Frankfurt Show: Fiat Grande Punto Abarth SS 180Hp

Just as the Grande Punto Abarth went on sale in Europe this month, Fiat announced that it will unveil the Grande Punto Abarth SS (Super Sport) prototype at the forthcoming Frankfurt Show. The SS is basically a stock Grande Punto Abarth with more horsepower and a highly aggressive bodykit kit that Fiat names “essesse”. The bodykit adds among other things, new bumpers, side sills, large twin-exhaust pipes, bigger wheels and a roof spoiler. The kit also includes suspension and brake upgrades along with an extra 35Hp, boosting the 1.4L Turbocharged engine’s overall output to 180Hp. Though we’ll have to wait until the opening of the Frankfurt Show on Sep. 13 to learn more details, expect the SS or “essesse” kit to be available in early 2008. -Press release and pics after the jump

Press Release

The legendary Abarth ‘Scorpion’ returns

After the official presentation in March this year, Abarth now makes its return at the Frankfurt Motor Show. One of the most prestigious brands in world motorsports. Abarth has always been synonymous with aggressive cars, competitiveness, passion and excitement, and it now returns with a new range that will appeal to all lovers of motor racing.

The stand will focus on two important concepts linked to the brand’s revival, which represent the most characteristic aspects of its identity: on one hand, the racing world, and on the other, conversions and boosted performance achieved by the application of highly technological solutions in a simple, intuitive package.

The first concept is presented very effectively with the display of a Grande Punto Abarth S2000, positioned on a large steel platform in the shape of a scorpion, to underline both the power and the unique nature of the technical features of this car.

The second concept is expressed on the stand in two different ways. First of all, there is a large photo-quality configurator, that allows visitors to appreciate and examine hands-on the elements that are important in the conversion world. But the real novelty at the show is the Grande Punto Abarth “essesse” (Super Sport) prototype, exhibited on a large glass platform, under which are a number of 3D monitors. These sophisticated screens project the components of the conversion kit which have made the basic version of the Grande Punto Abarth even more powerful and aggressive, in the best tradition of the Scorpion.

The Grande Punto Abarth went on the market this month, equipped with the 1.4 petrol Turbo engine that delivers 150 bhp at 5500 rpm (boosted to 155 bhp if 98 RON petrol is used) combined with a mechanical 6-speed gearbox that takes it to a top speed of 208 km/h, accelerating from 0 to 100 km/h in just 8.2 seconds. This is the Abarth’s first interpretation of the Grande Punto, but the initiative will soon be extended to other models.

Grande Punto Abarth “essesse” prototype (Super Sport)

The absolute star of the stand is the Grande Punto Abarth “essesse” (Super Sport) prototype. A jewel of assertiveness and elegance, the car is offered with a booster kit that almost doubles its power output with relation to the basic model (up to almost 180 bhp). The ‘“essesse”’ kit also envisages a number of specific elements that accentuate both the sporty look of the Abarth model (for example adhesives with the ‘essesse’ logo or a chequered flag) and its dynamic behaviour, with a particular low stance or a more powerful braking system. This is a feature that maintains a brand tradition: for example, the Fiat 500 of 1958 delivered 13 bhp at 4000 rpm and a top speed of 85 km/h, while the Fiat 500 Abarth of the same year, produced 26 bhp at 5000 rpm and a top speed of 118 km/h.

The Grande Punto Abarth and the Grande Punto Abarth with the ‘essesse’ kit aim to revive the thrill of those cars, offering an opportunity, addressed to the young in particular, of entering the racing world in total safety and at an accessible price.

Grande Punto Abarth S2000

The public in Frankfurt will also be able to admire the extraordinary Grande Punto Abarth S2000. This is a racing car designed for racing stables, and under the management of Abarth Racing Operations, it is competing in the 2007 Italian Rally Championship, with Giandomenico Basso and his navigator Mitia Dotta, and the IRC (Intercontinental Rally Challenge) with drivers Anton Alen, Andrea Navarra and Umberto Scandola.

Powered by a 2000 cc aspirated engine that delivers 270 bhp, with 4-wheel drive, the new Grande Punto Abarth S2000 is the heir to the version that won the 2006 European title and the Intercontinental Rally Challenge with Giandomenico Basso and Mitia Dotta, and took the 2006 Italian Rally Championship winning 7 races.

