Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren specs

Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren specs
Top Speed: 207 mph / 334 km/h
0-60 mph: 3.6 seconds
0-100 mph: 7.6 seconds
0 - 1/4 Mile: 11.6 sec.
Engine: V8 5.5 liter 626 bhp @ 6,500 rpm
A blast from the past and a taste of the future, this might just be a good description of the latest sports car that came out from a collaboration of Mercedes-Benz and McLaren, two big giants in the car manufacturing industry. We're talking about the Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren. This sports car combines the old yet astounding SLR race cars of the 50s and the latest and meanest technology of high-performance supercars. With the power of race cars and the sleek, curves and designs of a luxury car, the combination from the two car manufacturers is hard to beat.

This supercar is definitely fast. SLR McLaren sports a 626-horsepower supercharged 5.5-liter V8. Also, it has a full carbon-fiber monocoque, features crash structures and body panels. And with the supercharge V8 engine, you can see the Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren go from naught to 60 miles per hour in less than 3.6 seconds. Top speed has been measured to exceed 200 mph, a feat that can only be achieved by very few even among the high performance sports cars. It was the high-performance division of Mercedes-Benz which created the V8s. The AMG were the ones who hand-build the supercharged V8 engines with top notched precision and quality. It is not at a big surprise to see the supercharged 5.5 (5,439 cc) liter dry sumped 90 degree V8 engine to produce around 466.8 kW at 6,500 rpm (626 hp) and 780 N·m (575 ft·lbf) torque at 3,250 - 5,000 rpm. The numbers maybe daunting but the sound of the engine will appease the minds of those who long for the perfect high performance cars.

Mounting that V8 engine into the body of SLR exotic car is also not as traditional as one would like to expect. The engine in SLR sports car is placed in a front mid-engine position just behind the front wheels. Instead of using the traditional oil-pan, dry-sump lubricants are used. With this innovation, it is highly possible to mount the engine to a level that used to be unachievable. Because of the low position of the engine in the supercars body, the results are more than one hoped. The new Mercedez-Benz SLR McLaren race car has better aerodynamics and better handling due to the lower center of gravity.

Not only does the mean features of the sports car that attracts attention but how the two car companies were able to fuse their own traditions and expertise into a single exotic car. For one, McLaren's expertise in Formula 1 has been imbibed wholly by the SLR's design. The composition of carbon fiber material that was used in the body of the new SLR sports car is so Formula 1. Because of this body, the Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren has become more rigid and surprisingly strong.

But not to be outdone, counterpart Mercedes-Benz has also put a few tricks of its own. The German car maker added features that are deemed essential to the most important part of the vehicle: the passengers. Due to backgrounds in mostly luxury cars, Mercedes-Benz has ensured maximum occupant protection and safety. To my knowledge, the SLR is the only car so far that utilizes front crash structure made entirely of carbon fiber. The importance of this carbon fiber design can only be appreciated in actual crash test simulations. What the front carbon fiber crash structure does is it absorbs crash energy, four - five times more energy than ordinary steel structures actually, during a severe frontal collision. This protects the passengers during such accidents four times more than traditional steel structures found in other sports cars and supercars.

The SLR also has a five speed automatic transmission. There are modes, the Sport, Comfort and Manual which basically covers every known driving style. Sport is for everyday use, Comfort for bumpy or slippery roads, and Manual gives you control over the gears either through the touchpad or the levers on the steering wheel. When you use Manual, you open up three more modes, namely Sport, Supersport and Race. Speed increased significantly as you go up shifts.

Other notable features in this sports car include the high-performance technologies of ceramic brakes. The SLR uses ceramic reinforced with fiber on its brake pads. This technology allows this exotic car to have astonishing stopping power, and extraordinary high resistance to heat, exceptionally strong structure and long service life for the brakes.

With all these features it is not surprising that the Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren is classified as a sports car and a supercar. Remember to get this right, though, the "SLR" does not stand for "Sportlich, Leicht, Rennsport" which is German for "Sport; Light; Racing" as most people think. Its real meaning is "super-leicht, Rennsport" which means "super-light, racing." The sports car is being sold with a base price of €443,066 £300,000 or $450,000.

