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Video: Viper beat again, this time by less powerful Corvette Stingray

Filed under: Coupe, Performance, Videos, Chevrolet, SRT

Edmunds compares the Viper and the Corvette Stingray and finds that the Corvette beats the Viper in the majority of tests.

Alright, there’s no way the 455-horsepower Chevrolet Corvette Stingray beat the 640-hp SRT Viper, you say. Well, you’re partially right. Edmunds ran them down a quarter-mile drag strip and the Viper did it in 11.72 seconds at 124.09 miles per hour to the Stingray’s 12.39 seconds at 113.73 mph. The Viper did 0-60 miles per hour in 3.5 seconds compared to the the Corvette’s 4.1-second run. But the Chevrolet definitely pulled above its weight, and we see once again that horsepower doesn’t mean everything after it beats the Viper in the other three tests.

The Corvette and Viper have long been arch nemeses, and SRT head Ralph Gilles had the Viper TA built after the Corvette ZR1 handily beat it by two seconds at Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca this year.

But no matter the test, if it isn’t in a straight line, Edmunds shows that the new base Corvette can outdo the Viper with much less horsepower. On the skidpad with narrower tires, the Stingray pulled 1.05 g compared to the Viper’s 1.01 g. The Viper’s horsepower advantage couldn’t overcome the Corvette’s predictable handling in the slalom test, where the V10-powered SRT maxed out at 72 mph to the Corvette’s 73.5 mph. Edmunds‘ Chris Walton describes the Corvette’s brakes as out of this world, able to stop it from 60 mph in 99 feet. The Viper does that in 110 ft.

The never-ending Viper vs. Corvette showdown continues, and it seems Chevy’s newest sports car has the fundamentals down pat – just add power. Edmunds didn’t pick an overall winner – we think a track test will solve that. But the video we included below is an early glimpse into the new Corvette’s performance potential, and so far we like the look of it.

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Viper beat again, this time by less powerful Corvette Stingray originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 28 Aug 2013 19:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Subaru offering more powerful WRX STI for UK buyers

Filed under: Car Buying, Sedan, Performance, Hatchback, Subaru, UK

2011 Subaru WRX STI

2011 Subaru WRX STI – Click above for high-res image gallery

For a limited time, Subaru UK is offering customers a slightly more powerful version of its Evo-battling WRX STI. Between April 1st and June 30th, buyers can fit their four- or five-door STIs with a power package, good for an additional 20 horsepower and 32 pound-feet of torque.

This means the turbocharged 2.5-liter flat-four now puts out 320 hp and 332 lb-ft of twist. What’s more, the torque punch is now delivered at 3400 rpm – 600 rpm sooner than in the standard car. According to AutoExpress, these upgrades are enough to shave three-tenths of a second off of the STI’s 0-62 mile-per-hour time.

In addition to more power, Subaru will be fitting its STI with a standard Pioneer navigation system at no extra, complete with Bluetooth connectivity and iPod integration. Pricing for the upgraded STI starts at £32,995 (a whopping $53,572 based on current exchange rates).

Gallery: 2011 Subaru Impreza WRX STI: First Drive

[Source: AutoExpress]

Subaru offering more powerful WRX STI for UK buyers originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 05 Apr 2011 18:21:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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VW Beetle to debut in China; powerful Audi-engined model in the cards?

Filed under: China, Hatchback, Volkswagen, Shanghai Motor Show

2012 Volkswagen Beetle Spy shots

2012 Volkswagen Beetle spy shots – Click above for high-res image gallery

The latest from the Volkswagen bunker in Wolfsburg is that the second-generation New Beetle (henceforth to be known mercifully as ‘Beetle’) is officially dropping its towel to the floor at the Shanghai Motor Show in April. Whooda thunk it just five years ago? The Beetle is an American pop phenomenon, and it smarts a bit to have lost even that cachet to the all-powerful Chinese venue.

Early word on the Beetle is that it is dynamically far sportier than the outgoing matzoh-ball built exclusively for people desperate for cutesy-ness and absolute symmetry. Oh, yes, and rear passengers without heads.

