BMW M5 (2006)

Overview:

Precisely 20 years have already passed since the BMW M5 established a new segment, which has in the meantime also been discovered by other car manufacturers. And that car – the original – is still by far the most successful player in the high performance saloon car segment. Spread over three generations of production, more than 35,000 units were built – initially manually at the BMW M plant in Munich and later at the 5 Series assembly line in Dingolfing. These units were then sold worldwide. The secret of the BMW M5’s popularity has always been the successful synthesis of unobtrusive yet powerful appearance, combined with a high-performance power unit – a sports car featuring Formula 1 technology and at the same time a saloon car offering premium comfort. In terms of driving dynamics, the BMW M5 had always set standards in its segment. It not only excelled due to its high performance, but due to the way in which M power was produced and developed. It appeared as if this first-rate car’s inexhaustible power reserves had created a totally new dimension in effortlessness. Due to the change of model within the 5 Series, the BMW M product portfolio is currently presented without a BMW M5, even though the demand for such a car has never diminished. For this reason, BMW M designers have begun designing a possible successor based on the new BMW 5 Series. This car is a far-reaching concept on an appealing subject: the BMW Concept M5. Such a car could undoubtedly serve as a stimulus and offer solutions for a future series-production vehicle. Totally in keeping with the high demands of our clientele, whose main reasons for purchasing a car are performance, style and driving fun, the BMW M5 Concept makes its living out of contrasts: the principle of optimal performance wrapped in a discreet but, by comparison with the 5 Series, distinctive body design.

Handling:

• Four-wheel ABS.
• Brake assist system.
• Cornering brake control.
• Four disc brakes including four ventilated discs.
• Electronic brake distribution.
• Electronic traction control via ABS & engine management.
• Immobilizer.
• Rear limited slip differential.
• Driver selectable responsive suspension.
• Stability control.
• Strut front suspension independent with stabilizer bar and coil springs , multi-link rear suspension independent with stabilizer bar and coil springs.
• Tire kit.

Performance/Specifications:

• 4,999 cc 5 liters V 10 front engine with 92 mm bore, 75.2 mm stroke, 12 compression ratio, double overhead cam, variable valve timing/camshaft and four valves per cylinder.
• Premium unleaded fuel 91
• Fuel economy EPA highway (mpg): 18 and EPA city (mpg): 12
• Multi-point injection fuel system.
• 18.5 gallon main premium unleaded fuel tank
• Power: 373 kW , 500 HP SAE @ 7,750 rpm; 38.3 ft lb , 520 Nm @ 6,100 rpm.

Dodge Ram 1500 (2009)

Overview:

One truck in particular caught our eye the 2009 Dodge Ram. Believe me when I say that this ain’t yo daddies 1500. The exterior has some significant yet subtle changes that improve the looks and add functionality. Optional two-tone paint adds a nice touch, as do the extra chome accents on the door handles and mirrors. Dodge has also revolutionized the truckbed with toolboxes that are integrated into the sides of the bed. The RamBox Storage System is paint-matched, lockable, weatherproof, drainable and illuminated for the ultimate style, utility and convenience. The addition of chrome-tipped dual exhaust system integrated into the rear bumper finishes off the rear end nicely. Not only has Dodge redesigned the Ram on the outside, but it’s all new on the inside too.

Performance/Specifications:

• Auxiliary oil cooler

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• 4,701 cc 4.7 liters V 8 front engine with 93.0 mm bore, 86.5 mm stroke, 9.8 compression
  
• ratio, overhead cam and two valves per cylinder EVE.
  
• Unleaded fuel 87
  
• Multi-point injection fuel system.
  
• 32.0 gallon main unleaded fuel tank 26.6
  
• Power: 231 kW , 310 HP SAE @ 5,650 rpm; 330 ft lb , 447 Nm @ 3,950 rpm.

The standard engine on the two-wheel-drive Dodge Ram regular and Quad cabs is a 3.7-liter V6 that produces 215 hp and 235 pound-feet of torque. A four-speed automatic is standard. Fuel economy is a meager 14 mpg city/20 mpg highway and 16 mpg combined. Maximum towing capacity when properly equipped is 3,800 pounds. The standard engine on the four-wheel-drive Ram ST and all SLT models is a 4.7-liter V8 coupled to a five-speed automatic transmission. Output is a healthy 310 hp and 330 lb-ft of torque, while fuel economy with 2WD is 14/19/15 mpg (4WD drops it by 1 mpg). Maximum towing capacity when properly equipped is 7,600 pounds. Standard on the Laramie trim and optional on the SLT is a 5.7-liter V8 with a five-speed auto and cylinder deactivation technology. Output is 390 hp and 407 lb-ft of torque. Fuel economy with 2WD is 14/20/16 mpg (4WD is 1 mpg less). In performance testing, a 4WD Hemi-powered Crew Cab model went from zero to 60 mph in 7.6 seconds. Maximum towing capacity when properly equipped is 9,100 pounds. More interior options like heated and cooled front seats and a 7.1 surround sound system that will rock whatever you load up in the integrated multimedia and navigation system. The nav system, dubbed uConnect, has a slew of new features including bluetooth, wifi, integrated Sirius Satellite radio and a 30 gigabyte hard drive. The all-new dash board looks both clean and functional; dual glove compartments give ample storage room while stitching accents the instrument panel. The Ram Crew cab is even more spacious in the rear with innovative “store in the floor” bins that have removable liners for easy cleaning. Dodge has stuck with the 5.7-liter hemi for the top-o-the-line power plant, but you can also get a 4.7-liter flex fuel V8 or a 3.7-liter V6. The rear suspension has been given new coil springs and a mulit-link design to maximize towing capacity without sacrificing ride quality. I’d suggest taking a look at the RamChallenge to find out how much more capable the horned beast has become… plus it’s pretty entertaining to watch.