As of 8 July 2008 Mercedes-Benz and McLaren Automotive have split up and ceased their collaboration. Looks like McLaren is now on it's own. Mercedes-Benz has started the production of SLS AMG as their top supercar, while McLaren Automotive is working on its McLaren MP4-12C.
More Mercedes Benz cars:

2011 Nissan Versa Overview

Your Price: Ask Us
An ultra-low base price, astounding fuel economy, hatchback or sedan flexibility and a host of amenities help guide the 2011 Nissan Versa to the top of the subcompact pack.

Competing with Toyota Yaris, Chevrolet Aveo and Hyundai Accent, the 2011 Nissan Versa is available as either a four-door hatchback or sedan, with the exception of the 1.6 Base and 1.6 trim levels, which are only offered as a sedan. The S and SL are the upper-level trims, which add 60/40-split-folding rear seatback in the hatchback and a four-speaker stereo with CD player. A Power Package for S trims offers power windows and locks, remote keyless entry and available cruise control. A Convenience Package for the SL adds Bluetooth connectivity and leather-wrapped steering wheel with audio controls. The 2011 Nissan Versa may be a tiny car, but it seats a class-leading five passengers.

The front-wheel-drive Nissan Versa is equipped with two engine options: a standard 1.6-liter, 107-horsepower four-cylinder or for hatchback models, a 1.8-liter, 122-horsepower four-cylinder. The standard transmission on the sedan is a five-speed manual; however, a two-speed Xtronic CVT, four-speed automatic and six-speed manual (standard on the hatchback) are also available. The Versa receives tremendous EPA estimated fuel economy ratings ranging between 24-28 mpg in the city and 31-34 mpg on the highway.

On the exterior, side windows help increase visibility and SL hatchback models feature distinctive grille design, sporty front- and rear-end treatments and a rear spoiler, which were originally part of an optional Sports Package. The sedan sits on standard 15-inch steel wheels while the hatchback receives 16-inch alloy wheels. Inside, a high roof and extra legroom offer more comfort for taller passengers. The base model is now standard equipped with an MP3 jack. The Versa offers 50.4 cubic feet of cargo volume with the 60/40-split folding rear seats lowered, and 13.8 cubic feet of trunk volume, which is quite large for the subcompact segment.

A host of standard and available safety features for the 2011 Nissan Versa include front, side-impact and side curtain airbags, smart key that immobilizes the engine in an attempted theft, antilock brakes with brake assist and electronic brake force distribution and an electronic stability system.

You don’t have to be well versed in auto-speak to know that the 2011 Nissan Versa is a tremendous value with amazing fuel estimates.

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2012 BMW M5 Concept

Following the perfect line: The BMW Concept M5.

Munich. For 25 years now, the fascinating combination of supreme driving comfort experienced in a premium upper midrange sedan and the handling characteristics of a high-performance sports car has been described by one single unmistakable model designation - BMW M5. In 1984, with the first generation of this model, the BMW M GmbH laid the foundation stone for a completely new vehicle category. The BMW M5 was the first car of its kind to offer racing-oriented high performance in a sedan that could be driven without restrictions in everyday road traffic. This unique concept developed into a remarkable success story spanning four model generations. The BMW M GmbH is now drawing the attention of racing car enthusiasts to a four-seater yet again. The BMW Concept M5, which is making its public debut at the Auto Shanghai 2011, presents itself as the latest reinterpretation of this unmistakable vehicle character.

Superior sportiness and typical M aesthetics in a BMW 5 Series Sedan format provide the basis for the exclusive BMW M5 driving experience. With each model generation, the advancements made in the development of premium sedans in terms of comfort, safety and premium ambience were accompanied by new possibilities to intensify that unsurpassed ‘M feeling’. The world premiere of the BMW Concept M5 at the Auto Shanghai 2011 gives clear signals for the continuation of this tradition. Based on the design vocabulary developed for the BMW 5 Series Sedan, the near-series concept car reflects the characteristic styling features of a BMW M automobile, with which the car’s further enhanced dynamic potential is authentically visualised.

