Saturday, 16 December 2017

CARSCOOPS

CARSCOOPS

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You'll Struggle To Find A Quirkier Car Than The Lamborghini Jarama

Posted: 16 Dec 2017 04:24 AM PST


While most, if not all classic Italian sports cars have their fair share of quirks by today's standards, the Lamborghini Jarama might just top them all.

This example, reviewed by Doug DeMuro in Dubai, is about as weird as any Lamborghini we've ever seen, and it's not because of the way it looks.

The Jarama is a 2+2 grand tourer from the early to mid 70's, featuring a more angled design than the Espada, and a 3.9-liter V12 engine, which actually sounds pretty darn nice, as DeMuro was more than happy to point out during his drive.

Yet, it's the interior of this car that can only be described as extremely weird. Buttons are positioned all over the place with all types of cryptic symbols on them. The radio is operated by "feel", not by sight, the windshield washer button is nowhere near where it should be, and there's a locking mechanism just for the trunk handle (not the trunk), which by the way isn't a hatch, despite the car's aesthetics.

On the road, aside from the great engine note, the Jarama isn't all that quick, and doesn't feel particularly nimble. But because of the sound, DeMuro really couldn't wipe the smile off his face while behind the wheel.

VIDEO

New VW Polo Rendered As A Ford Fiesta Active Rival

Posted: 16 Dec 2017 02:57 AM PST


In recent years, carmakers have attempted to cater for every single tiny niche by creating an increasing array of special variants directed towards different customers, and the one that (supposedly) make the vehicles look more rugged with blacked-out bumpers and wheel arches is one of them.

The likes of Mercedes-Benz, Audi, Volvo, and Audi all offer such vehicles. Volkswagen, too, had the CrossPolo that was based on the previous generation, so building such a version of the new one makes perfect sense.

Behance artist Kleber Silva has created a pair of renderings depicting the new Polo dreamt up as a rival to the Ford Fiesta Active, and it certainly looks the part.

Compared to the standard Polo, the Alltrack (or should we say CrossPolo?) has body cladding on the wheel arches, bumpers and side skirts, and benefits from a slightly increased ride height. All told, these small changes could attract buyers who pursue an active lifestyle, even though the ruggedness and off-road prowess of such a vehicle wouldn't be greatly improved over the standard car.

On the other hand, these kind of cars attract customers who care more about looks than actual off-road capabilities, so this shouldn't be a problem at all.

PHOTO GALLERY

1974 Lancia Stratos HF Stradale Is A Rare, And Pricey, Italian Legend

Posted: 16 Dec 2017 01:48 AM PST


An absolutely jaw-dropping 1974 Lancia Stratos HF Stradale has appeared for sale on Bring A Trailer and, at the time of writing this article, had a highest bid of $311,000.

This particular Stratos HF Stradale is the 44th of just 492 examples homologated for World Rally Championship Group 4 competition and has had just two owners from new. While many classic Lancias are garage queens, this Stratos was driven frequently during its early years and currently has 71,008 km (44,122 miles) under its belt.

Still, the Italian sports car retains its original engine, transmission, chassis and the beautiful body styled by Bertone.

The car rolled out of the factory on July 1, 1974 and was first registered on July 8, 1977 and driven roughly 20,000 km during the next three years. The second owner acquired the car on June 18, 1980 and drove it roughly 50,000 km before putting it in storage in 1984.

Alongside its original powertrain and exterior, this Stratos has a highly-original interior, apart from the renewed seat bolsters. To give the car a new lease on life, the factory coilover suspension has been rebuilt and restored, and the brakes fitted with rebuilt calipers, new lines, and Karp's rotors. Additionally, a set of period-correct Michelin XWX tires have been installed.

PHOTO GALLERY

Lewis Hamilton Says He Wants To Battle Fernando Alonso Next Season

Posted: 16 Dec 2017 12:30 AM PST


Lewis Hamilton says he'd like to see the McLaren team competing at the front of the field next season and hopes to battle Fernando Alonso in 2018.

Alonso has failed to secure a single podium with the McLaren-Honda team, but the outfit will ditch Honda powertrains for next season and instead use Renault-sourced power units. With a finely-tuned chassis, it's reasonable to expect McLaren to be in a much better shape next year.

"They've had such a difficult time. Given that I grew up with McLaren from 13, I go through qualifying and I always look to see where Fernando is, I always look to see where they are and am watching their progress," Hamilton told Motorsport.

