Video: 2011 Ford Mustang GT 5.0 in action

The big muscle car news for 2010 is that the 2011 Ford Mustang (which goes on sale in spring of 2010) is packing some serious heat in the form of a 32 valve, aluminum 5.0 displacement engine. This modern reiteration of a past legend pumps out a stout 412hp and 390 lb-ft of torque, and the new GT proudly wears a pair of 5.0 badges on it's fenders, just like the old days.

Now that Ford has come out and revealed lots of juicy details about it's new V8, we have this video showing a new 5.0 powered GT with the Track Pack option being driven around. Unfortunately you won't see any tire smoking action, but it's all you got for now. Be sure and check out the other video below showing the 5.0 on the dyno putting down it's 412 ponies and almost making it to the 7,000 rpm redline.

2011 Ford Mustang GT 5.0 pics slip out a little early

The 2011 Ford Mustang GT and it's new 5.0L V8 have been two of this year's worst kept secrets. And keeping up with what has proven to be the norm with this car, we now have a picture of both the car and the engine leaked before the car's official debut at the Detroit Auto Show.

The car itself is no surprise, as we've already seen the '11 V6 powered 'stang, and it's not much different visually from the 2010 model. The biggest news here is the retro goodness of it's 5.0 badges on the front fenders. Are there ten car badges in the world that are more recognizable?

The 5.0 itself is a beautiful manifesto of intake piping snaking around the aluminum engine. No plastic shroud here to cover up all the glory of it's 412 hp and 390 lb-ft of torque. Check back next week when we'll have the details of the official unveiling.

1995 Ford GT90 concept up for auction

The Ford GT90 was a rare concept car that looks just as cool and futuristic as it did in 1995 when it was introduced to the world. Even today it sports an impressive amount of gusto, with a quad-turbocharged 6.0-liter V12 that puts out around 720 horsepower. It's body is made out of carbon fiber, and it has an estimated 250 mph top speed.

And now someone lucky is going to get a shot to own it. RM Auctions has announced that the one and only GT90 will be available at it's Arizona sale. This is the first time that the GT90 Concept has been publicly for sale at auction, and RM claims that it is in "excellent running condition, having been properly stored and maintained over the years." No estimated price is given, but as you can imagine it will probrably bring a pretty penny.



VEHICLE DESCRIPTION COURTESY RM AUCTIONS

Est. 720 bhp, 6.0 liter quad-turbocharged mid-engine V12, five-speed manual gearbox, four-wheel independent suspension, and four wheel ventilated disc brakes. Wheelbase: 116"

The one-off GT90 Concept Car, labeled immediately as "the world's mightiest supercar" by Ford Motor Company on December 6, 1994, was the spiritual successor to the Ford GT40, the product of a colossal feud in the early 1960s between the Blue Oval from Dearborn and the Prancing Horse of Northern Italy. The GT90 draws from the design cues of its heritage and pays homage to the famed Le Mans-winning Ford GT40s of the 1960s, which were created after the failed attempt by Ford to buy out Ferrari.

GT40 Heritage

The failed acquisition of Ferrari only strengthened Henry Ford II's resolve to beat Ferrari, and he therefore decided to take on the Commendatore head-on in international sports car racing. There was very little interest in this form of racing in America at the time, but Ford was prepared to gamble that European wins, Le Mans in particular, would capture the country's imagination. He was right.

After the Ferrari debacle, Henry Ford II declared that he wanted to win Le Mans in 1966, and Ford's Lee Iacocca and Leo Beebe were given the job of forming Ford Advanced Vehicles. Instructed by Henry Ford II to spend whatever money necessary to develop a racing program that would beat Ferrari in the most public of ways, the team went to work.

Ford's idea was to develop a car that could be built around the 1963 Indianapolis 4.2-liter pushrod engine. The mid-engined coupe that the company had in mind was to be the very cutting edge of modern GT car design with careful attention paid to aerodynamics. Ford realized that many of their plans were echoed in the Lola GT, designed and built by Eric Broadly at his workshop at Bromley in England. Broadly, too, had seen the potential of the Ford V8 as a GT racing engine and incorporated a stock 260 cubic inch version in his car, first exhibited at the London Racing Car Show in January 1963. As it happened, the Lola GT was 40 inches high. The Ford GT would also be this height, and it is for this reason that the car was christened the GT40.

