Old but still fast.... Ferrari Enzo(2002)
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11/18/08
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11/15/08
Maserati may launch road-going GranTurismo MC Corse
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11/14/08
2009 North American International Auto Show in Detroit
| What 2009 North American International Auto Show in Detroit has to offer automotive fans? This year 2009 NAIA in Detroit, Michigan will review last year NAIA 2008 and introduce some new cars for production 2010.Well, from their web, NAIAS will take place early next year Jan. 11 - 25, 2009.What i was expecting was review picture and performance of Lebanon First Supercar, Frem F1 by David Frem. |
11/13/08
Maserati MC12 Photos
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11/10/08
Alfa Romeo 8C Competizione available in the U.S., allready sold out
In 1995, Alfa Romeo withdrew from the United States, due to poor sales caused by poor quality image. But Alfa has announced plans for getting back in the US and, though the official return won’t happen untin 2009 or 2010, Automotive News reports that, starting this month, a few U.S. Maserati dealers will sell the 8C Competizione. However, even if you have enough dollars to buy the cars, the bad news is that all the 84 units destined for the US market are allready sold out. Yup, all of them.
Automotive News also reports that the 8C Spider will be available in the States starting with 2010, while Alfo also plans on developing a new RWD flagship sedan, for which is in talks with Tata Motors for using a jaguar platform. However, this won’t happen before 2011 or 2012.
The Alfa Romeo 8C GTA
The Alfa Romeo 8C Competizione is certainly one the best looking cars around and, in my opinion one of the most beautiful cars of all time. And with the 450hp V8 borrowed from Maserati it’s also a very fast one. With the initial run of 500 coupes almost over and another 500 convertibles planed after that it’s a pretty exclusive car too.
It’s got the looks, the power and the exclusivity so how you’d think that Alfa would be pleased. Well, apparently, they weren’t as they’re planing an 8C that’s faster more exclusive and, though hard to believe, maybe even better looking the 8C GTA. They’re hoping to shed 150kg while also squeezing 50 more hp bringing the total to a nice round 500 hp. They’re also only making 100 of them just in time for Alfa’s 100th birthday in 2010. I guess that would make pretty nice birthday present.
With a roumored 8C 2 maybe based on the upcoming Ferrari California (we’ll have to see what Ferrari has to say about that) I’d say Alfa is doing pretty well these days.
Maserati GranTurismo MC Corse Concept to debut in Paris
Recently, on their official website, Maserati suggested that they have a surprise for the Paris Motor Show. Today, they’ve unveiled the mistery, by announcing the Maserati GranTurismo MC Corse Concept, which will make its debut at next week’s French show and which basically is a race track version of the GranTurismo S.
By using a new air intake system, new racing catalytic converters, revised airflow and a new exhaust system, Maserati engineers managed to squeeze 10 more hp from the 4.7 liter V8 engine, which now delivers 450 hp. Because the power output increase is not that impressive, Maserati worked hard on the other parts of the car, like the aerodynamic kit, which includes a new front splitter, enlarged rear spoiler and road hugging rocker panels. The MC Corse also received upgraded suspension, sports enlarged brake discs with monobloc racing calipers and new 18-inch wheels, and, of course, an FIA-approved rollcage.
To be honest, I was expecting something else from Maserati, something a little more impressive, considering all the exciting stuff other carmakers announced for Paris. But, who knows, guess we’ll have to wait and see the MC Corse before saying more about it. More photos after the jump.
Geneva 2008: Maserati Chicane Concept
The Geneva Motor Show marks the world debut of the Maserati Chicane, a concept developed by Istituto Europeo Di Design. The car is a 2+2 coupe, powered by a V8 engine placed in the front and features rear-wheel-drive. The Chicane concept is 4400 mm long, 1250 mm tall and 1850 mm wide and we must tell you that it looks awesome. Check out more photos taken by us today, after the jump.
Maserati, partner of London Fashion Week
For the London Fashion Week, which is currently taking place in… exactly…London, the British model agency made a partnership with Maserati. So, the Italian producer will offer several Maserati Quattroporte and GranTurismo which will get the super models to the show. Jodie Kidd, Erin O’Connor and Twiggy will be among the models present at the London Fashion Week, but, for Christ’s sake, somebody get them something to eat.