"There's just a natural place in my heart for them, because I achieved a huge amount with them. I really, really hope next year is a successful year for them, I really hope we are battling with them because McLaren deserve to be at the front. I hope with this new power unit they're there with us. I hope we have another incredible world champion up there with us fighting for the world championship," said the four-time world champion.

As for Alonso, he is currently on a "multi-year" agreement with McLaren and intends on finishing his F1 career at the British racing outfit. Despite his limited success the last three years, many pundits still consider him one of the best drivers in the field.

PHOTO GALLERY

750HP Audi RS6 Puts A Decent Fight Against 1,200HP Mercedes-AMG CLS

Posted: 16 Dec 2017 03:02 AM PST


Despite this Audi RS6 packing a lot of extra muscle on top of its already impressive stock power figure, it still looks like it's about to get a real whooping from this 1,200 HP CLS 63.

On paper, you could say this race is beyond unfair. Besides, it's not as if the RS6 has some type of weight advantage to make up for how many horses it's missing compared to its opponent.

Thanks to its GAD Motors tune, the CLS 63 in question is putting down a monstrous 1,200 HP, whereas the RS6 is good for 750 HP, spurred on by Gosha Turbo Tech's GTT750 kit.

Expecting this race to end in a victory for the RS6 is completely unrealistic, which is why we didn't bother keeping the result a secret from you. Yet, one would also expect the Mercedes to run circles around the Audi, after all, we're talking about a 450 HP difference on two cars that weigh about the same.

Sure, if this drag race would have gone on longer, the CLS would have had time (and room) to put several seconds between itself and the RS6. Yet, they both ran a 10-second 1/4 mile.

VIDEO

Volvo Air Study Helps Both The Environment And You

Posted: 15 Dec 2017 07:15 PM PST


Many car designers, and automakers themselves, believe that the car of the future won't just drive itself but be an extremely comfortable and relaxing form of transportation. With this in mind, artist Pascal Grangier has created the Volvo Air.

Designed to improve the well-being of occupants without expelling toxins into the environment, the Volvo Air has been envisioned with an all-electric powertrain that maximizes interior space.

To make journeys comfortable for passengers, the Volvo Air has an advanced air filtration system and even includes some small plants throughout. Additionally, the two seats are highly configurable and can be used in a traditional seating position or easily converted into a small bed.

Aiding in the feeling of relaxation is a glass canopy and no visible pillars. All told, the interior is incredibly minimalistic and free of any unnecessary distractions, allowing occupants to remove themselves from the surrounding world and enjoy the pleasures of the car.

Does this type of car excite or worry you? Let us know below!

PHOTO GALLERY

GM's Marketplace App Previews Firm's Over-The-Air Future

Posted: 15 Dec 2017 06:41 PM PST


The introduction of GM's Marketplace app marks an important development in the carmaker's long-term plan to offer over-the-air updates to all of its new vehicles.

Last week, roughly 1.9 million 2017 and 2018 vehicles in the United States received the Marketplace app through an over-the-air download, the first time GM has introduced an infotainment system in such a way.

Although Tesla owners have become accustomed to receiving infotainment, software, and mechanical updates with wireless updates, most other carmakers have yet to incorporate the technology in such a significant way. For GM, the Marketplace app is an important step in that direction, Automotive News reports.

The app has been billed as the "industry's first commerce platform for on-demand reservations and purchases" and allows drivers to order items from shops including Dunkin Donuts and Starbucks or to reserve a table at restaurants including TGI Fridays.

Not everyone is happy about the app, however. According to National Safety Council president Deborah Hersman, "there's nothing about this that's safe."

Responding to this claim, GM spokesman Vijay Iyer said the app had been developed to comply with voluntary driver-distraction guidelines and "is designed to minimize manual interactions, helping drivers keep their eyes on the road and hands on the wheel."

VIDEO

Preston Tucker’s Personal Car Is A True Piece Of Automotive History

Posted: 16 Dec 2017 03:02 AM PST


This isn't another 48, if you can call a Tucker 48 that; this is Preston Tucker's personal car, chassis number 1029.

After undertaking high-speed tests at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, Tucker and his family drove it for seven years. In 1955, Preston Tucker sold it to Winthrop Rockefeller.