We must underline that the approximately 25 cars built so far have been ordered by several racing stables in Europe and elsewhere, to compete in domestic and international rallies. And now, thanks to this technological superiority, the new Grande Punto Abarth S2000 tackles these two championships as the title-holder, with the same determination.

The head of Racing Operations for Abarth & C. Spa is Claudio Berro, who can draw on a staff with a great deal of experience in the racing sector as well as a team of outstanding drivers.

Audi R8: Ashes To Ashes...

Oh, be honest now; don’t tell me that all you Ferraristis aren’t getting a kick out of this image featuring a brand new Audi R8 burned to the rubber? Guess you’d like to know what happened. Well, according to the guy who posted the pics on R8talk, “Ti_Mike”, the fire was caused by a failure in the gear box hydraulic system. There’s no way to verify this, but here’s Ti_Mike’s exact word’s: -Click “Read More…” below

"The car burned has been a test car, serial no. below 1610.
All cars below this no had problems with the R-Tronic and the fire was caused by a hydraulic failure.

Most of the cars with a serial no below 1610 have been test cars. It has been a simple software update for the gear box hydraulic system to eliminate the problem.

So don't worry guys it's been solved. My car has been delivered know one month a go an the serial no is above 1700. All the other owners have received a software update. The car of the Audi deal which burned just hasn't being updated. Well guess it would have been easier if they would have done it."

Via: Autoblog.nl , Source: R8talk

Video Update: Ferrari F430 On Fire

Remember back in July, when we posted a set of images featuring a Ferrari F430 going up in flames on the South Luzon Expressway in the Philippines (check it out here if you missed it)? Well, today we discovered that someone not only managed to film the specific Ferrari roaming the Philippine highway before the incident, but he also captured the F430 on tape while it was roasting like a Mexican sausage. To our misfortune, the videographer missed the part when the driver of the F430 sensed that something was terribly wrong pulling to the side of the road.

Peugeot 4007 Customized by Cobra

Cobra didn’t waste any time with Peugeot’s first ever SUV, the 4007, introducing a wide range of accessories. These include a stainless steel front bar with 60mm in tube diameter or alternatively, a high-gloss stainless steel that’s fixed on the lower side of the standard bumper, sill tubes, rub strips on the doors and a roof carrier system with lockable Cobra Technology & Lifestyle cross rails. Furthermore, Cobra offers various light alloy rims in 16- or 17-inch diameter and a stainless steel sport exhaust system. -Press release after the jump

Maximum individuality down to the detail: Cobra Technology & Lifestyle customizes the Peugeot 4007

The new Peugeot 4007 has arrived in the dealers’ showrooms! Cobra Technology & Lifestyle now offers an extensive exclusive program for the first SUV from the French car manufacturer.

To make the front of the newcomer look even more prominently, the renowned off road specialists from Cobra Technology & Lifestyle offer a high-gloss stainless steel front bar with 60 millimeters in tube diameter. Of course this accessory part meets all current EG guidelines for pedestrian protection. The part comes complete with an EG operation certificate, eliminating the need for a technical inspection and for amending the vehicle papers. In addition the front guard allows the fitting of additional high beams which are offered as a ready-to-install kit.

Alternatively the front section can be upgraded visually and functionally with the Cobra Technology & Lifestyle Cityguard^® element made from high-gloss stainless steel which is fixed on the lower side of the standard bumper.

Equally practical and attractive are the Cobra Technology & Lifestyle sill tubes which make entering and exiting the car easier.

Self-adhesive Cobra Technology & Lifestyle rub strips protect all four doors against damage from shopping carts or opening doors.

The standard roof rails of the 4007 can be upgraded to a full-fledged roof carrier system with lockable Cobra Technology & Lifestyle cross rails.

Furthermore Cobra Technology & Lifestyle updates the new Peugeot with attractive light alloy wheels in 16- or 17-inch diameter. The most exclusive version is the two-piece Cobra Grenada II 8Jx17 wheel with tires of the dimension 245/55 R 17.

Sporty engine sound and striking looks with one large oval chrome tailpipe are the main features of the Cobra Technology & Lifestyle stainless steel sport exhaust system which is offered in custom-made versions for the alternatively available gasoline and Diesel engines of the Peugeot 4007.