A new high-revving V8 engine with M TwinPower Turbo Technology guarantees typical M power output. The eight-cylinder power unit delivers a spontaneous and even acceleration, which remains constant up to the highest load and is characteristic of the M feeling, in a previously unequalled dimension. At the same time, both performance and efficiency have been significantly increased in comparison to the previous engine. Numerous drivetrain innovations and other enhancements have lead to a reduction in fuel consumption and emission levels by more than 25 percent. The new engine and a seven-speed M double-clutch transmission with Drivelogic and M-specific suspension and steering create the ideal prerequisites for an unrivalled driving experience.

Typical M aesthetics: performance defines design, aerodynamics optimise performance. The athletic appearance of the BMW Concept M5 authentically expresses the engine’s superior power. The sporty and elegant look of the BMW M5 Sedan has been specifically modified using typical M design vocabulary. All specific design features are directly related to the four-seater’s outstanding performance characteristics. They were developed exclusively for the BMW Concept M5 and enhance the vehicle’s character, which is marked by high performance and supreme handling even under extreme conditions. Prominent examples of this are the large air intakes, which allow for the engine’s higher cooling requirements, as well as optimised aerodynamics thanks to a discreet spoiler located on the boot lid and a diffuser integrated into the rear apron.

The BMW Concept M5 owes its intense emotional impact to the direct relation of each detail with the technical requirements. At the same time, the concise styling of the high-performance car’s specific features creates the character of understatement that is typical of a BMW M automobile. The car’s superior appearance is underlined by the body colour Chrome Shadow. The discreet appearance of this body colour distinctively enhances the surface contours of the vehicle’s three-dimensionally modelled bodywork.

Front apron: precise airflow optimises cooling and aerodynamics. Dynamic lines and large air intakes on the front end of the BMW Concept M5 are a clear implication of the vehicle’s exceptionally sport-oriented characteristics and its engine’s outstanding power. Like on the BMW 5 Series Sedan, the contour lines on the bonnet of the BMW Concept M5 flow towards the BMW kidney grille. The upright position of the widely stretched kidney grille also signalises dynamic forward movement. The dual round bi-xenon headlights, which are complemented at the top by an accentuating light, create the road-focused look that is also characteristic of BMW M automobiles.

The front apron, which was designed exclusively for the BMW Concept M5, contributes significantly towards both the car’s athletic appearance as well as its dynamic potential. It features three large air intakes, the dimensions of which are precisely oriented towards the high cooling requirement of the engine and its ancillary components. The centre opening corresponds to the width of the BMW kidney grille, the side contour lines move away from each other as they continue downwards. This echoes the V shape between the grille and the headlights, thus emphasising the width of the air intake.

The centre air intake protrudes further out than the two outer intakes and its contours are slightly curved. This three-dimensional design and the deeply embedded, black grille sporting a honeycomb design additionally underscore the vehicle’s powerful character. With concisely designed so-called flaps on the lower edges of the outer air intakes, the BMW Concept M5 boasts a racing-inspired feature for optimising airflow. These also emphasise a front apron design that is oriented towards the technical demands.

Side view: dynamically flowing lines, large M light alloy wheels. With powerfully modelled wheel arches and dynamically flowing lines, the BMW Concept M5 also signalises uncompromising sportiness when viewed from the side. The long wheelbase, the set back passenger cabin and the black side window surrounds distinctively underscore the sedan’s stretched silhouette. This appearance is even more strongly emphasised through M-specific lowering of the vehicle.

The athletically flared wheel arches are complemented by M-specific light alloy wheels sporting a double-spoke design. Due to the vehicle’s wide track, they are flush with the car body. The 20-inch forged rims are fitted with tyre size 265/35 ZR20 at the front and 265/35 ZR20 at the back.

The M-typical gill element on the front side panel has been reinterpreted on the BMW Concept M5. The gill features a high-quality chrome surround and is horizontally divided by a chrome bar, which in addition to the side indicator also bears the M logo. The gill element is the starting point of the swage line, which during its further course across the door handles stretches back as far as the taillights.

