Super Car: Lexus LFA

Lexus announces today the official launch of the LFA, a two-seat supercar scheduled to go into production at the end of 2010 as the pinnacle of the Lexus "F" premium sports car series. Pre-sales start today.

Ultra-responsive and extremely stable even when taken to the edge, the LFA creates a sense of reassurance that opens up a new world of driving emotion, exhilarating the senses to move the driver in more ways than one. 


The LFA combines high output, superb chassis design and meticulous aerodynamics to achieve instantaneous total-vehicle response characterized by high-rev, seamless acceleration echoed by a self-defining resonance from its 4.8-liter V10.

Only 500 units of the LFA are to be produced and sold worldwide. 

A prototype of the LFA is now on display at the 41st Tokyo Motor Show, which is open to the general public from October 24 to November 4 at Makuhari Messe in Makuhari, Chiba Prefecture. 

Packaging brings out the most in fundamental performance 

Strong and light 
The newly developed 4.8-liter V10 engine boasts exceptional power, while lightweight materials (aluminum alloy, magnesium alloy and titanium alloy) and a very compact size (smaller than a conventional V8) allows for optimal weight distribution and an exceptional power-to-weight ratio. 

Carbon fiber reinforced plastic (CFRP) cabin enhances high body-rigidity and reduces weight. This unique cabin is 100kg lighter than a comparable aluminum cabin. 
Detailed analysis and precise matching of CFRP materials allows for high rigidity and low weight. LFA CFRP production technology, including unique CFRP-to-metal joining, was completely developed by Lexus. 

Balanced
Relatively higher weight components such as the engine and transmission are placed within the wheelbase. A low center of gravity is made possible by the use of dry sump lubrication, along with placing peripheral components (oil pump, water pump) behind the engine. 

Furthermore, optimal placement of the transmission and the fuel tank in front of the rear axle adds to this application of centralized mass. This minimizes weight shift during cornering and contributes to outstanding performance and stability. Lighter weight components, like the radiator and electric fans, are placed behind the rear axle. 

Combined with a front-engine and rear-wheel-drive configuration, the short, wide and low body allows the LFA to achieve its target front-to-rear weight distribution of 48:52. 

Driver-centered
The driver's seat is positioned near the LFA's center of gravity. The centralized seating concept (with the seat between the front and rear axles and closer to the left¿right center) is made possible by the use of a rear transaxle and vertically stacked torque tube and exhaust pipes reducing the width of the center tunnel. The driver placement is aimed to provide maximum car-to-driver feedback, especially under sport or high G-force driving conditions. 

Emotive performance embodies an extraordinary driving experience 

High-rev engine 
Titanium valves, ultra¿light weight rocker arms with a diamond¿like coating and a fully integrated lower crankcase that reduces pumping losses at high RPMs combine to provide the driver with overwhelming acceleration right up to the 9,000rpm redline. The LFA's purpose-built V10 delivers 90% of its peak torque between 3,700rpm and 9,000rpm. 

Precise Response 
Independent, electronically controlled throttle bodies ensure precise air-feed to each of the 10 cylinders, enabling immediate engine response from the accelerator pedal. The engine response time is approximately half the normal response time of a single-throttle valve. 

The six-speed ASG transmission features heavy-duty synchronizer rings and a newly developed gearshift actuator, providing the driver with a very direct shift feel. Four selectable driving modes and a seven-stage shift-speed selector that results in upshift speeds down to 0.2 seconds provide a higher level of driver control. 

Track-sized high-performance (Carbon Ceramic) CCM brake discs and Electronically Controlled Braking system generate ultra-powerful yet stable braking. 

Responsive handling and engaging dynamics 
The very light and rigid CFRP cabin, combined with a front double-wishbone suspension and a rear multilink suspension, result in a very stable, controlled ride. 

Detailed aerodynamic engineering results in elements such as a flat underbody, a diffuser and a speed-controlled rear wing, which allows precise vehicle response at all vehicle speeds, thus creating unity between driver and machine. 

Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management integrates numerous vehicle dynamic functions that provide a high level of vehicle stability and preventative safety without interfering with the driver's intentions, especially when sport driving. 

Exciting engine sound and L-finesse2 design Equal-length exhaust manifolds combined with an equal-length dual exhaust system routed through a multistage titanium main muffler fine tunes the exhaust note. 

An acoustically tuned surge tank linked to 10 individual throttle bodies creates a powerful induction sound. The coordination of intake and exhaust sounds overlap at various RPMs to create a unique, exciting and inspired soundtrack. 

