GT3 & GT2 Entries For Hexis Racing At Silverstone

Posted by: BGerhart on Wednesday, April 29, 2009 - 08:45 AM Crazy Race, Crazy Talladega FinishBy Brad GerhartTalladega lived up to the hype!Credit: CIA Stock Photo

After a late race wreck, Jimmie Johnson left the track rather miserably after being caught up in another Talladega wreck, whereas, immediately after he won his very first NASCAR Sprint Cup victory, Brad Keselowski was on the opposite side of the fence.

“Man was that fun. I hope the fans did too because this is NASCAR racing and this is cool,” he said in Victory Lane.

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Brands Hatch A1GP Preview: A Race To The Wire Hot News! · NHRA: Sioux City Truck & Trailer Named Official Heavy Duty Truck Dealership Of NHRA (Apr 30, 2009)· GT3 & GT2 Entries For Hexis Racing At Silverstone (Apr 30, 2009)· ALMS: First Challenge Class Entries Are Official (Apr 30, 2009)· Ticket Sales at Lowe's Motor Speedway Raise $38,000 For Autism Speaks Foundation (Apr 30, 2009)· Goodyear Fuel Max Challenge (Apr 30, 2009)· Ticket Prices For Coke Zero 400 Powered By Coca-Cola Rolled Back To $40 (Apr 30, 2009)· Rhoades Tops Miller for Fastest MX-5 Cup Practice Time at Road Atlanta (Apr 30, 2009)· Barcelona: Bridgestone GP2 Race Preview (Apr 30, 2009)· GM Statement Regarding President Obama's Announcement on Auto Restructuring (Apr 30, 2009)· Aston Martin, Prodrive Boss Remains Encouraged By New Budget Cap & Formula One Rules (Apr 30, 2009)· B-25 Bombers To Salute Disabled Veterans With Indy Pre-Race Flyover (Apr 30, 2009)· Patron Highcroft Racing Statement Regarding IMSA Long Beach Penalty (Apr 30, 2009)· Ford Statement On Chapter 11 Filing By Chrysler (Apr 30, 2009)· Coles Racing’s Junior Max star takes second British Championship victory (Apr 30, 2009)· Westerman Companies to Sponsor Key Motorsports in Nationwide Series (Apr 30, 2009)· Valentino Rossi Faces Spanish Contingent At Jerez MotoGP Event (Apr 30, 2009)· World Challenge Heads for New Jersey (Apr 30, 2009)· V8 Supercar: Wood Happy To Hit His Test Track (Apr 30, 2009)· Miller Leads First MX-5 Cup Practice at Road Atlanta (Apr 30, 2009)· Brands Hatch: A1 Team France A1GP Race Preview (Apr 30, 2009)· Bridgestone Announces 2009 GP2 Tire Specifications (Apr 30, 2009)· V8 Supercar: Perkins Says Winton Strategy Will Be Case Of The Unknown (Apr 30, 2009)· Another Stage Victory For Marc Coma, Who Makes Up Four Minutes In The Overall (Apr 30, 2009)· Richmond: Marcos Ambrose NASCAR Sprint Cup Race Preview (Apr 30, 2009)· Fisichella Motor Sport International Announces Onidi For Euroseries 3000 (Apr 30, 2009) Latest Road Test · Road Test: 2009 Dodge Dakota TRX / SLT Crew Cab V-8 4X4 (Apr 13, 2009) [ Click Me ] Past Articles Wednesday, April 29 ·

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Driven: Aston Martin DB5 - Upcoming Bonhams Sale

Purchased at the inaugural Newport Pagnell Sale in May 2000, this DB5 is one of the highlights of this year�s catalogue. We drove it this week; a moving testament to �170,000 spent with Works Service... Sitting outside Works Service in Newport Pagnell, the 1965 DB5 looks a picture. Not a picture you could take, unfortunately, due to April �showers� of almost deluge proportions. Nevertheless, resplendent in its classy Aston racing green livery, the immaculately finished car is everything a David Brown-era Aston Martin enthusiast could wish for. Three sizeable folders accompany the car, listing in incredible detail all the bills (many), MOTs, tax discs, original scanned registration documents, estimates and all the other minutiae of long-term classic car ownership. The present, lady, owner had entrusted the car to Kingsley Riding-Felce�s Works Service team for an extensive programme of work. It was not a �body-off� restoration � but was all but. Clearly, somewhere along the line classic rallying had been intended for the car. It features period-correct Marchal fog lamps, subtly widened rear wheel arches to allow more-offset and large wheels greater travel, and suspension engineered by Rhoddy Harvey-Bailey. Having been involved with Harvey-Bailey Engineering (HBE) and racing Aston Martins in the 1980s, take it from me: this chap knows his stuff and his more extreme set-ups were virtually unbeatable on the tracks at the time. The car runs with almost imperceptibly lower ride-height at the back as a result of Rhoddy�s ministrations. But please, please, don�t consider this some sort of a track or competition car - it�s not, as a drive on British A-roads proves. Inside the Aston, it�s as you�d expect from a machine with a history of Works Service care and attention. The beige leather is either new or well-patinated and cared-for, while the seats carry headrests, carefully colour-matched with special, �soft� leather. Kingsley carefully explained to me how these had been incorporated into the seatbacks in the same way as the (rarely specified) 1960s originals. There�s air-conditioning, an original Motorola radio converted to FM with a 3-CD set-up in the boot, and � for the co-driver � a Retrotrip historic rally tripmeter and a reading lamp in the glovebox. Tim Schofield of Bonhams was my navigator for this trip so, buckling on the correct-pattern seatbelts, we set off into the Buckinghamshire countryside. Naturally, the engine has been totally rebuilt: to 4.2-litre specification and featuring triple Webers and Vantage cams. The result is gutsy performance available from 2-3000rpm right up to a self-imposed maximum of around 5500rpm. As a 1965 car, it�s fitted with the dependable ZF 5-speed transmission that gives relaxed cruising in fifth, with third and fourth available for strong acceleration. The most impressive aspect of this particular DB5, however, is not the way it goes on the straights: it�s the ride and handling. Aston Martin got it so right with the DB4/5/6 series of cars. The seats are comfortable for really long trips, the visibility is superb and the studded, woodrim steering wheel sits easy in the hands. Steering is a little heavy when parking, but on the move it�s as light as you�d want. With the extensive list of work carried out on this car, you�d expect it to drive like a new car. Well, it does � but that�s no criticism. These were great cars when new and this one rides bumps and copes with corners, braking and accelerating very much as would one straight from Newport Pagnell 44 years ago. Just a little better, that�s all. During our drive I said to Tim that I could �happily drive this car to the South of France�. Okay, maybe that was a comment on the English weather, but it was heartfelt and genuine. Now, where�s my Michelin map... The 1965 Aston Martin DB5, chassis 2194/R, will be sold as Lot 340 at the Bonhams May 9 Sale of Aston Martin and Lagonda Motor Cars and Related Automobilia at Works Service, Newport Pagnell. To see all Motor Car entries in the Classic Driver car database, please CLICK HERE. Please CLICK HERE to see our preview of the forthcoming sale. Bonhams Motor Cars Dept. 101 New Bond Street London W1S 1SR UK Tel: +44 (0)20 7468 5801 Fax: +44 (0)20 7468 5802 Email: ukcars@bonhams.com advertisement Text - Steve Wakefield Photos - Classic Driver ClassicInside - The Classic Driver NewsletterFree Subscription!

