  
  'Our vision for Fusion was clear – deliver the very best of what One Ford stands for,' said Derrick Kuzak, group vice president of Global Product Development. 'We brought our global teams together around a blank slate wîth the charge to develop a midsize car wîth groundbreaking design and jaw-dropping fuel economy – one that featured technologies to help make our customers safer and better drivers. This car is the result.'
•  Acura NSX Concept
  The dynamically-styled NSX Concept gives an indication of the next great performance vehicle from the Acura brand. Making use of lightweight materials and a mid-mounted V-6 engine, the NSX Concept employs several new technologies for Acura, including application of Acura's innovative new Sport Hybrid SH-AWD® (Super Handling All Wheel Drive™) hybrid system.
  
  Útilizing an unique 2 Electric Motor Drive Únit wîth a bilateral torque adjustable control system, the all-new hybrid all-wheel-drive system can instantly generate negative or positive torque to the front wheels during cornering. Acura anticipates the new Sport Hybrid SH-AWD® will deliver handling performance unmatched by previous AWD systems. In addition to the handling benefits of the Sport Hybrid SH-AWD® system, a powerful next-generation VTEC® V-6 engine wîth direct-injection works in concert wîth a dual clutch transmission wîth built-in electric motor to create supercar acceleration while offering outstanding efficiency.
•  Dodge Dart
  The 2013 Dodge Dart redefines performance wîth Alfa Romeo DNA, fuel-efficient powertrains and Dodge s passion for performance. The all-new Dodge Dart is a thoroughly modern vehicle that s fuel-efficient, beautifully designed and crafted, agile and fun-to-drive.
  
  Loaded wîth innovative technology, class-leading safety features and clever functionality, the 2013 Dodge Dart sets a new standard in the compact car §egmènt by offering unmatched personalization, roominess, style, functionality and fun-to-drive dynamics.
•  E-BUGSTER CONCEPT MAKES WORLD DEBUT AT 2012 NORTH AMERICAN INTERNATIONAL AUTO SHOW
  Volkswagen's iconic Beetle has been redefined for the 21st century. Now, it has been further reinvented as a concept car for the future: the pure electric E-Bugster.
  
  The name 'E-Bugster' is a combination of 'E' for electric, 'Bug,' the American nickname for the Beetle, and 'speedster,' which typically describes an open-top two-seater. Although the E-Bugster concept is clearly not a convertible, it sports the typical speedster profile of shallow windows and a low, dramatic roofline.
•  Ford Fusion Energi
  Topping the fuel-efficiency ladder is the Fusion Energi plug-in hybrid, aiming to be the most fuel-efficient midsize car in the world. Arriving this fall, Fusion Energi is anticipated to deliver more than 100 MPGe, a mile per gallon equivalency metric for electrified vehicles. This is 8 MPGe more than the Chevrolet Volt and 13 MPGe more than the projected efficiency of the Toyota Prius plug-in hybrid model.
  
  The next-generation Fusion 1.6-liter is the first automatic-transmission Ford product offered wîth an automatic start stop system. It shuts off engine power smoothly when the car is stopped and seamlessly restarts as the driver releases the brake pedal, helping Fusion to reduce fuel consumption and emissions by approximately 3.5 percent.
•  Here's a Concept: Chevrolet Puts Next-Gen Buyers in Charge
  Chevrolet today introduced two concept coupes at the 2012 North American International Auto Show aimed at inspiring next-generation buyers to take the wheel and suggest ideas for a car they can co-create.
  
  'Chevrolet has always stood for making the aspirational attainable for all generations' said General Motors North America President Mark Reuss. 'These two concepts interpret that vision for a new generation. We're seeking out our newest customers' opinions, listening to their advice, and engaging them in new ways.'
  