The exterior design includes carefully tuned aerodynamics and airflow management. The use of CFRP, in addition to strength and weight advantages, frees up the design of the exterior panels allowing a fresh supercar L-finesse design. The interior design combines state-of-the-art instrument-panel design and technology, along with a variety of custom-tailored interior trim packages to suit the most discerning driver.

Auto Tuning: Ferrari 599 GTB Fiorano by Novitec Rosso

Siempre resultará grato disfrutar una nueva preparación de uno de los mejores súper deportivos de los últimos años. A la importante lista de desarrollos logrados en el Ferrari 599 GTB Fiorano, se suma nuevamente, una realizada por el experto en las maquinas de Maranello: el preparador Novitec Rosso.

Hace algún tiempo Novitec Rosso presentó una preparación basada en el Ferrari 599 GTB Fiorano que lograba erogar una potencia de 808 HP, gracias a la implementación de un doble compresor. Ahora este mismo preparador presenta un nuevo desarrollo, que, si bien es más discreto, no deja de sorprender con su buen gusto y predominio.

El Ferrari 599 GTB Fiorano by Novitec Rosso emplea el motor V12 de 6 litros de la versión de producción, el cual en virtud a la implementación de un sistema de escape de alto desempeño y a la reprogramación del ECU logra desarrollar 660 caballos de potencia (con respecto a los 620 HP del modelo original).

Otra de las incorporaciones del Ferrari 599 GTB Fiorano by Novitec Rosso consiste en el control del sonido del sistema de escape desde el Manettino, que puede ser graduado para que entregue la resonancia de un auto de competencia. Como también puede ser ajustada la altura de la carrocería desde el habitáculo, la cual aumenta hasta 40 mm parta evitar golpes en la parte baja del vehículo.

El Ferrari 599 GTB Fiorano by Novitec Rosso también ofrece varias novedades aerodinámicas basadas en pruebas en el túnel de viento, las cuales consisten en un spoiler frontal, así como nuevos paragolpes y difusor traseros. Haciendo todos ellos parte del kit tuning denominado Performance Stage 3, que es ofrecido desde 10.490 euros, cifra muy accesible para los privilegiados usuarios del Ferrari 599 GTB Fiorano.

Auto Tuning: Corvette Z06 by GeigerCars

El prolífico preparador alemán GeigerCars es indudablemente uno de los tuners más renombrados de vehículos fabricados en los Estados Unidos. Razón que lo avala como el más idóneo para desarrollar una preparación del deportivo americano por excelencia: el Chevrolet Corvette.

Si existe algo que evidencia gran parte de los entusiastas del tuning, es su predilección por las versiones que generan una considerable brecha entre las versiones en serie y aquellas personalizadas por preparadores. Siendo precisamente GeigerCars, uno de los tuners más audaces en sus desarrollos, en los cuales, ciertamente no cabe un punto medio.

Si bien, lo anterior pueda contrariar a los más puristas, aún en lo que a tuning se refiere, GeigerCars sabe que sus preparaciones no pasan inadvertidas, como sucede con el desarrollo logrado en el imponente Corvette Z06.

El Corvette Z06 by GeigerCars comienza a resaltar basado en su estética, en la cual se destacan los cambios en el paragolpes delantero, taloneras, ruedas de 285/30 y 345/25 (delanteras y traseras), así como un vistoso color verde en su carrocería, que lo hace inconfundible.

Consecuente con los intrépidos cambios en su exterior, el Corvette Z06 by GeigerCars también manifiesta un sustancial desarrollo en su planta motriz, la cual pasa del V8 de 7 litros, a un impresionante propulsor con 7.6 litros de cilindrada alimentado por un sistema biturbo.

Mediante esta optimización en el motor, el Corvette Z06 by GeigerCars rinde impresionantes 890 caballos de potencia a 6.100 rpm (con respecto a los 512 HP del modelo en serie) y un toque de 940 Nm a 4.500 rpm. Suficientes para desarrollar una velocidad 220 mph, que lo posicionan como uno de los más rápidos del mundo.

Auto Tuning: Gemballa Mistrale

The new, fascinating Gemballa luxury limousine based on Porsche Panamera models.

Right at the market introduction of the Porsche Panamera, Gemballa Automobiltechnik GmbH & Co. KG for the first time publishes images of the Gemballa Mistrale and presents fascinating features. The design of the Gemballa luxury limousine is even more dynamic, more striking and significantly more exclusive than its serial counterpart. For perfect surface quality and custom-fit processing of the newly designed aerodynamics components, Gemballa mainly uses the ultra-light and high-strength material carbon. 