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Aston Martin DBS TT: the Look of Love

Aston Martin DBS TT: the Look of Love Perhaps it was the �DBS1� plate, or possibly the Aston Martin Racing paintwork, that made most bystanders� faces as green as the svelte two-seater from Aston Martin. Whatever the reason, I can think of few cars that turn heads as fast as this, the Gaydon company�s flagship.advertisement It is a terrific-looking car. Still a rare sight on the roads, the DB9-like lines that have been teased, tweaked and pumped into a more muscular take on Aston�s super-successful GT are just as dramatic and desirable. It was 18 months ago that the car was launched as a manual-only, strict two-seater. Since the Paris Motor Show last year, however, the DBS has been available with not only the two occasional seats of the DB9, but also a modified version of the Touchtronic (six-speed, torque-converter) automatic gearbox. So, while the populace of England and Wales was �Cor, Mister!-ing� DBS 1�s gorgeous lines, it was blissfully unaware that the driver had but two pedals to control the 510bhp supercar. I was knocked out by the dynamics of the DBS at launch. If you consider � as I do � the manual Sports Pack DB9 to be the best of the lot, the manual DBS was that; and more. Adding the Touchtronic (TT) 'box was a logical step to allow daily-driving Aston owners to enjoy the car all round the clock. It was also a way of making the gear changes smoother and more fluent, as the rear-mounted Graziano manual�s change is a little �meaty�. Having said that, however, I seem to remember a trip back from the Goodwood Revival last September that ended in two colossal traffic jams virtually all the way home. I survived, as did the car, and I can think of worse places to spend a couple of hours... Back to the DBS TT. Simply placing the car in �D� doesn�t get the best out of it. I�m not saying you have to wring its neck but, as the most dynamic drivers� car of the range up until the shortly-to-be-launched V12 Vantage, it needs some firm instructions from the driver to give of its best. Not only has Aston Martin fitted a re-engineered version of the DB9�s automatic, it�s also dropped the final drive ratio from 3.15:1 to 3.46:1. The car matches the manual�s 0-62mph time of 4.3 seconds and top speeds are identical, too: 191mph. Two settings are available for the gearbox and engine management characteristics. On start-up, the car defaults to a configuration designed for swift but smooth driving, while selecting �Sport� allows the press-on driver dynamics just close enough to those of the manual car � with smooth changes available at the click of a '+' or '-' paddle. Unlike many automatics, or sequential 'boxes in �automatic� mode, the DBS TT�s transmission will hold the gear, right up to the rev-limiter, without changing up. It also stays in �manual�, only reverting to full-auto when the �D� button is pressed again. So, once out in the open - in �Sport', please - click it out of �D�, into 3rd or 4th gear and enjoy yourself. This is the operating range in which the car excels. The 5935cc V12 will swing its tacho needle from 2000rpm to well over 6000rpm with vim. Both power (510bhp at 6500rpm) and torque (420lb ft at 5750rpm) kick in relatively late in the rev-band, but depress the long-travel accelerator all the way in these middle gears and the car is intoxicatingly quick. The engine has a hard, tingling, metallic howl at full revs � quite different from the familiar growling around town. It stops well, too, courtesy of the ventilated carbon ceramic discs (398mm front / 360mm rear) � one of the best set-ups out there, with massive stopping-power and superb �bite�. The suspension is definitely �sporting�, and my suggestion would be to leave the �Track� control well alone as on broken roads in the UK it makes the ride uncomfortably harsh. That said, the overall set-up of the DBS is a fine one and despite its lower ride-height and massive, 20in alloy wheels and 30-, or 35-series Pirelli tyres, it rides better than a regular '9. This is due to the more pliant Adaptive Damping System allowing more controlled wheel-travel via five-position dampers, computer-controlled according to road speed, throttle position, brake position and steering wheel rotation. The DBS introduced Aston Martin�s simpler cabin architecture to other cars in the range. A year and a half from launch, the interior is still a modern, classy place to conduct the serious business of driving. Our car was a �2+0�, i.e. it was a pure two-seater. That worked well for me with the rear shelf useful for maps, coats and overnight bags. This car was also fitted with the standard seats: good, but my preference would still be for the optional lightweight versions. Fitted as standard to the DBS is the amazing Bang & Olufsen BeoSound DBS sound system. This is also an option on the DB9 so pay a little attention here, potential DB9-buyers. If you think it�s pretty cool sitting behind the wheel of a DBS anyway, the sucker-punch is the two motorised acoustic lenses, mounted on either side of the dashboard, rising silently and smoothly every time the system is switched on. These have the effect of projecting high frequencies well into the cabin. Down at your feet, two 140mm woofers are set on either side of the centre console, while six other speakers add to the orchestral effect and handle the 1000W output with devastating clarity. It�s impressive - and well worth considering on a regular '9. But you do, of course, have to crank it up L O U D to get the most out of it. And that�s not bad advice, too, I suppose, on obtaining maximum performance from the DBS TT. The Aston Martin DBS Touchtronic costs, as tested, �162,071 in the UK. The only cost extra was the auto-dimming rear-view mirror. The fantastic Bang & Olufsen BeoSound DBS sound system is standard on the DBS and a cost-option across the DB9 range. The test car was finished in Aston Martin Racing Green with Obsidian Black semi-aniline leather interior. Text: Steve WakefieldPhotos: Nathan Morgan - Strictly CopyrightClassicInside - The Classic Driver NewsletterFree Subscription!

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The coolest cars you've never heard of

For car fanatics without the patience to endure the eight months it takes to make it to the top of the Tramontana waiting list, we offer one (admittedly small) consolation: a list of the coolest cars you've never heard of.

Either way, consider this a walk through the lesser-known corners of the motoring world.

Exclusive League of Nations

Our rundown of obscure but cool autos spans the globe, with cars from Zeewolde, The Netherlands; Bairo, Italy; Wetzikon, Switzerland; and Shanghai, China, among other locales, making the cut. We included only modern-day cars like the Sypker C8 Aileron from Holland, and we discounted limited-edition or rare-trim models on well-known cars made by well-known brands (like Mercedes-Benz affiliate AMG or Ford's Shelby mustangs).

Some entries on our list, like the tiny plug-in electric Mitsubishi iMiev, are set for mass production in the U.S. in the near future. Likely price tag: $30,000.

Others, like the aristocratic Pininfarina Hyperion and muscle-bound Saleen S7, are exquisitely redesigned or hyper-souped-up versions of mainstream vehicles. Consider these two models only if you have a fat wallet. The Saleen S7 sells for $550,000 and up, while the Pininfarina Hyperion has a price tag in the seven figures (depending on where it goes up at auction).

Despite being featured in the 2003 movie Bruce Almighty, the Troy, Mich.-made S7 has remained relatively unknown among car buyers. For those who have had the good fortune to get a live gander at the lizard-like supercar, the experience is unforgettable.

"It's a wild machine," says Gil Dezer, a Florida collector with more than 200 vintage and performance cars in his portfolio. "With the Saleen, you pull up to the restaurant or to the racetrack with it, and it looks pretty spectacular."

But one blink and it's gone: The Saleen S7 goes from 0-60 in just 2.8 seconds.

Automotive Pioneers

With a 0-60 mph time of 5.8 seconds, the $87,900 Fisker Karma, made in Irvine, Calif., is not only fast, it's efficient. The plug-in sports coupe uses no gasoline for the first 50 miles of driving and then runs in hybrid mode for any distance after that. Designed by the styling great Henrik Fisker, who also created the BMW Z8, Aston Martin DB9 and Aston Martin V8 Vantage, it proves electric cars don't have to be dowdy or slow.

