Thursday, October 29, 2009

2010 Saleen S281 Mustang revealed


Following up on the sneak peek we were given of the 2010 Saleen S281 Mustang are these photos that reveal the entire car. The Saleen styling certainly lends itself well to the 2010 Mustang, as it is one of the better looking iterations. Stay tuned next week for lots more from SEMA.




Wednesday, October 28, 2009

Video: Chevrolet previews it's SEMA lineup


A couple of days after showing you the Ford Mustang lineup we'll be seeing at next month's SEMA show in Las Vegas, we now have this nifty video detailing Chevy's lineup. And not surprisingly, they will have a lot of Camaros there. And unlike last year when the car was shiny and new, this time the aftermarket has had a whole year under it's belt to develop new parts.

Tuesday, October 27, 2009

Lingenfelter to bring "2010" Pontiac Trans Am to SEMA


Sadly, Pontiac died a quiet death this year, taking along the possibility of a new Trans Am, or even a Firebird, with it. That hasn't stopped the aftermarket world from bringing a new Firebird to the masses, since the OG Pontiacs were just Camaros with different bumpers anyway.

Following the lead of Kevin Morgan, Lingenfelter Performance Engineering is gearing up to offer it's own version of the Trans Am. And this is the kicker: Lingenfelter's version is even going to resurrect the 455 V8.

While the 455 isn't a Pontiac motor, it is a 655-horsepower engine is based on an aluminum GM LS-series block that's bored and stroked to equal the desired 455 cubes and capped with ported and polished LS7 heads.

Lingenfelter will debut the car next month at SEMA, when we expect to have more details and pricing.


Monday, October 26, 2009

Ford previews 2009 SEMA Mustangs

Ford Mustangs and the aftermarket go together like peanut butter and jelly, and the annual SEMA show is the gold standard of hopped up pony cars. While there are historically great examples of aftermarket Mustangs at SEMA, there are also historically ugly and horrible examples as well. Either way, it's good press for Ford and it sells cars off the lot.

Ford has released a preview of this year's SEMA show and some of the Mustangs we can look forward to seeing under the bright lights in Las Vegas. The list promises to appease pretty much every fan of the venerable pony car, and promises to offer up lots of options for the new-this-year 2010 model.

2010 Ford Mustang by 3dCarbon


Galpin Motor Sports


H&R Special Springs


Paul's High Performance


Steeda Q350


Street Scene Equipment


Mustang RTR-C


Ford Vehicle Personalization


PRESS RELEASE:

LAS VEGAS – The Ford Mustang, America's favorite muscle car, is also the most customized car in the $31.8 billion aftermarket industry, and there will be no shortage of polished-up ponies at this year's SEMA (Specialty Equipment Market Association) show, which is being held Nov. 3-6 at the Las Vegas Convention Center.

"The Mustang is an iconic car," said Melvin Betancourt, Ford SEMA design manager. "People always want to reinvent it, and everybody has an idea about what the next Mustang should be."

According to Allison Revier, Ford Mustang marketing manager, much of Mustang's popularity in the aftermarket is steeped in tradition.

"Many fathers pass down their classic Mustangs to their sons to restore," she said. "They form emotional ties to the car and create special memories."

But what really drives Mustang's success is a universally shared desire among owners to make their steed unique, says Revier. "The Mustang is a 'Look at me' car," she said. "You don't want to have the same Mustang that the guy down the street has. You want to stand apart."

In an effort to feed customization-hungry pony car enthusiasts, Ford recently launched the 2010 Mustang Customizer at www.the2010Mustang.com, a Web site offering an online experience that allows people to create their own virtual Mustangs, choosing colors and decals to complement the all-new design.

"Since we know the first thing customers do when they buy a Mustang is customize it, we wanted to show them everything they could do," explained Revier. "Some of it is concept – changing colors and stripes – but the site also gives us a chance to showcase our Genuine Ford Accessories as well as other aftermarket parts."

The response has been overwhelming. In just two months, more than 1 million custom Mustangs have been built on the site. "The Mustang Customizer allows users to get closer to this new product, as well as connect to the brand in a creative way because they can truly make it their own," said Adam Barrow, Ford digital marketing analyst. "Self-expression is what this brand is about."

Self-expression is evident with the Mustang project vehicles on display at this year's SEMA show, according to Revier. "They all look dramatically different, and that's what I think is so great about it," she said. "Everyone starts out with the same vehicle, but each aftermarket builder turns it into something completely distinctive."

Ernie Bunnell, vice president of sales and marketing for 3dCarbon of Newport Beach, Calif., says his Mustang is unique because it is a modern-day version of 3dCarbon's award-winning 2005 Mustang Boy Racer.