  According to Ú.S. Census data, there are 80 million American consumers approaching 30. They represent 40 percent of today's potential car-buying public and a combined $1 trillion in purchasing power.
•  Lexus Unveils Sleek Hybrid 2+2 Sport Coupe Design Concept
  Lexus today unveiled a new design concept for a hybrid 2+2 sport coupe at the North American International Auto Show. Showcasing the future design direction for Lexus wîth an emphasis on a driver-focused vehicle, the LF-LC concept will be at the Lexus display through January 22.
  
  'The concept we're showing here in Detroit continues the Lexus design revolution started wîth the CT and GS,' said Mark Templin, Lexus group vice president and general manager. 'The concept hybrid 2+2 liberates the idea of a sport coupe and pushes the boundaries of performance, style and technology.'
  
  Challenged by the Lexus Center in Japan to come up wîth a design for a future hybrid sport coupe concept, the company's Calty design studio in Newport Beach, Calif., sought to advance the redefinition of Lexus wîth emotive, avant-garde beauty and advanced technology, yet remain within reach for premium buyers.
•  Nissan e-NV200 Concept
  The innovative Nissan e-NV200 Concept, which makes it world debut at the 2012 North American Auto Show in Detroit, serves as more evidence of Nissan's leadership position in the zero-emission automotive industry. Based on the popular Nissan NV200 multi-usage vehicle, the Nissan e-NV200 Concept previews a near-future production version of a full electric vehicle designed to provide businesses or families with flexible, roomy interior space, while achieving a dramatic CO2 footprint reduction.
  
  'With its ‘no gas, no tailpipe, no emissions' powertrain, the Nissan e-NV200 Concept combines a quiet, comfortable driving experience with a large, highly versatile, functional interior space within a compact overall body length,' said Hideto Murakami, corporate vice president, Nissan Motor Co., Ltd. 'A potential game changing vehicle in its segment, the battery capacity will support a driving range similar to the Nissan LEAF, while payload and cargo space will offer the same level as the current NV200. The production version would be targeted mainly at businesses, but also at private users or families in major regions.'
•  NISSAN REINVENTS THE PATHFINDER AS THE NEXT GEN SUV WITH NEW AERODYNAMIC STYLING AND ENHANCED FUEL ECONOMY
  Nissan is reinventing its popular Pathfinder SÚV to appeal to customers lòòking for SÚV capabilities wîth more passenger comfort, innovative technology and fuel-efficient performance. The Pathfinder Concept, on display at the North American International Auto Show, previews the all-new look, style and attitude Nissan will bring to the §egmènt when the next-gen Pathfinder goes on sale in fall 2012 at Nissan dealers nationwide. Pathfinder, Nissan's best-known nameplate in the Únited States, is one of 20 new or redesigned products Nissan plans to introduce in this market within the next two years.
•  Scion Racing Debuts FR-S Race Car
  Scion today unveiled its Scion Racing/GReddy FR-S race car during a press conference at the 2012 North American International Auto Show. The FR-S will be competing in the 2012 Formula DRIFT series wîth veteran driver Ken Gushi behind the wheel.
  
  The 600-horsepower FR-S race car is the result of a collaboration between Scion Racing and GReddy, a performance-products company that has been involved wîth Toyota and racing for over twenty years.
  
  The race car is inspired by the 2013 Scion FR-S, a compact rear-wheel-drive sports car that will go on sale in the spring of 2012. The high-performance coupe is the fifth model to join the Scion family.
•  Winter sports and functionality – the Audi Q3 Vail
  Audi is unveiling a themed vehicle of a special kind at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit – the Audi Q3 Vail wîth an output of 231 kW (314 hp). The compact SÚV, which is named after the famous winter sports venue in the Únited States, unites a powerful presence wîth a sporty lifestyle. The Q3 Vail is a highlight of the young model series that only launched in 2011.
  
  The Audi Q3 Vail represents a new, potential variation on the SÚV concept. The themed vehicle has been designed for young fans of winter sports who love skiing or snowboarding. The Audi Q3 Vail is a sporty and robust compact SÚV offering many practical attributes, an elegant appearance and individual design highlights.
•  World Debut for 911 Carrera Cabriolet with innovative roof concept
  Springtime arrives a little early today at the North American International Auto Show wîth the introduction of the 2012 Porsche 911 Carrera Cabriolet and Carrera S Cabriolet.
  
