Exotic Car XxX

Acura's entry-level RSX gets its first round of changes since its 2002 introduction with a new face, new taillights, new wheels, quicker steering, and on the uplevel Type S, 10 extra horsepower and 17-inch wheels. A new "A-spec" package features unique styling touches such as bright double-spoked wheels.
For 2005, the high performance Type-S model receives engine and exhaust system modifications that boost horsepower from 200 to 210 and torque from 142 lb-ft to 143 lb-ft. Engine output was optimized by applying high performance camshafts and enlarging the diameter of the intake duct by 10 percent. A larger diameter exhaust pipe and free-flowing catalytic converter helped to boost horsepower by increasing exhaust flow by 10 percent.

Remarkably, given the considerable power, Acura RSX Type S engine meets stringent CARB Low Emissions Vehicle-II (LEV-2) standards and is designed to run for 110,000 miles before the first scheduled tune-up.

The Type-S is equipped exclusively with a 6-speed, close-ratio manual transmission for quick, responsive shifting. For 2005, the final drive ratio on this transmission was lowered to provide even quicker acceleration while shift feel was improved by applying carbon synchronizers on fifth and sixth gear.

To meet the demands of the true driving enthusiast, the chassis of the RSX features track-tuned suspensions and steering systems for exceptional handling precision, outstanding cornering grip and a smooth, controlled ride.

Standard 4-wheel disc brakes with a 3-channel Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) help to provide secure stopping power. To match its additional performance capabilities, the RSX Type-S uses larger 11.8-inch ventilated discs up front. For 2005, a larger diameter master cylinder was applied to increase hydraulic pressure, the rigidity of the brake pedal increased and the pedal stroke was reduced. These enhancements combined to both enhance stopping power and improve braking feel.

The exterior styling of the RSX communicates a message of power and precision through short front and rear overhangs, sweeping curves and sharply chiseled accent lines. For 2005, Acura updated the styling to make the RSX look lower, faster and more aggressive. In front, the fascia has been redesigned with lower, rectangular air ducts, aggressive-looking tri-beam headlights and a new Acura-family grille. Side sills on the RSX are now body colored, while the side sills on the Type-S are more substantial, and wrap further around the car to highlight the new wheels and tires. The rear of the RSX was redesigned with new taillight assemblies, a new bumper, larger diameter exhaust tips and, on the Type-S, a deck lid spoiler. The result for both models is a more aerodynamic car that gives off a strong feeling of mass and power.

The interior of the RSX features a driver-oriented cockpit that has been updated for 2005. The seats have been redesigned with more supportive side bolsters and a thicker lower cushion for increased comfort on long drives and support during aggressive cornering. Titanium accents have been added to the integrated headrests and to several key points around the cabin including the step garnish, the shifter boot ring and the hand brake.
source : Acura

From the end of 2008, Mercedes-Benz will be adding to its range one of the most fuel-efficient and therefore economical luxury saloons around in the form of the new S 320 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY. Effective detailed modifications and advanced technology have lowered the fuel consumption and CO2 emissions of the new model variant by some ten per cent compared to its predecessor, which was itself very economical. Features of the first BlueEFFICIENCY model in the S-Class range include on-demand power steering, an automatic transmission with standstill decoupling, as well as tires with reduced rolling resistance. All without compromising the high standards of comfort, performance and driving pleasure in any way.

By bringing out the new S 320 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY, Mercedes-Benz is carefully pursuing its strategy for developing environmentally sound premium models that also encompasses the S-Class. The latest variant of the luxury saloon, which is due to supersede the S 320 CDI model from the end of this year, is more fuel-efficient and, as a result, even more economical than its predecessor. With fuel consumption of 7.6 liters per 100 km (a reduction of 0.7 liters) and CO2 emissions of 199 g/km (a reduction of 21 g), the S 320 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY is set to achieve top marks in the luxury class. Mercedes-Benz has achieved such exemplary economy by incorporating a tailor-made BlueEFFICIENCY package. The package’s key components:

The power steering’s hydraulic pump that is driven by an electric motor has an on-demand design, meaning that it only builds up pressure when the driver actually turns the steering wheel. This has the effect of reducing energy and fuel consumption when driving for long distances in a straight line – such as on the motorway.

The 7G-TRONIC seven-speed automatic transmission is equipped with standstill decoupling. With this feature, the torque converter interrupts the power flow as soon as the vehicle draws to a stop with the engine running, in much the same way as the clutch on a manual transmission. This eliminates the converter’s hydrodynamic resistance, lessening the load on the engine and lowering fuel consumption. Standstill decoupling has the added benefit of reducing noise and vibration levels when stopped, and enables even smoother idling. The slip-controlled clutch engages the instant the driver releases the brake pedal, allowing the vehicle to move off without the slightest delay.

The S 320 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY rides as standard on 17-inch light-alloy wheels shod with reduced rolling resistance tires, featuring a special carcass construction.