"We are introducing the 2010 Boy Racer – an evolution of styling from the old to the new," said Bunnell. "With its bold, aerodynamic design, this vehicle is sure to turn heads."

In addition to a 3dCarbon Boy Racer body kit, the red Mustang with white racing stripes features a front "E" grille, rear window trim, window louvers with gel decal inserts, headlight splitters and decklid spoiler – all created by 3dCarbon.

The official motto of Steeda Autosports, "Speed matters," is most certainly reflected in the Steeda Mustang that will be on display at SEMA.

"The Steeda Q350 is embodied with the very soul of Mustang performance," said Dario Orlando, president of Steeda Autosports. "It combines the dynamics and agility of a high-performance sports racer with the everyday practicality and comfort of America's original pony car – all in one integrated package."

The Steeda Mustang has an array of modifications, including a functional body kit with unique aerodynamic features, an upgraded street/track suspension system, numerous powertrain enhancements and a top-notch sport interior.

Ford Vehicle Personalization also will have a Mustang on display at SEMA. The vehicle, which features Ford Custom Accessories, sports a unique Carbon Black Metallic custom-colored exterior accented with satin gold 20-inch wheels and gold-tinted headlights and fog lamps. The interior continues the gold theme, with gold leather seat and door trim inserts, seat piping, steering wheel cover and shifter boot.

"Metallic gold is currently very much in fashion throughout the design world," said Mark Conforzi, chief designer, Ford Vehicle Personalization. "There is a wide variety of modern gold finishes that can be seen in fashion apparel designs from Stella McCartney, Dior, Prada and Alexander McQueen. I would like to encourage gold finishes on our future products, in subtle and technical applications presented in a modern way."


Sunday, October 25, 2009

Hennessey receives a call from OnStar while his CTS-V runs an 11.07 second 1/4 mile



In the process of running the quarter mile in 11.07 seconds at 128 mph, this 700hp Hennessey tuned Cadillac CTS-V receives a phone call from OnStar. Hilarity ensues as the OnStar representative has a few select questions for the driver


Friday, October 23, 2009

Ford Racing to announce race only 2010 Mustang Boss 302R


Ahh the Boss. This author's personal favorite Mustang of all time, the 1970 Boss came in 302 and 429 flavors, and made beautiful use of the Grabber Blue hue that is again available on new Mustangs.

2010 is the 40th Anniversary of the 1970 Boss 302's Trans-Am championship, so it only makes sense that Ford would celebrate by offering up a new race only Boss, the 302R. The new Boss will be offered in the Ford Performance Parts catalog, along with the FR500S, FR500C, and FR500CJ.

The 302R is obviously for off road use only, and of course will be very limited in production. Pricing is said to be $79,000.

Two versions of the 302R will be available, with the base package designed to compete in various SCCA and NASA classes and the upgraded version built to Grand-Am KONI Challenge Series specifications.

The base Boss 302R includes a 5.0-liter four-valve V8 pushing out an estimated 400 horsepower as well as a six-speed transmission, race-spec suspension, brakes and tires, and safety equipment including a roll cage and race seats with safety harnesses.

The Grand-Am spec version also gets a sealed high-output race engine, seam-welded body, racing fuel cell, a data acquisition system and more for a cost of $129,000.

Ford Racing is currently taking orders, and judging by sales of their other competition Mustangs you will need to order immediately if you want to get one.

PRESS RELEASE

Ford Racing Announces Limited Edition (50 units) 2010 Boss 302R Mustang

To celebrate the 40th anniversary of the Mustang Boss 302's iconic 1970 Trans-Am championship, and to build on the success of the Mustang FR500C (winner of 2005/2008/2009 Grand-Am Championships), Ford Racing is proud to announce the development of a new race-prepared road racing Mustang – the 2010 Ford Racing Boss 302R. Details of this exciting program have already begun to surface, and we want to ensure our dealers hear about it from us first.

The Ford Racing Mustang Boss 302R will be a factory-built race car, ready for track days and road racing in a number of SCCA and NASA classes. An optional Grand-Am Homologation Package will be available for the Grand-Am KONI Challenge series. While details are intentionally limited at this time, the following should help you assess the product and its appeal.

Program Intent
Continue the winning tradition of Mustang racing

Build limited to 50 units

Off-road only (VIN replaced by serial number)

Estimated pricing, $75,000 WD, $79,000 MSRP

Build/delivery in 3rd -4th Qtr 2010

Ford Racing Part #: M-FR500-BOSSR

Vehicle Content:
400 hp (est.) 5.0L 4V engine

6-speed manual transmission

Roll cage

Race dampers/springs, brakes, tire

Race seats, safety harness

Optional - Grand-Am Homologation Package2010 Grand-Am spec/approved package (Part Number: M-FR500-BOSSR1) for KONI Challenge includes:
Sealed high output race engine with upgraded cooling system

Close ratio 6-speed transmission with integral shifter

Seam-welded body

Race suspension/KONI dampers and ABS brake tuning

Race wheels/tires

Race performance exhaust

High speed balance 1-piece driveshaft

Racing fuel cell

Race data acquisition

Grand-Am spec vehicle is estimated to be $129,000 MSRP ($124,000 WD)

Orders / Feedback
Vehicle orders should be placed with the Ford Racing warehouse, 800-367-3786.