Chevrolet Lumina SS (2007)

Overview:

The overall design of the Lunina is focused on the theme of poise and stance. The positioning of the four wheels closer to the corners give it an authoritative stand. Its visual strength lies in the bold body-to-glass proportions; balancing dynamic form and design elements, giving the perception that the car is smaller. Minimised gaps and margins result in visibly greater quality, fit and finish. Subtle sporting details such as fender belts and dual exhaust outlets pay tribute to the manufacturer's motorsport heritage. The interior themes revolve around function, luxury and performance conveying the sports car cockpit effect. A fresh looking interior is of superior standards with impeccable quality. To minimise distraction the controls have been intelligently designed so that the primary information is placed in front of the driver in a display within the instrument cluster. The Lumina also sports red illumination with sport instrumentation complimented by a high mounted auxiliary display above the centre vents. The colour and trim of the Lumina SS comprises of carefully selected finishes materials and textures with lasting charm. The soft trim makes use of fabric leather and carpet with new grain textures that enhance surface vision and touch with emphasis on quality. Modern fine metallic paints define smooth surfaces, while the jewelled modern satin chrome highlights demonstrate functionality and purpose. Supple and luxurious, perforated leather constructions give the seat and door trim added class while the new seats allow greater flexibility and comfort.

Engine and Gearbox:

• Engine Layout: longitudinal v 8
• Cylinders: 8
• Valves: ohv 4 valves per cylinder.
• Bore / Stroke: 99.0x92.0
• Capacity: 5667
• Ignition Type: electronic.
• Gearbox Details: 4-speed automatic.
• Number of Gears: 4
• Manual / Automatic: automatic.

Performance/Specifications:

• Fuel Capacity 75
• Fuel Consumpsion (Highway): 12.06
• Fuel Consumpsion (Urban): 18.1
• Fuel Type: unleaded.
• Fuel Supply: electronic fuel injection.
• Acceleration 0-100 Final: 7.2
• Top Speed Final: 230
• Power Output: 250kw@5600
• Torque: 470nm@4800
• Auto Traction Control: yes.

Porsche Carrera Mirage GT Gemballa (2007)

Overview:

The Carrera GT engine is a dream. A meaty 5.7-litre V10 boasting 612 horsepower. What more could one want? More power of course! Gemballa operates on the same principle as racing drivers: "You can never have too much power". By modifying the engine management electronics, Gemballa has been able to squeeze out a further 60 bhp of power and 15 lb-ft more torque for the V10, slicing off 0.1 seconds off the time it takes to go from 0 to 62 mph. The added performance has also been aided by a new, fully stainless steel exhaust system that now resounds through four tail pipes instead of the standard two. Gemballa has positioned the two extra tail pipes where the reverse and fog warning lamps used to be. The tuning specialist has relocated the two lamps to beneath the rear diffuser. With the Gemballa body, the Mirage GT looks like it is planning to enter the Le Mans 24-hour race. The most conspicuous change to the front are the additional air intakes on the new front spoiler. In addition, Gemballa embellished the component with a spoiler lip. The bonnet has also been replaced. In the area between the wheel housing and door Gemballa has replaced the standard side panels with its own mudguards, with reshaped openings which blend harmoniously with the original design. Down below, new side skirts lend the vehicle a muscular line. They also come with a cooling vent for the breaks at the rear. One thing is certain! The racing look is enhanced by the new rear skirt, with its aerodynamically optimized mid section for more downforce on the rear axle.

Performance/Specifications:

• 30-40 HP Power increasement.
• Exhaust System with 4 Tailpipes in special alloy design.
• GEMBALLA Wheelset MIRAGE GT.
• Wheel Set GEMBALLA GT SPORT 19“ / 20“
• 9,5 x 19“ Tires 265 / 35 ZR 19(Front), 12,5 x 20“ Tires 335 / 30 ZR 20(Rear).
  