Instead, says Mike Granoff, head of oil independence policies for Better Place, a venture-backed company aimed at eliminating global dependence on oil, electrics like the Karma and iMiev provide a glimpse of the inevitable, even if they're not currently well-known.

"There certainly has been a lot of change in that two years ago there was a real clash of visions about what would come after oil," Granoff says. "Today, there's really no more clash. The consensus is built around electrification. The only remaining differences are how to get there and at what speed. "

Until then, lovers of the iMiev and Karma — not to mention the Tramontana and S7 — can expect to remain a rare bunch.

 

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While the Rest of the World is Stuck in Reverse, the China Auto ...

: Money Morning Investment Director Keith Fitz-Gerald is one of the world's leading experts on Asia, especially China. Right now, Fitz-Gerald is leading an investment tour of the Red Dragon, and he'll be sending along regular investment travelogues to update Money Morning readers on his latest observations. This is the second installment of that series.]

By Keith Fitz-Gerald
Investment Director
Money Morning/The Money Map Report

BEIJING, The People’s Republic of China - At a time when the rest of the global auto sales are experiencing their biggest declines in decades - they are set to drop at least 8% globally - the burgeoning China auto market may grow by 10% or more.

With steeply rising disposable incomes and savings rates that approach - and in some cases exceed - 35% a year, it isn’t difficult to see why the China auto market is zooming along. But what may be tough for U.S. consumers to picture - especially as they deal with rising unemployment and a nagging economic malaise - is the intensity with which domestic demand is growing here in China.

Autos are more than just transportation here. They’re a symbol of wealth and success - a sexy status symbol. One’s social position can be determined by the type of vehicle one owns and flaunts.

This isn’t the first time we’ve detailed the promise of the China auto market. Nor is it the first time we’ve talked about the “Chuppies” (Chinese Yuppies), the demographic group China will rely on as the nation attempts to decrease its reliance on exports and become more of a consumer-driven economy.

Investors, economists and other “experts” on China are finally becoming attuned to this economic transition. But what those observers don’t realize is that the story doesn’t stop there. China isn’t just evolving into a consumer economy. As auto sales demonstrate, China is becoming a “complete” economy, in which such key ingredients as consumer spending, domestic business investment and foreign investment are each increasingly playing their required role.

Take business spending. The auto has become an important business tool: It’s believed that having your customers see an impressive car conveys confidence and helps build trust with the government. That kind of thinking is very Western in focus. What’s different here, however, is that cars are also believed to be a key contributor to the concept of “face,” which is ever so important here.

Huang Jin, a native Beijinger and longtime friend, explained it this way: “If you drive a late-1980s-model Japanese car, people will not want to do business with you. Your car suggests how much you are worth and, by implication, whether you are worth doing business with.”

He drives an Audi A8 that’s jet black, with all the trimmings. [Given his objective, the A8 was apparently an excellent choice. Its U.S. marketing tagline says that "(even) motionless, it still commands respect."]

Another friend of mine, Luo Xin, puts a different spin on things. The way he sees it, the car he drives makes a statement about who he is - which is why he craves the sporty, futuristic proto-types that were all over the Shanghai exhibiting center this week as part of the Auto Shanghai 2009 auto show.

“Why not dream?” he says. “The new stuff suggests that I’m hip and gives prospective wives the image that I am successful, enjoy my life and think about the future.”

Julian Hardy, who serves as general manager for Aston Martin China, recently told the China Daily newspaper that China’s mega-rich may have lost 1 billion yuan (about  $146 million), but adds that they’ve “still got 5 billion ($730 million) left.”

Aston Martin, long the preferred ride of fabled super spy James Bond, sold 50 cars here last year and sales may hit 150 within the next 12 months. It’s a similar story with Lexus. The company’s newest Shanghai store has already sold 20 cars since opening in mid April. And Ferrari, BMW (Bayerische Motoren Werke AG), Porsche (Porsche Automobile Holding SE), and any of a half dozen other high-end brands are finding a market among China’s emerging consumer class.
China recorded 15 billionaires last year, as well as several hundred thousand millionaires, so this is not a trend that’s going away anytime soon.

At the other end of the spectrum, low-end cars continue to move at record pace, too. Last year, we told readers that General Motors Corp.’s (GM) Buick line, Ford Motor Co. (F) and Volkswagen AG (OTC ADR: VLKAY) produce the lion’s share of the small, sporty and fuel-efficient models sold here. At the time, I suggested that it wouldn’t be long before Chinese automaker’s like Geely Automobile Holdings Ltd., Red Flag (or Hong Qi, as it’s known to its China customers), and BYD Co. Ltd., have come up to speed.

In fact, the MidAmerican Energy Holding Co., which is roughly 88% owned by the Berkshire Hathaway Inc. (BRK.A, BRK.B) investment vehicle run by U.S. stock-market icon Warren Buffett, announced in October that it would pay roughly $230 million for a 10% stake in BYD, which makes cars and specialized batteries.

I originally thought it might take as long as 24 months for China’s domestic automakers to really get traction, but somehow I have not been surprised to see how quickly the markets have evolved to accommodate utilitarian cars that are “basic transportation” in words only. Why Detroit can’t do this is beyond me; the so-called  “Big Three” would be wise to take an extended field trip over here to learn how to get back into the ballgame.

A few years ago, I suggested that China would overtake the United States as the world’s largest car market. Now China’s done it not once, but for the last three months in a row, with sales reaching a record 1.1 million. Incidentally, at the same time I made that prediction, I also suggested that one or more of China’s automakers would enter the U.S. market. Now it’s all but a foregone conclusion. So stay tuned.

When it comes to cars - or to any other product or commodity for that matter - China’s newly moneyed class is not going away anytime soon. The estimated 330 million people in this country’s broad middle class continue to amass economic purchasing power at a rate that will exceed the capability of their counterparts in the U.S., Japanese and Eurozone markets combined during the next 12 months.

The bottom line: Investments focused on the ambition of China’s emerging consumer class may prove to be some of the best available in the coming post-financial-crash environment.

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Sharp ready for GT Championship opener

The FIA GT Championship gets underway this weekend at the home of British motor sport, Silverstone. Twenty eight GT1 and GT2 super sports cars are set to shake the Northamptonshire circuit to its very foundations as they compete for the oldest trophy in motorsport, the RAC Tourist Trophy.

Ryan Sharp is one of the UK's top sports car racers and this season he switches from driving an Aston Martin DBR9 to a Saleen SR7, sharing the driving duties former F1 pilot Karl Wendlinger. Sharp and Wendlinger won the Tourist Trophy last year, so they are both well aware of what it takes to win it. "The car handles really nicely, overall it's possibly not as quick as the Aston over one lap, but I think that over race distance, and possibly reliability wise, we'll be better than we were last year, and hopefully it will give us a shot at the championship."

It was something of a surprise Sharp and Wendlinger switching from the Aston, but they were instrumental in the choice to go with the Saleen this season. "Myself and Karl sat down with the team before we brought a car to race, to discuss all of the options, and we all felt that the Saleen was the best all-round option for us. We chose it with winning the Championship at the top of our list."

One of the unique features of GT racing is that each car has two drivers, who swap over at pit stops. It is vital that both drivers have confidence in their partners' ability. Sharp and Wendlinger have built up that trust between them. "Karl is a great driving partner, he's been there done it and is super confident in his own abilities. He doesn't mind helping any one else out, including myself with advice and support. This is our third season together and I have learnt loads from him."

"I think that its good to keep the continuity, set up wise we both like the car very similar, and that a hugely important that you share a car with someone who likes a similar handling car. Our only down side is the difference in height between us, it makes seating position and pit stops a bit tricky."