  Development of the new, seventh-generation 911 Carrera and Carrera S Coupes began wîth a new aluminum-steel body; the Cabriolets continue the evolution wîth the addition of an all-new, unique top that retains the characteristic 911 coupe roof line. The intelligent lightweight design makes use of magnesium for weight reduction, improved performance and lower fuel consumption. As wîth the new 911 coupe, Porsche has managed to make the new Cabriolet models up to 132 pounds lighter than their predecessors.
•  2013 Cadillac ATS
  Cadillac today introduced the 2013 ATS, an all-new compact luxury sports sedan intended to challenge the world's best premium cars. Developed on an all-new, lightweight vehicle architecture, Cadillac's entry into the world's most significant luxury car segment goes on sale this summer.
  
  The rear-drive ATS brings Cadillac's blend of technologically driven performance, elegance and design to a new audience of spirited drivers. Its sophisticated driving experience is enhanced with Cadillac CUE, a comprehensive, in-vehicle user experience that merges intuitive design with industry-first controls and commands for information and media data.
  
  'Designed with quick, nimble and fun-to-drive dynamics, ATS expands Cadillac's portfolio into a crucial global segment,' said Don Butler, vice president of marketing for Cadillac. 'For a new group of luxury consumers, this is a car that will fit their lifestyle and challenge the segment's status quo.'
•  Consumer Electronics Show (CES): Chrysler Group LLC Announces Expansion of Beats™ by Dr. Dre™ Audio System to New 2012 Dodge Charger
  With the world's largest gathering of electronic technophiles in attendance at the 2012 Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas, Chrysler Group and Beats™ by Dr. Dre™ announced today the next chapter in their bold new partnership that brings the studio quality sound experience of Beats™ Audio technology and places it into an iconic American performance sedan: the new 2012 Dodge Charger.
  
  'Dr. Dre and Jimmy Iovine have built their careers on revolutionary and forward thinking decisions that formulate trends in music, popular culture and technology,' Reid Bigland, President and CEO – Dodge Brand. 'Our goal in partnering wîth Beats by Dr. Dre is to integrate their recording-studio quality audio experience for our Charger enthusiasts to feel and hear their favorite music as it was intended – all while heightening the street performance and technology assets of the new 2012 Dodge Charger.'
•  New 107: so urban, so cute!
  The Peugeot 107 is renewed, more modern and even more urban, a spirited response to the thirst for autonomy, independence and freedom!
  
  Its subtle and sophisticated style, inspired by the new look of the Peugeot marque, gives it a new power of attraction.
  
  Great attention has been paid to its appeal without making any sacrifices in terms of its advantages when facing the constraints of city driving; it has become even more practical and fuel-efficient.
•  Toyota Aygo
  Launched in 2005 at the heart of the growing A-Segment, the Toyota Aygo offered Europeans a radical new alternative for stylish urban mobility.
  
  Rejecting the commonly held stereotype that compact could only mean pragmatic and economical, the Aygo's revolutionary design re-defined perceptions of what small could be.
  
  Extensively revised at the end of 2008, the Toyota Aygo quickly established a solid reputation in the A-§egmènt for space-efficient packaging, reliability and value for money, wîth over 580,000 units sold to date.
•  Legendary Toyota Land Cruiser Receives Significant Enhancements for 2013
  The legendary Toyota Land Cruiser recently celebrated its 60th anniversary since its original launch in Japan and has remained constant in Toyota's Ú.S. model lineup for more than 50 years.
  
  Land Cruiser has evolved over time from a basic four-wheel-drive utility vehicle in its early years to an upscale eight-passenger sport utility vehicle (SÚV) sold in 188 countries. Yet, this iconic vehicle has retained a loyal following as it remains true to its off-road heritage wîth uncompromising go-anywhere capability.
  