While Europe is not intended to get the sensational 335-horsepower “W28” in-line five-cylinder turbo seen so far in both the Audi TT RS and RS3, it would seem there is a plot afoot to bring such a Beetle to North America. “The Beetle,” a source in Wolfsburg tells Autoblog, “is so much sportier now. It’s much more appealing to male buyers as well.” Some off-the-record remarks tell of a Beetle thus equipped that is better on the track than another VW R coupe that North America sadly still doesn’t get.

The message? No more dung beetles.

Gallery: 2012 Volkswagen New Beetle: Spy Shots

2012 Volkswagen New Beetle: Spy Shots

[Images: KGP Photography]

VW Beetle to debut in China; powerful Audi-engined model in the cards? originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 22 Mar 2011 14:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Rumormill: More powerful Audi TT RS Plus on the way

Filed under: Convertible, Coupe, Performance, Audi, Rumormill

Audi TT RS in white

Audi TT RS – Click above for high-res image gallery

Is there a more powerful Audi TT RS on the horizon? According to some leaked information, that appears to be the case. An iteration of the two-door has appeared in internal Audi documents with the name TT RS Plus. It’s power output is listed at 355 horsepower, which is a 20 pony jump over the current 335-hp TT RS.

It may not sound like much, but if Audi can shed some weight, in addition to the horsepower increase, then it should have an even more serious sports car on its hands. The leaked document states that the car will be introduced in May, so until that happens we’ll dream that it looks something like the DTM-inspired TT RS we drooled over back in October 2010.

Gallery: Audi TT RS and Roadster

[Source: WorldCarFans]

Rumormill: More powerful Audi TT RS Plus on the way originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 09 Mar 2011 13:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Maserati to present more powerful GranCabrio Sport in Geneva

Filed under: Convertible, Performance, Geneva Motor Show, Maserati

Maserati GranCabrio Sport

Maserati GranCabrio Sport – Click above for high-res image gallery

When the Maserati GranTurismo made its debut at the 2007 Geneva Motor Show, it came equipped with a 400-horsepower, 4.2-liter V8 made by Ferrari. A year later, Maserati shoehorned a larger 4.7-liter unit under the GT’s hood, boasting 434 horsepower. But when the GranCabrio – known as the GranTurismo Convertible in the United States – hit the market, the Modense automaker opted to skip the smaller engine and go straight for the 4.7 from the S. Now the Trident marque is doing one better with the new GranCabrio Sport.

Due to be unveiled in Geneva, the top-spec four-seat convertible packs an upgraded version of the 4.7-liter V8. 450 horsepower are driven through the same ZF six-speed auto as the standard model, but re-calibrated with the MC Auto Shift programming for quicker response. The Skyhood active suspension has also been optimized, along with the upgraded brakes, and as you can see from the images in the gallery below, the automaker has also applied a number of sporty touches to the styling as well. You can read the full press release after the jump

Gallery: Maserati GranCabrio Sport

[Source: Maserati]

Continue reading Maserati to present more powerful GranCabrio Sport in Geneva

Maserati to present more powerful GranCabrio Sport in Geneva originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 21 Feb 2011 13:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Chicago 2011: 2012 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 is the fastest, most powerful ever [w/video]

Filed under: Chicago Auto Show, Coupe, Performance, Chevrolet

2012 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1

2012 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 – Click above for high-res image gallery

The 1969 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 was a performance monster, featuring an all-aluminum engine displacing 427 cubic inches that was originally intended for racing. Just 69 units were built, and they are highly coveted by collectors today. Perhaps it shouldn’t come as a surprise, then, that Chevrolet chose to resurrect this classic moniker for what it is calling the fastest and most technologically advanced Camaro ever built.

At this point, specifications are still preliminary, but Chevrolet is estimating that its supercharged and intercooled 6.2-liter LSA V8 engine will put out around 550 horsepower and 550 pound-feet of torque. Those ponies will be sent to the rear wheels via a six-speed manual transmission using a dual-disc clutch that’s necessary to properly harness all those horses. There’s also a dual-mode exhaust system that alters the sound level and character in response to engine rpm.