Maserati Cinqueporte exclusive for Arab customer
First time I saw this car I thought Maserati has gone mad launching something like this, a Maserati Quattroporte wagon. But after I read what’s it about, I calmed down. Apparently some eccentric filthy rich Arab sheik ordered a custom made Maserati Quattroporte wagon from the Italian car maker and he also got it.
Actually, not yet, but Italian design companies StudioM and Studio Torino started working on the project, which will require the extension of the roofline, craft folding the rear seats and moving the fuel tank to increase the Maserati’s utility space. We have no confirmed info, but the price of project will not be cheap, for sure. For example, for a custom made interior on a Quattroporte, another client paid €350,000 (about $510,000).
Maserati recalls 2008 GranTurismo
What’s happening with all these luxury cars recalls? I mean, first it was Mercedes which recalled 3 McLaren SLRs and now Maserati announced it will recall 56 GranTurismo coupes due to a faulty in the supplemental restraint system (SRS) electronic control unit (ECU) software when the battery is not fully charged. In the event of a crash, this might cause the passenger seat-belt and airbag to malfunction. The recall will begin this month and dealers will replace the SRS ECU units.
Still, I think this guys should pay more attention next time to these errors because if I would pay a lot of money for my car, then I would expect it to be flawless.
Detroit Auto Show: Maserati Quattroporte “Collezione Cento”
Usually “exclusive” and “Maserati” mean the same thing, but that’s not enough for Maserati, because at Detroit, they’ve presented the Maserati Quattroporte “Collezione Cento”, a 100 units limited edition. Here is a part of the press release:
To kick start 2008, Maserati has brought its flagship saloon in a super-deluxe incarnation to Detroit — the Quattroporte “Collezione Cento” — of which just 100 will be produced: comfort, technology, and luxury all rolled into one; dressed for the occasion in a sophisticated Italian outfit — in a brand-new ivory colour, with a contrasting coach line on the sides that enhances the sinuous lines of the Quattroporte. 20” wheels are fitted with polished rims, adding the perfect touch of sophistication and elegance. The chromed honeycomb front and side grilles also bring out the executive nature of this flagship saloon.
The interior is no less spectacular. Everything exudes luxury, from the Poltrona Frau “Cuoio” coloured leather seats with diamond-shaped stitching and matching buttons in the centre, to the polished Wengé wood inserts on the steering wheel, centre console and small object compartment. The mother of pearl inlays are a true delight, adding an unusual gleam to the name of the vehicle and the trident on the gear knob. Cuoio coloured leather is also used for the superior-weight overmats, enhanced by edges in contrasting Beige. The interior’s concept was exclusively presented to Maserati customers at last year’s Frankfurt Motorshow; the “Collezione Cento” has been developed on the basis of their feedback and comments.
Maserati Quattroporte Sport GT S to debute at Frankfurt
In a preview of the Frankfurt Motor Show, Maserati announced the Maserati Quattroporte Sport GT S, which will be a more exclusive version of their 4-door coupe currently in production, the Quattroporte. The Sport GT S version will have the same 400 hp engine, but it’ll be lowered by 10mm in the front and 25mm in the back, plus new aluminum and iron brakes that were co-developed with Brembo.
Cosmetic upgrades include a black-chrome mesh grille, black side window trims, two double exhaust pipes, dark chrome 20″ seven spoke alloy wheels with Pirelli tires and Alcantara leather insertions into the seats, door panels and steering wheel. Plus, the front seats are more sportier and the dashboard will get carbon fiber and aluminum inserts.
Maserati Store Now Online
Ever dreamed of a Maserati belt, umbrella or, I don’t know, a fluffy Maserati bathrobe? I know I didn’t! But if you did, hooray….now you can get it because the Maserati Store is now online.
Women aroused by Maserati, Ferrari and Lambo engine sound. Oh, really?
A recent study made by a British insurance company revealed that women are aroused by the sound of some cars’ engines. But don’t imagine that if you accelerate your Volkswagen Polo you’ll get ladies all crazy about you. Because, actually, the Polo engine sound has the exact opposite effect. No, we’re talking about the engine sound from cars like Maserati, Ferrari and Lamborghini. Yup, we know, it’s shocking, but it’s the truth. Women love expensive, powerful cars. Who would’ve thought?
