The GT-R reboot, Godzilla gets even better

2014 Nissan GT-R

The Nissan GT-R is the successor of the Nissan Skyline GTR yet retains the nickname “Godzilla” and rightfully so. This beast of car was unveiled in Japan in 2007, in North America in 2008 and to the rest of the world in 2009. It is one of the safest high performance and high speed cars on the planet and is claimed to be the most technologically advanced car in the world today. Launched in 2007 in Japan, where production first started, over 6000 cars have been sold all over the world. It even had a facelift in 2011 and every year better packages are offered for the car.

The chassis of the Godzilla is a monocoque structure made by using steel reinforced at some points with carbon fibre. The other parts such as hood and trunk are made of light weight aluminum. The chassis is made to be light yet strong and stiff to withstand high speed turns on the track or road. The 2014 version boasts a new roll bar for added stiffness along with improved shocks and springs to improve the driving experience. The front suspension is a double wish bone system while the rear suspension is a multi link suspension system. Both suspensions are independent systems.

The GT-R was designed to be Japan’s ultimate, and eventually be its iconic, supercar. The GT-R is very similar in design to the GT-R PROTO displayed at the 2005 Tokyo Motor Show. The design was received a great positive response and thus was chosen to be the reference for the production GT-R. However, the front had to be redesigned to make it better suited for crashes and impacts. The designers wanted an original shape, something that would make the Godzilla stand out from other supercars, a design that was unmistakably Japanese. The GT-R is muscular, large shouldered and has a low ride height. It isn’t refined and elegant nor does it have curves rather it looks heavy and edgy, after all it is inspired by masculine beauty. It is also very aerodynamic for its heavy and beefy shape. The new GT-R further enhances the design of the previous one: the same muscular theme has been followed only made better. The front fenders and the "aero-blades" on the fenders' edges provide optimum airflow around the tires and along the body. Even the paint on the GT-R is so finely applied that it adds to the aerodynamics of the car.

The GT-R has VR38DETT Twin Turbo V6 specially designed for the new GT-R. The new 2014 model boasts an improved version of the V6 churning out 542 bhp and a total torque of 628 Nm. This makes it the most powerful Japanese road car and the most powerful car made by Nissan. One of the main features on the Nissan GT-R’s V6 is that the engine is environmentally friendly. It has been made according to Japan’s U-LEV standards. It has separate and independent intake and exhaust systems which not only boost efficiency of the engine but also increase responsiveness and allow for smooth and resistance free flow of gas through the car’s systems. The bores of the engine are plasma coated (which were an innovation at the time when the first GT-R came out). This helps boost efficiency and power and also saves up to 3 kg in weight in comparison with a standard V6. The Godzilla has a six speed gearbox and a rear mounted dual clutch semi automatic transmission attached to an ATTESA E-TS (Electronic Torques Splitting) unit. This allows power to go to all four wheels improving traction. The 2014 model of GT-R has an improved engine: the standard engine produced 485 bhp (390 kW) @6400 rpm and 588 Nm (451 lb.ft)@3200–5200 rpm but the 2014 version produces 542 bhp (404 kW) and 628 Nm (463 lb.ft) of torque at the same figures of rpm. The new accelerates the GT-R 0.8 seconds faster from 0-60 mph than the original 2009 version.

The interior of the Godzilla is both beautiful and focuses mainly on functionality. The GT-R’s interior is designed for both everyday drivers to high end track riding racers. The sculpted bucket seats hold the driver and passenger in complete comfort and safety making sure they don’t get tossed around when cornering at high speeds. The soft pads make up the doors and the dash. The floor is flat and the entire arrangement offers great driving experience to all four people in the car. It even has boot space for about two suit cases! The 2014 GT-R keeps with the original cockpit design of the dials and meters. These are all kept at same height to minimize driver’s head movements. The centre console has a very beautiful and ergonomically designed gear shift pedal. The instrument panel is a multi-functional display that looks to have been inspired by video games, just another unique Japanese touch added to the GT-R to make it more far eastern. This display shows the information about the car’s acceleration, speed, driving, steering, braking etc. It even has a record and playback function. It even has SAT-NAV and GPS. The Nissan GT-R comes with a standard 11 speaker Bose audio system mounted into cast aluminum frames for better acoustic performance of the audio system, also very Japan. Nissan also packed in seat belts and a whole array of airbags for safety measures. These airbags are installed at the sides of the driver and passenger seats (front and back), in the steering and dash and even in the roof!

The 2014 Nissan GT-R comes in two variants: The Premium and The Black Edition. The Premium is pretty much the standard 2014 GT-R. It comes with all the basic gear: the 542 bhp engine, the dual clutch transmission, the Bose audio system and heated front seats. The Black Edition is the next level variant with special aluminum alloy wheels, red and black interior, special leather seats, carbon fibre spoiler and other goodies.