Priority delivery will be given to multiple vehicle orders.

An "off-road only" competition release will be required prior to delivery of the race car to the dealer.

Production of only 50 units is under consideration for 2010, so dealers are encouraged to submit their orders before December 31, 2009.

Questions about ordering should be directed to Wayne Geoffrey (wgeoffre@ford.com).


Wednesday, October 21, 2009

750hp LS7 Lingenfelter Camaro to debut at SEMA


Lingenfelter is known for tuning cars to ridiculous levels of power, and his latest creation is no exception. This 2010 Chevrolet Camaro will roll out at SEMA in Las Vegas next month sporting an LS7 V8 (428 cubic inches) tuned to 750hp and featuring a lot of exotic and unique engine parts.

Co-engineered with Hotchkis, this Camaro is not just a straight line monster. Underneath you'll find a Hotchkis Total Vehicle System that consists of sport springs, adjustable sway bars and a ChassisMax subframe brace. The dampers come from Lingenfelter/Sachs and are fully adjustable, and of course there's Brembo calipers and rotors. 20-inch wheels sport Pirelli 275/40ZR20 tires up front and Pirelli 305/35ZR20s in the rear.

Check out the press release below for full details and specs (including floor mats).

PRESS RELEASE

Santa Fe Springs, Calif. (October 2009) – Two of the most storied names in domestic performance vehicles will join together to debut a stunning, world-class supercar at the 2009 SEMA Show in Las Vegas. Lingenfelter Performance Engineering of Decatur, Indiana, will unveil its latest offering; a 750 horsepower 2010 Camaro SS in the Hotchkis Performance booth at the annual automotive aftermarket trade show. Hotchkis Performance, of Santa Fe Springs, California, developed the suspension system for the Lingenfelter Camaro and has worked with the renowned specialty supercar builder on several projects in the past.

"Over the years we have been involved in dozens of OEM and racing development programs, but this one is special," said Hotchkis Performance founder and president John Hotchkis. "Lingenfelter builds some of the fastest, coolest and most refined domestic supercars in the world, and the fact that they asked us to help develop the suspension for a 200 mph Camaro and then offered to debut the car in our booth is very exciting. Everyone in attendance will certainly be impressed with this stunning piece of high-performance engineering."

The Lingenfelter 750HP Supercharged LS7 2010 Camaro SS is a technological tour de force, featuring a hand-built 427 CID (7.0L) LS7 engine featuring forged pistons, titanium connecting rods and Inconel exhaust valves. A Magnusson/Eaton TVS2300 supercharger breathes into a custom Lingenfelter intake manifold. The result is 750 tractable, usable horsepower. Other highlights include a Hotchkis Total Vehicle System (Sport Springs, Adjustable Sport Sway Bars and ChassisMax Subframe Brace), Brembo brakes, custom LPE 20-inch 10-spoke wheels, an LPE exclusive air management body kit, a custom embroidered interior and a Mito rear view mirror with video display. The Lingenfelter body kit and engine package will also be offered as separate packages.

* Engine
* 427 CID/7.0L LS7 engine
* 8.8:1 compression ratio with forged JE pistons
* Production GM LS7 crankshaft and titanium connecting rods
* LS7 cylinder heads with titanium intake valves and Inconel exhaust valves
* Magnuson/Eaton TVS2300 supercharger
* Custom fabricated LS7 cylinder head supercharger base manifold
* Lingenfelter 14 rib rear drive system with tensioner pulley
* Lingenfelter/ATI Racing 10 rib front accessory drive
* Lingenfelter heavy duty power steering pump
* Lingenfelter low temperature thermostat
* Custom Lingenfelter coil covers
* Corsa stainless exhaust system
* Lingenfelter Camaro SS twin pump fuel system with LPE fuel pump controller


* Drivetrain
* Six-speed manual transmission
* Lingenfelter 6 bolt LS9 twin disk flywheel and clutch assembly
* Heavy duty Driveshaft Shop halfshafts


* Chassis
* Hotchkis Sport Springs
* Lingenfelter double adjustable Sachs shocks
* Hotchkis Sport Suspension Adjustable Sway Bars
* Hotchkis ChassixMax Subframe Brace
* Brembo brake calipers and Brembo rotors