The study consisted of a 20-minute tape with cars being revved that was played to a group of male and female volunteers. After that the saliva of the volunteers was collected and tested for testosterone levels. The most significant increase in testosterone level for women were reported after listening to Maserati and for men after the Lamborghini part. Unfortunately, bad news for VW Polo owners. The sound of Polo’s engine, not only it didn’t increase testosterone levels, but this actually dropped.
Baby car logos advertising campaign for Minichamps
We’ve seen some great advertising campaigns in the auto industry and we’ve presented you, in the past, some of those. Now here’s another one, from Brazil, which is really awesome and I bet your first reaction will be “Awww, that’s so cute!”.
The prints, which show “baby versions” of some popular brand logos, like Ferrari, Lamborghini, Maserati or Jaguar were created by Brazilian ad agency Dentsu for Minichamps, a die-cast miniature model producer. And we must say they’re pretty funny, especially the Jaguar kitten, the Ferrari horsey or the Lamborghini calf.
11/6/08
Alfa Romeo 8C Spider Production Version
The undisputed star of Alfa Romeo’s Geneva Show stage will be the production version of the 8C Spider. The designers at Alfa’s Centro Stile have done an immaculate job in turning the 8C Comptezione into a Spider – we wouldn’t expect anything less from these guys of course.
As with the coupe, the Spider is powered the Ferrari/Maserati derived 4.7-liter V8 engine producing 450 HP and it is matched to a 6 speed robotic gearbox. Now for the bad news; the 8C Spider will be produced in a mere 500 units and although Alfa hasn’t announced pricing, we’re gathering that we’d have to find two or three extra jobs in order to pay the instalments.
Press Release
Alfa 8C Spider, a global preview
Debuting at Geneva showroom is the captivating Alfa 8C Spider. Like the Alfa 8C Competizione, the Gran Turismo which received resounding global praise; the new “discovery” will be produced in a limited edition run of 500.
Elaborated by the Centro Stile Alfa Romeo, the new car re-affirms the brand's excellence in this sector, as shown by some Spider's being regarded among the most beautiful cars in global automotive history. Cars such as the Giulietta Spider from the 50's or the legendary Duetto made famous by “The Graduate” from 1967 with a young Dustin Hoffman. Today, it's the Alfa 8C Spider's turn to take centre stage and project into the future the values of technology and emotion which belong to the Alfa Romeo legacy.
Obviously, the new vehicle inherits all the winning features of the Coupè version. Starting with the two “sport seats” setup and the fascinating exterior lines, which characterized by sculpted and finely designed bodywork, “dress” the automotive and mechanical excellence of the model.
In detail, the marked dynamics of the vehicle are highlighted by the horizontal groove “built” into the bonnet at wheel level. The oversize wheels and powerful “muscles” of the rear mudguard accentuate the personality and force of the model, without diminishing the elegance of those fluid lines. Instead they highlight the formal beauty of the singular external features: the “teardrop” fog lights set like a precious jewel in the front mudguard, the front Led lights, a synthesis of technology and rationality, and the essential door handle.
Furthermore, in the front we can find the characteristic Alfa Romeo stylings, with a new interpretaion of the “whiskers” and shield. Without forgetting, that this innovative range anticipates the elements and proportions of the future Alfa Romeo cars, always with complete respect for the historical legacy of the brand.
It's worth underlining that to reach these top levels of areo-dynamic efficiency, solutions which don't limit themselves to the design of the form have been adopted on the Alfa 8C Spider. All the surfaces and profiles of the uprights and windows, together with the form and positioning of the rear-view mirrors, have been optimized using computer models and tests in wind tunnels and real-life environments. As a result, air flows round the vehicle following it's natural path, unhampered by corners and irregularities. The end result is a negative LC (lift coefficient) which like competition vehicles, contributes to stability at high speeds.