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS

• ENGINE
• Engine Type: 3.8L VR38DETT twin-turbo V6
• Displacement: 3,799 cc
• Max. Power: 542 bhp @ 6,400 rpm
• Max Torque: 628 Nm @ 5,000 rpm
• Max. engine speed: 7,000 rpm
• Compression ratio: 9.0:1
• PERFORMANCE
• 0-60 mph (0-100 km/h): 2.7 s
• 0-100 mph (0-161 km/h): 3.8 s
• ¼ mile time:  < 10.8 s
• Max. speed: 196 mph (315 km/h)
• Braking distance: 37m
• DIMENSIONS
• Overall length: 4,671 mm
• Overall width: 1,902 mm
• Overall height: 1,372 mm
• Wheelbase: 2,780 mm
• WEIGHTS (kg)
• Dry weight: 1,730 kg (3,810 lb)
• Weight distribution(Front/Rear): 53/47
• TRANSMISSION
• Gearbox type: six speed dual clutch semi automatic gearbox
• BRAKES
• Front: ABS Disc brakes
• Rear: ABS Disc brakes
• TYRES AND WHEELS
• Front tyres : P255/40ZR20
• Rear tyres : P285/35ZR20
• CONSUMPTION AND EMISSIONS
• CO2 emissions : 279.0 g/km

Most Powerful Ferrari Hyper Car

Ferrari LaFerrari

The Super Hybrid “LaFerrari” is Ferrari’s newest and first ever hybrid car and is based on the findings of the Ferrari FXX and is the successor to the legendary Ferrari Enzo. Unveiled in 2013 at the annual Geneva Motor Show, the price tag for this monster is estimated near 1 million pounds.

The LaFerrari is the fifth generation in Ferrari’s special hyper car series after legendary names such as The 288 GTO, The F40, The F50 and its predecessor The Enzo. It keeps with tradition maintaining great outstanding design and styling while still being one of the best hyper cars of its era. It too is a mid-rear engine car but is unlike any other in this special family as it is the first hybrid and it too is a rear wheel drive.

The LaFerrari has a carbon fibre monocoque which is basically one unit. The entire body is one unit and this provides more rigidity as compared to bodies that are welded together. The claims are that it is 27% more rigid and 23% stiffer than the Enzo. There is a double wish bone suspension in the front and a multi linked suspension in the rear. The LaFerrari also has many electronic control systems such as including stability control, traction control, anti lock braking systems and active aerodynamics.

The LaFerrari is the first Ferrari since 1973 that has not been designed in collaboration with Pinninfarina. The LaFerrari has a very beautiful body design. It gets some of its design features from the legendary Enzo. It is a very different design none the less very useful and efficient. The front looks very similar to the Enzo and The F50; there is flap for air flow in through the bonnet of the car under the nose. The front lamps too are very distinct. The rear looks more like a Pagani; no wings just a ducktail spoiler and motorized flaps. The entire design is typical of modern era high performance cars: it looks great from all angles but the emphasis is on aerodynamic stability to ensure high down force at high speeds. At the rear, the two flaps and the spoiler are tipped down to create down force. At the front, the flaps are raised to produce down force and balance the force at the rear.

The LaFerrari has a mid-rear mounted 6.3L 65° V12 engine. It has a total displacement of 6262 cc and churns out 789 bhp (588kW) of power @ 9,000 rpm and 700 Nm (516 lb-ft) of torque @ 6,750 rpm. It also has an additional 161 bhp (120kW) KERS (Kinetic Energy Recovery System) unit (called HY-KERS) that provides short burst of additional power. A Normal Hybrid runs either on the electric motor or the internal combustion engine at any one time. However, this is no normal Hybrid. This is a Ferrari hybrid and the very first one. In the LaFerrari, the KERS unit adds power to the internal combustion V12 engine to produce a total of 923 bhp (688 kW) and gives out a total torque of 900 Nm (664 lb-ft). The overall combination decreases fuel consumption up to 40% and gives out a CO2 emission of just 330g/km. this is without a doubt the most powerful Ferrari up till now! The car has a 7 speed dual clutch transmission. The LaFerrari has a top speed of 350kmph (220 mph) and does 0-60 mph (0-100 kmph) in less than three seconds. It does 0-190mph (0-300 kmph) in less than 15 seconds. It is also the fastest road legal Ferrari produced till now.

This great piece of engineering is a very limited car. It is very exclusive as it is what the people at Ferrari call “a reward for our loyal customers”. This is because to buy a 1.35 million dollar LaFerrari you first have to own at least five other Ferraris. With the prerequisites for the LaFerrari in mind, Ferrari has decided to produce only 499 units of this technological marvel. Still it is no doubt Ferrari’s fastest and most powerful road car and yet it is very eco-friendly.