* Wheels/Tires
* Custom LPE 10 Spoke Design Wheels
* 20 X 9.5 Fronts
* 20 X 11 Rears
* PIRELLI 275/40ZR20 Fronts
* PIRELLI 305/35ZR20 Rears


* Lingenfelter Camaro SS Body Package:
* Front Fascia Splitter
* Rocker Extensions
* Carbon Fiber Grille
* Hood with Air Extractors
* Rear Deck Lip/Spoiler
* Rear Fascia Extension with LPE Exhaust Tips
* Custom LPE 10 Spoke Wheels
* Lingenfelter Embroidered Interior
* Lingenfelter badges


* Interior
* Muth turn signal mirrors
* Mito rear view mirror with video display
* Lingenfelter/Grant custom steering wheel
* Lingenfelter CNC machined pedal covers
* Lingenfelter floor mats


Tuesday, October 20, 2009

Plum Crazy Purple Dodge Challenger available in 2010


You had to know this was going to happen shortly after the Dodge Challenger was reintroduced to the world. And it has, as Plum Crazy will again be an official color option for the reborn muscle car in 2010.

Plum Crazy was a surprisingly popular color during the Challenger's heyday, along with it's stablemate the Plymouth Barracuda. The purple hue will be available on R/T and SRT models, and the package also includes a Plum interior and a Plum stripe on the SRT8.

On the outside, buyers can choose between Black Dual Wide Stripes or a newly-optional set of stripes in white. Previous High Impact colors Detonator Yellow and B-5 Blue are no longer available for order.

Also new in 2010 is a Super Track Pack option that allows the driver to fully disengage stability control and adds 245/45ZR20 tires from Goodyear along with an uprated suspension with Load Leveling and Height Control, Performance Steering and heavy-duty disc brakes.


Monday, October 19, 2009

Camaro convertible coming in Q1 2011, but no Camaro sedan or Regal GNX


General Motors recently had a Q and A session over at FastLane blog, and there were some interesting tidbits.

Specifically, CEO Fritz Henderson was asked if GM would build a credible contender to the BMW 3 series, like what GM had previously in the G8. Henderson responded, "[We] do not see a [four door] Camaro in our future. We will continue to look for performance opportunities across our lineup, including in sedans."

The good news concerns the convertible version of the Camaro, of which one participant said "Been patiently waiting for Camaro Convertible. Best guesses are 2012 model in 1st quarter of 2011. With surging popularity of this model is there any chance of GM considering a push for earlier release?" To which Henderson replies, "Good guess and no."

And surprisingly one person asked about a possible GNX version of the new back from the dead Buick Regal, to which Henderson responded "Think you will like what you see in the future Regal alternatives, but do not look for GNX." Bummer.


Sunday, October 18, 2009

Hurst SEMA Camaro auction underway


SEMA, Chevy, eBay and Hurst have teemed up to auction off a Hurst-tuned Camaro with the proceeds going to the SEMA Memorial Scholarship Fund, "a program that fosters industry leadership by supporting the education of students pursuing careers in the automotive aftermarket."

The winner of the auction will not only receive an all expense paid trip to this year's SEMA show in Las Vegas, but also gets the very first Hurst Camaro. The car features a nice array of aftermarket upgrades, and you can view the auction here.

PRESS RELEASE

Hurst/SEMA Camaro Auction

In a nutshell, SEMA, in cooperation with Chevrolet, eBay Motors and Hurst Performance Vehicles, announced that it will auction a special pre-production HURST/Camaro prior to the 2009 SEMA Show. The proceeds are to benefit the SEMA Memorial Scholarship Fund, a program that fosters industry leadership by supporting the education of students pursuing careers in the automotive aftermarket.

This very special HURST/Camaro is serial #3 and is the first HURST/Camaro to be offered to the public. This 445 Horsepower beauty is finished in Hurst's best bad-boy colors; brilliant black with honest-to-goodness real painted silver and red stripes. Hurst hardware could pass for art; especially the massive 20" polished forged aluminum HURST T-2 wheels, a Hurst Billet/Plus short-throw shifter with a special red anodized HARD-DRIVE® billet pistol-grip shift handle, a Hurst AIR-SPEED® rear deck spoiler. The Eibach suspension and Magnaflow stainless performance exhaust system deliver more attitude and performance to match the looks of this stellar performance machine. The interior has a personalized HURST/Camaro dash plaque and logo embroidered floor mats. Signatures from the Hurst Executive Team, Linda Vaughn and "Doc" Watson will be on the car and documentation is provided to complete the car's provenance guaranteeing that it is truly one-of-a-kind.