Sharp is raring to go and ready to test the new car in anger for the first time. "I can't wait for Sunday it's been such a long winter, especially as we missed the last race of the season, so we've had an extra month off. I'm just looking forward to getting out there and blasting away the cobwebs and get racing."

"People tell me that I have a home track advantage at Silverstone, well I only live five minutes away from the circuit. I've always gone well there, and last year was a fantastic race. Hopefully it will be dry and sunny and the spectators turn out in force. We are at some great circuits but I feel that its one of the best."

While having enormous confidence in their own abilities as well as in the Saleen package, Sharp is very aware that they will need to be at their best to win races and to challenge for the Championship. "We'll have to look closely at the Vitafone Maserati. I don't know what their one lap pace will be like, if you look back I can only remember them winning one pole, but they have won so many races, and they've won the Championship three years running. Whoever beats Vitafone will win the Championship."

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Can a car help you get a date?

From hairstyles to hypnosis, Patti Stanger, CEO of Millionaire Club 123 --a matchmaking service-- knows exactly what it takes to make a match.

I caught up with Stanger who also stars in the reality series The Millionaire Matchmaker while she was promoting her book "Become Your Own Matchmaker" for advice on the best cars for attracting girls.

Hands down, Stanger recommends a Bently Continental GT. "It says, I have money and will shower you with gifts and attention," says Stanger. On top of it, it says classy.

Other top contenders include the Mercedes Maybach, which is even more expensive and impressive than the Bentley. "It says Gazillionaire," explains Stanger.

If you're going for the "hip, cool guy" look, consider the Aston Martin DB9 (watch this CNET TV video of the Aston Martin DB9 Volante). It's two steps above the Porsche, according to Stanger, which is typically driven by the 55-year old going through a midlife crisis.

However, she's not a fan of Ferraris of any sort --the typical go-to sports car-- which screams 'little d---' to Stanger.

"If you want to be off-the-beaten-path with a real sports car, you get a Viper," says Stanger.

However, the regular viewers of her show know that the same American muscle appeal doesn't work with yellow Corvettes, which Stanger says are "uglier than ugg."

Then there are the classics that Stanger likes; the "I have money but I'm still practical" cars, such as the Mercedes SL55 AMG, and Jaguar XKR. These are the cars that look expensive, but aren't "off the wall," says the Millionaire Matchmaker.

If you're in daddy mode, pick an Escalade or, Stanger's personal favorite, a Range Rover.

"I like guys in trucks because it says "rugged hunter,"" she explains.

Granted, Stanger caters to a decidedly well-heeled crowd --all of her clients are millionaire. Her advice may be good for the monied set, but not every guy can afford these high-end vehicles.

But that's no excuse for driving a beater.

Stanger points to the unprecedented sales and incentives for American automotive products.

"There are huge deals on cars now, you can make really good deals right now. Girls respect a guy with a truck. It says you'll protect me, take care of me, and help me move furniture," she says of the vehicle stereotype.

However, the important thing is that you don't buy outside of your economic bracket.

"Buy what is practical for your budget," she says. That same standard applies to those at the higher end of the spectrum.

"If he's making millions of dollars and driving the 10-year old Corolla, we have a problem here," says Stanger. "The exception is the Prius, because it shows he cares about the environment."

And regardless of what you drive, every guy should demonstrate basic car etiquette, which means a man must open the car door for his date, even if it has automatically unlocking doors.

"It says protection and I love you," says Stanger of the gesture.

But chivalry doesn't end at the door. Stanger also advises that when the car stops short, you put your arm out to protect her. Don't smoke, and ask her what music she wants to hear. Set the air conditioner to her temp preferences and have water bottles for the two of you.

Take care of the car like you take care of you body.

"In other words, keep it clean," she says.

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Stunning - that's Audi's sublime supercar

Stunning - that's Audi's sublime supercar

Apr 29 2009 Stewart Smith

Stunning - that's Audi's sublime supercar

THE title Supercar is all too often used to describe motors which really don't live up to the name.

But, in the cast of the new Audi R8 V10, it's spot on.

This amazing machine is a super car in every way.

It has stunning power, sublime looks and a price to match.

At £99,575 the R8 V10 is an option for only the very rich, and even if you have that amount of cash you might have to wait for a couple of years or more to get behind the wheel.

Only 150 V10s will be up for grabs in the UK in a year and there are already 1,000 keen potential buyers on Audi's order books.

But, believe me, the wait will be well worth it.

I thought the R8 V8 which was launched in 2006, was the business, but this is a step up.

With 525bhp under its skin the V10 can hit 196mph (so I'm told) and from a standing start fires rocket-like to 62mph in a mind-blowing 3.9 seconds. It is the fastest Audi production car to date.

Audi claims you could achieve around 19mpg from its latest speed machine on a combined run. That's if you drive it like a wimp. The temptation to put the foot down will reduce that considerably - I know I couldn't resist it.

It is a sleek, sexy beast but if you don't want to give it the gun it is perfectly docile at lower speeds and around town.

Unlike some other super sports cars, the V10's clever suspension set-up irons out any bumps or potholes, leaving the driver relaxed and composed.

The new mid-mounted engine, which is in view through a glass hatch, is mated to a slick six-speed manual gearbox, or you can choose a seven-speed R-tronic sequential automatic box.

The R-tronic version, which will probably be the biggest seller, costs £104,665.

But for me the manual version is the best for ultimate driving fun.

Shod with 19-inch alloys, the Audi two-seater has superb grip and when coping with the colossal power from the V10 the massive ventilated disc brakes supply plenty of stopping power. Ceramic discs are an extra cost option.

Ride and handling are exceptionally good. The aluminium-bodied car corners superbly with absolutely no body roll and flows effortlessly round the tightest bends.

Audi engineers have managed to give the new car almost perfect balance with 44 per cent front / 56 per cent rear weight distribution.

In outward appearance the new V10 is only slightly different from the V8 version. Changes include a high gloss finish for the grille and front air intakes, more pronounced side sills, wider side cooling vents, high gloss rear air outlets, oval exhaust tailpipes and a new rear diffuser.

The roomy interior is a class act and isn't overdone with unnecessary or complicated controls.

Seating is very comfortable and there is reasonable stowage space behind the front seats. Under the curvy bonnet there is enough additional space to take a couple of weekend bags.

In the most powerful R8 to date, electric adjustment and heating is added to the sports seats and DVD satellite navigation and a CD changer playable through a 465-watt Bang & Olufsen audio system is available. An interior light package including LED footwell lighting, light and rain sensors and LED engine compartment lighting also comes as standard.

Audi says the main competition for the R8 V10 comes from the Aston Martin DB9, Jaguar XKR, Mercedes SL 63 AMG or the Porsche 911 Turbo.

That's stiff competition indeed, but the performance, style and quality of the V10 is good enough to ensure that Audi will get its fair share of those lucky enough to be able to afford such luxury motors.

Any bad points about the V10?

Only one. I can't afford it.

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A street-legal spy car of your very own?

The ultimate spy car edition includes: Front grill rockets, machine gun cannons, revolving licence plate and other must have accessories.Photograph by: Handout, Exclusive Motor Cars, Exclusive Motor Cars

Spy fantasists can now buy their very own James Bond car, complete with hood-mounted machine gun cannons and rocket launchers secreted by the front grille, for just $125,900 U.S. -- and it's even street legal.

"The weaponry is fake, of course, so it doesn't work but it looks realistic," says Cloverdale businessman Mark Stuzka, who has teamed up with Exclusive Motor Cars to produce the Ultimate Spy Car.