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS

• ENGINE
• Engine Type: 6.3-litre 65° V12 with an electric motor and a KERS unit
• Displacement: 6,262 cc
• Max. Power: 950 bhp @ 9,000 rpm
• Max Torque: 900 Nm @ 6,750 rpm
• Max. engine speed: 9,000 rpm
• Compression ratio: 13.5:1
• PERFORMANCE
• 0-62 mph (0-100 km/h): 2.6 s
• 0-100 mph (0-161 km/h): 5.1 s
• 0-190 mph (0-300 km/h): <15 s
• ¼ mile time: 9.8 s
• Max. speed: 220 mph (350 km/h)
• DIMENSIONS
• Overall length: 4,702 mm
• Overall width: 1,992 mm
• Overall height: 1,116 mm
• Wheelbase: 2,665 mm
• WEIGHTS (kg)
• Dry weight: 1,255 kg (2,767 lb)
• TRANSMISSION
• Gearbox type: 7-speed dual-clutch automatic with manual shifting mode
• BRAKES
• Front: Brembo Carbon-Ceramic brakes 398 mm
• Rear: Brembo Carbon-Ceramic brakes  380 mm
• TYRES AND WHEELS
• Front tyres: 265/30 R 19
• Rear tyres: 345/30 R 20
• CONSUMPTION AND EMISSIONS
• CO2 emissions : 330.0 g/km

The Ultimate Mclaren Road Car

McLaren F1

Revealed in the May of 1992, the McLaren F1 is a record setting marvel of engineering. Built on the blue print and under the supervision of chief engineer Gordon Murray, the F1 became the fastest ever production car in 1998. Since then it has been surpassed by three cars in sheer top speed but remains to this day the fastest naturally aspirated car and one of the greatest ever track cars. The “Big Mac” has a top speed of 240 mph (391 km/h) that was unbeaten till 2009.

The chassis is made of all carbon composite material and is a monocoque. This allows for great stiffness and strength without too much weight. Aluminum and magnesium are also used in the monocoque as both are light weight and strong. It is also this lack of weight that helps the Big Mac achieve its tremendous top speed. The seating arrangement is a bit unusual. There are three seats: the driver in the middle just ahead of the fuel tank and engine and passenger seats on either side. The engine, when used to its maximum, will heat up and cause mechanical stress to the chassis that is why an engine bay wasn’t constructed instead it was fitted into the mid of the car. This arrangement divides the weight 42% to the front and 58% to the rear. When it comes to the suspension of the F1, it was decided that it should be comfortable but it still was performance centered. The suspension on the F1 road car was not that stiff as that of a track version because that would cause noise and vibrations, which would not be comfortable at all. The Big Mac has a Double wishbone suspension system but with an unusual and different design: the wheel is designed to move backwards when hit by a bump and therefore increase the level of comfort on the inside of the car. The electro hydraulic kinematic suspension system was developed by using cars such as the Honda NSX, Porsche 928 and the Jaguar XJR16 as reference benchmarks but the F1 surely beat them by a great big margin.

The McLaren F1 features an active aerodynamics system making sure that the car has as less drag as possible and that it adjusts to every change on the road. The F1 does not have wings to produce down force instead it uses the aid of air intakes on the top of the car and under each door. The air flow is produce by electric kevlar fans and the air enters at high pressure points whereas it leaves at low pressure points. This down force as the pressure under the car is lowered and therefore it hugs the ground. By design the air that is taken in is also used to cool the engine and ECU at the centre of the car. The air ducts are assisted by electric fans in cooling the front brakes. There is a small dynamic rear spoiler that adjusts automatically to the change in air flow whenever the car is braking. When the spoiler is up two air intakes are exposed that allow high pressure air to be taken into the air ducts. The F1 has a very handsome exterior for a road car. Then again it was to be “The Ultimate Road car”. The Big Mac has finely crafted lines and curves. It is a beautifully sculpted visual temptation. Every side of the Big Mac yells “Speed”.