The winning bidder gets:

HURST/CAMARO EQUIPMENT AND FEATURES

HURST Billet/Plus HARD-DRIVE™ with red anodized aluminum shift handle
HURST 20" polished forged wheels with black and red center cap "H" logos
BFG KDW Performance tires
HURST AIR-SPEED™ Rear Deck Spoiler
HURST Exterior logo graphics: red and black "H" logos
HURST Silver and Red body graphics
HURST/Magnaflow stainless steel exhaust system
HURST/Eibach Suspension
HURST embroidered logo Floor mats
HURST/CAMARO personalized "SEMA Special" interior identification badge
Certificate of Authenticity confirming that this is serial #3 HURST/Camaro
Vehicle signatures from the Hurst Executive Team, Linda Vaughn and "Doc" Watson
HURST logo car cover

SEMA EXPERIENCE FOR TWO INCLUDES:


Two (2) passes to the 2009 SEMA Show in Las Vegas, November 3 - 6
Two (2) passes to the 2009 SEMA Show Banquet on November 5
Two (2) passes to the 2009 SEMA Show eBay Party at the Bellagio on November 4
Two (2) nights at the Las Vegas Hilton during the SEMA Show
An American Airlines flight voucher worth $1000
Transportation to and from the airport, hotel and SEMA Show
Two (2) SEMA Show t-shirts
A photo opportunity with industry celebrity and former spokes model for Hurst Shifter, Linda Vaughn


Thursday, October 15, 2009

Yenko to make a comeback?


It's been 45 years since Don Yenko used GM's COPO (Central Office Production Order) program to build his first hot rod, the Yenko Stinger Corvair. But it's not the Corvair that Yenko is famous for, rather the Nova's and Camaro's he built with the sole purpose of dragstrip (and street light) domination.

And now General Marketing Capital Incorporated (GMCI) owner Jeff Leonard has just taken control of the Yenko name and brand with the promise of new product. Now seems as good a time as any, with American muscle cars alive and kicking.

PRESS RELEASE

ON IT'S 45th ANNIVERSARY - THE YENKO NAME IS ALIVE AND WELL

Avid Car Collector and Yenko Enthusiast Recaptures Yenko Magic with Possible New Yenko Models, Fresh Product Lines

Westminster, Calif. – (October 14, 2009) As the 45th Anniversary of the Yenko legacy draws near, General Marketing Capital Incorporated (GMCI) announced today its ownership of the classic trademark and its plans to revitalize the brand.

To jump start this effort, Yenko owner, enthusiast and GMCI CEO Jeff Leonard, is consulting with several notable limited production vehicle companies in the automotive industry on possible new Yenko project cars as well as upcoming Yenko product lines.

GMCI will also launch a brand-new online home for the Yenko brand in the upcoming weeks, where owners and enthusiasts can find information about upcoming cars and products, access historical information about the brand, register to be a part of the site's forums and much more.

"The muscle car era has made a huge comeback this year and we expect this trend to grow," said Leonard. "The Yenko name is very much a part of that magnificent history and we plan to resurge its magic and its historical significance. Through GMCI's efforts, Don Yenko's name will be kept alive with the highest degree of integrity and respect."

Growing up in Detroit in the shadow of the famous Woodward Avenue during the muscle era heyday, Leonard always had a keen interest in Detroit muscle culture. As a muscle car enthusiast and owner of an original 1968 Yenko Camaro, Leonard shares the enthusiasm and excitement of many towards owning a unique piece of Yenko history.

Originally, the 60s era Yenko car was a special order vehicle, available only through Don Yenko Chevrolet in Canonsburg, PA. Don Yenko used the Central Office Production Order (COPO) program, a program GM used for fleet vehicles like police cars, taxi cabs, etc. to special order the most powerful vehicles available.

Yenko modified his first vehicle, the Chevrolet Corvair, in 1965 for the Sports Car Club of America racing team. Yenko later went on to build the Yenko Super Camaro, Yenko Deuce, Yenko Chevelle, Yenko Super Nova, Yenko Vega Stinger and the Yenko Camaro Turbo Z among the fastest SCCA racing cars ever produced.


Wednesday, October 14, 2009

Mustang for NASCAR Nationwide Series revealed!


The people have been calling for it, as the masses have grown tired of seeing four door family cars that all look the same running around NASCAR tracks. And now Ford is taking the first step of reintroducing muscle cars to NASCAR by bringing it's Mustang to the Nationwide Series.

Ok, so no car in NASCAR really "is" the actual car, just a body with lots of stickers to make it resemble one. And this isn't the big leagues or even Busch. But it is a step in the right direction.

The first new Mustang to see action will be the No. 16 Con-way Freight Mustang driven by Colin Braun for Roush Fenway Racing.