The rear end: athletic styling, targeted airflow. Superior sportiness and supreme road holding are effectively symbolised by the BMW Concept M5’s rear end design. The emphasis on vehicle width through dominating horizontal lines also featured on the BMW 5 Series Sedan is combined with an athletically shaped rear apron. The vehicle-specific rear apron, which forms a smooth transition to the wide wheel arches, ensures a particularly intensive accentuation of the motive force that is transferred to the rear wheels.

An integrated diffuser at the lower edge of the rear apron effectuates targeted airflow at the end of the undercarriage. As a typical M identifying feature, the BMW Concept M5 is fitted with a double-flow exhaust system, the double tailpipes of which are located far apart at each side of the diffuser and surrounded by aerodynamically shaped trims. Likewise, the discreet rear spoiler located on the boot lid serves to optimise the car’s aerodynamic characteristics. It ensures additional downforce above all at high speeds, thus contributing towards supreme handling at all times.

Awe-inspiring power, impressive efficiency: V8 engine with M TwinPower Turbo. The BMW Concept M5 gives a starting signal for the venture into a new dimension of motor racing-oriented driving dynamics. The high-performance characteristics reflected in its design are realised through the M-specific drivetrain and suspension technology. Under the concept car’s bonnet is a new, high-revving V8 power unit featuring M TwinPower Turbo Technology. The new engine ensures a new dimension of the linear power development so characteristic of BMW M automobiles. Moreover, it impressively embodies the principle of technological advancement within the framework of the BMW Group’s Efficient Dynamics strategy. Compared to the fourth generation of the BMW M5’s power unit, the newly developed engine has a significantly increased output level, whilst at the same time lowering previous fuel consumption and emission levels by at least 25 percent. With the new eight-cylinder engine, big steps have been taken in the optimisation of drivetrain technology. A clear increase in power is accompanied by a likewise very remarkable increase in efficiency. This demonstrates the unparalleled effectiveness of this development strategy, which originates from motor racing, where in addition to the engine’s performance capabilities and reliability, as few fuel stops as possible result in a decisive advantage.

The BMW Concept M5’s engine power is transferred to the rear wheels by a seven-speed M double-clutch transmission with Drivelogic. This double-clutch gearbox, which was specifically tuned to the new V8 engine’s performance characteristics, fascinates with extremely fast gear shifting, precise gear selection and a high degree of effectiveness that additionally optimises the vehicle’s efficiency. The combination of the new engine with M Drivelogic is supplemented by an Auto Start Stop function. When halting at road junctions or in a tailback, the high-performance engine is temporarily switched off, thus avoiding unnecessary fuel consumption during idling. To continue the journey it is sufficient to release the footbrake and the V8 engine restarts without delay.

Model-specific suspension technology, typical M innovation: active M M Differential. The suspension technology especially developed for each model is an equally crucial constituent part of the well-balanced overall concept of any M automobile. It is constructed using comprehensive know-how obtained from motor racing and then tuned within the framework of extensive tests carried out on the Northern Loop of the Nürburgring. Exclusive M suspension components include, inter alia, the wheel suspension systems, specific axle kinematics as well as exceptionally effective and weight-optimised brakes, which also remain stable even under high levels of strain. In addition, the BMW Concept M5 features innovative rear differential technology also developed by the BMW M GmbH.

The Active M Differential optimises vehicle stability using targeted variation of locking torque between the right and left drive wheels.

Active control of the multi-plate lock inside the rear differential is highly accurate and fast. This ensures that wheel spin is prevented even on slippery road surfaces and in the event of differing friction coefficients between the right and left wheels, in narrow bends or during sudden lane changes. The thereby optimised traction facilitates the highest level of vehicle stability and dynamics during acceleration out of bends even under the most demanding conditions.