"Neither can it be operated when the ignition is switched on, as the last thing we want is people ahead being frightened to death at the sight of a cannon in their rear-view mirror."

The revolving licence plate also won't flip while driving, so don't think you can beat that speeding ticket by displaying a phoney number!

Stuzka will display the custom supercar, inspired by the Aston Martin featured in the James Bond movie Die Another Day, at the Vancouver International Auto Show this week, and will be taking orders.

"We plan to produce just 200 in the next four years so they will keep their value as a collectable car," he says. "In the first three months, we have already sold 20 per cent of the production run.

"We are getting calls from all over the world, including Belgium where a man there has changed his name legally to James Bond."

Stuzka said he came up with the idea when he and friends were thinking of building supercars for people who don't have a million dollars.

"It just seemed like a great idea and we soon realized there was a great opportunity here to fulfil some people's spy fantasies," he says.

The Ultimate Spy Car is hand-built and sits on a Ford Mustang chassis with an extended wheelbase. Under the hood is a supercharged Ford V8 engine that delivers power Bond would be happy with during an escape or pursuit.

"The beauty of this car is it can be serviced at your local Ford dealership and it uses parts widely available," adds Stuzka.

You can choose either manual or automatic transmission and pick your own exterior and interior colours.

Then, when it is delivered, retrieve the complimentary bottle of Dom Perignon and two glasses from the glove box and toast your new life of adventure.

For more details, go to www.exclusivemotorcars.ca/spypackage.html.

kmorgan@theprovince.com

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Thieves target vintage cars in crime spree

A computer consultant said he was 'gutted' after an organised crime gang stole his beloved collection of vintage cars worth £250,000.

Timothy Slow, 40, had three vehicles - including a James Bond-style 1968 Aston Martin - stolen from an underground garage at this Grand Regency Heights flat in North Ascot on Saturday.

He arrived home at 8pm to find three empty spaces where his cars should have been.
There were burn marks on the floor where the thieves had used welding equipment to remove the clamps and police said the gang could have used a low-loader to spirit the cars away.

A black BMW X6 belonging to a different owner was also reported stolen from the same garage between 6pm on Saturday and 1.05pm on Sunday.

Mr Slow said the thieves had taken everything he had.
"I'm not a James Bond banker-type who owns a fortune," he said. "I saved up for 10 years to buy the first car. They are pretty much all I have."

Mr Slow's vehicles included two Aston Martins and a green 1962 E-type Jaguar Roadster.

Police are appealing for anyone with information to come forward. Call PC Bullett on 08458 505505 or Crimestoppers, anonymously,  on 0800 555111.
 

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Can this latest Ferrari outrun the recession?

Inside the new 599 HGTE there are carbon-backed seats finished in leather and Alcantara, a white rev counter and the full carbon package across the dash In this section »

LUXURYMOTORS: Supercar Survival I. Though it may seem anathema to the current market, the Ferrari 599 HGTE supercar will have guaranteed buyers in die-hard Ferrari fans, writes BEN OLIVER

NOW, YOU’D think, is not the time to launch a new version of an exotic V12 supercar, particularly when the eye-watering additional €18,000 it costs brings only a few cosmetic changes and an improvement of less than 1 per cent in lap times. But this is exactly what Ferrari is offering with its 599 HGTE. And, in the bizarre world of supercar economics, it actually makes sense. We’ll explain.

Until last year, the market for super-luxury cars costing over €150,000 was booming. Driven largely by the property market and bonuses, it had increased five-fold since the late 1990s and was worth around €6 billion and over 25,000 cars annually. Aston Martin saw the most dramatic transformation; it went from building 46 cars in 1992 to 7,400 in 2007. Bentley leapt from fewer than 1,000 sales to over 10,000 each year.

BMW completely reinvented the Rolls-Royce brand, selling 850 €400,000 Phantoms each year, spinning off coupé and convertible versions and planning the more affordable Ghost.

Lamborghini doubled in volume and Ferrari quietly dropped its promise not to compromise exclusivity by building more than 5,000 cars; in 2007 it grew to 6,500.

Then, as you might be aware, the economy took a dive. In 2008, Bentley sales slumped by nearly a quarter; Aston Martin will drop by nearly a third this year. Ferrari held steady at around 6,500 in 2008, but predicts that global sales will be about the same again in 2009, despite an additional 2,500 units of its new California, meaning its existing model range will drop by a similar figure.

Which is where the 599 HGTE comes in. Those devoted Ferrari customers less affected by the downturn would gladly pay double what they do now, but Ferrari can’t rack up the prices without looking greedy, so instead it finds new and imaginative ways for spendthrift customers to spend money. Clients have been offered the chance to buy and run an old F1 car with the Corse Clienti programme, become a factory test driver with the FXX programme, do a season’s racing in a F430 challenge, learn to drive better or go on holiday with Ferrari, choose from a range of lavishly-tooled accessories and have their vintage Ferraris restored and authenticated by the factory.

Ferrari’s personalisation scheme means the average new-car client spends an additional €18,000 per car on purely cosmetic customisation. And, although they’re intensely loyal to the brand, many customers dump their old cars as soon as something newer, faster and redder comes along. That’s why the HGTE makes sense; it will prop up sales of Ferrari’s big V12 and help the company survive the downturn. And to customers, another €18,000 for a car that drives even slightly better looks like a bargain.

So what do you get with the slightly awkwardly-named Handling Grand Turismo Evolu-zione? It’s mainly a suspension package with a few driveline and styling tweaks; Ferrari wants the 599 to feel a little sharper without compromising its GT credentials. There are new, five-spoke wheels which save a total of 5kg and are shod in slightly softer, stickier Pirellis. Ride height is down 10mm and the springs are stiffer: 17 per cent at the front, 15 per cent at the rear. The SCM magentic damping system has been reprogrammed to cut roll and pitch. There are also changes to the gloriously-named F1 Superfast paddleshift manual transmission; the shift time has been cut a little further, from 100 milliseconds to just 85. And the exhaust note has been retuned for a little more volume and aggression.

Aesthetically, there’s a choice of five colours for the brake callipers, the rear venturi is finished in black and the cavallino rampante in brushed aluminium. Inside there are carbon-backed seats finished in leather and Alcantara with the Handling GTE logo stitched across the backrest, a white rev counter and full carbon package across the dash.

But is it any better to drive? Ferrari claims an 8 per cent increase in grip and a reducation of 0.6 seconds in the 599’s lap time at Fiorano in the hands of its test drivers. Others may struggle to tell the difference. On the road, turn-in and front-end grip both seem slightly improved, but there isn’t much wrong with the way the standard 599 slices into bends.

That wide, flat hood in front and the knowledge that there’s a big V12 beneath it both tell you to expect understeer, but the 599 corners like a Lotus Elise and the HGTE package raises the threshold a little higher; you would need to be driving like a complete moron to find the limits of the HGTE’s front-end adhesion on a public road.

In Sport mode – the default setting – the 599’s ride remains unruffled despite the stiffer springs, and there’s still noticeable but progressive roll. In Race mode, roll is more tightly contained but too stiff over poor surfaces, jolting the occupants and disrupting the flow of torque to tarmac; save it for the circuit. The gearchanges are now borderline-savage and the 599s hard, metallic howl is perhaps 10 per cent angrier, without being entirely anti-social.

The standard 599s abilities are so great that its hard to approach its limits on the public road – but the difference is more noticeable on the track. You spend more time around the redline, can enjoy that new exhaust note more and make more changes with all five change-up lights lit; the novelty of – and shock at – changing gear in less than a tenth of a second never wears off.