The car changed a few hands before being sold to Jack Bart in 1967. Bart, a well-known automotive enthusiast, had the car refinished in its original color and supplied it to the production of the 1988 film "Tucker: The Man and His Dream", starring Jeff Bridges.

The specific Tucker 48 has covered 19,199 miles is described to be in a solid and original condition, and is accompanied by a history file created by noted Tucker historian, Jay Follis.

As with the majority of the 51 Tuckers, this one is powered by a Franklin O-335 flat six engine. Measuring 5.5-liters in capacity, the engine produces 166hp. "The Car of Tomorrow", as it was once called, managed to create a massive hype prior to its launch but politics along with development issues meant that Preston Tucker's dream would remain grounded, just like DeLorean's.

The car is set to cross the auction block at RM Sotheby's Arizona event on January 18.

PHOTO GALLERY

Facelifted Mercedes-Benz S-Class Gets A Discreet Makeover From Lorinser

Posted: 15 Dec 2017 05:33 PM PST


Mercedes has given the S-Class a facelift earlier this year, which consisted of a few exterior changes, an even more luxurious interior and semi-autonomous driving tech.

Businessmen would call that very close to perfection, and most wouldn't change a thing to Stuttgart's executive saloon, but Lorinser believe that the latest iteration S-Class would look better with a few extras.

Their kit is very discreet, though, and you would probably need to see it next to the standard version to tell the differences. Nevertheless, the tuning house adds a new front lip, side skirts that can be made from carbon fiber on request, front fender vents, a decklid spoiler, roof wing, and carbon fiber side mirror caps.

The Lorinser-tuned S-Class also gets new wheels, double tailpipes at the rear, and a lowering module, whereas the special sill entrance panels and floor mats round up the list of updates.

We don't know how much the German tuning company is asking for these parts, so interested parties will have to contact them to find out.

PHOTO GALLERY

Take A Closer Look At GTA's Back To The Future-Inspired Deluxo

Posted: 15 Dec 2017 05:00 PM PST


If you're a fan of GTA Online and/or have been watching this space lately, you'll recognize the Deluxo, which takes after the famous flying DeLorean from Back to the Future and is available via Doomsday Heist's DLC.

As you can see in this short montage put together by IGN, you can drive the Deluxo, you can hover with it just above the road, or you can go flying as you would in any aircraft available in the game.

In case you're thinking that a flying car is in no way better than a plane or a helicopter, consider that landing a helicopter in GTA requires a bit of maneuvering around, while planes need an airstrip (ideally) and, of course, you have to stick the landing.

So being able to take off and land seamlessly using a car is definitely the most efficient way of getting from A to B while playing the game. And to make things more interesting, the Deluxo is equipped with missiles, so it's got offensive capabilities, too - although there are no scenes showing it doubling as a submarine, which it is supposedly able to do.

The only thing it doesn't do, unfortunately, is go back in time like the movies' DeLorean, which could come in handy while playing an action-packed video game like Grand Theft Auto.

VIDEO

3 Minutes Of New BMW M5 Driving Reveal Its Amazing Exhaust Note

Posted: 15 Dec 2017 04:30 PM PST


The first reviews of the new BMW M5 have started flowing in, and with them come a number of videos that reveal the joys of driving the new Bavarian super saloon.

One of them demonstrates the V8 symphony by taking the new M5 out for a short drive on public roads. Now, it seems that the microphone might have been placed near the exhaust instead of the interior, but that doesn't make the sound any less exciting.

The clip is accompanied by a short caption that reveals the driver's opinion on the latest M-car. So, according to him, "the M5 sounds proper, louder, more aggressive than before, and a more complete and cohesive symphony, with deeper tones and frightening backfire crackles".

We bet we'll soon see a video comparing the sound of the new M5 with that of the Mercedes-AMG E63, which also has a tremendous soundtrack to go with its ballistic performance.

VIDEO

Stolen Honda HR-V Found With Lyft Stickers On, Ride-Sharing Company Is Oblivious

Posted: 16 Dec 2017 03:02 AM PST


A couple living in San Francisco didn't get to enjoy their new Honda HR-V for long, as it was stolen at the end of August, while it was parked in front of their apartment in Livermore.

Fast-forward to December, and Cierra and Josh Barton, the HR-V's owners, were contacted by the police, informing them that their crossover had been found in Hayward, after being abandoned on the side of the road for about two weeks, the San Francisco Chronicle reported on Wednesday.