Chevrolet tells us that its goal was to build “a Camaro intended to reach optimal lap times on top road-racing circuits and excellent driving dynamics on the street.” To that end, the 2012 Camaro ZL1 will be fitted with a new electric power steering system and Magnetic Ride Control that will offer both Tour and Sport modes. Brembo brakes measuring 14.6-inch (370 mm) in the front (with six-piston calipers) and 14.4-inch (365 mm) at the rear (with four-piston calipers) bring it all back down from speed.

Naturally, there’s an updated body kit to differentiate the ZL1 from lesser machines. Most notable are the redesigned fascia that features a front splitter, vertical fog lamps and air intakes designed for brake cooling. There’s also a new aluminum hood with a raised, satin black-finish carbon fiber insert that uses a unique air extractor that is said to increase downforce by directing oncoming air over the car. There’s also a spoiler at the rear of the car and new 20-inch aluminum wheels fitted with specially developed Goodyear Supercar F2 tires.

Chevrolet promises to have the Camaro ZL1 on dealer lots in the beginning of 2012, and it will be available in any color offered on the Camaro. We can hardly wait. In the meantime, check out all the details in the video and press release after the break, and feel free to drool over the high-res image gallery below.

Gallery: 2012 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1: Chicago 2011

2012 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1

Gallery: 2012 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1

2012 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1

[Source: Chevrolet]

Continue reading Chicago 2011: 2012 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 is the fastest, most powerful ever [w/video]

Chicago 2011: 2012 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 is the fastest, most powerful ever [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 09 Feb 2011 10:54:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Brabus claims the world’s fastest, most powerful sedan with new SV12 R Biturbo 800

Filed under: Aftermarket, Sedan, Performance, Mercedes-Benz, Luxury

Brabus SV12R Biturbo 800

Brabus SV12 R Biturbo 800 – Click above for high-res image gallery

Mercedes-Benz is no stranger to wickedly powerful and insanely fast luxury sedans. After all, its AMG models are among the fastest and most powerful on the market. Leave it to specialty Benz tuner Brabus, then, to take it the extra mile… and then some.

The freshly unveiled Brabus SV12 R Biturbo 800 claims the mantle as both the fastest and most powerful sedan on offer. To get there, the German tuner has tweaked the 5.5-liter V12 from the S600 to 6.3 liters, fitted a new crankshaft, camshafts, cylinder heads, air intake, exhaust, turbochargers, quad interoolers and bigger pistons, and of course, remapped the ECU. The result is a massive 788 horsepower (800 in metric form, hence the name) and 1,047 pound-feet of torque. The twist is so massive, however, that Brabus had to electronically limit it to 811 lb-ft. Don’t worry – performance hasn’t been hindered. 0 to 62 sprints are managed in just 3.9 seconds and its Autobahn-devouring top speed is electronically limited to just 217 miles per hour.

Bigger brakes help keep the beast under control, as well as a new limited-slip differential. A full aero kit and upgraded rolling stock are on hand, as well, completing the “we mean business” look. Check it out for yourself in the gallery below, and hit the jump for Brabus’ official release.

Gallery: Brabus SV12 R Biturbo 800

[Source: Brabus]

Continue reading Brabus claims the world’s fastest, most powerful sedan with new SV12 R Biturbo 800

Brabus claims the world’s fastest, most powerful sedan with new SV12 R Biturbo 800 originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 26 Oct 2010 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Aston-Martin One-77 world’s most powerful normally-aspirated road car? [w/video]

Filed under: Coupe, Performance, Videos, Aston Martin, UK, Luxury

Aston Martin One-77

2011 Aston Martin One-77 – Click above to watch video after the jump

Aston Martin continues to march forward with its One-77. The soon-to-be-ultra-rare hypercar is closer than ever to production, and according to the minds behind its creation, when it hits the street, it will boast the world’s most powerful naturally-aspirated production car engine. With 750 horsepower and 750 lb-ft of torque, the 7.3-liter V12 is a marvel of automotive and acoustic engineering.

Despite the company’s plans to produce just 77 examples of its halo model, Aston Martin says that it’s bent on making sure that each and every one of the vehicles can stand up to the same level of abuse as the rest of its production fleet. That means that somewhere out there, a One-77 prototype is being flogged in the world’s most brutal climates.