McLaren’s engineers were impressed with Honda’s NSX so much that they tried to persuade Honda to manufacture a V12 or a V14 for the F1 Big Mac but the folk at Honda didn’t accept the tremendous responsibility of powering “The Ultimate Road car”. Finally BMW stepped up to the challenge and designed for the Big Mac a 6.1 L V-12 engine with aluminum alloy block and heads and other smaller parts such as cam shafts housing and carriers and oil sumps have been made from cast magnesium. The combination of materials used is not only stronger than steel but also much lighter. The engine is named the BMW S70/2. The engine produces a total of 627 bhp (467 kW) at 7,400 rpm and a maximum torque output of 479 lb-ft (649 Nm) at 5600 rpm. The total displacement of the engine is a whopping 6,064 cc. The Rev limiter is set to 7,500 rpm. The power to weight ratio is an enormous 550 bhp/ton. The engine is 14% powerful for only an addition of 16 kg (35 lb). These stats combined with the fact that it weighs about 1,140 kg means this car will go amazingly fast and it does. The Big Mac has a top speed of 386 kmph (240 mph). The Big Mac’s engine is hooked up to a 6-speed manual transverse gearbox. The gearbox has an AP carbon triple-plate clutch housed in an aluminum housing. The gearbox was developed by Weismann. The McLaren F1 has an aluminum fly wheel with the exact same dimensions and mass for the torque from the engine to be transmitted. This is done to decrease inertia and increase responsiveness of the engine and is possible only because of the engine lacks secondary vibrational couples and has a special vibration damper.

The Ultimate Road car is not just about how fast it can go rather it how great it feels. The McLaren F1’s interior, according to Gordon Murray, has been obsessed over. It’s got everything from electric windows to remote locking even a 10 disc CD player! That’s just straight out crazy! The windscreen and side screens come equipped with a SeKurit electric defrost/demist system. There are courtesy lights and map reading lights. The McLaren F1 also comes with a first aid kit and a gold plated Facom titanium tool kit, both of which are stored in the car. The Big Mac also comes with luxurious luggage bags that are custom made to fit the boot area of the car. These even include a golf bag. However airbags are not standard. Each customer also receives a special edition TAG Heuer 6000 Chronometer wristwatch with its serial number scripted below the centre stem. The car even has a modem to connect to and get information about the ECU of the car. Everything from the centre seat to the pedals and steering position even the audio system is tailored to the customer’s specifications. Well it should be: you are buying a million dollar car and it is The Ultimate Road Car.

The McLaren F1 however was not for everyone to buy. In fact the people at McLaren had to approve the customers before selling their car to them. This is after all “The Ultimate Road Car” and is certainly one of the fastest cars on the road if not the fastest. The Big Mac is however not that fuel efficient. At its best the Big Mac does 23.4 mpg (100km/10L) at its worse 9.3 mpg (100km/25L) with an average of 15.2 (100km/15L).

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS

• ENGINE
• Engine Type: 6.1L BMW S70/2 60 Degree V12
• Displacement: 6,064 cc
• Max. Power: 627.1 bhp (467.6 kW) @ 7,400 rpm
• Max Torque: 479 lb.-ft (649.4 Nm) @ 5,600 rpm
• Max. engine speed: 7,500 rpm
• Compression ratio: 10.5:1
• PERFORMANCE
• 0-60 mph (0-100 km/h): 3.2 s
• 0-100 mph (0-160 km/h): 6.7 s
• 0-200 mph (0-320 km/h): 28 s
• Max. speed: 386.4 kmph (240 mph)
• DIMENSIONS
• Overall length: 4,288 mm
• Overall width:  1,820 mm
• Overall height: 1,140 mm
• Wheelbase: 2,718  mm
• WEIGHTS (kg)
• Curb weight: 1,140 kg
• Distribution: 42% front/58% rear
• TRANSMISSION
• 6-speed Transverse 6-Speed Manual w/AP Triple Plate Clutch
• BRAKES
• Front: Unassisted Vented & Cross drilled Discs
• Rear:  Unassisted Vented & Cross drilled Discs
• TYRES AND WHEELS
• Front wheels: 43.2 x 22.9 cm / 17.0 x 9.0 in
• Rear wheels:  43.2 x 29.2 cm / 17.0 x 11.5 in
• Front tyres: Goodyear F1 P235/45ZR-17
• Rear tyres: Goodyear F1 P315/45ZR-17
• CONSUMPTION AND EMISSIONS
• Urban: 17 Miles per U.S. Gallon
• Highway: 29 Miles per U.S. Gallon
• Combined: 26 miles per U.S. Gallon
• CO2 emissions (overall): 251g/km

The Corvette Stingray Returns!

Chevrolet Corvette C7 Stingray

Revealed on 13^th January 2013 in Detroit, the 2014 Corvette C7 Stingray is the seventh generation of the iconic American manufactured sports car the Chevrolet Corvette. This is the first time in decades that the name “Stingray” has been attached to a Corvette. The original reveal was scheduled for 2011 as the car had been underdevelopment since 2007 but it was pushed to 2013.