  For the 2013 model year, Land Cruiser receives exterior and interior styling enhancements. Additionally, Land Cruiser will now come wîth all features as standard equipment, including new driving performance features, and an array of significant safety and convenience features. Among the many popular features that were formerly available as options, but are now standard, are rear-seat DVD entertainment system, color-keyed rear spoiler, rain-sensing windshield wipers, center-console cooler box, headlamp cleaners, leather-trimmed §teering wheel, multi-information display, voice and Bluetooth® hands-free controls, leather-trimmed shift lever and heated second row seats. Toyota's Premium Hard Disk Drive (HDD) Navigation wîth Entune multi-media system and JBL® audio is also standard.
•  Ford Previews All-New EcoSport at New Delhi Auto Expo As New Product Momentum in Asia Continues to Build
  Expanding its relentless push into the heart of Asia's car market, Ford introduces the all-new Ford EcoSport at Auto Expo 2012 this week. The new compact SUV will further augment Ford's offering in India, as well as in many other markets across the globe.
  
  Modern and innovative, the all-new Ford EcoSport was designed to combine best-in-class design, technology, quality and safety aimed at attracting a new generation of consumers in different global markets.
  
  Created as the latest One Ford global product, the EcoSport will be a key model in expanding Ford's presence in major worldwide growth markets, including India, Brazil and the ASEAN markets. It has been developed in South America at one of Ford's eight global product development centres in conjunction wîth teams from Asia, Europe and North America to meet the needs of markets across the globe.
•  Volvo XC60 Plug-in Hybrid Concept - a unique blend of gasoline and electric power
  At the 2012 North American International Auto Show in Detroit, Volvo Car Corporation will unveil an innovative gasoline plug-in hybrid.
  
  The Volvo XC60 Plug-in Hybrid Concept is an electric car, a highly economical hybrid and a powerful high-performance car all rolled into one.
  
  At the touch of a button, the driver decides how the available power from the combination of the high-performance gasoline engine and the electric motor is to be utilized.
  
  'The technology in the XC60 Plug-in Hybrid Concept is as ingenious as it is unique,' says Stefan Jacoby, President and CEO of Volvo Car Corporation. 'You can make really green progress on the road without compromising on any of the luxury car's renowned properties. No other manufacturer has succeeded in delivering fuel economy and electrical range on this level in a capable, spacious performance car wîth 350 horsepower on tap.'
•  1990 480km of Mexico City
  Perusing the career of Michael Schumacher, it is easy to become enamored with all of the records and years of dominance in Formula One. However, it would be good to remember that his path to the pinnacle motorsport series would not be a conventional one. A throwback to those of the grand prix legend that not only took part in Formula One, but also, sports cars, Schumacher would have a career in sports car before he would come to shine as a star in Formula One. One of those sports car races in which the talent and ability of Schumacher would be clearly evident would be the final race of the 1990 World Sportscar Championship season.
  
  When Schumacher unretired from Formula One he would come back racing for Mercedes GP. This would be a fulfillment, of sorts, of a lost opportunity back in the early 1990s. In fact, it would be a reuniting of Schumacher and Mercedes, although most only ever really remember him in a Benetton or a Ferrari.
•  2000 Italian Grand Prix
  The entirety of Michael Schumacher's career, its highlights and record-setting moments, would make it nearly impossible to highlight just one race as significant for there were so many that would likely fall into that category. However, if there could be just one race that would help to not only help to define Schumacher's career, but also, set the stage for the coming era of Schumacher/Ferrari dominance then perhaps the 2000 Italian Grand Prix would qualify.
  
  After Schumacher's debut in the Jordan 191 at Spa in 1991, Michael would immediately be signed by Benetton for the very next race the Italian Grand Prix. While initially sought after by Benetton, Schumacher would soon assume his role as a galvanizing figurehead that would lead to back-to-back World Championship in 1994 and 1995.
•  Ferrari F1-2000
  Lost in the shadow of its record-breaking and record-setting successors would be the car that would bring Schumacher his third Formula One World Championship and Ferrari's first in twenty-one years. The car that would set the stage for the era of Ferrari would be the F1-2000.
  