The odd thing is that, when they got to it, they found Lyft stickers on the front and rear windows, before noticing that the odometer had went from 2,000 to over 13,000 miles (3,220-20,900 km).

Moreover, apart from a pillow, a jacket, and a stuffed animal in the cabin, there were a a few dents on the bodywork and a rattling hood.

At a first glance, the HR-V appears to have been used as a Lyft vehicle, but the ride sharing company couldn't find any trace of it being used to transport people.

"The safety of the Lyft community is our top priority, and we take these allegations seriously. Given the information provided, we are unable to match this vehicle to any Lyft accounts in the area. We have reached out to Ms. Barton, and we stand ready to assist law enforcement in any investigation", Lyft told the paper in a statement.

New Rolls-Royce Phantom To Celebrate Its North American Debut In Detroit

Posted: 15 Dec 2017 03:34 PM PST


Premium automakers typically skip the Detroit Auto Show but Rolls-Royce is bucking the trend and will stage the North American debut of the 2018 Phantom in the Motor City.

Set to become one of the star attractions at The Gallery, the Phantom was revealed over the summer and features an evolutionary design that is instantly recognizable. Despite looking similar to its predecessor, the model rides on an all-new aluminum spaceframe platform and is powered by a new twin-turbo 6.75-liter V12 engine that produces 563 hp (420 kW) and 663 lb-ft (900 Nm) of torque.

While performance is important, the Phantom is all about luxury and it will treat owners to an upscale interior that features premium leather upholstery, wood trim, and a dizzying array of personalization options. Notable highlights include two 12.3-inch displays, an analogue clock, and front seats which have wood paneling on the back that hides picnic tables and an entertainment system.

Unfortunately, fans wanting to check out the Phantom will have to pay a pretty steep price as tickets to The Gallery cost $250 per person. However, participants will be treated to a fun-filled evening complete with fine food and a silent auction which will raise funds for the C.S. Mott Children's Hospital. Visitors can also checkout $10 million worth of high-end vehicles from the likes of Aston Martin, Bentley, and Ferrari.

Photo Gallery

GMC Tests Out How Automotive Christmas Decorations Affect Performance

Posted: 15 Dec 2017 03:02 PM PST


Christmas is right around the corner but General Motors is going all Scrooge and pointing out the obvious, decorating your car is a bad idea.

As part of this year's Christmas celebrations, the company sent aerodynamic performance engineer Joel Ruschman to the Lockheed Martin low speed wind tunnel in Georgia to test out a GMC Terrain Denali with an assortment of holiday decorations.

According to USA Today, reindeer antlers and a big red "nose" increase the Terrain's drag coefficient by three percent and this causes the crossover's fuel economy rating to drop by about 1 mpg on the highway.

While a big bow might not seem like it would have much effect, it actually increased drag by 15% and caused the fuel economy rating to drop by 3.5 mpg. However, the biggest offender was a Christmas tree which caused a 70% increase in drag.

If you can't resist the urge to decorate your car, the best choice would be a wreath as the wind tunnel tests determined it didn't have any effect on the Terrain's fuel efficiency.

Speaking of mileage, the 2018 Terrain Denali has a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that develops 252 hp (187 kW) and 260 lb-ft (352 Nm) of torque. It is connected to a nine-speed automatic transmission which can be paired to an optional all-wheel drive system. In the latter configuration, the crossover returns 21 mpg city and 26 mpg highway.

Video

Wards Names Its Ten Best Engines Of 2018

Posted: 15 Dec 2017 05:39 PM PST


Wards Auto has released its annual list of the 10 Best Engines for 2018.

After spending two months testing 32 different powertrains, the company's editors selected the winners. Surprisingly, the winners were primarily from mainstream brands and the publication notes not a single German automaker made the list.

Ford came away with two wins as editors loved the twin-turbo 2.7-liter V6 in the F-150 as well as the 5.0-liter V8 engine that resides in the Mustang GT. Other winners include the turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder in the Honda Civic Type R and the twin-turbo 3.0-liter V6 that powers the Infiniti Q50. Jaguar and Kia also appeared on the top 10 list for the first time thanks to the turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder in the XF and the turbocharged 3.3-liter V6 in the Stinger.