There has been no change in the V6 powerplant’s superlative output and torque figures of 173 kW/235 hp and 540 Nm respectively. Thus equipped, the S 320 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY completes the sprint from 0 - 100 km/h in 7.8 seconds and attains a top speed of 250 km/h.

The luxury saloon with fuel consumption and emission figures on a par with a medium-size car can be recognised from the outside by the “BlueEFFICIENCY” badge on the front wings. The S 320 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY sees Mercedes-Benz further extend its line-up of models offering enhanced fuel efficiency and environmental compatibility.

The price for the S 320 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY in Germany is unchanged at €70,864.50 (incl. VAT). The long-wheelbase version costs €78,718.50 (incl. VAT).

The Mercedes experts will be focussing more than ever on avoiding traffic accidents and reducing accident severity, with the driver assistance systems being unveiled in the new E-Class and the model year 2009 S-Class from spring 2009 onwards set to play a crucial role.Mercedes-Benz is implementing a globally unique synergy of sophisticated safety technologies to give its cars extra “senses” and added intelligence. All of which makes Mercedes models part of the “thinking” process – cars that can see, sense and act autonomously. In addition to this, the Mercedes saloons show the way ahead when it comes to occupant protection and set new standards with their “electronic” crumple zones.

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The new GT3 sports car of AUDI AG successfully passed the ultimate endurance test: In the fastest 24-hour race the Nürburgring has ever seen, all four Audi R8 LMS cars that started to the race crossed the finish line. Christian Abt, Jean-François Hemroulle, Pierre Kaffer and Lucas Luhr (Team ABT Sportsline) clinched an unexpected second place in front of 235,000 spectators (throughout the weekend) and grabbed victory right away in the GT3 class for the Audi R8 LMS at its first 24-hour run.

"For the Audi R8 LMS, this race represented a final test under extreme conditions on the world’s longest race track,” said Head of Audi Motorsport Dr. Wolfgang Ullrich. "We were able to demonstrate that our new GT3 sports car is absolutely competitive for customer sport. And the number 97 R8 LMS ran without the slightest problems despite the incredible speed.”

Up to a few hours before the finish there was even a sensation in the air at the Nürburgring: Marc Basseng, Mike Rockenfeller and Frank Stippler in the Audi R8 LMS #99 of Team Phoenix Racing were leading the race for almost 17 hours before the car – at 11:21 am in the Karussell circuit sector – stopped due to a defect in the power transmission system. After replacing the right rear suspension and the drive shaft, the three Germans were able to continue the race with a six-lap gap and – in the end – managed clinching the fifth place.

article from http://www.audi.com/

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This is the Porsche Cayman S-based TechArt GTsport by German tuning firm TechArt.

Underhood, the Cayman's 3.4L six gets the full once-over. Bored out to 99mm, it receives larger pistons, a new crankshaft, sports camshafts, and modified intake and exhaust systems. The net result: displacement grows to 3.8 liters, producing a healthy 385 horsepower and 300 lb-ft of torque.
Cars equipped with Porsche's PASM get TechArt's VarioPlus coil-over suspension, which allows ride-height lowering of up to 25mm and lets the driver select between Sport and Normal suspension modes via a cockpit-mounted control. Regardless of which one is selected, the dampers firm up automatically in sport driving conditions.
Stylish five-spoke TechArt Formula lightweight wheels fitted with low-profile Continental ContiSportContact tires fill the wells nicely -- 19" in front and 20" in back.Everything gets wrapped up in a spectacular body kit.
The new front assembly incorporates a deep apron featuring large intakes and integrated driving lights. A 911 GT3-style vent resides ahead of the trunklid. Sculpted side skirts carry the aggressive look to the rear, where you're immediately drawn to a new bumper with integrated carbon-fiber diffuser and a large carbon-fiber wing featuring an extendable gurney flap.

The BMW works drivers Augusto Farfus (BR), Jörg Müller (DE) and Andy Priaulx (GB) will line up at the 24-hour race on the Nürburgring’s Nordschleife on 23rd/24th May 2009. This will also mark the debut of the BMW M3 GT4 at this legendary endurance race.BMW unveiled the M3 GT4 debut at the 24-hour race on the Nurburgring’s Nordschleife on May 23 - 24 2009. The BMW M3 GT4 will be driven by Augusto Farfus, Jorg Muller and Andy Priaulx. This will also mark the debut of the BMW M3 GT4 at this legendary endurance race. The BMW M3 GT4, the youngest addition to the Customer Racing product range offered by the BMW Motorsport Distribution division, made its debut on the legendary Nordschleife in front of many BMW fans at last weekend’s 56th ADAC Westfalenfahrt.

German tuning house Wimmer Racing Technology has unveiled a new €30,000 ($40,000) package for the Stuttgart supercar to take its already superlative performance to stratospheric levels.