The high quality of all Cobra Technology & Lifestyle components is documented with a 2 years warranty without mileage limit.

Design Proposition: Alfa Romeo Fascino

The Alfa Romeo Fascino is a three-seater sports car (the driver sits in the middle), designed by Om Suthar, a graduate from Coventry University. According to Om, the Fascino was designed to study the proportions and the fusion between a limousine and a Formula racer in order "to create the ultimate sports luxury vehicle." Om also supports that, “the concept is targeted to wealthy and famous customers, always looking for original vehicles to stand out from the crowd”. And we thought sports cars were designed and engineered for hardcore petrol headed drivers, duh… Conclusively and even though the Fascino's overall shape kinda brings the words "Bugatti Veyron" into our heads, we find Om's approach on a semi-futuristic Alfa Romeo badged sports car quite refreshening. -Continued after the jump

Image courtesy: Om Suthar , Via: carbodydesign

2008 BMW X5: New 286 Hp Twin Turbo Diesel & EfficientDynamics

BMW introduced the 2008 model year X5 that’s enhanced by the addition of the superb 3.0L twin-turbo diesel engine in the range while all versions benefit from a series of technologies (BMW EfficientDynamics) that cut fuel economy and emission ratings by 4 to 7 percent compared to previous models.

The new kid on the block, the X5 3.0sd is powered by a 3.0L twin-turbocharged straight-six delivering 286 Hp @ 4,400 rpm and a maximum torque figure of 580 Nm or 427 lb-ft from 1,750 rpm. While the 3.0sd accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h (62mph) in 7,0 sec., average fuel consumption is only 8.2 lt/100km or 28,6 mpg offering a maximum range of 1,035 km or 644 miles. All 2008 X5 models are equipped with a wide range of improvements that promise to optimize both fuel economy and emissions, like Brake Energy Regeneration, tires with reduced roll resistance and active aerodynamic improvements -BMW just calls it EfficientDynamics. Furthermore, all models feature an enhanced DSC system and new active headrests. -Press release after the jump

PRESS RELEASE: 2008 BMW X5

Munich 31.08.2007 - A new straight-six diesel engine with Variable Twin Turbo technology and a wide range of fuel-saving improvements also featured in all other engine variants enable the 2008 BMW X5 to present its wide range of qualities even more convincingly and with even greater impact in the2008 model year. Developing maximum output of 210 kW/286 hp and peak torque of 580 Nm, the new diesel engine gives the 2008 BMW X5 3.0sd outstanding pulling force and torque on average fuel consumption in the EU test cycle of just 8.2 litres/100 kilometres.

The balance of driving dynamics and fuel consumption quite unique in this vehicle segment is based on the BMW EfficientDynamics development strategy now also benefiting BMW's highly successful Sports Activity Vehicle (SAV).

Also featured on the three other petrol and diesel engine variants of the 2008 BMW X5 , these cutting-edge technologies in the 2008 model year provide fuel economy and emission ratings 4 - 7 per cent better than on the former models.

Significant progress in the area of efficiency adds a new facet to the already highly versatile character of the 2008 BMW X5. Within its segment, BMW's Sports Activity Vehicle already ranks unique thanks to its outstanding dynamic driving qualities. Indeed, BMW's2008 BMW X5 : Even Greater Efficiency in the Use of Supreme Power

intelligent xDrive all-wheel-drive concept promotes not only driving dynamics on the road, but also the vehicle's traction and handling qualities off the beaten track. And in its outstanding design, this five-door performer combines the robustness of an SAV with sheer elegance and superior presence. Both the driver and passengers are surrounded within the interior of the 2008 BMW X5 by a truly luxurious ambience, at the same time benefiting from the generosity and flexible use of the interior. Featuring an optionally available third row of seats, this SAV is the first-ever BMW able to accommodate up to seven occupants. So considering this transport capacity, the efficiency of the engines enhanced to an even higher level gains even greater significance, the 2008 BMW X5 offering incomparable driving pleasure combined with outstanding practical value in relation to its fuel consumption.

The 2008 BMW X5 : outstanding qualities also in the area of efficiency.