The first two prototype Ford GT40s were launched in April 1964, and the GT40's first race was the 1,000 kilometer at the Nürburgring on May 31. Phil Hill qualified the blue and white coupe second to John Surtees's Ferrari 275P, and although the car retired with a broken suspension bracket, the GT40 had shown its potential.

In 1965, when the project was handed over to the Shelby-American team of Cobra fame, a total of ten cars had been built. By the end of February 1965, a number of significant changes had been made to the car under the direction of Carroll Shelby, his chief engineer Phil Remington, and Ken Miles, Shelby's test driver. The 4.2-liter dry sump Indianapolis engine was replaced with the famous wet sump 4.7-liter, 289 cubic inch V8 that powered Shelby's Cobras and developed 385 brake horsepower.

The first race the re-worked car was entered in was the 2,000 kilometer Daytona Continental Race on February 28, 1965. The car, driven by Lloyd Ruby and Ken Miles, won the race with Bob Bondurant and Richie Ginther in a second car finishing third. Suddenly, the GT40 was on the map and a force to be reckoned with.

With the GT40 now fully developed, Roy Lunn was given the job of overseeing production of a Mark II version of the car. Work on two new cars began in the spring of 1965 at a new Ford racing subsidiary, Kar Kraft, in Detroit. The GT40 Mark II was fitted with Ford's mighty 7.0-liter V8. The engine had tremendous torque and a wide power band and had been very successful racing in other formats. The Mark IIs were immediately quick, finishing first, second and third in the 1966 Daytona 24 Hour race; this was followed by victory at the 12 Hours of Sebring and the famous clean sweep at Le Mans, where Ford GT40s once again crossed the line first, second, and third. Ford's gamble had paid off, and the GT40 dominated sports car racing, as intended, making it one of the most successful road/competition cars ever built.

Development of the GT90

At a development cost in the neighborhood of $3 million, the GT90 was certainly worthy of pulling styling cues from the original Ford GTs, and although it was never meant for production, it was built according to a Ford press release as a "test bed for technology, engineering and design concepts, and driver-oriented features that eventually may be used in Ford production vehicles."

Officially unveiled to the public in January 1995 at the Detroit Auto Show, the GT90 is finished in bright white with a bright blue and carbon fiber interior. It features a mid engine quad-turbocharged V12 that produces an estimated 720 horsepower and 660 pound-feet of torque. As a result, it had a claimed top speed of 253 mph, which even by today's standards would make it one of the fastest production cars in the world – faster even than a McLaren F1, which was widely considered the world's preeminent supercar at the time.

Built by a small specialized group over at Ford SVT in just over six months time, the concept's development timeline was very tight and therefore borrowed components from other vehicles. The team mainly borrowed parts from another supercar that was also way ahead of its time, the Jaguar XJ220.

The engine, which was a 48-valve six-liter V12, had to be combined together with four Garrett Systems T2 turbochargers in order to reach its estimated 720 horsepower and was based on the Ford Modular engine. Created by using parts of two Lincoln V8 engines, engineers removed the last pair of cylinders from the rear of one engine and the first pair of cylinders from the front of the other engine. The cut-down engines were then welded together with the final result being a 90-degree V12, which utilized a 90.2 mm bore and a 77.3 mm stroke to achieve maximum power.

The GT90 features the FFD-Ricardo five-speed manual gearbox found on the XJ220 and, considering the torque load that it is designed to handle, is noted as having a relatively light shift quality. Also borrowed from the XJ220 comes the all around double wishbone suspension that was designed to enable the car to handle well at top speeds.

Using Ford's new "Edge" design philosophy, the car incorporated advanced technology with a mixture of flat planes, angles, glass and triangular shapes that seemingly all collided together. The GT90 was the first car created using this new styling directive from Ford, which went on to be responsible for the creation of other Ford products like the Ka and Cougar. The effect is most impressive and a wonderfully executed stylistic throwback to its GT40 predecessor, which at once stays true to its heritage but acknowledges the advances in modern design. Taken directly from race car technology, the GT90 body panels are molded out of carbon fiber while the chassis is formed out of a honey-comb sectioned aluminum monocoque.