Like all the previous Corvettes, the C7 Stingray too has a racing background for its development. The aluminum frame that is used for the chassis of the C7 Stingray provides a perfect 50/50 balance for front and rear weight distribution. It is also 1.5 times stiffer and weighs 45 kilograms less than the previous models. Rigidity is greatly enhanced and this resulted in greater handling and gives a better driving experience. Instead of using hydro forming technology to form one solid frame like its predecessors, the C7 Stingray has the frame divided into five parts that are laser welded together with a precision of a 1000^th of an inch. The overall structure is far lighter than previous models as the roof and the hood are carbon fiber while the underbody panels are made of special mix of carbon non technology and composite material. The loss in weight is one reason the C7 has perfect 50/50 weight distribution and great acceleration. The stiffer frame has allowed engineers to fine tune the suspension of the C7. It has the same track tested short/long arm suspension for both front and rear but with new lighter and stronger materials.

The Corvette C7’s exterior design was aimed at trying to balance bold statement of appeal and perfect aerodynamic performance. An effort was made to make the design embrace a new technologic feel. The designers took their design hints from jet fighters and real life stingrays. The source of attraction was the way both pierce through their respective environments, weather in the air or in the water.  Every line and edge on the corvette C7 Stingray is not only beautiful but also serves to better its performance.  The lamps on the Corvette C7 have the same level of detail as the edges of the cars body. The front lamps are white LEDs set in chrome black covers. The tail lamps are dual element lamps and are some of the cars most noticeable and dramatic features. They are put in three dimensional glass lenses and glow light from the bottom for an even glow throughout the lamp. The C7 boasts a great aerodynamic shape. After using data from the racing program and testing on track and in wind tunnel, the Corvette C7 was given new grille and radiator arrangements. Te air is taken from the grille and the hood to cool of the radiator, differentials and the transmission. This air exits through the aircraft inspired rear vents over the tail lamps. Even the airflow beneath the car is controlled for minimum drag.

The C7 uses a new LT1 6.2L small-block V8 engine that produces 460 lb.-ft (624 Nm) of torque. The max power output is 455 bhp (339 kW). Mid and rear engine layouts were considered but the front engine and rear wheel drive layout was selected on basis of cost control. It is estimated that the new engine will not only increase top speed but will also have better fuel economy than the previous models. It may not be the most powerful corvette engine but it provides more low-end torque (at 1,000-4,000 rpm) thus it matches the previous model’s engine. The C7 also has a choice in exhaust systems. The standard improves airflow through the system by 13% and uses a pair of butterfly valves. The dual mode exhaust system improves airflow by 27% and this one uses two more valves to direct air to a less restricted path. This also gives a better exhaust sound. Both the standard and the dual mode exhausts are active exhaust systems. Two transmissions are available for the C7’s LT1 engine: a six-speed Hydra-matic 6L80 automatic gear box or the exclusive TREMEC TR6070 seven-speed manual gear box. The seven-speed also features automatic Rev-matching technology for both up shifts and down shifts. While the paddle shift six-speed automatic features active fuel management.

On the inside the attention to detail is mind blowing. The leather and materials are attached by hand. These materials can be any from Napa leather to Aluminum and Carbon Fiber. The seats are made of magnesium frames keeping them light weight and stiff. These are then covered with precise stitched and seamless leather. The steering wheel too is covered with leather giving a much better and more comfortable driving experience than a shiny metallic steering wheel would. The configurable center console is edged with soft materials for driver comfort. the console even has 3D navigation and HD radio. The overall interior also includes a SD card port, a USB port and an audio jack. The performance inspired Heads Up Display (HUD) changes according to driving mode selected and it even has a track meter. Even the sound system on the C7 Stingray is top class which is a 10-speaker system boasting a bass box, two sub woofers and speaker with rare earth magnets that give out better sound quality.

There are five driving modes in the C7 Stingray: Touring mode for regular everyday driving, Weather mode for driving in any sort of weather, Eco mode for best mileage, sport mode for fast agile driving and then Track mode for when on track. These can be toggled from a knob shifter. The C7 has a multitude of technologies and controls. This gives best possible performance and these include traction control, steering assistance, launch control, active exhaust systems, active fuel management, electronic throttle control and magnetic ride control.

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS

• ENGINE
• Engine Type: 6.2-litre small-block V8
• Displacement: 6,162 cc
• Max. Power: 455 bhp (339 kW) @ 6,000 rpm
• Max Torque: 460 lb.-ft (624 Nm) @ 4,600 rpm
• Max. engine speed: 7,200 rpm
• Compression ratio: 11.5:1
• PERFORMANCE
• 0-60 mph (0-100 km/h): 3.8 s
• Max. speed: TBA
• Braking distance: 28.65 m
• DIMENSIONS
• Overall length: 4,495 mm
• Overall width:  1,877 mm
• Overall height: 1,235 mm
• Wheelbase: 2,712 mm
• WEIGHTS (kg)
• Curb weight: 1,497 kg
• Distribution: 50% front/50% rear
• TRANSMISSION
• Six-speed Hydra-matic automatic 6L80 paddle shift with active fuel management
•  Seven-speed TREMEC TR6070 with active Rev-matching
• BRAKES
• Front: 320 mm
• Rear:  338 mm
• TYRES AND WHEELS
• Front wheels: 18 inch (457 mm)
• Rear wheels:  19 inch (483 mm)
• Front tyres: 245/40R18 Michelin Pilot Sport ZP Run-Flat
• Rear tyres: 285/35R19 Michelin Pilot Sport ZP Run-Flat
• CONSUMPTION AND EMISSIONS
• Urban: 17 Miles per U.S. Gallon
• Highway: 29 Miles per U.S. Gallon
• Combined: 26 miles per U.S. Gallon
• CO2 emissions (overall): 251g/km