Aston Martin has released the fourth installment of its video series on the One-77, complete with all of the long, slow-motion shots your little heart could possibly desire and a glorious soundtrack. If you’re lucky enough to have secured a One-77 for yourself, the company says that deliveries should begin during the first half of 2011. Hit the jump to take a look and for a quick read over the press release.

Gallery: Aston Martin One-77 at Galpin Motors

[Source: Aston Martin]

Continue reading Aston-Martin One-77 world’s most powerful normally-aspirated road car? [w/video]

Aston-Martin One-77 world’s most powerful normally-aspirated road car? [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 21 Sep 2010 19:26:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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2011 Toyota Tundra gets more powerful V6

Filed under: Truck, Work, Toyota

Toyota Tundra

2011 Toyota Tundra – Click above for high-res image gallery

The full-size truck market here in the United States is about as accommodating as a pool full of piranhas and rusty razor blades. In this one, shining segment, the Big Three enjoy unparalleled dominance; safe from attack from intruders from Japan and Germany thanks to a quirk in the tax structure and a lifetime worth of experience in crafting vehicles built to work.

Toyota is attempting to lure buyers away from the F-150, Silverado and Ram by offering a more powerful V6 engine in the 2011 Tundra. The automaker says that the reworked 4.0-liter V6 now packs the company’s variable valve-timing technology, helping it churn out a full 270 horsepower. That’s a bump of around 34 ponies compared to last year. Similarly, torque will see a nudge up to 278 pound-feet of twist, though the company hasn’t said where in the rev band those numbers show up. Toyota has been using its twin variable valve timing system on both its 4.6- and 5.7-liter V8s to increase power and fuel economy for years, but this is the first time it has shown up on the smaller displacement six-pot. Hit the jump for the full press release.

Gallery: 2011 Toyota Tundra

[Source: Toyota]

Continue reading 2011 Toyota Tundra gets more powerful V6

2011 Toyota Tundra gets more powerful V6 originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 10 Sep 2010 17:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Whoops! MT discovers Ford Edge Sport slower than less powerful SEL model

Filed under: Crossover, Ford

2011 Ford Edge – Click above for high-res image gallery

According to popular American folklore, you should always buy the biggest engine available. Such thinking likely became prevalent in the 1950s, when the American automotive industry was busy building new V8 engines, experimenting with multiple carburetors and high compression, and generally discovering the art of hot-rodding. Gas prices? Fuel economy? Pfft. It was a great time to be an American.

These days, life isn’t quite so simple. There are countless reasons to consider a downsized powerplant. First off, we all care about fuel mileage and many of us care about emissions. Then there’s the cost consideration, and, finally, the biggest engine isn’t always the best performer. Proof of such can be seen in the new 2011 Ford Edge, that we just drove ourselves and that was recently put through the full testing regime by the boys at Motor Trend.

There are currently two V6 engines available in the Edge (a 2.0-liter EcoBoost is on the way in a few months), a 3.5-liter and a 3.7, which comes straight from the Mustang. Power for the smaller engine comes in at 280 horses and 253 pound-feet of torque. The larger 3.7 puts out 305 horses and 280 lb-ft and is available only in the Edge Sport. So, the Sport is the fastest, right?

Not so fast… literally. MT clocked a 7.1-second run to 60 in the base Edge, but only managed a disappointing 7.6 seconds in the 3.7-powered Edge Sport. Apparently, the problem is weight. The base Edge tipped MT’s scales at 4075 pounds while the Sport came in at an obese 4405, part of which can be explained by the addition of all-wheel drive. In any case, the Edge Sport, with its massive 22-inch wheels and wide tires, can’t keep up with the base Edge in a straight line.

On the flip side, the AWD Edge Sport (with those aforementioned oversize wheels and tires) handily out-handled its base model sibling. In other words, this is a case where you need to pick your poison, either handling or straight-line acceleration. And of course the upcoming EcoBoost will add another interesting option to consider in a few short months.

Gallery: 2011 Ford Edge: First Drive

[Source: Motor Trend]

Whoops! MT discovers Ford Edge Sport slower than less powerful SEL model originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 23 Aug 2010 19:24:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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