BMW is introducing all innovations serving to reduce fuel consumption and emissions step-by-step at the earliest possible point in all model series. Now, offering an even wider range of engines for the X5, Germany's premium car manufacturer is raising the benchmark for efficiency even higher in this segment in the 2008 model year.

Particularly the new 2008 BMW X5 3.0sd powered by a 3.0-litre straight-six diesel featuring Variable Twin Turbo technology offers an especially high standard of supremacy with utmost economy. Maximum output of 210 kW/286 hp at an engine speed of 4,400 rpm, plus peak torque of 580 Nm from just 1,750 rpm, ensures acceleration to 100 km/h in a mere 7.0 seconds. Average fuel consumption in the EU cycle, in turn, is only 8.2 litres/100 kilometres, giving the new 2008 BMW X5 3.0sd a maximum range of 1,035 kilometres and ensuring grand touring qualities quite unique in this segment.

The other model variants of the 2008 BMW X5 likewise feature a wide range of improvements serving to optimise both fuel economy and emissions, such as Brake Energy Regeneration and on-demand management of the engine's ancillary units.

A further point is that the belt drive for the climate compressor is equipped with a clutch automatically disconnecting the compressor once the air conditioning is switched off and thus reducing the drag force generated by the compressor to an absolute minimum.

Further features of all variants of the 2008 BMW X5 include tyres with reduced roll resistance, a coolant pump operating according to current requirements, friction-optimised final drive, and the steering assistance pump with pressure- and volume flow-controlled adjustment of the cam ring serving to avoid the power losses otherwise encountered at higher engine speeds. All variants of the 2008 BMW X5 come furthermore with active aerodynamic improvements, the coolant flaps opening and closing according to current driving conditions and thus helping to optimise the vehicle's air drag once the engine requires less air for cooling.

BMW EfficientDynamics: reducing fuel consumption by up to 7 per cent.

The top model in the series, the 2008 BMW X5 4.8i powered by a 261 kW/355 hp eight-cylinder, now offers a reduction in average fuel consumption in the EU test cycle by 4 per cent to 12.0 litres/100 kilometres. The 2008 BMW X5 3.0si , in turn, featuring a 200 kW/272 hp straight-six gasoline engine, consumes just 10.2 litres/100 kilometres, offering an improvement in fuel economy by 6 per cent. And the 2008 BMW X5 3.0d , finally, with its 173 kW/235 hp straight-six diesel, now consumes just 8.1 litres/100 kilometres, a reduction by 7 per cent versus the 2007 model year.

This significant reduction of fuel consumption on all engine variants naturally also means an appropriate improvement in exhaust emissions, where the 2008 BMW X5 ranks right at the top in its segment, with further improved emission ratings. Offering a CO2 emission rating between 214 ( 2008 BMW X5 3.0d ) and 286 ( 2008 BMW X5 4.8i ) grams per kilometre, all variants of BMW's SAV earn best marks in their respective class also when it comes to emissions.

Both diesel versions of the 2008 BMW X5 are furthermore fitted with a particulates filter positioned close to the engine as well as an oxidation catalyst housed within the same unit. In addition, both the 2008 BMW X5 3.0sd and the 2008 BMW X5 3.0d in the 2008 model year come with a diesel tank filling security system preventing inadvertent filling of gasoline into the fuel tank. To make sure this cannot happen, the tank manifold on both models comes with a lock ratchet only the fuel pump for diesel with its larger diameter is able to open. Clearly, this virtually rules out the risk of filling up with the wrong fuel, for example if the driver is not really used to the vehicle, e.g. when driving a rental car. So any mistake made when using the smaller fuel pump for gasoline will not have any consequences at filling stations equipped with the appropriate pumps with the right pump diameter.

Enhanced DSC for even greater agility.

With the BMW xDrive all-wheel-drive system being intelligently networked to DSC Dynamic Stability Control, the 2008 BMW X5 offers both safe and superior driving behaviour in all situations and on all surfaces.

Now, entering the 2008 model year, the agility of BMW's upmarket SAV is being enhanced to an even higher standard through the extension of the DSC system. To ensure harmonious transmission of power in fast and dynamic bends, carefully dosed application of the brakes, together with the compensation of torque, counteracts any trend to understeer right from the beginning. As soon as the front wheels start pushing excessively to the outside, the inner rear wheel in a bend is slowed down by the appropriate wheel brake operated by DSC. Any loss in drive power suffered in the process is set off accordingly by increasing the transmission of power to the drive wheels, thus enabling the driver to take bends even more precisely also on a slippery surface. Whether and to what extent such intervention is required, is determined by data on the yaw rate, the steering lock and engine output provided by the DSC sensors.