But with stability control disengaged you can exploit the HGTE’s greater natural composure. On the track it now feels far less like a slightly out-of-place GT car, turning in impassively, cornering flatter and pushing into controlled oversteer without an awkward lurch.

But how many 599 drivers will drive their cars this way? Not many, we suspect, but that won’t stop at least 40 per cent of them (Ferrari’s figures) ticking the box and paying the money for the ultimate version of Ferrari’s best-ever GT car.

The extra orders will be significant in Ferrari’s efforts to survive the current unpleasantness. And the rest of us (the fans: clients buy cars, fans buy mugs, and Ferrari’s marketing effort makes a clear distinction between them) have our part to play, too.

Ferrari plans a merchandising offensive bordering on tacky; car sales might be down, but last year its revenue from mugs, brollies and F1-style babygros was up 28 per cent, and it continues with the official opening of the flagship Ferrari store in London’s Regent Street by F1’s Kimi Raikkonen on May 6th. Times might be tough, but with this kind of slightly cynical commercial nous, we suspect Ferrari will be safe.

Factfile Ferrari 599 HGTE

Engine: 5999cc 48V V12, 620PS/612bhp@7600rpm, 608Nm/448lb ft@5600rpm

Transmission: six-speed sequential manual

0-100km/h: 3.7 sec

Max speed: 330km/h

Consumption: 15.7mpg/17.9l/100km

CO2 emissions: 415g/km

Weight: 1,692kg

On sale: now

UK price: inc HGTE package £207,194 (HGTE package €18,000 plus local taxes in all Euro markets)

This article appears in the print edition of the Irish Times

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Mercedes-Benz F-Cell caught in the wild

The F-Cell has its drivetrain under the floorboards.

(Credit: Mercedes-Benz)

That first generation of F-Cell has a range of 110 miles, and seemed to have no problem negotiating the steep hills where we found it. In contrast, our 12 cylinder Aston Martin was burning gas at around 15 mpg, and would ultimately show a range of about 225 miles in our driving.

Mercedes-Benz has a new generation of the F-Cell vehicle in testing right now, based on the bigger B-class platform. It uses new materials technology for its hydrogen tanks to hold 10,000 psi, giving the car a range of 250 miles. Its electric motor is rated at 136 horsepower and 215 pound-feet of torque, although the fuel cell output is only 108 horsepower.

Fuel cell vehicles are basically electric vehicles that use hydrogen tanks rather than batteries for energy storage. With current technology, fuel cell cars tend to have greater range than pure electric cars. Hydrogen tanks are lighter than big battery packs and take much less time to fill. However, electric cars have the advantage of an existing charging infrastructure--a hydrogen station infrastructure has yet to be built.

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Fastest fuel-efficient cars

With an eye toward a fast but fuel-efficient future, we've compiled a list of the quickest, most fuel-efficient cars on sale in the U.S.

Behind the Numbers

To compile our list, we evaluated combined city/highway gas mileage, horsepower and torque (the amount of force the engine delivers to the drive shaft). We awarded points on a place basis (one point to first, two points to second and so on) to the vehicles with the best fuel economy and highest horsepower and torque, with the scale weighted 2:1 toward speed. The 10 vehicles with the least points made our list. As a bonus, we're including two super fast all-electric cars.

Our tally includes the Spyker C8, a quarter-of-a-million dollar Dutch sports car that makes the 0-60 sprint in 4.5 seconds, topping out at 187 miles per hour (300 km/hr). For just under $200,000 US, the Aston Martin DB9, with a 0-60 time of 4.6 seconds and top speed of 190 mph (305 km/hr), comes in at No. 5. No. 1 on our list: the $130,000 Porsche 911 Turbo, whose 480 horsepower and 460 ft lbs of torque push it to a top speed of 193 mph (310 km/hr).

The essential duo of horsepower and torque is what makes these cars fast. While horsepower will keep a car revving at blindingly fast top speeds, it's the oft-unheralded torque that gets it there in the first place.

"When you think of a car, everybody thinks of horsepower, but what you feel when you press the pedal is actually torque," says David Paja, director of marketing for passenger vehicles at Honeywell, which makes turbochargers for BMW, Ford and Jaguar among others.

Green Speed Demons

Granted, "fuel efficiency" is a relative term, and the economy ratings of the vehicles on our list are less than stellar.

But speed and efficiency don't have to be mutually exclusive. Turbochargers and diesel technology both enhance power while squeezing out the most energy from every last drop of fuel. Both play important roles in how engineers develop increasingly efficient, quick cars.

Peter Schwarzenbauer, an Audi board member, says Audi has improved fleet-wide fuel efficiency by 30 per cent since 1995, due largely to integration of diesel engines like the one developed in the super-fast R15 TDI racecar (600 horsepower, 800 ft lb of torque and a top speed of 205 mph or 329 km/hr).

The $114,200 Audi R8, No. 9 on our list, has benefited from similar innovation. It uses direct injection in its 4.2L V8 engine to achieve a combined 15.5 mpg (15 litres/100km)and a 0-60 acceleration of 4.4 seconds.

Rob Moran, a spokesman for Mercedes-Benz, says engineers at the company's high-performance arm, AMG, focus on using differently tuned transmission modes and start-stop functions to make cars like the SLK55 AMG (No. 10 on our list) more efficient. Aluminum components and carbon fiber body panels also increase fuel efficiency because of their light weight.

Minute improvements like those may seem woefully incremental at best, but on a finely tuned supercar, every little bit helps.

 

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The Coolest Cars You've Never Heard Of

The Coolest Cars You've Never Heard Of Published: 26 Apr 2009 22:05:23 PST

With its exposed wheels and aerodynamic styling, the Tramontana sports car makes a bold statement among automobile cognoscenti. Only 12 people a year get the privilege of owning one of these Spanish dynamos. Street legal, it can zip from zero to 62 miles per hour in less than four seconds.

More From Forbes.com:

Needless to say, it will get you noticed.

"Only a handful of lucky people can get this car," says Wes Brown, a principal analyst for the market-research firm Iceology in Los Angeles. Owning such an icon, notes Brown, is like "being in a rarefied, special club."

For car fanatics without the patience to endure the eight months it takes to make it to the top of the Tramontana waiting list, we offer one (admittedly small) consolation: a list of the coolest cars you've never heard of.

Either way, consider this a walk through the lesser-known corners of the motoring world.

Exclusive League of Nations Our rundown of obscure but cool autos spans the globe, with cars from Zeewolde, The Netherlands; Bairo, Italy; Wetzikon, Switzerland; and Shanghai, China, among other locales, making the cut. We included only modern-day cars like the Sypker C8 Aileron from Holland, and we discounted limited-edition or rare-trim models on well-known cars made by well-known brands (like Mercedes-Benz affiliate AMG or Ford's Shelby mustangs).

Some entries on our list, like the tiny plug-in electric Mitsubishi iMiev, are set for mass production in the U.S. in the near future. Likely price tag: $30,000.

Others, like the aristocratic Pininfarina Hyperion and muscle-bound Saleen S7, are exquisitely redesigned or hyper-souped-up versions of mainstream vehicles. Consider these two models only if you have a fat wallet. The Saleen S7 sells for $550,000 and up, while the Pininfarina Hyperion has a price tag in the seven figures (depending on where it goes up at auction).

Despite being featured in the 2003 movie Bruce Almighty, the Troy, Mich.-made S7 has remained relatively unknown among car buyers. For those who have had the good fortune to get a live gander at the lizard-like supercar, the experience is unforgettable.