Maserati's Sporty Convertible

Maserati GranCabrio S

 Revealed in the 2011 annual Geneva Motor Show, the Maserati GranCabrio Sport is a sportier variant of the GranCabrio convertible which was the convertible version for the GranTurismo. It offers better performance with a slightly better engine and quicker gear shifts.

The chassis is a high strength steel reinforced with aluminum under the floor. This adds only about a 100 kg to the original GranTurismo chassis. The chassis has attached to it the aluminum wishbones, dampers and springs. The GranCabrio Sport has an upgraded version of the Skyhook suspension. It receives acceleration data and sends it to a CPU and it adjusts the dampers to suite the conditions. The upgraded version has better control over handling, grip and balance. The Maserati GranCabrio Sport has a six speed fully automatic transmission upgraded to match the greater performance. The transmission also has the MC auto shift mode. This allows for faster gear shifts and has been developed for the GranCabrio Sport from the Quattroporte GT S. The transmission also has an MC launch control mode that helps accelerate the car in certain modes. There are five different operating modes for the transmission: Auto-Normal, Manual-Normal, Auto-Sport, Manual-Sport and Ice.

The main emphasis of the design team was the more aggressive feel that should come from the GranCabrio Sport. The car has small front corner splitters and a grille colored black all to hint at its sportier nature. The corner splitters were developed in a wind tunnel therefore provides better aerodynamic stability. The headlights have white reflectors on black insides giving this convertible a much meaner look for its sportier style. The side skirts are made longer for a sportier feel.

The Maserati GranCabrio Sport boasts a 4.7 all alloy engine, the very same one as in the high performance GranTurismo MC Stradale. The engine produces a total of 10 more bhp and 20 more Nm of torque than the one used in the normal GranCabrio, giving it a bit of a better performance. In total the engine produces 450 bhp (331kW) at 7,000 rpm with 510 Nm of torque achieved at 4,750 rpm. The engine redlines at 7,200 rpm. It has a top speed of 285 km/h and has a total displacement of 4691 cc. it goes from 0 to 100 km/h in 5 seconds and from 100 to 0 km/h in 35 meters. Much of the improvements in performance are a result of Maserati’s Friction Reduction Program. Now the engine reacts quicker to driver inputs and boost engine’s power and torque output. The program also helps reduce fuel consumption to 14.5 liters/Kilometer making it more fuel economic.

Maserati kept the aggressive look on the inside as well with a few tweaks to the original GranCabrio interior; new drilled pedals, a new look for the seats and of course the open top cabin. The gears are shifted using the steering mounted aluminum drilled pedals as this allows for easier shifting when driving fast. The new Active Pedals come as standard on the GranCabrio and are derived from the Trofeo racing cars. The dash is made of all leather. The head rests are embossed with a trident design and the seats made with an M design that reflects the grille design of the old Maserati’s.

The GranCabrio is a true example of a sports exotic convertible: it has the stunning appearance both inside and out with striking edges and beautiful curves and it has the power and speed to back up the “Sport” in its name. But it is also very fuel efficient. It uses up about an average of 15.4 l of fuel per kilometer and emits about 350.8g per kilometer which is pretty reasonable for a sports convertible.