Part of the dynamic front look is a far more sporty front skirt. Larger air inlets guarantee the optimal supply with fresh air for future performance increases. An integrated carbon lip and an elegantly formed bonnet with slotted ventilation ducts complete the lifting-force reducing front. A striking eye-catcher of the Gemballa Mistrale and visual allusion to the classic 911-design are the extended front and rear fenders. A newly designed rear apron with integrated diffuser provides enough space for four end pipes of the sport exhaust system and seamlessly fits into the overall package.

But not only design and aerodynamics are refined by Gemballa. Also the performance of the four-door automobile is significantly improved. A newly programmed air suspension module with extended setting range lowers the centre of gravity up to 40 millimetres. For especially ambitious customers, Gemballa offers a height-adjustable coilover suspension. In connection with the ultra-light 22-inch forged rims both versions render best vehicle control and also optimal road contact. For excellent deceleration values and perfect pedal control, Gemballa adds a high-performance brake system. 6-piston brake callipers with 420 millimetre brake discs at the front axle and 4-piston brake callipers with 380 millimetre brake discs at the back axle replace the serial components.

Super Car: Porsche 911 GT3 Cup Car 2010

The new version of the Porsche 911 GT3 Cup offers its many customers the world over even greater value than ever before. The successor to the best-selling racing car of all time built in a production series of more than 1,400 units is based for the first time on the 911 GT3 RS, with the weight of the racing model reduced significantly versus the lightweight road-going version.

This is the first GT3 Cup to feature the 44-millimetre (1.73") wider body at the rear, providing sufficient space for even larger wheels. Wider wheel arches also at the front clearly show that the front wheels are likewise new. 


Engine capacity is up by 0.2 litres over the former model, engine output is 30 bhp more than before. The most important facts and figures: 3.8-litre six-cylinder horizontally-opposed power unit developing 450 bhp (331 kW), sequential six-speed manual gearbox, weight 1,200 kg (2,646 lb), racing version of the 911 GT3 RS.

The new GT3 Cup is clearly recognisable at very first sight through the special looks and design of the front end. The striking daytime driving lights come straight from the current generation of the 911, the front body panels are the same as on the 911 GT3 RS. The front spoiler lip is however 15 millimetres or almost 0.6" lower to provide significantly more downforce on the front axle. Downforce on the rear axle is also increased by the rear wing extended in width from 1.46 to 1.70 metres (57.5 to 66.9") and fitted higher up as a feature carried over from the even faster 911 GT3 Cup S in international FIA GT3 racing. The rear air dam with its striking air vent openings as well as the rear lights in LED technology, in turn, come straight from the road model. 

The power unit featured in the new 911 GT3 Cup is largely identical to the production engine in the 911 GT3 RS ¿ same output of 450 bhp and same maximum engine speed of 8,500 rpm. Capacity of the Cup engine, however, is up from 3.6 litres on the former model to 3.8 litres on the new car, helping to increase engine power by 30 bhp. 

A racing exhaust system with a fully controlled catalytic converter helps to reduce harmful emissions to a minimum. As an exclusive feature in the Porsche Mobil1 Supercup held on the occasion of the FIA Formula 1 World Championship races, the new new 911 GT3 Cup comes with a modified, special exhaust system offering an even more dynamic and muscular sound. Another feature exclusive to the Supercup version is PCCB Porsche Ceramic Composite Brakes also available on Porsche's road models. Compared with the composite cast brake discs featured on the Carrera Cup cars, this reduces the weight of the car by approximately 20 kg or 44 lb. 

The wheel arches wider at the front and the flared wheel arches at the rear provide ample space for even wider wheels. Hence, the front axle comes with three-piece light-alloy rims measuring 9.5 J x 18 (previously 9 J x 18) and running on 24/64-18 Michelin racing tyres. The three-piece light-alloy rims on the rear axle are up by one inch in width, now measuring 12 J x 18 and running on 27/68-18 tyres. 

Additional Unibal joints are featured on the track control arms and the sword-shaped anti-roll bars front and rear are now adjustable to seven different positions on both sides, allowing an even more precise set-up of the car in accordance with the respective race track. 

The cockpit of the new 911 GT3 Cup caters even more than before for the specific needs of the driver. An additional vent in the upper part of the front lid, for example, provides the driver with an even better supply of fresh air. The controls for the Info Display are now positioned directly on the steering wheel housing a total of six switches. And in addition to fore-and-aft adjustment, the steering wheel may now also be adjusted for height as on the regular production car. 