"It's a wild machine," says Gil Dezer, a Florida collector with more than 200 vintage and performance cars in his portfolio. "With the Saleen, you pull up to the restaurant or to the racetrack with it, and it looks pretty spectacular."

But one blink and it's gone: The Saleen S7 goes from 0-60 in just 2.8 seconds.

Automotive Pioneers With a 0-60 mph time of 5.8 seconds, the $87,900 Fisker Karma, made in Irvine, Calif., is not only fast, it's efficient. The plug-in sports coupe uses no gasoline for the first 50 miles of driving and then runs in hybrid mode for any distance after that. Designed by the styling great Henrik Fisker, who also created the BMW Z8, Aston Martin DB9 and Aston Martin V8 Vantage, it proves electric cars don't have to be dowdy or slow.

Instead, says Mike Granoff, head of oil independence policies for Better Place, a venture-backed company aimed at eliminating global dependence on oil, electrics like the Karma and iMiev provide a glimpse of the inevitable, even if they're not currently well-known.

"There certainly has been a lot of change in that two years ago there was a real clash of visions about what would come after oil," Granoff says. "Today, there's really no more clash. The consensus is built around electrification. The only remaining differences are how to get there and at what speed. "

Until then, lovers of the iMiev and Karma--not to mention the Tramontana and S7--can expect to remain a rare bunch.

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Silverstone: Hexis Racing AMR preview

Silverstone: Hexis Racing AMR preview Racing series   FIA-GT3 FIA-GT Date 2009-04-27

GT3 + GT2: Hexis Racing AMR powers up!

The partnership between the reigning European vice-champions and Aston Martin Racing is blossoming, that's for sure! Just one week ahead of the opening race of the FIA GT3 European championship in which - not without justification - the team nurtures high hopes, Hexis Racing AMR announced that it is entering an Aston Martin Vantage GT2 in the FIA GT race due to take place during the same Silverstone Tourist Trophy meeting next May 2-3.

Vantage GT2: a step up

Continuing its ascension of the GT pyramid, Hexis Racing, which has its home base on the Ledenon circuit, is taking a crack at the GT2 category. It is entering an Aston Martin Vantage in the upcoming Silverstone Tourist Trophy race, which counts as the first round of this year's FIA GT championship.

Hexis Racing AMR will be handed its chance to shine with the factory prototype that was used to develop the Vantage, the same car which took part in the Nogaro and Zolder races in 2008. Aston Martin Racing launched this magnificent 4.5-litre V8 model at the start of last season as the final link in its GT range, which now extends from GT4 to GT1. At the wheel will be two top-class drivers: Stefan Mucke (who was a member of the crew that took the Lola-Aston Martin LMP1 to victory in the Catalunya 1000km Le Mans Series race) and Frederic Makowiecki. This development is emblematic of the entente between Hexis Racing and AMR. The German driver is a stalwart of Aston Martin Racing, whereas the Frenchman has played a key role in the French team's ascension since it embarked upon its European GT3 adventure in 2007. Nothing is finalised yet regarding what happens after Silverstone but the buzz is that Hexis Racing AMR will make two or three more starts in the FIA GT championships.

Philippe Dumas shared his assessment of the new challenge facing the team, which hails from the Gard region of France. "Having Aston Martin Racing asking us to take on this schedule is proof of our achievements," he said. "What's more, two of their engineers will be with us to strengthen the team, along with two of their technicians. This will be step up for us - we'll be learning new skills, such as refuelling techniques and how to manage two top grade drivers. On the subject of drivers, I'm hoping this operation will enable Fred to gain a good foothold in AMR. The car is still under development though, so we'll be under no great pressure to get a result at Silverstone. However, that certainly won't be the case in the FIA GT3 category!"

DBRS9 GT3: thorough preparation

Hexis Racing are the current European FIA GT3 vice-champions in both the Team and Driver standings, and no stone has been left unturned to properly prepare for 2009. No fewer than twelve practice days were organised over the winter months. After a limber up at Ledenon, the team's Aston Martin DBRS9's headed off to Adria to reconnoitre the circuit in readiness for the Italian leg of the new season. There followed two day's work on the Paul Ricard circuit, and two more in Monteblanco (Spain) to get the cars properly balanced to FIA standards. Former F1 driver Jean-Marc Gounon and 1993 Le Mans 24-hour race winner Christophe Bouchut test drove all the GT3 cars present, in order to evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of each. This handicapping system forms the cornerstone of the GT3 category; it has been largely instrumental in the unqualified success of the category. Hexis Racing AMR also took part in FIA GT 'Media Days' on the Paul Ricard circuit, before bringing its winter tour to a close in Portimao, a venue which also features on this year's European championship calendar.

"Our aim was to make the car not only more competitive but also easier to drive," explained Philippe Dumas. "Engineering-wise we have been working hard on testing items such as the front and rear sub-frames so that we make the most of the ground clearance allowance, and on new shock absorbers which give the Aston Martin more neutral handling over rumble strips and better overall handling. A new aerofoil pack is under development and a major engine upgrade is expected for Silverstone, because FIA test drivers Gounon and Bouchut both noted that the car was short on power and torque. We also focused on pit work. Today I'm very satisfied because we have turned into a properly structured outfit. We have taken on Antoine Penven as a full-time engineer. The team gelled very quickly, with drivers and engineers getting on very well together. Our driver crews were already in place during the break between seasons. Our drivers are team regulars and they all took part in testing, apart from the FIA performance balancing sessions on the Paul Ricard circuit. 2009 has to be payback time."

Julien Rodrigues & Thomas Accary and Manu Rodrigues & Frederic Makowiecki will be the Hexis Racing AMR standard-bearers in the 2009 European championships. Hexis Racing AMR staff are already hard at work in the Prodrive workshops in Banbury, putting the finishing touches to the DBRS9 GT3 cars and preparing for team's grand debut in GT2.

News from here and there

Manu Rodrigues will be taking part in the Le Mans 24 Hours Manu Rodrigues (46), who has been a vital cog in Hexis Racing's involvement in GT racing, will be taking part in Le Mans classic at the wheel of Ferrari 430 GT2 No.99 entered by JMB Racing. "It was important for me to line up in this gruelling race for the sake of my sponsors," explained the driver, who is of French and Portuguese parentage. "I asked Philippe Dumas if he could find me a drive, and he'll be there with me." Hexis Racing won't be at Le Mans this year, but is more than happy to see one of its drivers in the 24-Hour race. "I will also drive the Ferrari JMB in the Spa- Francorchamps 1000-kilometre Le Mans Series race so I should be well prepared when I arrive in Sarthe for the race come mid-June."

Barthez impresses at wheel of Aston World Football Cup and Euro 2000 gold medallist Fabien Barthez is a motor racing fiend, always keen to take up new challenges at the wheel. Following a meeting with Hexis Racing AMR's Clement Mateu, it was agreed that Fabien Barthez would take the wheel of one of the team's Aston Martin DBRS9 GT3 cars at the FIA GT Media Days event on the Paul Ricard circuit. He started out as a passenger in the car with Frederic Makowiecki. Then the two men changed seats and finally Fabien took the car out by himself for a spin on the HTTT (High Tech Test Track). Clement and Philippe were in agreement, saying "he's a lovely guy and he put in some pretty decent lap times, too!"

Coming up in the next episode: the grand launch of HEXIS Energy!

-credit: hexis.fr

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Stunning Alfa Romeo best of show at Concorso d'Eleganza Villa d ...