Lamborghini Murcielago LP650-4 (2009)

Overview:

For 2009 Lamborghini released a limited edition Murciélago LP 650-4 Roadster. The Roadster version of the Murciélago will offer an uprated 6.5 litre V12 engine that produces 650 hp (478 kW) along with permanent four-wheel drive: hence the model’s LP 650-4 moniker. With 660 Nm of torque, top performance is at 0-100km/h (0-62mph) in 3.4 seconds. The top speed is around 330 Km/h (205mph). The special edition model will be produced in a limited volume (50 units only), with a Grigio Telesto exterior that combines grey bodywork with a special bright orange Arancio LP 650-4 featured on the front spoiler and sills. The LP 650-4 logo applied to the car’s exterior is recognition of the car’s increased power. The car features orange brake calipers and a transparent V12-engine cover, which shows off the V12 engine behind the driver. Interior features echo the car's striking grey-and-orange exterior: besides the orange touches, there is an asymmetric dash design, with black Alcantara Nera on the driver's side, including door panel and central tunnel, and black leather Nero Perseus on the passenger's side. The increased power of the Murciélago engine, from 640 to 650 hp, will be unique to the Murciélago LP 650-4 Roadster: it demonstrates even further the developments that Lamborghini is able to offer from a current engine, and creates the exclusive characteristic of the Murciélago LP 650-4 Roadster.

Performance/Specifications:

• Engine: 6.5-liter V-12
• Horsepower: 650 hp @ 8,000 rpm.
• Torque: 487 lbs-ft @ 6000 rpm.
• Transmission: 6-speed manual.
• 0-60 mph: 3.3 seconds.
• Top Speed: 205 mph.
• Weight: 3.718 lbs.
• Length : 182 in.
• Tires : 245/35 ZR18(Front), 335/30 ZR18(Rear).

Ferrari 612 Scaglietti (2007)

Overview:

The 2007 Ferrari 612 Scaglietti sees no major changes from last year. This four-passenger, 2-door coupe is Ferrari's flagship car. The 612 uses a 532-hp 5.75-liter V12 engine that teams with a 6-speed manual transmission. Optional is Ferrari's F1A sequential manual transmission (SMT) that uses a small console stick to engage reverse and drive. Shifting is done through steering wheel paddles, but the transmission can be set to shift like an automatic. Standard safety equipment includes: ABS, traction control, and an antiskid system. The antiskid system has driver-selectable settings to limit its intervention during high-performance driving. Neither front side airbags nor curtain side airbags are available. An optional GTB package includes uprated sport suspension, specific exhaust tuning, and carbon ceramic brakes designed to minimize heat during panic stops. This evaluation is based on preview test drives.

Handling:

• Four-wheel ABS.
• Four disc brakes including four ventilated discs.
• Electronic brake distribution.
• Electronic traction control via ABS & engine management.
• Immobilizer.
• Rear limited slip differential.
• Driver selectable responsive suspension.
• Stability control.
• Wishbone front and rear suspension independent with stabilizer bar and coil springs.
• Tire kit.

Performance/Specifications:

• 5,748 cc 5.7 liters V 12 front engine with 89.0 mm bore, 77.0 mm stroke, 11.2 compression ratio, double overhead cam and four valves per cylinder.
• Premium unleaded fuel 91
• Multi-point injection fuel system.
• 28.5 gallon main premium unleaded fuel tank 23.8
• Power: 403 kW , 540 HP SAE @ 7,250 rpm; 434 ft lb , 588 Nm @ 5,250 rpm.

Dodge Viper SRT10 (2008)

Overview:

The new 2008 Dodge Viper SRT10 boasts more of what performance aficionados crave: kick-in-the-pants, throw-back-in-the-seat power, combined with benchmark braking, world-class ride and handling, a race-inspired interior and bold exterior styling. While every SRT vehicle offers balanced, overall performance, the heart and soul of the new 2008 Dodge Viper SRT10 is its standout powertrain. For 2008, SRT ups the ante with a new, 8.4-liter aluminum V-10 engine that produces an astounding 600 horsepower and 560 lb.-ft. of torque. "A legendary big-game hunter once said, "Bring enough gun!" � and with the new 2008 Dodge Viper SRT10, we"ve created some very powerful artillery for sports-car enthusiasts," said Kipp Owen, Director � Street and Racing Technology (SRT) Engineering, Chrysler Group. "With 600 horsepower � 90 more than before - and 0-to-60 performance in less than four seconds, the 2008 Dodge Viper SRT10 sets a new benchmark for the ultimate American sports car." The new 2008 Dodge Viper SRT10 will arrive in Dodge showrooms in North America this summer with a new level of customization options, including five new exterior colors, four new interior color combinations and a new wheel design.

Handling:

• Four-wheel ABS

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• Four disc brakes including four ventilated discs.
• Immobilizer.
• Rear limited slip differential.
• Wishbone front and rear suspension independent with stabilizer bar and coil springs.

Performance/Specifications:

• 8,380 cc 8.4 liters V 10 front engine with 103.0 mm bore, 100.6 mm stroke, 10.2 compression ratio, overhead valve, variable valve timing/camshaft and two valves per cylinder EWE.
• Premium unleaded fuel 91
• Multi-point injection fuel system.
• 16.0 gallon main premium unleaded fuel tank 13.3
• Power: 447 kW , 600 HP SAE @ 6,100 rpm; 560 ft lb , 760 Nm @ 5,000 rpm.