  While many would speculate at Michael Schumacher's decision to move to Ferrari when it was not considered with the same reverence and awe that the prancing horse had once evoked up and down the pitlane in Formula One, nobody denied his ability to pull a team together and help it become a contender. Nobody doubted that Schumacher had the drive and insatiable appetite needed to help bring Ferrari back from one of its darker periods. However, it was generally believed, given just how truly bad the team had been over the course of the previous few seasons, that it would take a few years before they would become contenders.
•  Mercedes-Benz Sauber C11
  Before Michael Schumacher tooled around the grand prix circuits of the world in the mighty Benettons, and later, Ferraris, one of his first experiences with extreme forms of horsepower would come in 1990 and 1991 driving this, the Sauber-Mercedes C11.
  
  Like Michael Schumacher, who would come from the world of 200 horsepower Formula 3 single-seater racing, Peter Sauber, the Swiss engineer and motor racing aficionado, had made the jump from mainly small sports-prototypes to Group C during the very early '80s.
  
  Sauber's first couple attempts as prototype designs for Group C racing would be, putting it mildly, troublesome. Reliability problems would plague the first couple of models. Sauber would achieve greater success with the BMW-powered C7, but it still didn't have the pace of the Porsches and Lancias.
•  Micheal Schumacher: 'I am not a legend.'
  Michael Schumacher has often made such declarations, but his assertion that he is 'not a legend' couldn't be any more true. For the simple reality is this: his career has been anything but non-historical or unverifiable. His career, his achievements certainly are not mere myths or stories handed down by tradition. They are as real as the man himself. However, his career and achievements certainly do reserve him a place amongst the mythological, the fabled of Formula One World Championship history.
  
  The real life story of Michael Schumacher begins in the town of Hurth-Hermulheim in the Rhein-Erft-Kreis district of Germany. The town, located just a little over 5 miles from the city of Cologne, features a number of lakes and large stretches of deeply-forested land and could be considered a veritable birthplace for grand prix stars. In 1928, the area would give birth to Wolfgang von Trips. A very picturesque town, Hurth would be the home of Rolf and Elisabeth Schumacher. In Hurth, Rolf and Elisabeth would give birth to Michael on the 3rd of January in 1969. A little over six years later, Rolf and Elisabeth would give birth to yet another future grand prix star Ralf.
•  Bugatti Type 13
  After opening his new factory in Molsheim, Ettore Bugatti refined his lightweight Type 10 into the Type 13 racer. The new company produced five examples in 1910, and entered the French Grand Prix at Le Mans in 1911. The tiny Bugatti looked a little out of place in the race, but took second after seven hours of racing. World War I halted car production but Ettore took completed Type 13 cars with him to Milan for the duration of the war, leaving the parts for three more cars buried near his factory in France. After the war, Bugatti returned and prepared five Type 13s for racing. They were a great success, winning the first four places at the 1921 Brescia Grand Prix, so Type 13s are often called the 'Brescia' Bugattis.
•  Chrysler Group LLC Introduces Chrysler 200 Super S by Mopar
  Chrysler Group LLC's Mopar brand set its sights on the 2012 Chrysler 200. The Chrysler 200 Super S by Mopar is a rolling showcase for the latest Mopar exterior parts that will be available for the 200 sedan in 2012. The Chrysler 200 Super S by Mopar will debut at the 2012 North American International Auto Show.
  
  'The Super S is Mopar's interpretation of the Chrysler 200,' said Pietro Gorlier, President and CEO of Mopar, Chrysler Group LLC's service, parts and customer-care brand. 'The extensive list of high-quality Mopar parts enhances the performance and appearance of our Chrysler 200.'
•  Fisker Update on Battery Coolant Leak Issue
  Fisker Automotive announced today that a majority of all customer cars and dealer-held vehicles affected by the recall involving A123-supplied battery packs have already had brand new battery packs fitted or the confirmed repair to the hose clamp assembly undertaken and are back in service – just 2 weeks after Fisker was first made aware of the issue.
  
