http://www.maxauto.co.za/CntView.aspx?CatID=26&CntID=940
Manhart Racing has unveiled a V10-powered BMW "M3" E91 Estate.
Now, let that sink in for a second. BMW doesn't make an M3 Estate, and Manhart equipped one with the M5's 5.0-liter V10 engine instead of the M3's 4.0-liter V8! If that isn't insane enough, the company also added revised engine electronics and a HJS stainless-steel exhaust system (with two 200-cell racing catalytic convertors) which allows the engine to produce 405 kW.
Backed up by various M-spec parts (it uses the seven-speed SMG transmission and 100% limited slip differential from the M5 E60, while the axles and steering system come from the M3 E90), the M3 Estate rockets from 0 to 100 km/h in 4.3 seconds, before topping out at 324 km/h.
Other performance tweaks include a Bilstein PSS10 coilover suspension, a Stoptech braking system (with six-piston calipers and 380mm brake discs up front / four-piston calipers and 355mm brake discs out back), and RÄD Monza three-part forged wheels wrapped in Hankook S1 Evo tires.
While the performance is mind boggling, the styling is fairly typical. The exterior receives a traditional M3 body kit, while the interior boasts leather and Alcantara upholstery, carbon fiber trim, and heated sport seats.
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Senner Whitelady Z Unleashed
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Senner Tuning has a new preliminary tuning package for the Nissan 370 Z Coupe. The Whitelady, a name reminscent of Z car heritage like the Fairlady, is already a competent tool. But we know there's always more to squeeze out.
Using the same 3.7-litre V6 Senner has upped power by 15kW from the standard 244kW to 259kW. The engineers did this by installing a new Invidia stainless steel exhaust system with improved air flow and larger tailpipes (101mm diameter). More performance is currently being developed.
Technical changes include a lower suspension system - 50mm up front and 45mm at the rear, adjustable compression damping and an increased track width. The wheels are light alloys measuring 9x20 at the front and 10x20 at the rear. They come in either Racing White or Matt Black Polish. Fitted tyres measure 245/35 R20 and 275/30 R20 respectively.
Senner is currently working on a body kit that consists of carbon fibre accessories, a front apron, a rear apron and a rear spoiler. Stay tuned.
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2010 Audi A1 Details Emerge
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CAR magazine UK has reported on its candid conversation with Audi executives regarding the A1. According to CAR, the A1 will not only come in hatchback form but also as cabriolet and estate models potentially including quattro AWD.
"We will start with the three-door version with several different engine variants," Schwarzenbauer told CAR. "Will we do further models? Look at what we do with the A3 range - we could something similar with the A1."
That means probably anything from a 1.2-litre up to 1.8-litre turbo units, both petrol and diesel. Because the A1 will be a direct rival to the MINI, which is busy testing an electric model (MINI e), it may be safe to assume that alternative power sources are also on the cards here. We'd definitely be up for a performance S1 as well. And since MINI has all sorts of variations, including SUVs, two-seat Coupes and Roadsters coming up, expect the A1 to follow suit with similar offerings and even a possible Q1 SUV.
In terms of basic looks Audi has already given clues through the Metroproject Concept car (pictured here). The A1 is very important to Ingolstadt as it will add greater volumes and spur the company on with its plans to overtake BMW as the world's largest premium car manufacturer by 2015.
Unfortunately the A1 does not quite feature in the Audi's US plans as yet. Executives have said as much on a number of occasions.
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