The GT90 is a test bed of advanced technology and design. It sports a tinted, laminated glass bubble over the cockpit and a spoiler that rises off the rear deck at high speeds. According to Ford, it has a "design that tightly enclosed its mechanicals with no wasted space; high tech lighting and blind-spot detection systems; and tiles like those on the space shuttle to shield the V12's exhaust outlets."

The interior of the car is easily accessed by pushing on a small yellow panel located on the B-pillar that allows the door to swing open. Amazingly for a supercar, it is relatively easy to climb into the cockpit, as the door sill is low and narrow, and the glass which arcs well into the roof is fixed to the door. Reminiscent of an airplane cockpit, the interior is finished in bright blue suede and leather, a carbon fiber center console and custom blue lit gauges. An abundance of brushed and polished aluminum adorns the interior, from the open shift gate and linkage to the controls on the center console, right down to the key for the car.

Ford's engineers included a few other options that were designed for use on the show circuit; the tires were specially made with "GT90" carved directly into the tread, and the doors, as well as all of the lights both inside and out, could easily be opened or turned on via a remote control.

After its unveiling in Detroit, the GT90 made its rounds on the Auto Show Circuit in 1995, traveling around the world to Frankfurt and as far away as Tokyo. With few other showings in between, the car recently was shipped over to Europe to be on display in the Ford of Europe 2008 exhibit at the Goodwood Festival of Speed. After returning home, the car was shipped to Alabama where it was on display as part of the Mustang 45th Anniversary Celebration.

This superb concept car remains in excellent running condition, having been properly stored and maintained over the years in between its show appearances. RM Auctions is proud to publicly offer the GT90 for the first time ever at auction. A remarkable one-off piece of automotive history and cutting-edge design, its offering may very well be a once in a lifetime opportunity for Ford devotees and concept car enthusiasts.

2010 Chevrolet Camaro SS Indy Pace Car ready to roll

The Indianapolis 500 may be several months away still, but the 2010 Chevrolet Camaro SS Pace Car is ready to go. The tangerine Camaro is a throwback to the past, paying homage to the one that paced Indy in 1967.

While the mechanicals are stock, the car does have some visual upgrades, as expected. The Inferno Orange Metallic paint and White Diamond rally stripes go nicely with the Indy 500 logos on the doors, front fenders and seat headrests. The front grille is a new piece that may become an option on future Camaros.

Check out the press release below for all the details.

PRESS RELEASE

Chevrolet Camaro SS to pace 2010 Indianapolis 500
Rally Stripe Paint Scheme Pays Tribute to '69 Camaro Pace Car

INDIANAPOLIS -- Officials from Chevrolet and Indianapolis Motor Speedway unveiled the 2010 Chevrolet Camaro SS Indianapolis 500 pace car at the Speedway's Hall of Fame Museum today.

"We've enjoyed a great partnership with the Indianapolis Motor Speedway throughout the years, and are proud to once again have the privilege of pacing the Indianapolis 500 in a Camaro," said Jim Campbell, General Manager, Chevrolet.

The 2010 Chevy Camaro Indianapolis 500 pace car is a 21st century sports car that looks to the future with a nod to both the car's and the race's heritage. The first year for Camaro to pace the Indianapolis 500 was in 1967, the year the Camaro made its debut. Camaro has since paced the race in 1969, 1982, 1993 and 2009.

This year's pace car features an Inferno Orange Metallic paint scheme with White Diamond rally stripes that travel from the front to the rear over the top of the body, as well as extending to the instrument panel. The design is a modern interpretation of the original rally stripe that debuted on the 1969 Indianapolis 500 Pace Car.

"Chevrolet has done it again with the 2010 Chevy Camaro SS Pace Car, it is simply beautiful," said Jeff Belskus, president and CEO of the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Corporation. "The car's tribute to '500' history and its sports car feel will be a big hit with our fans, and it will look great leading the Indianapolis 500 field on Race Day."