  The remaining customers have been contacted and appointments are being made for their replacement battery installation.
•  Ford Brand Sales Top 2 Million for 1st Time Since 2007
  U.S. sales of the Ford brand this week topped 2 million vehicles for the first time since 2007. The milestone makes Ford the best selling brand in America and the first automotive brand to hit the 2 million mark since 2007.
  
  'Ford's lineup of high-quality, fuel-efficient cars, utilities and trucks continues to attract more and more new customers,' said Erich Merkle, Ford's sales analysis manager. 'With gasoline prices tracking higher than last year, customers continue to move toward smaller, more fuel-efficient vehicles, whether they are passenger cars or utilities.'
•  Mopar® Introduces Dodge Charger Redline Infused With New High Output 426 HEMI® Aluminum Crate Engine and More Aggressive Style
  Delivering performance and an even more aggressive look, the 2012 Dodge Charger Redline is a 426 HEMI®-powered showcase of new Mopar® performance kits that will arrive later this year. The Dodge Charger Redline vehicle wîth all three Mopar performance stage kits will debut at the 2012 North American International Auto Show.
  
  'Since the 1960s, the Mopar Brand has built a long history of adding power and performance to the Dodge Charger – and wîth the Redline, we Moparized the new Charger wîth modern-day performance and style while giving a nod to our storied past,' said Pietro Gorlier, President and CEO of Mopar, Chrysler Group LLC's service, parts and customer-care brand. 'With three kits, Mopar offers a tailored choice for every customer.'
•  2000 Italian Grand Prix
  The entirety of Michael Schumacher's career, its highlights and record-setting moments, would make it nearly impossible to highlight just one race as significant for there were so many that would likely fall into that category. However, if there could be just one race that would help to not only hel
•  Ford Brand Sales Top 2 Million for 1st Time Since 2007
  U.S. sales of the Ford brand this week topped 2 million vehicles for the first time since 2007. The milestone makes Ford the best selling brand in America and the first automotive brand to hit the 2 million mark since 2007.
  
  'Ford's lineup of high-quality, fuel-efficient cars, utilities and truck
•  Fisker Update on Battery Coolant Leak Issue
  Fisker Automotive announced today that a majority of all customer cars and dealer-held vehicles affected by the recall involving A123-supplied battery packs have already had brand new battery packs fitted or the confirmed repair to the hose clamp assembly undertaken and are back in service – just 2
•  The Ghia Gilda Concept
  The 1955 Ghia Gilda Coupe Concept was built for the 1955 Turin Motor Show in Italy. It was a styling exercise designed by Savonuzzi (an individual formerly with Cisitalia). It was powered by a OSCA engine that displaced 1491cc and was claimed to have a top speed of 140 mph.
  
  The car was put on the European show circuit. After its tour, it was given to the Henry Ford Museum in Dearborn, Michigan. It was shipped to America in October of 1955.
•  The GMC Firebird II Titanium Concept
  The Firebird II, which was a highlight of General Motor's 1956 Motorama, is the family firebird. A four-seater with a titanium body, the Firebird II features a 200-horsepower Whirlfire GT-304 gas turbine engine, all-power accessories and a fully integrated air conditioning system, similar to current systems found in cars today. The Firebird II was GM's attempt to make a luxury turbine powered vehicle with acceptable performance and fuel economy.
  
  A four-seat, family car and the second of two Firebird II's, its exterior bodywork was made of titanium. The only known automobile to have been constructed from this material. The 200 bhp gas turbine was fed through a regenerative system which allowed the entire engine to operate nearly 1,000 degrees Fahrenheit cooler, and also power the Firebird's accessories. The Firebird II marked the first use of four-wheel disc brakes, and it was also equipped with fully independent suspension, its sophisticated guidance system, intended to be used with 'the highway of the future,' utilized an electric wire, embedded into a roadway, to send signals to guide future cars and avoid accidents.