Alternative powertrains had a strong showing as well as Wards honored the Chevrolet Bolt, Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid, Honda Clarity, and Toyota Camry Hybrid. These models are a very diverse group as the cars have electric, plug-in hybrid, fuel-cell, and hybrid powertrains.

Performance models were largely absent from the list even though contenders included the Audi RS3 and S4. The sole diesel engine, the turbocharged 1.6-liter four-cylinder in the Chevrolet Equinox, also failed to make the cut.

Photo Gallery

Facelifted Buick Envision Revealed With Updated Styling And New 9-Speed Transmission

Posted: 15 Dec 2017 05:39 PM PST


Buick has quietly unveiled the facelifted Envision in China.

Introduced late last month, the updated model features a modestly revised front fascia with a "flying-wing" grille that echoes newer models such as the Encore, Enclave, and Lacrosse. Designers also installed a sportier front bumper and additional chrome trim.

The styling changes continue at the rear as the Envision has been equipped with new bodywork and restyled LED taillights. Buick says these changes help to give the rear end a "more three-dimensional" appearance.

Interior changes are relatively minor as the model has been equipped with an updated infotainment system that allows users to enjoy online entertainment features - such as Kaola FM internet radio and the NetEase music cloud - through an app.

Under the hood, two engines will be available. The entry-level model has a turbocharged 1.5-liter unit that produces 166 hp (124 kW) 184 lb-ft (250 Nm) of torque.

Customers can also order an updated turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with 256 hp (191 kW) and 295 lb-ft (400 Nm) of torque. Thanks to the additional power and a new nine-speed automatic transmission, the crossover can accelerate from 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) in 8.2 seconds which is an improvement of 0.2 seconds.

The updates will likely find their way to the U.S. model shortly but there's no word on specifics.

Photo Gallery

Audi E-Tron GT Four-Door Coupe Reportedly Coming In 2022

Posted: 15 Dec 2017 01:29 PM PST


Audi executives have already dropped plenty of hints suggesting the company was considering an electric sports car and now new details are starting to emerge about the model.

According to Auto Motor und Sport, Audi is working on a four-seat sports car which has been dubbed the E-Tron GT. The model is reportedly a four-door sedan with coupe-like styling. The car is also slated to adopt the company's new E-Tron design language which has been shown on various concepts including the E-Tron Quattro and E-Tron Sportback.

The car will reportedly be heavily influenced by the Porsche Mission E and have an electric powertrain that produces 600 PS (441 kW). Additional information is limited but the report claims the car will have all-wheel drive and a floor-mounted lithium-ion battery that enables the vehicle to travel more than 500 km (310 miles) on a single charge. When battery is depleted, the E-Tron GT's rapid charging system could enable the model to have 400 km (248 mile) of range in as little as 15 minutes.

If the report pans out, the E-Tron GT could be launched in 2022 and have a base price of less than €100,000 ($117,565).

Photo Gallery

Foreign Automakers Facing Autonomous Driving Restrictions In China Over Fears Of Spying

Posted: 15 Dec 2017 01:19 PM PST


China is one of the largest automotive markets in the world and autonomous driving technology is poised to make traveling in its density populated cities much easier. However, fears of spying could derail this utopian dream.

According to the Financial Times, Chinese officials are afraid that high-resolution images and GPS data recorded by mapping vehicles could pose a threat to national security. As a result, the country has reportedly placed restrictions on foreign automakers and their autonomous driving programs.

According to a representative of an unnamed automaker, "We have some obstacles related to testing of automated functionalities, but this is a delicate thing." They added the issue centers on taking "photos and recording GPS coordinates" as these things are "connected with national defense policies."

China's Ministry of Industry and Information Technology wasn't available to comment on the report but the publication notes Chinese automakers aren't subject to the same restrictions. Even foreign automakers who aren't dissuaded from testing autonomous vehicles in China are forced to partner with one of nearly a dozen Chinese companies which specialize in high-definition mapping.

China in the process of developing new regulations for autonomous vehicles and Baidu believes the rules could allow fully autonomous vehicles to be tested in the country as early as February.

H/T to The Drive

Photo Gallery

2,400 HP Worth Of Lamborghini Huracans Go Toe-To-Toe In Russia

Posted: 15 Dec 2017 12:33 PM PST


Typically, one would have to round up four Lamborghini Huracans in order to have a combined 2,400 hp on display. However, these two twin-turbo Huracans in Russia deliver 1,200 hp each and as you'd imagine, they are insanely quick.