The new Porsche 911 GT3 Cup available exclusively in Carrara White will be delivered to customers as of the end of October. In the upcoming season it will be raced in no less than seven cup trophies ¿ not only in the Porsche Mobil1 Supercup on the occasion of Formula 1 races, but also in the Porsche Carrera Cups in Germany, Asia, Japan, and Italy, as well as the GT3 Cup Challenges in the USA and the Middle East. 

The Euro base-price is Euro 149,850.- without value-added tax.

Super Car: Porsche 911 GT3 RS

Delivering even more engine power, lower weight and shorter transmission ratios, as well as upgraded body and suspension components than all previous GT3s, the new Porsche 911 GT3 RS sets the foundation for homologating the race version of the 911 GT3 and will be introduced at the Frankfurt Motor Show September 17-27, 2009.

The heart of the new, uncompromising GT3 RS is the power unit. Like the engine featured in the 911 GT3, the naturally-aspirated RS power unit now displaces 3.8 liters and delivers even more power, while revving up even faster to its 8500 rpm redline. It now delivers 450 horsepower, 15 more horsepower than its 911 GT3 counterpart. Even with a specific output of more than 118 hp per liter from the six-cylinder boxer engine, the power unit in the new GT3 RS remains fully suitable for everyday use. 


The new 911 GT3 RS comes exclusively with a six-speed manual gearbox optimized for short gearshift travel, low weight and high efficiency. To enhance the level of performance throughout the entire range of engine and road speed, the transmission comes with shorter ratios than found in the 911 GT3, deliberately conceding an even higher potential top track speed.

Dynamic engine mounts are standard and serve to improve the car's handling to an even higher level. Depending on driving conditions, the mounts change in their stiffness and damping effect, improving the connection between the engine and the body when driving under very lively conditions, yet allow for more comfortable conditions during everyday street use. 

Porsche is also introducing another new option in 2010 for the GT3 RS, a lithium-ion battery. Delivered with the car and, when replacing the conventional lead-acid battery, it reduces the weight by more than 10 kg or 22 lb and is mainly intended for the track. 

To further improve its sporting behavior, the new 911 GT3 RS comes with a purpose-built and specially set up PASM suspension, a wider front and rear track and corresponding bodywork. 

The front axle comes with nine-inch-wide wheels running on 245/35 ZR 19 sports tires while the rear axle features twelve-inch-wide wheels incorporating 325/30 ZR 19 sports tires. 

The new 911 GT3 RS shows its close connection to motorsport through its dynamic looks, in particular by its low ride height, the new, extra large carbon-fiber rear wing and titanium exhaust system. 

The 2010 911 GT3 RSgoes on sale in the U.S. in early spring of 2010 and will be priced at $132,800.

Auto Tuning: Saleen 435S Mustang

El prolífico fabricante americano Saleen presentó el primer vehículo desarrollado luego que la empresa fuera adquirida por M.J. Acquisitions Inc. Se trata del Saleen 435S Mustang, una portentosa edición limitada del famoso pony car.

Durante más de 25 años Saleen ha desarrollado impresionantes vehículos de alto rendimiento y versiones radicales de fabricantes como Ford. No siendo hasta el año 2000 cuando presentó el primer auto de producción propio: el Saleen S7, súper deportivo que en una versión ulterior se posicionaría entre los autos más rápidos del mundo.

Luego de varios años de grandes logros deportivos y tecnológicos, Saleen fue adquirida por M.J. Acquisitions Inc. Bajo cuya dirección tomó el nombre de Saleen Performance Vehicles, y del cual el Saleen 435S Mustang es el primer modelo en ser revelado.

El Saleen 435S Mustang está basado en la versión 2010 del mítico pony car, con varias modificaciones tanto estéticas como mecánicas. Siendo aquellas exteriores más evidentes: el spoiler delantero, un imponente alerón trasero y las ruedas de 18 pulgadas con 5 radios.

Mecánicamente, el Saleen 435S Mustang utiliza el motor SOHC V8 de 4.6 litros del Ford Mustang 2010, el cual ahora desarrolla 435 caballos de potencia (con respecto a los 315 HP del modelo original) y una torsión de 425 libras por pie lineal.

Optimización mecánica lograda gracias a la implementación de un turbo cargador Saleen Series VI y un intercooler de dos etapas, que despliegan toda la fuerza del Saleen 435S Mustang a través de un sistema de transmisión de 5 velocidades. Razones de peso para optar por las increíbles prestaciones de este imponente pony car, en su versión mejorada de Saleen Performance Vehicles.