This year's pace car is equipped with a stock 400 hp 6.2L V-8, an RS appearance package and leather interior with Inferno Orange interior accents. The pace car also features unique design cues that further enhance the Camaro's head-turning design. Features unique to the pace car include:

2010 Indianapolis 500 event logo painted on doors and embroidered on driver and passenger headrests
2010 Indianapolis 500 event logo badges on front fenders
All-new front grille insert that Chevrolet plans to offer as a future Camaro accessory
Amber lens tail lamps
Complete safety strobe light system with custom interior light bar in the rear window (no rooftop light bar)
All-new GM Accessory floor mats with red and orange accent stitching
Starting at approximately $23,000, and offering an EPA-estimated 29 highway mpg on the V-6-powered car, the all-new Camaro is a budget-friendly sports car that doesn't sacrifice on performance. Despite the recent economic challenges, the Camaro has overtaken its closest competitor to lead the regular sports car segment in sales for the last six months. Chevrolet sold more than 6,000 Camaros in each of these months.

The public will get their first look at the 2010 Chevy Camaro SS Indianapolis 500 pace car when it makes its auto show debut at the Indianapolis Auto Show starting on Dec. 26.

Chevrolet is one of America's best-known and best-selling automotive brands, and one of the fastest-growing brands in the world. With fuel solutions that range from "gas-friendly to gas-free," Chevrolet has nine models that offer an EPA-estimated 30 miles per gallon or more on the highway, and offers two hybrid models. More than 2.5 million Chevrolets that run on E85 biofuel have been sold. More information can be found at www.chevrolet.com.

Established in 1909, the Indianapolis Motor Speedway has long prevailed as an icon of motorsports excellence. The 2009 racing season marked the 100th anniversary of the Speedway and the start of its Centennial Era, which continues with the 100th anniversary of the Indianapolis 500 Mile Race in 2011.

For 2010, the Indianapolis Motor Speedway will play host to the Indianapolis 500 on May 30, the Brickyard 400 on July 25 and the Red Bull Indianapolis GP on Aug. 29. For tickets and information, visit www.indianapolismotorspeedway.com.

Autoweek reveals more details on 5.0 powered 2011 Ford Mustang

After yesterday's not so surprising information that the 2011 Ford Mustang would indeed pack an available "Coyote" 5.0 V8 packing 412 hp, today Autoweek has revealed a few more details about the new mill.
To go along with that 412hp, the new 5.0 puts out 390 lb-ft of torque at 6,500 rpm. It also gets a thrifty 25 miles per gallon, reportedly. It accomplished this feat thanks to an aluminum engine block with cast cylinder sleeves and brand-new heads with four valves per cylinder, vertical intake ports and twin independent variable valve timing. The engine also features tuned exhaust headers, a forged steel crankshaft with four-bolt main bearings and new pistons and connecting rods.

Transmission options include either the 6R80 automatic transmission or the MT82 six-speed manual.

It's official: 2011 Ford Mustang to have 412 horsepower 5.0 V8

It has been rumored over and over for a long time now, but we have confirmation today that the 2011 Ford Mustang will indeed offer an available 5.0 V8. This news comes on the heels of Ford's 2011 V6 Mustang that offers almost as much power as the current V8 Mustang, so you knew a healthy boost was in store for the V8.

The 5.0 in the '11 will have a healthy 412hp, which is 10 ponies less than the Camaro SS and 13 less than the Dodge Challenger SRT8. Only thing is, both of those cars are considerable heavier than the Mustang.

Video: LMC Super Cuda breaks 200mph mark racing Ferrari Enzo

Back at this year's SEMA, one of the coolest cars in attendance was the Legendary Motor Company built Super 'Cuda. A twin turbo Viper V-10 thumps to the tune of around 1,000 horsepower underhood and a nicely done restomod look add up to one serious ride.

And all of that is not just for show. LMC recently brought out the Super 'Cuda and a Ferrari Enzo (for good measure) to Chrysler's Chelsea, Michigan proving grounds for some fun.

In a straight line, the Super Cuda rules as expected. It is so fast, as a matter of fact, that on one pass the the windshield molding came off and the hood lifted by three inches. When it comes to ultimate top speed, however, the Enzo wins with a top speed of 218 mph to the Cuda's 208. But seriously, 200+ mph in a Barracuda? Insane.