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS

• ENGINE
• Engine Type: 4.7-litre all-alloy V8
• Displacement: 4,691 cc
• Max. Power: 450 bhp @ 7,000 rpm
• Max Torque: 510 Nm @ 4,750 rpm
• Max. engine speed: 7,200 rpm
• Compression ratio: 11.25:1
• PERFORMANCE
• 0-62 mph (0-100 km/h): 5.0 s
• Max. speed: 177 mph (285 km/h)
• Braking distance: 35 m
• DIMENSIONS
• Overall length: 4,881 mm
• Overall width: 2,056 mm
• Overall height: 1,353 mm
• Wheelbase: 2,942 mm
• Fuel tank capacity: 75 l (16.5 imperial gallons)
• Turning Radius: 1203 m
• Boot capacity: 173 l
• WEIGHTS (kg)
• Curb weight: 1,980 kg
• Gross vehicle weight: 1,887 kg
• Maximum weight limit: 2,350 Kg
• Distribution with Roof down: 49% front/51% rear
• Distribution with Roof Up: 48% front/52% rear
• TRANSMISSION
• Gearbox type: Six-speed automatic ZF 6HP26 with MC Auto Shift
• BRAKES
• Front: 360 mm
• Rear: 330 mm
• TYRES AND WHEELS
• Front tyres: 245/35 ZR20
• Rear tyres: 285/35 ZR20
• CONSUMPTION AND EMISSIONS
• Urban: 23.9 l/100 km
• Extra urban: 10.4 l/100 km
• Combined: 15.4 l/100 km
• CO2 emissions (combined cycle): 358.0 g/km

The Fourth Type Of Ferrari

Ferrari California

                   

Revealed in 2008 at the Paris Motor Show, the Ferrari California is named after the 250-GT (which was called the California). It is a new fourth model range offered by Ferrari; a Grand tourer.

The California has a chassis made from aluminum. The car is amazingly versatile and has great driving comfort due to new technologies of making aluminum. The car’s rigidity has been increased meaning that this Spyder can perform like a GT car! The California has a double wishbone front suspension and a multilink rear suspension. In practice this translates into efficient absorption of bumps and reduction of vibration and noise. The SCM Magneto rheological Suspension Control System is available on request. This system uses magnets to actively control changes in suspension and small variations in ride height to absorb bumps on uneven surfaces even better.

The California’s aerodynamics are some of the best aerodynamics ever seen on Ferraris. Its drag coefficient is 0.32 which made it the most aerodynamic Ferrari ever, till the F12Berlinetta was introduced. Unusually the spoiler is incorporated onto the front bumper. All the features on this Ferrari mean that it has 10% less drag on it then other Ferraris.

The California’s engine is made completely of aluminum and is first V8 in history of Ferrari’s road cars to be mounted in a mid-front configuration. With max power output at 460 hp/338 kW at 7,750 rpm and a total displacement of 4,300 cc, the California can move at a fast 310kmph and has a 0-100kmph timing of just under 4 seconds. Its max torque is 485 Nm @ 5,000 rpm but 75% of this is achievable at 2,250 rpm. The California has a dual clutch 7 speed gearbox with the steering wheel has F1 style paddles mounted to it. The new dual clutch gear system allows for pre selection of the next gear, the resulting gear shifts are near zero seconds and have no torque interruption. In manual the California becomes very sporty while in the automatic it guarantees driving pleasure and comfort.

The result of Ferrari’s long collaboration with Pininfarina can be seen in the design of the California. Its sleek aerodynamic styling, the pulled back cabin, the compact tail and alternating convex and concave curves truly make its exterior one of kind. At the front the grille and the slender air intake, located at the center of the bonnet, show that the California took its cues from the prestigious 250 GT California. At the tail end the LED lamps are at the edge of the boot and the boot is extended to the boot which increases overall space. Total boot capacity with top up is 340 liters while it is 240 liters with top down. The interior is made from leather. The seats are made of a magnesium-frame that is electrically adjusted. At the center of the dash is an aluminum trimmed center console. The centre console features Satellite Navigation, USB connection, Bluetooth, hard disc, voice commands and can even connect with your IPOD. The overall car is designed for minimum noise and vibration in the cabin with the top up or down. The convertible top is made of metal instead of the usual leather tops.

The California’s V8 is made according to Lev2 and EURO5 standards and that is why the Ferrari California consumes just 13.1 liters/100 km and has a carbon emissions rating of 305.6 g\km.

Technical Specifications

• ENGINE
• 90° V8 Direct Injection
• Bore and stroke: 94 x 77.37 cc
• Overall displacement: 4297 cc
• Compression ratio: 12.2:1
• Maximum power output: 338 kW (460 CV) @ 7750 rpm
• Maximum torque: 485 Nm (49 kgm) @ 5000 rpm

• Dimensions and Weight
• Length: 4563 mm
• Width: 1902 mm
• Height: 1308 mm
• Wheelbase: 2670 mm
• Front track: 1630 mm
• Rear track: 1605 mm
• Dry weight: 1630 kg
• Kerb weight: 1735 kg
• Weight distribution: 47% Front - 53% Rear
• Fuel tank capacity: 78 l
• Boot capacity: 340 l, 240 l (with roof retracted)
• Performance
• Maximum speed: 310 km/h
• 0-100 km/h: under 4.0 sec
• 0-400 m: 12.2 sec
• 0-1.000 m: 22.1 sec