PRESS RELEASE

FORD, ROUSH FENWAY RACING, AND CON-WAY FREIGHT UNVEIL NEW 2010 NATIONWIDE MUSTANG

Truck Series 2008 Rookie of the Year Colin Braun Will Drive the No. 16 Con-way Freight Mustang

CONCORD, N.C., October 13, 2009 – A new era of Mustang racing rolled out here today, piloted by an All-American driver and with a returning sponsor familiar to loyal NASCAR fans.

Three major events were rolled into one today as Ford teamed up with Roush Fenway Racing and Con-way Freight to unveil the No. 16 Con-way Freight Mustang with driver Colin Braun at Roush Fenway Racing headquarters in Concord, N.C.

Ford announced in July that Mustang, the iconic pony car that has raced for all 45 years of its existence, would compete in the NASCAR Nationwide Series beginning in July 2010 when a limited rollout of NASCAR's new car begins at Daytona International Speedway. Today marked the first time the NASCAR Mustang was seen in public.

Braun, 21, a native of Ovalo, Texas, will make the move from the NASCAR Camping World Truck Series, where he was the 2008 Raybestos Rookie of the Year, to a full-time Nationwide program next season, along with Con-way Freight, which has been his sponsor for the last two years. Roush Fenway and Con-way Freight recently agreed on a contract extension to remain as a primary sponsor for 18 Nationwide races within the organization.

"I'm so happy that Con-way Freight decided to move up with me to the Nationwide Series for 2010," Braun said. "They have been a great sponsor for the past two years in the truck series so it means a lot to me that they will continue to support me in the future. I'm also looking forward to driving a Mustang next year. I've always thought they are such incredible cars, but have never owned one. Maybe when I win my first race the guys at Ford will want to give me one of my own."

Mustang has a storied history in motorsports and can claim more than 2,000 professional race wins worldwide. Its iconic standing in the auto industry aside, Mustang brings a breath of fresh air and new sense of excitement to the NASCAR Nationwide Series.

"This truly marks the start of the next era of Mustang racing," said Brian Wolfe, director, Ford North America Motorsports. "We fully expect this Mustang, with drivers like Colin behind the wheel, to start to enjoy the kind of success so many other Mustang racing programs have enjoyed throughout the last four decades.

"Mustang is a proud and historic brand for Ford. This is a car born to race, and NASCAR is the next logical step for its racing pedigree."

Braun and Con-way Freight have had good success together and are experiencing a breakout season in 2009. Braun started the season by capturing his first of his three poles to date in the season-opening race at Daytona, and followed that up with his first NASCAR win, which came at Michigan International Speedway in June. He finished 13th in the point standings last year and currently sits seventh with five races remaining this season.

"We're excited to help unveil the 2010 NASCAR Nationwide Mustang, and to announce Con-way Freight's first-ever sponsorship in the Nationwide Series," said John G. Labrie, president, Con-way Freight. "The opportunity to continue working with Ford, Roush Fenway Racing and Colin Braun is a great one for us. Colin's talent on the track and competitive spirit remind us of our more than 20,000 employees and the commitment they bring to their jobs every day. All of us at Con-way Freight look forward to supporting Colin all the way to another Rookie of the Year win in 2010."

Con-way Freight's first venture into racing took place in 2005. In 2006, the company rebranded and changed its name, and a racing sponsorship provided an ideal opportunity to build awareness of the Con-way Freight brand in an entertaining and exciting way for both customers and employees.

"Through the first five years of Con-way Racing, we saw that the program was a huge win for Con-way Freight and our customers, so we made the decision to move forward with a new affiliation with Ford, Roush Fenway Racing and Colin Braun," said Bill Wynne, vice president of marketing, Con-way Freight. "We've seen tremendous rewards from those relationships, and that's why we're here today to announce a new era of Con-way Racing action in the NASCAR Nationwide Series."

Mustang currently competes professionally in the NHRA Funny Car and Pro Stock divisions and places like the Grand-Am KONI Challenge, SCCA World Challenge, and the Mustang Challenge Series. In addition, thousands of Mustangs see action by grassroots racers at road courses and drag strips all across America.

"I have been a Mustang owner and enthusiast for many years myself so this is an exciting day to see this car racing in NASCAR," said car owner Jack Roush. "My teams have won several road racing championships over the years in Mustangs, and I look forward to winning more with Colin, Carl (Edwards) and Ricky (Stenhouse, Jr.). With the continued support of Ford and Con-way Freight we plan to give Colin the opportunity for his second Rookie of the Year title in NASCAR, and ultimately a Nationwide Series championship."


Tuesday, October 13, 2009

Ford to reveal 2011 Mustang powertrain upgrades at L.A. Auto Show


The Los Angeles Auto Show is shaping up to be a big one for Ford, as they will be bringing along the US version of the Fiesta as well as letting the world know what types of engine and power offerings we will be getting in 2011 for the venerable Mustang.