April 27, 2009, 5:29 PM by Brian Harper Auto News, Auto Show, Classics, Alfa Romeo, Aston Martin

 

Cernobbio, Italy • An Alfa Romeo 8C 2900B Berlinetta Touring claimed victory yesterday at the 2009 Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este, taking the coveted Trofeo BMW Group, awarded by the jury to the “best of show” at the 80th anniversary Concorso.

And it was not only the jury who were won over by the 1938 Alfa — the two prizes awarded by the public, the Coppa d’Oro Villa d’Este and the Trofeo BMW Group Italia, also went to the car owned by American Jon Shirley.

In the Concorso d’Eleganza Design Award for concept cars and prototypes, the public voted for the Aston Martin Lagonda One-77.

More than 2,600 visitors who flocked to the grounds of Villa Erba in Cernobbio were treated to the sight of more than 50 cars of classic design, plus a number of eye-catching concepts.

“The great response from the public despite the poor weather shows how this event has become a firm fixture on the calendar of car aficionados from both this region and countries around the world,” said Karl Baumer, president of the Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este and director of BMW Group Classic.

National Post

(Top photo: This 1938 Alfa Romeo 8C 2900B Berlinetta Touring took top honours at the Concorso d'Eleganza. Credit: Handout)

(Bottom photo): Aston Martin's Lagonda One-77 won the Concorso d’Eleganza Design Award. Credit: Handout)

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Aston Martin enters V12 Vantage at Nurburgring 24hrs

Aston Martin enters V12 Vantage at Nurburgring 24hrs

By Ben Pulman

First official pictures

27 April 2009 09:52

Aston Martin will enter a V12 Vantage in the 37th Nurburgring 24-hour race on 23-24 May, along with ‘Rose’, the yellow V8 Vantage that was first entered at the infamous ‘Ring race in 2006.

How has Aston Martin’s V12 Vantage been readied for racing?

Aston claims the V12 Vantage racer will be pretty close to production spec, bar a revised suspension set-up, some safety modifications (a roll cage) and a reduced kerbweight (goodbye stereo system and other goodies). There are also new Pirelli P Zero slick tyres.

Why no further tweaks? Because Aston wants to use the 24-hour race as a final sign-off for the production V12. ‘This is the final engineering durability test for the V12 Vantage programme,’ said Aston CEO Dr Ulrich Bez. ‘We will be subjecting the car to the toughest assessment yet under public scrutiny as we successfully did with the Vantage N24 programme.’

Any plans for customer V12 Vantage race cars?

‘Nothing official’ is the reply from Aston’s PR team, but then there were no plans for a V8 customer racecar when Aston turned up with the Vantage in 2006.

In the meantime, the production V12 Vantage will go on sale this July. Its 6.0-litre engine produces 510bhp and 420lb ft, helping it to 62mph in 4.2 seconds and on to 190mph. Just 1000 will be made and each will cost £135,000.

>> Click 'Add your comment' below and let us know what you think of Aston Martin's V12 Vantage race car

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This Is What The $1.75 Million Aston-Martin One-77 Sounds Like

There was only one car which could rise to the occasion. Although car might not be the best word to describe this most insane example of Italian engineering. Until the orange mechanical menace gets its own post, try and guess what it is:

And if you’re stuck, look up in the sky for a clue.

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Slowdown signs - Car sales dip in Saudi Arabia

Slowdown signs - Car sales dip in Saudi Arabia Monday, 27 Apr 2009

Khaleej Times cited Mr Ali H Alireza MD of Haji Hussein Alireza & Company Limited as saying that car sales in Saudi Arabia have gone down by 20% to 25% across the board, the sole distributor in the kingdom for Mazda, Mercury, Aston Martin and MAN Truck.

Mr Alireza said while addressing the media at the HHA head office that "However, the market is expected to recover in the last quarter of the year as 2010 models start coming in."

He said that there was no doubt that there was a general market slowdown, so it was wrong to presume that the current global economic crisis had not affected this part of the world.

He added that "We are certainly not as badly affected as the United States and Europe whose automotive sales are down by 50% to 70%. My assessment is that things will change for the better in the kingdom's car sales later this year."

According to Mr Alireza, the kingdom imported 550,000 automobile units in 2008 about 10% higher than in the previous year. Of them 150,000 units were re-exported. He added that re-exporters are those who purchase automobiles in the Kingdom and re-export them to countries, notably to Africa and the CIS countries.

He said that, however, automobile prices however continue to increase, partly because of the prices fixed by their makers abroad and partly due to the fluctuations in the currency market. We are restricted to prices coming from the overseas factories. Fluctuations of the yen are also the reason why Japanese automobile prices have increased. Whenever the manufacturers offer rebates we tend to pass the price advantage on to the consumers. Favourable currency rates will certainly bring down the prices of cars.

Mr Alireza said that referring to the crisis faced by the automotive industry in the US where banks find it difficult to finance car purchases. He said that "In Saudi Arabia, credit is still available and banks are financing car purchases. Here there is no shortage of cash unlike in the United States. The drop in the prices of car components like steel cannot directly bring down car prices. If it persists for a long time and together with it if the currency rates become favorable then only prices can come down.

He added that for instance, Japanese cars are costing more because of the high exchange rate of the yen, which is hovering around SAR 104 from SAR 90 a year ago. For the same reason European car prices also tend to be high or go up.

(Sourced from Khaleej Times)

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Bahrain sets pace as McLaren seeks car funds

Talal al-Zain, the chief executive of Mumtalakat, said that he wanted to back McLaren Automotive despite the turmoil in the car industry.

The Bahraini investment fund already owns 30 per cent of the McLaren racing team and it wants to raise its input in the company, which is based in Woking, Surrey, to help to fund the development of the road cars.

Mr al-Zain said: “This is a risk we are willing to take. If they succeed in launching this range of sports cars, it will be a fantastic opportunity for us. We believe in the project and if we have a chance to invest and the proposal makes sense, it will be good for us to do it. We are expressing our very strong interest.”

The support of a leading Gulf investor will be a boost to Mr Dennis and McLaren Automotive as they seek funds amid one of the worst crises to hit the car industry. Car sales in the UK fell 30.5 per cent last month and British car manufacturers have been forced to shut factories and reduce capacity to cope with the downturn.

Mr al-Zain said: “These are bad times, but it would be crazy for us to say there is a downturn now so let’s not do anything. I want a product ready for when growth and wealth return so we can benefit from that.”

Mumtalakat is the holding vehicle for a number of companies based in Bahrain. Its assets include Alba, the aluminium producer, Gulf Air and the Bahrain International Circuit, which hosted yesterday’s Bahrain Grand Prix.

The company has 98 per cent of its assets in Bahrain and the Gulf region and wants to diversify geographically to reduce risk. Its long-term aim is to have half its investments outside Bahrain.

Mr al-Zain said that he was interested in buying minority stakes in companies in sectors such as telecoms, leisure and tourism, financial services and renewable energy.

In financial services he is looking for niche providers such as real estate asset managers and hedge funds, rather than copying other Gulf investors that have bought large stakes in Western banks.

Mr al-Zain said that he was looking in particular for opportunities that could help to strengthen companies that are already within the Mumtalakat portfolio.

“In the current crisis I have to ask: are there investments I can make that strengthen and grow our existing companies? Because we know these businesses, so the risk in buying something similar is lower.”

He added that he was interested in bringing in strategic partners to help to develop the Bahraini companies within Mumtalakat’s portfolio. This could be done by selling minority stakes and could lead to the eventual privatisation of these companies.

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Prince Charles converts sports car to run on wine

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