But the peculiarity of this vehicle, is the hooded top fitted with electro-hydraulic automatic control (controllable via a button on the dashboard). The hooded top of the Alfa 8C Spider is composed of two overlapping sheets: the external one is made with a multi-thread textile which can withstand the elements, whilst the interior has high sound-proofing qualities. Furthermore, the hooded roof-top, available in various colours, has been perfected aesthetically, aerodynamically and for acoustic comfort. It has also been perfected from a functional point of view, with specially developed film-reels to render more agile, rapid and secure any explanations of the functioning.
In the interior, the Alfa 8C Spider guarantees a sophisticated environment, thanks to the vast use of composite materials in the dashboard and internal panels, as well as the use of anatomical seats, produced in carbon fibres, that can be adjusted according to the physical characteristics of the driver (up to now, a feature only available to racing cars). Furthermore, for maximum possible personalization of the interior, the client can chose between different environments and aesthetic solutions. All distinguishable by the particular attention to detail and artisan workmanship: from the contrasting stitches, colour tone and exclusive matchings. The bucket seats are upholstered in Frau flower leather (an exclusive and innovative treatment of the weave, in which the leather is bound to a natural fibre, creating a look of great visual impact).
In analogous fashion to the interior, the same care has been taken in realizing the exteriors: from the alloy wheels to the brake calipers, every detail can be chosen to your particular design, because every Alfa 8C Spider can only look similar to itself. An unmistakable car made to measure for the owner's personality. The unique and un-repeatable Alfa 8C Spider announces the pleasure of a sporty drive with full respect for the brand's legacy.
Like in the best Alfa Romeo tradition, hidden under this pretty “dress” is the best of what's available in the field of mechanics and propulsions. Firstly, the Alfa 8C Spider has a rigid and light structure (the compact frame is made in steel for maximum torsion to guarantee a drive which is always precise and sure, whilst the body is in carbon fibre). We are dealing with a choice motivated by the need to reduce as much as possible the weight but also to optimize the centre of gravity for agility and drive-ability in the more demanding journeys.
Still under the banner of sophisticated technology, the Alfa 8C Spider adopts the new “8 cylinder mated to a 5-speed gearbox with 90°” and a capacity of 4691 cm3 which has been designed with one specific aim: guarantee extraordinary performances without relinquishing the fluidity of the gearshift or the ease of use in any driving context. Like so, a powerful and progressive propulsion is born with a top power of 450 CV at 7.000 rpm and a maximum torque of 7.500 rpm. This engine has been mated to a self-shifting 6-speed gearshift (with computerized selection of the gears via levers behind the steering-wheel), and a self-blocking differential unit.
As in the legendary Formula 1 vehicles from the 50's, the Alfa 8C Spider sports the Transaxle design which guarantees the best equilibrium in the partioning of weight. The propulsion is placed in the rear whilst the gearshift is placed behind along the differential and hydraulic motor unit. The Transaxle design foresees a tight connection between motor and gearshift, which is fitted with a self-blocking differential. The two groups are linked by a tubular element, at the interior of which rotates the transmission driving shaft: in this manner the load is distributed in an optimal manner between the front and rear suspension.
So much power can only be entrusted to an excellent braking system: the Alfa 8C Spider is fitted with carbo-ceramic Brembo (CCM), 380 mm in diameter on the front-wheels and 360 mm on the back-wheels. This solution guarantees a powerful brake action even in the most intense uses. The marked reduction in weight, in comparison to a traditional set-up, reduces the masses unsupported by the vehicle and so improves the dynamic performance and driving comfort. Furthermore, the mono-block calipers guarantee maximum rigidity and minimal deformation, given the high loads generated by the pressure of the pistons on the brake-linings.
Therefore, the Alfa 8C Spider “declares itself Alfa” all the way, confirming control and driving pleasure with no compromises. Since always, gear comfort and dynamic performance are qualities specific to Alfa Romeo cars: in this case they have become veritable strong points. Thanks to for example, the suspensions which foresee a high wishbone suspension with brackets and uprights in forged aluminium, that act as a supplementary strut for alignment control.
Contributing also to the brilliant road control are specially developed 20” tyres to insure excellent performance, the tyres have a: 245/35 front-suspension and a rear-suspension of 285/35. Fitted on perforated rims in fluid moulded aluminium to ensure lightness and maximum brake ventilation efficiency. Lastly, the Alfa 8C Spider uses an evolved VDC Alfa Romeo traction and stability system, which ensures the driver feels at one with his car.