Derrick Kuzak, Ford's global product development chief, stated on FoxNews.com's Fox Car Report that all of our Mustang questions would be answered in Los Angeles this December. Rumors regarding said engine options include a hi-po V6 putting out over 300hp, and a 400hp 5.0L V8, as well as an aluminum block 5.4L for the Shelby GT500.


Monday, October 12, 2009

Drop Top Customs bringing Camaro convertible to SEMA


The convertible version of the new Camaro has been an on again, off again affair that appears to be on again. While we wait on GM to decide what exactly it wants to do, Drop Top Customs will be showing off the car you see here, a Camaro SS convertible.

Drop Top is the same company that brought you their own Dodge Challenger convertible, and they've done basically the same thing to this Camaro. If you want one done yourself, they'll charge you a cool $18,000.


Sunday, October 11, 2009

2010 Saleen S281 Mustang is a tease


Saleen Performance Vehicles is getting ready to introduce their latest 2010 based Mustang, the S281, at SEMA in Las Vegas. And like many vehicles lately, they just can't wait to show it to the public. These three teaser images give us something to chew on until the car makes it's official debut next month. Stay tuned for more!



Thursday, October 8, 2009

The Cheetah returns, Cobra has some competition!


The 1964 Cheetah was designed by Don Edmunds, and marketed by Bill Thomas to be a direct competitor in the lightweight muscle car segment. Unfortunately it was not to be, as a fire at the factory that was assembling the cars ended production after only 23 cars were built.

But now the Cheetah will live on, thanks to an Arizona company called Cheetah Continuation Turnkey Collectibles. Prices start at $88,500, which includes a space frame chassis with fully independent suspension, a 350 cubic-inch Chevy V8 with dual quads mated up to a Muncie M-20 four-speed transmission and a hand-laid fiberglass body built to the same specifications as the original car.


Tuesday, October 6, 2009

Pontiac G8 lives on as a special edition Holden in Australia


While we in the US are losing the Pontiac G8, and Pontiac as a whole, the Austrailians are gaining the G8 in the form of a pair of special edition Holden models.

The Holden VE Commodore SS V-Series Special Edition loses the Holden usual grille in favor of the Pontiac's. Only the badges appear to be different. The "International Special Pack" features leather interior and 18 inch wheels with the 3.0 direct injection V6 and six speed auto.

At least we know that the car wasn't sent to the great parts bin in the sky. Read more in the press release below.

PRESS RELEASE:

Holden to Launch Two New Special Editions

Holden will hit the streets with two new special edition models delivering very different approaches to Australia's best-selling car range.

The SS V-Series Special Edition sedan, Sportwagon and Ute will achieve immediate attention with styling treatments even more aggressive than Holden's established performance hero models.

For motorists seeking great value, International sedan and Sportwagon models will deliver $7,500 of extra features (based on recommended retail price of extra features) including leather seat trim and 18 inch alloy wheels.

Holden Director of Marketing Philip Brook said the two offerings highlighted the different ways in which Holden special editions stimulated demand in Australia's best-selling range.

"These vehicles cater to motorists at both ends of the Commodore-buying spectrum - those looking for great value and those looking for striking performance looks," Brook said.

"SS V-Series has always been about sports performance and ultimate road presence. Now we've dialled it up even further.

"The International edition is even better value when you combine extra features with the advanced 3.0 litre direct injection engine and 6-speed automatic transmission."


SS V-Series Special Edition Sedan, Sportwagon and Ute

The SS V-Series Special Edition will boast a new aggressive twin nostril front fascia with unique lower splitter and twin letter-box hood scoops. The sedan variant will feature a decklid spoiler and chrome highlights.

On sale from November, the SS V-Series Special Edition will be available in three colours – Phantom black, Red Hot and Voodoo blue.

The Recommended Retail Prices (RRP), not including dealer delivery or Government charges, for the three SS V-Series Special Edition packs are carryover from the standard SS V-Series models and are as follows:

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VE Ute SS V-Series Special Edition (man) $47,490 RRP
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VE Commodore sedan SS V-Series Special Edition (man) $55,290 RRP
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VE Sportwagon SS V-Series Special Edition (man) $57,290 RRP
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Six-speed automatic transmission +$2,000 RRP


The SS V-Series Special Edition Ute will make its debut at this year's Deni Ute Muster which starts on Friday 2 October.

"Holden has sponsored the Deni Ute Muster for 11 consecutive years and its popularity continues to grow," Brook said.

"The event that attracts the country's most passionate Ute enthusiasts is the perfect place to launch this special edition Ute."