BMW Concept M5 - the future of the high-performance sports car with four doors and five seats. The BMW Concept M5 embodies the vision of a premium upper midrange sedan offering the highest degree of comfort for up to five occupants and allowing the driver to follow the ideal racing line both on the racetrack and in everyday road traffic. The BMW Concept M5 combines outstanding performance resulting from racing-inspired drive and suspension technology with typical M aesthetics that authentically express the vehicle’s dynamic potential. The concept car visualises the unmistakable characteristics of a BMW M model, which mature from a harmonious overall concept in which engine, suspension and design complement each other perfectly. The BMW M GmbH’s know-how gained from decades of experience and constantly further developed under racing conditions manifests itself in this combination. Innovative technology derived directly from motor racing provides each new BMW model with unmatched high-performing characteristics.

The BMW Concept M5 reflects a highly advanced stage in the development of a high-performance vehicle based on the new BMW 5 Series Sedan. The specific design features are directly aligned to the technical requirements, the suspension technology is precisely harmonised with the engine’s performance characteristics. With this precisely defined development strategy, the latest embodiment of the incomparable M feeling strives steadily towards series maturity.

Toyota FT-86 / Scion FR-S: Exciting New Details

As the official launch of the Toyota FT-86 approaches this Fall, details about the final production version of what is easily the most highly anticipated car of the year are starting to slip out. The details come from Moto Miwa, the founder of Club4AG, a site dedicated to the AE86 (the car that inspired the FT-86), after a conversation with Chief Engineer Tada-san and having seen what he claims is the final production version of the upcoming sports car.

Miwa's fanaticism is hard to ignore, and so as much as we want to take his word for it, we'll take a grain of salt with all the Koolaid he's been drinking.

Described as "basic" and "pure" but not cheap, Miwa says it's as revolutionary as the Datsun 510, the BMW 2002, the VW Beetle, the '65 Mustang and the Honda CRX.

The design is said to be closer to the original FT-86 Concept, with a few details from the Scion FR-S Concept. It will look identical in all markets, apart from different badging - with the U.S. market model sold as the Scion FR-S.

Under the hood the boxer 4-cylinder has reportedly been almost entirely redesigned and shares nothing but its opposed cylinder layout with the Subaru version. Yahama engineers were involved in the development of the engine.

To ensure this car lives up to the hype Toyota employed its best engineers, including some who worked on the original AE86, as well as on the MR2 and Prius. Lessons from the LFA program were implemented and even engineers from Subaru's WRC and STI divisions got involved.

Miwa describes how the car was built with tuners and racers in mind, with spaces near the dash so a roll cage can be installed while keeping the dash intact. The engine mounts and space under the hood will also make for an easy swap of a turbocharged Subaru boxer engine, should you want to go that route. (This detail has been confirmed to AutoGuide by a Scion insider).

"Never before, has such low-cost niche-car seen so much research, so much development budget, and resourced with so many talents," says Miwa, who then quotes Tada-san, who describes the FT-86 as a car endorsed by Akio Toyoda and designed by passion, not a committee.

And as much hype as the FT-86 has received so far, the reality will be better promises Miwa. "This car will ROCK YOUR WORLD" he says, "I will bet my soul on it."

More Power! BMW Performance Edition Kit Brings 335i Sedan to 320 HP

Read more: http://wot.motortrend.com/more-power-bmw-performance-edition-kit-upgrades-335i-sedan-to-320-hp-99409.html#ixzz1SpicbNLJ

Car enthusiasts are rarely satisfied with their car’s performance, and now BMW 335i sedan owners can get an additional 20 hp. The new BMW Performance Edition option, available for the 335i or 335i xDrive sedan, is a factory-backed engine tune that bolsters the car’s turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six engine by 20 hp.

The upgrade involves reprogramming the engine management computer, improving power from 300 hp to 320 hp. Torque climbs from 300 lb-ft to 317 lb-ft for cars with manual transmissions and 332 lb-ft for those with automatics. BMW says the power boost shaves 0.2 second from the car’s 0-to-60-mph time.

Alongside the engine tweaks, Performance Edition cars get black kidney grille inserts and a Performance Edition badge. The option package, called ZMZ in BMW’s ordering guide, costs just $550 and can be applied to any 2011 335i sedan through the end of 2011.