Maserati GranTurismo
The GranTurismo is a car you can buy with your head as well as your heart.
Driving
The Maserati’s 4.2-litre V8 engine, built by Ferrari, is a cracker. Eager, hungry for revs and tuneful, it’s magic when used hard. There’s always a bit of delicious background engine and exhaust noise. It’s fast, too, despite the hefty 1,800kg kerbweight – 0-100mph takes a mere 11.9 seconds! However, it’s more frustrating in daily use, because of a marked lack of mid-range pull, while the automatic gearbox’s reluctance to give you full control is frustrating. It is, however, a capable driver’s car. It’s not as polished as, say, a Jaguar XKR, but we think its flaws add character. The dampers feel fidgety and it can lose composure on bumpy roads – but, once you’ve got used to the sharp, light steering and alert chassis, it’s huge fun, with lots of feedback.
Marketplace
Maserati is one of the most glamorous and evocative automotive brands of all time – and the GranTurismo is more stylish than any German rival. It has exuberance, flair and a real sense of drama and passion. It’s a huge car, mind, with a long wheelbase, though there are some advantages to this. There’s just the single engine, gearbox and trim line at the moment, with a very extensive (and expensive) range of bespoke options available. Rivals to the two-door coupe include the Jaguar XKR, Aston Martin V8 Vantage, BMW M6, Mercedes SL and, of course, the Porsche 911.
Owning
The Maserati may have a small boot, but inside, there’s a real surprise. The long wheelbase provides enough space for a pair of rear seats as roomy as a family hatchback! They even have ISOFIX mountings for child seats. But it’s up front where the real excitement lies. The rich, tactile materials, shapely steering wheel and chrome-ringed buttons look superb. And while ergonomics are not perfect, they’re leagues ahead of Maseraris of old. Shame the unintuitive sat nav is lifted straight from a Peugeot, though. There is also a little more wind and road noise than you’d expect. And as for running costs, prepare for a shock. There are only 16 dealers in the UK, and three visits will cost you £3,999! The 25,000-mile service alone will cost £1,757. Luckily, tall gearing means everyday economy won’t be disastrous, while exceptional retained values should mean you won’t lose out when you come to sell
Aston Martin Rapide
Our spies had to be quick, but they still managed to catch the Aston Rapide! These are the best pictures yet of the exciting four-door saloon that has the forthcoming Porsche Panamera firmly in its sights.With stunning looks, V12 power and supercar performance it is set to be one of the most desirable saloons on the road.As you can see, the Rapide is heavily influenced by the DB9 and DBS coupes. With the same aggressive nose, high waistline and low sweeping roofline it’s much more rakish than rivals such as the Maserati Quattroporte. However, a stretched wheelbase means that there will easily be room for four adults.
Clearly visible on this testing mule is the panoramic glass roof. Stretching from the top of the windscreen to the rear window it will help give the cabin a light an airy feel. The Rapide is likely to use the same dashboard as the DB9, while in the rear will be two individual chairs, making the Aston a strict four-seater.Power will come from the firm’s powerful 6.0-litre V12, which should produce around 500bhp. As a result the saloon should sprint from standstill to 60mph in around five seconds and carry on to a top speed in excess of 180mph. There will be a choice of either manual or automatic gearboxes, both with six ratios.No firm release date for the newcomer has yet been released, but expect to see the first cars hit showrooms late in 200
11/5/08
Rolls-Royce Pininfarina Hyperion
Pininfarina has just released its toughest model out there in the Pebble Beach Concours at August 2008. Overall, its size and build has been a question to all of us. In all of heritage and tradition, based on the Rolls Royce, this takes the cake in history between these two models.
It has made its debut at the Geneva Motor Show; also Pininfarina has showed off its highly anticipated electric cars: Ferrari California and the Maserati Quattroporte MY 08. All of these cars are designed by the only Pininfarina in Paris.
In order to please other companies, Pininfarina has added a different view of creativity and ability to interpret other companies. This car, I would say will make a good impression on its buyers and other companies.