Special Edition International Sedan and Sportwagon

The new International offers an impressive level of standard features, five star safety and the performance and refinement of the all new 3.0 litre Spark Ignition Direct Injection V6 engine and six-speed automatic transmission. The new powertrain offers fuel efficiency that is better than some major four cylinder competitors.

In addition to Omega, the Special Edition Commodore International includes:

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18 inch alloy wheels (4)
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Berlina front grille
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Leather appointed seat trim
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Leather wrapped steering wheel
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Bluetooth for compatible mobile phones
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International badge
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Chrome decklid eyebrow moulding (sedan only)
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Rear Park Assist (sedan only as already standard on all Sportwagon models)

On Sale from November, the driveaway pricing for the two International packs is as follows:

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VE Commodore International Sedan (auto) $35,990 driveaway
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VE Commodore International Sportwagon (auto) $37,990 driveaway
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Metallic paint $500

A 3.6 litre dual fuel LPG Alloytec V6 engine with four-speed automatic transmission is available on Commodore International sedan only.


Monday, October 5, 2009

Video: 2010 Ford Mustang FR500CJ shows off it's undercarriage



Showing off what is obviously a nice blend of power and suspension tweaks, the 2010 Mustang FR500CJ looks quite capable in this testing video. Obviously the new aluminum engine is helping shed some weight off the front end.


Sunday, October 4, 2009

Steeda previews 2010 Q Series Mustang


Steeda has a long and storied history and tradition of building great Mustang parts, as well as tuned rolling cars you can buy whole. Their latest offering is the 2010 Q Series Mustang, and they are giving us a preview ahead of the car's SEMA debut.

Details are scarce, but we do have these two pictures of the car to give you a small taste of what the car will offer. We would obviously expect some type of supercharger, minor interior upgrades, and a host of suspension parts.

PRESS RELEASE:

A few months ago we teased you with a disguised "sneak peak" of our latest high performance Mustang - now, in advance of it's upcoming official debut in a few short weeks, we are pulling the wraps off and are releasing a much more revealing image of the newest, meanest, and best styled Steeda Mustang to ever rip the asphalt: The 2010 Steeda Q Mustang Series!

With an arresting exterior appearance, that includes an aggressive front air dam that incorporates ample cooling airflow while improving aerodynamic efficiency of the vehicle. This new Q-Series, the result of ongoing intense development and refinement, is guaranteed to continue Steeda Autosport's traditions of winning both on and off the racetracks.

With hundreds of hours of Computer Aided Design work completed, and extensive computer and wind tunnel analysis completed, as well as vigorous road coarse testing done in secret to avoid the prying eyes of spy photographers, we are confident that we have evoked the next evolution of our halo performance series that is completely without compromise today.

The development of this vehicle series is yet another example how the entire Team at Steeda Autosports takes great pride in designing, engineering, and manufacturing our products with the single goal of providing our discerning customers with the highest quality, race proven and track tested vehicles/components available anywhere.

"Simply put – no other car has won more races and set more records in production based classes than the Steeda Q Series of high performance Mustangs and I am confident that our 2010 version will carry on that same Steeda tradition" commented Dario Orlando, the founder of Steeda Autosports, "In all of our Q-Series of high performance Mustangs, we never compromise or take shortcuts, our customers who demand maximum performance, bullet-proof reliability, and class leading race honed styling wouldn't have it any other way!"

This latest evolution of the limited production Q-Series Mustang series will have it's official public debut at the 2009 SEMA Show in Las Vegas, Nevada on November 3, 2009. Follow future Press releases for complete details about its official reveal – you will not want to miss it!


Thursday, October 1, 2009

2012 Mustang GT500 to have 500hp twin turbo Coyote V8?


The Ford Shelby Mustang GT500 is well renowned for it's power and ability to move quickly in a straight line. About the only thing that folks complain about is the car's porky curb weight. With the car being awfully heavy, it makes it tough to exhibit the type of handling and fuel economy that Ford would probably like to have with the car.

Part of what makes the car heavy is the cast iron block of it's 5.4L V8. With the heft of that, combined with extra equipment, the GT500 is 400 pounds heavier than a GT. We already know that the Mustang is getting powertrain updates in the next couple of years, with EcoBoost engines coming out and the debut of the new 5.0L "Coyote" V8.

Now PickupTrucks.com is reporting that for 2012, the Coyote should spawn a twin turbo variant with over 500 hp for the GT500. With an aluminum block, this engine figures to be markedly lighter than the current engine, which should give the car much better handling. And then there's this report in Autoguide.com that happens to say that there will be an aluminum block 5.4 in the 2011 GT500.

Maybe it's just us, but the latter option sounds a little more realistic. There is already an aluminum version of the 5.4L (see: Ford GT), and a twin turbo 5.0 putting out 500hp would have to be detuned considerably to "only" put out that kind of power.