• Tyres
• Front: 245/40 ZR19"
• Rear: 285/40 ZR19"
• Front (optional): 245/35 ZR20"
• Rear (optional): 285/35 ZR20""
• Brakes (Carbon Ceramics)
• Front: 390 x 34 mm
• Rear: 360 x 32 mm
• Electronic Control System
• CST with F1-TRAC Stability and Traction Control System
• TPTMS Tyre Pressure and Temperature Monitoring System
• Gearbox
• F1, dual-clutch, 7-speed plus reverse
• Manual 6-speed + REV
• Suspension
• Front: Double wishbone
• Rear: Multilink
• Fuel Consumption
• ECE Combined: 13.1 l/100 km
• CO2 Emissions
• ECE Combined: 305.6 g/km

The Most Powerful Corvette Ever

Chevrolet Corvette Z06

The Z06 was revealed in 2005 as a later model of the Corvette and was developed using the lessons learnt in the corvette racing program. It was launched in 2006 and is the most powerful Corvette to this date with its LS7 engine producing a whopping 505-bhp! It is the perfect compromise between racing and production cars.

The frame of the Z06 is made from aluminum and other composite materials such as carbon fibre. Aluminum suites the fixed roof design and it is lighter and stronger then steel. The front wheelhouses are carbon fibre and the flooring in the passenger compartment is thin carbon fibre skin. The cradle is that supports the engine is made of magnesium, which is even stronger and lighter then aluminum. This also helps distribute the weight of the car evenly.

The Z06 looks aggressive and distinct with its bulging front lamps, front grille opening and a splitter along the bottom. The fixed roof ensures rigidity. The entire body has many different cooling vents built into it like the scoop in front of the hood that helps cools the engine. The Z06’s exterior is designed with stability and high performance cornering in mind. The vents help provide some of the downward force necessary to make sure the Z06 stay stable when cornering. Usually large wings are used for downforce but the Z06 uses its large rear spoiler to produce downforce. The tear drop canopy is proven as one of the best shapes to promote the flow of air around and over a car.

This beast of a Corvette is powered by a very powerful LS7 engine. It is a 7008cc 7.0 litre V8 and has parts made of forged steel, titanium and cast aluminum. The engine has a maximum output of 505bhp and 470lb.ft, it has redlines at 7100rpm. It is claimed that during testing it went up to 8000rpm. This is the most powerful Corvette ever, even more powerful than the 2014 Corvette Stingray. The Corvette Z06 has a six speed manual gearbox that has been made stronger to control the high power and torque of the Z06. It also has a pump that sends fluid to the radiator to be used in cooling and when it returns it removes further heat from the differential lube.

Although the Z06 traces its origins to the racing track, it is designed as a street legal car and should provide as much comfort as it churns out power. For the comfort and convenience of its passengers, the corvette has leather interior and dual-zone air conditioning. The interior includes a HUD that has a track mode and a g-meter as standard, heated leather seats, BOSE audio system with a six CD changer and to control it all a universal remote control.

The Z06 looks stunning and feels luxurious but it has been engineered with performance in mind: the interior is made so that it has least possible weight; the battery has been adjusted in the rear (behind one of the wheels); the fenders and wheelhouses are made of carbon fibre composites. All this combines together to make a luxurious power house of a car.

Technical Specifications

• Engine type:  LS7 7.0-liter/427-cubic-inch Gen IV V-8 with lightweight reciprocating components
• Transmission: 4WD with Haldex generation IV
• Gearbox: 6 speed manual
• Clutch: Dry Double plate clutch, Ø 235 mm
• Brakes: 14-inch (355-mm) cross-drilled front disc brakes with six-piston calipers and 13.4-inch (340-mm) cross-drilled rear rotors with four-piston calipers
• Suspension: short/long arm ( SLA ) double wishbone, cast aluminum upper & lower control arms, transverse-mounted composite leaf spring, monotube shock absorber
• Tires: Goodyear Eagle F1 Supercar Extended Mobility Front: P275/35ZR18 Rear: P325/30ZR19
• Dimensions
• Overall Length: 4,460 mm (175.60 in)
• Overall Width: 1,928 mm (75.90 in)
• Overall Height: 1,244 mm (49.00 in)
• Wheelbase: 2,685 mm (105.70 in)
• Curb Weight: 1,420 kg (3,130 lb)
• Fuel Capacity: 68.1 l (18.0 gal.)
• Performance
• Maximum power: 505 HP (373 kW) @ 6,200 RPM
• Maximum torque: 657 Nm (475 lb-ft) @ 4,800 RPM
• Top speed: 318 km/h (198 mph)
• 0-60 miles: 3.5 sec
• ¼ miles: 11.5 seconds at 127.1 mph
• Braking 60-0: 104 ft

·         Fuel consumption

• Consumption: 19 mpg (City) 28 mpg (Highway)