Video: Photographer determined to get his drag crash pics

Undoubtedly it has been a slow news week in the world of performance cars. The lull that is the post SEMA and LA Auto Show time is only brightened by the occasional crazy or amusing videos that we see.

One such video is this one, depicting a race at Ponoma Raceway in California that shows Steve Gasparrelli's Ford Mustang funny car in a dramatic crash. Big deal, you say? What makes this crash different from others is that a photographer by the name of Andy Willsheer didn't seem phased enough by the 200+ mph car flying by him to move or stop taking pictures.

Amazingly, neither photographer nor driver was hurt.

1964 Shelby Cobra 427 prototype being auctioned off

The Shelby Cobra is one of the most iconic cars ever produced, and is certainly the most copied and reproduced car of all time. And the month of January will bring some lucky person the rare opportunity to own the prototype on which all those 427 Cobras were based.

Interested parties will need to attend RM's Automobiles of Arizona event at the Biltmore Resort and Spa in Phoenix on January 22. This prototype is no trailer queen, it actually has an extensive race history. There is no official estimate on what the final price will look like, but you can bet it will be well into seven figures. Check out the Press Release below for more details.


PRESS RELEASE:

Blenheim, ON (December 4, 2009) − The one-of-a-kind 1964 Shelby Cobra 427 Prototype s/n CSX 2196, nicknamed "The Flip-top" for its unique clam shell design, is set to cross the block at RM's Automobiles of Arizona event at the Biltmore Resort and Spa in Phoenix on January 22.

Its design, build, development and racing were spearheaded by legendary racing driver Ken Miles and after months of testing and modifications, 2196 became the only prototype produced for the famed 427 Cobras that followed. It was raced in period at Riverside, Sebring and Nassau.

Over the years, 2196 has competed in many of the world's historic races including Laguna Seca, Monterey Historics and Goodwood Festival of Speed. Today, the well-documented Flip-top sports its original livery of Guardman Blue with white stripes and black interior, and is unquestionably one of the most desirable Shelby Cobras ever built. (Estimate: Available upon request)

"The 2010 Arizona auction presents one of RM's most diverse line-ups of automobiles ever offered at the luxurious Biltmore Resort & Spa, ranging from historically significant Shelby Cobras to an unprecedented selection of important concept cars," said Ian Kelleher, President and Chief Operating Officer, RM Auctions. "Every facet of collector cars is represented at this year's event with the schedule being extended to two days for a British-themed Thursday evening sale."

Video: 2010 Dodge Viper ACR-X

With the Dodge Viper getting ready to take a two year hiatus, Dodge promised to have some special models coming out to tide folks over in the meantime. One such model is the ACR-X.

Dodge and it's SRT group created this track day beast to compete in the SCCA and NASA Viper Racing League. Sporting a price tag of $110,000, it bests the standard ACR Viper by putting out a stout 640hp.

The suspension has also been further tuned to perfection, and weight is down by 160 pounds over the "stock" version. Some further aerodynamic enhancements and other racing goodies help further the cause.

Production begins this spring, with the Dodge Viper Spec series kicking off in July of 2010.

PRESS RELEASE

Dodge Targets Road Racing Enthusiasts With 2010 Viper SRT10 ACR-X

Turn-key, spec-series racer aimed at continuing Dodge Viper's storied racing history
Dodge and Street and Racing Technology (SRT) team combine best performance attributes of Viper ACR with Viper Competition Coupe
Latest special-edition Viper ACR offers improved on-track performance and safety
Dodge Viper Cup spec series will debut in July 2010
Orlando, Fla., Dec 10, 2009 - Dodge today pulled the cover off the newest special-edition model of the 2010 Viper SRT10 lineup. The Dodge Viper SRT10 ACR-X is a turn-key, non-street legal race car that is slated to make its on-track debut in the summer of 2010.

"The Dodge Viper ACR-X takes the performance attributes of Viper to an even higher level for a wide range of drivers starting with the grassroots racer all the way up to the professional," said Ralph Gilles, President and CEO, Dodge Brand. "This project is a result of many years of performance engineering expertise from our SRT team, combined with the passion and dedication of Viper Nation, to keep the Viper racing tradition going strong on tracks around the country and the world."