Optimised occupant safety with crash-activated headrests.

Benefiting from its demanding suspension technology, the 2008 BMW X5 offers not only particularly dynamic, but also exceptionally safe driving behaviour. And now, entering the 2008 model year, the passive safety of BMW's SAV is being further optimised, the 2008 BMW X5 now featuring crash-activated headrests significantly reducing the risk of neck whiplash injury in the event of an impact from behind.

Masterminded by the vehicle's safety electronics, this system ensures that in the event of a collision the front part of the headrest moves forward instantaneously by up to 60 millimetresand upwards by up to 40 millimetres.This reduces the gap between the headrest and the occupant's head before the forces acting on the vehicle force the occupant's head back. So the stabilising and securing function of the headrest is further enhanced and the risk of injury or over-extension of the cervical spine is reduced to a minimum.

To enhance comfort on long distances to an even higher standard, the wide range of attractive options on the 2008 BMW X5 gives the driver and his passengers’ supreme freedom of choice and enjoyment. An additional option being introduced in the 2008 model year is a TV function for on-board entertainment of the rear-seat passengers. As an alternative to the DVD video programme, this system allows the transmission of TV signals to the 8-inch folding flat screen monitor on the centre console.

Dynamic at first sight: the M Sports Package for the 2008 BMW X5 .

The dynamic character of the 2008 BMW X5 making it unique from the start in its segment is further highlighted in truly authentic style by the M Sports Package for an even more intense and visually attractive experience. Apart from special bumpers, side-sills and door running strips, the flared wheel arches also come in characteristic M design. As an alternative to the 19-inch M light-alloy wheels in V-spoke design on the M Sports Package, the customer may also choose optionally available M light-alloy wheels in 20-inch format. In both cases the 2008 2008 BMW X5 comes with different sizes of tyres on the front and rear axle geared specifically to the vehicle.

A high-speed set-up and the sports suspension also included in the M Sports Package round off the wide range of improvements serving to enhance driving dynamics.

BMW Individual Exterior Line in satinated aluminium design on the side window surrounds as well as the BMW Individual roof railing in high-gloss Satin Chrome ensure exclusivity of the highest standard. Within the interior of the 2008 BMW X5 with its M Sports Package, in turn, the unique driving experience is enhanced to an even higher level by electrically adjustable sports seats for the driver and front passenger, the M leather steering wheel, interior trim in aluminium stretch polish design, and the BMW Individual roof lining in Anthracite.

2008 Mercedes C 63 AMG Estate: Frankfurt Show Debut

Yesterday we wrote “In 2008 Mercedes will broaden the range of the new C-Class Estate with an AMG version”. Duh… Our reader Leo from Germany though had a different state of mind honoring us with a set of images featuring the 2008 Mercedes C 63 AMG Estate. Apparently, the C 63 AMG Estate will make its premier at this year’s Frankfurt show along with the rest of C-Class Estate versions.

Just like the C 63 AMG Sedan, the Estate is equipped with a normally aspirated 6.2-liter V8 engine delivering 457 Hp and 600 Nm of maximum torque. According to the info supplied by our friend Leo, the C 63 AMG Estate will sprint from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 4.6 sec (Sedan: 4.5 sec) and achieve an electronically governed top speed of 250 km/h (155mph). We’ll have more on the 2008 C 63 AMG Estate as soon as Mercedes… officially unveils the car. -More images after the jump

Thanks for the tip Leo!

1912 Ford Model T With A Jaguar V12 Engine

Bearing the nickname “The Tasmanian Devil”, this 1912 Ford Model T appeared at last weekend’s Hemmings Cruise-In in Bennington, US, and the guys from Hemming’s Auto Blog didn’t waste the chance to take a couple of shots. There’s not much information on this one-of-a-kind hotrod, but it’s definitely an eye catcher with its handmade, wooden body and of course, the Jaguar V12 engine with the… 12 (!) exhaust pipes. -More images after the jump

Via: Hemmings