The two recently lined up at one of the country's famous drag racing events and put on an epic display for those in attendance, rocketing down the arrow-straight stretch of road at truly bewildering speeds.

The race was held on a ribbon of tarmac slightly longer than half a mile and the winning Huracan completed the sprint in 14.544 seconds. By comparison, the second Huracan was only a fraction of a second behind, securing a time of 14.943 seconds. Interestingly, the losing Huracan actually ran the quickest quarter mile of the pair with a 9.5 second time at 261.34 km/h.

As amazing as it is to think about a Huracan with 1,200 hp, what is really mind-blowing is the fact that there are some Huracans out there with well over 2,000 hp on tap.

VIDEO

Van Driver Makes A Mess Of Entering Roundabout, Crashes Hard

Posted: 15 Dec 2017 12:00 PM PST


One would think that making a mistake at a roundabout would be less costly than in T junction, yet it was not so for the driver of this white van.

We're not exactly sure why he did what he did, but he must have been going really fast and either paying very little attention to the road, or perhaps experiencing some issues with his brakes.

Either way, it seems everybody involved was unlucky. There could have easily not been a vehicle on the other side of that roundabout to crash into, at that exact moment in time.

As somebody in the comments section points out, the driver could have also been from a left-side drive country, which is why he went left when he realized there was no way of stopping in time.

Of course, we can only speculate on why this incident really occurred. What we can be certain of is that if the van was going slower to begin with, the driver would have had more time to mitigate the impending crisis.

VIDEO

Detroit Auto Show Is Shaping Up To Be Truckapalooza, New Ford Ranger Could Bow Too

Posted: 15 Dec 2017 05:39 PM PST


The North American International Auto Show kicks off on January 14th and a handful of automakers have already announced plans to stage some major introductions in the Motor City.

At least seven models have already been confirmed for the show and they include the Ram 1500, Toyota Avalon, and Volkswagen Jetta. We will also get a glimpse at the all-new Hyundai Veloster as well as the Lexus LF-1 Limitless concept which could preview a flagship crossover. Mercedes will also have a strong showing as the company will unveil the CLS53 and the luxurious new G-Class.

Of course, there will also be a handful of other models making their debut in Detroit and Autoweek is reporting we can expect an onslaught of pickups. We've already mentioned the Ram 1500 and it will reportedly be joined by the 2019 Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra. If three trucks isn't enough, you'll be happy to know Ford could also to showcase the new Ranger.

On the performance front, there have been constant rumors that Chevrolet will unveil the mid-engine Corvette in Motown. That remains uncertain and so do rumors that Ford will showcase either the Mustang Bullitt or Shelby GT500.

Speaking of uncertainties, Infiniti has hinted it could unveil a flagship concept at the show but little is known about it at this point.

Photo Gallery

Batman's Tumbler And Justice League Batmobile Appear For Sale In Dubai

Posted: 15 Dec 2017 11:02 AM PST


When it comes to memorable movie cars, few from recent times are more iconic than Batman's Tumbler used in Batman Begins, The Dark Knight, and The Dark Night Rises.

Looking less like a car and more like an alien spaceship with wheels, the Tumbler is truly out-of-this-world and has already inspired a life-like Lamborghini Gallardo-based replica. Now, the Tumbler, as well as its replacement used in Justice League, are for sale in Dubai.

The listing claims that the Tumbler being offered for sale is the only one of its kind in the world and was used during filming of the three aforementioned films. We find it a little hard to believe that it's the only example in existence but even if it's not, it is still extremely rare. As for the Justice League Batmobile included in the sale, it is a static model and doesn't feature a functioning powertrain.

According to the seller, the Tumbler is underpinned by a steel box frame and powered by a Corvette LS1 V8 engine mated to a 6-speed automatic transmission. The vast majority of the exterior panels are said to be made from carbon fiber while the entire interior is made from the lightweight material.

Surprisingly, the Tumbler actually has some creature comforts, including Bluetooth, eight cameras across the exterior which display images to four screens mounted in the cabin, LED lights, and no less than eight driving lamps.

Curiously, the listing has two wildly different asking prices for the pair of Batmobiles. The first sits at 2,590,000 AED ($705,000) while the second asking price listed in the description is for 1.69 million AED ($460,000). We've contacted the seller to seek clarification.