For those keeping track at home, the Performance Edition upgrade puts the 335i sedan on par with the coupe-exclusive 335is. The 335is is a “stepping stone” between the 335i and M3, offering 320 hp from a twin-turbo inline-six engine.

BMW will also make the Performance Edition package available as a retrofit kit to existing owners of the 135i and 335i. Pricing and availability of that upgrade will be announced in August.

Read more: http://wot.motortrend.com/more-power-bmw-performance-edition-kit-upgrades-335i-sedan-to-320-hp-99409.html#ixzz1SpirpgBb

Dodge Unleashes New 600-horsepower 2008 Viper SRT10

The new 2008 Dodge Viper SRT10 boasts more of what performance aficionados crave: kick-in-the-pants, throw-back-in-the-seat power, combined with benchmark braking, world-class ride and handling, a race-inspired interior and bold exterior styling.

While every SRT vehicle offers balanced, overall performance, the heart and soul of the new 2008 Dodge Viper SRT10 is its standout powertrain. For 2008, SRT ups the ante with a new, 8.4-liter aluminum V-10 engine that produces an astounding 600 horsepower and 560 lb-ft of torque.

"A legendary big-game hunter once said, 'Bring enough gun!' - and with the new 2008 Dodge Viper SRT10, we've created some very powerful artillery for sports-car enthusiasts," said Kipp Owen, Director - Street and Racing Technology (SRT) Engineering, Chrysler Group. "With 600 horsepower - 90 more than before - and 0-to-60 performance in less than four seconds, the 2008 Dodge Viper SRT10 sets a new benchmark for the ultimate American sports car."

The new 2008 Dodge Viper SRT10 will arrive in Dodge showrooms in North America this summer with a new level of customization options, including five new exterior colors, four new interior color combinations and a new wheel design.

Standout Powertrain

When SRT powertrain engineers set out to get more venom from the 2008 Dodge Viper SRT10's powerplant, their objectives included not only increasing performance, but also complying with stringent regulatory requirements, such as federal Tier 2, Bin 5 and California's Low Emissions Vehicle (LEV) 2 mandates.

Working with specialists from McLaren Performance Technologies and Ricardo, Inc., SRT engineers began by following the racer's basic formula for more power: bigger displacement, more efficient breathing and higher engine speed.

SRT engineers didn't stop there. Upgrades were developed to handle the 8.4-liter V-10's increased horsepower and torque levels, while improving traction, driveability - and durability.

The 2008 Dodge Viper SRT10's V-10 channels its power through a new, smaller-diameter, twin-disc clutch (a change from the previous larger-diameter, single-disc setup). The new clutch reduces rotating inertia by 18 percent, resulting in reduced clutch-pedal effort and improved engagement feel.

The transmission is the latest evolution of the Tremec T56 six-speed manual, known as the TR6060. It features 10 percent wider gears for higher torque capacity and a new synchronizer package. A new shifter system results in reduced shifter travel. Club racers will applaud a new provision for adding an external transmission cooler.

Bold Exterior Styling

The 2008 Dodge Viper SRT10 remains available in two body styles - Roadster and Coupe. Both feature a dramatic new hood with a larger, more efficient hood scoop for air induction and larger, functional hood louvers to facilitate a greater cooling effect for the more powerful 8.4-liter, 600-horsepower V-10 engine underneath.

Eight exterior colors will be introduced throughout the model year - five of which are all-new including Venom Red, Snakeskin Green, Viper Violet, Viper Orange and Bright Blue. Racing stripes continue to be an option with six dual painted stripe colors available: white, black, silver, graphite, blue and red.

Race-inspired Interior Design

The 2008 Dodge Viper SRT10 cockpit retains its characteristic red push-button starter and performance-oriented, highly functional instrument panel with center-mounted tachometer and 220-mph speedometer.

Five interior colors will be available in 2008: black, and four new color combinations in black/red, black/blue, black/slate or black/natural tan. A choice of bezel finishes on the center instrument panel and console adds to the increased level of customization