Hat tip to Christian Koed!

PHOTO GALLERY

2017 Nurburgring Crash Compilation Shows How Dangerous The Circuit Is

Posted: 15 Dec 2017 01:47 PM PST


Many people wrongly believe that they're good drivers but when things start to go wrong, discover that they don't have the skills to correct an out-of-control car.

On public roads, this overconfidence can be extremely dangerous, especially to drivers around you. For the most part, it's safer to learn about these shortcomings in driving skill at a racetrack. Unless that racetrack is the Nurburgring, of course.

Arguably the most famous circuit of them all, the 'Ring was famously dubbed 'Green Hell' by Sir Jackie Stewart and after watching the video below, you'll begin to understand why.

Unlike most racetracks around the world, the Nurburgring is open to the public and as long as you have a valid driver's license, you can explore the limits of a car without a care in the world. Sadly, things don't always go smoothly.

This 10-minute video has gathered together some of the most horrifying crashes to have occurred at the circuit when it's been open to the public. Many of the accidents are quite minor but there are a few serious crashes, and rollovers, exemplifying just how treacherous the 'Ring can be when someone's ambition outweighs their talent.

VIDEO

Even John Hennessey Isn't Sure If The Venom F5 Will Hit 300 MPH

Posted: 15 Dec 2017 10:06 AM PST


In early November, Hennessey unveiled the Venom F5 with an ambitious claim that it will hit 301 mph (484 km/h).

At the time, such a top speed seemed rather far-fetched. After all, Bugatti had previously declared that the Chiron won't reach the 300-mph mark. However, a few days after the Venom F5's launch, Koenigsegg set a new production car top speed world record, reaching an average of 277.9 mph and 284 mph during a single pass.

With this in mind, is John Hennessey's claim of 300 mph actually achievable?

A few weeks back, Jalopnik asserted that it was extremely unlikely because of the tires used by the Venom F5. According to tire experts and even Michelin themselves, Hennessey's claims could be somewhat excessive.

Responding to these assertions, John Hennessey recently spoke with Jalopnik at the LA Auto Show, indicating that the Texas tuner doesn't really know what speeds the F5's tires will tolerate.

"I guess my general statement about tires is like if you ask the submarine commander how deep will the submarine go? They don't really know. Now you know we don't really know what the upper limit is, and I don't think any tire manufacturer from Pirelli to Michelin or anybody else.

"Those guys aren't going to go on the record from a liability standpoint—sure they're not going to say.

"So if I was a little more casual and relaxed probably because I'd had a margarita [when first discussing a 301 mph top speed]. You know we're going, you're trying, to go 300. We'd like to go 300," Hennessey said.

The man behind the tuner doesn't seem so resolute about the Venom F5's top speed abilities after all. However, he did say that if the company feels like it reaches the limit of the tires during high-speed testing, it will put a speed limiter on the hypercar.

"If we get to a point where whatever speed it might be—280, 285 or 290, and we feel like, okay that's the limit of the tires, we will put a speed limit on the car. Okay? You put a limit on because, again, safety is paramount."

Engineering Explained recently said that on paper, the Venom F5 has enough grunt to reach 300 mph, claiming that the only limiting factor will be tire technology.

Watch this space…

PHOTO GALLERY

All-New Mercedes-Benz CLS 450 Spotted In Traffic

Posted: 15 Dec 2017 01:47 PM PST


With many people saying that the new-generation CLS looks a lot better in person than it does in pictures, here's our chance to see more of the car in its natural environment.

This CLS 450 version was spotted near Stuttgart and thanks to walkoART, we get to see it next to multiple other Mercedes-Benz models, including a CLA Shooting Brake, which is actually taller than the new CLS.

In 450 4MATIC guise, the new CLS utilizes a 367 PS (362 HP) and 500 Nm (369 lb-ft) 3.0-liter petrol engine, and is priced from €70,906 ($83,445) in Germany.

It will do 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 4.8 seconds and has a combined fuel consumption of 7.5 liters/100 km, which comes down to about 31.3 mpg US, or 37.6 mpg UK.

If we were to give the 2019 CLS the benefit of the doubt, we should be willing to get really up close and personal with it before we draw any final conclusions regarding its styling - particularly at the rear. Otherwise, this short clip does very little in helping it look more appealing than it did at the LA Auto Show earlier this month.

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