Combining the best performance attributes of the record-setting, street-legal Dodge Viper ACR (American Club Racer) and the safety equipment of championship-winning Viper Competition Coupe, the Viper ACR-X is powered by the SRT-developed 8.4-liter V10, equipped with factory headers and a low-restriction exhaust system, that produces 640 horsepower (40 more than production model).

The suspension also is tuned and upgraded specifically for on-track usage, while the weight is lightened by a full 160 pounds (versus the standard production Viper) to take on even the most challenging road course. Additional aerodynamic upgrades improve downforce, while enhancing stability and significantly improving grip in high-speed cornering.

Similar to the Dodge Viper Competition Coupe, the Viper ACR-X contains factory-installed safety equipment such as a factory-designed roll cage, fuel cell and race seat. Additional racing components are added to meet the significant durability and reliability requirements for on-track competition.

In what will be the final year of production for the current generation Viper, the ACR-X is the third limited, special-edition model to be introduced by Dodge. ""We're going to make 2010 the most exciting year for Viper yet with specially developed cars for the street and the track," added Gilles. "The ACR-X is targeted at road-racing enthusiasts who want to successfully compete in our ultimate American sports car."

Last month, the SRT team used a testing session at Laguna Seca raceway to shake down the Viper ACR-X for the first time. Behind the wheel was professional driver Kuno Wittmer from the SCCA Pro Racing SPEED World Challenge Touring Car Championship series, who was able to run consistent 1:31.00 lap times around the 2.238-mile, 11-turn course. Wittmer's lap times were more than 3 seconds faster than the street-legal Dodge Viper SRT10 ACR that holds the production car track record at Laguna Seca raceway.

"The Dodge Viper ACR-X is incredible," said Wittmer. "After a short warm up, I was running lap times as quick as exotic GT race cars. I was blown away by the power and acceleration, and even more surprised at how the ACR-X navigated the challenging Laguna Seca corners and how friendly it was to drive at the limit.

"All aspects of the car work together perfectly to plant all that horsepower and torque without issue," Wittmer added. "This will be a great package for someone coming out of grassroots racing with a desire to step-up to GT level competition. Dodge nailed it with this one!"

The Viper SRT10 ACR-X is designed to compete in the Viper Racing League, Sports Car Club of America and National Auto Sport Association events.

Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for the Dodge Viper SRT10 ACR-X will be approximately $110,000. Production is slated to begin in Spring 2010.

For more information on the Dodge Viper ACR-X, call Viper Race Headquarters at (888) 960-3333 or visit www.viperheadquarters.com

Dodge Viper Cup:

The Dodge Viper SRT10 ACR-X will make its on-track debut in July 2010 in a newly developed spec series called the Dodge Viper Cup, which will be sanctioned by the existing Viper Racing League. Each vehicle in the new series must be the new Viper ACR-X.

Two races per weekend for five weekends will make up the 10-race 2010 Dodge Viper Cup schedule which includes July 9-11 at Virginia International Raceway; August 14-15 at Hallett Raceway; September 11-12 at Pocono Raceway; October 1-3 at Miller Motorsports Park and October 22-24 at Daytona International Speedway.

A contingency program sponsored by Dodge Motorsports and Mopar will pay out more than $200,000 during 2010. Payouts for each race are in cash and Mopar vouchers come as credit toward purchase of Mopar parts and accessories.

Per Race Cash Mopar Voucher Total
1st $6,500 $1,000 $7,500
2nd $4,500 $500 $5,000
3rd $2,500 $250 $2,750
4th $1,250 $150 $1,400
5th $500 $100 $600

Additional cash awards will be made to the top-3 finishers in the Dodge Viper Cup. The 2010 champion will win $25,000, second-place will receive $10,000 and third-place will pay $5,000.

Viper Racing Heritage:

The Dodge Viper has enjoyed a successful racing heritage that began in 1996 with the original Viper racing entry, the GTS-R, which earned five international GT championships and the 1997-1999 FIA GT championships. It also posted an amazing overall win at the Rolex 24 Hours of Daytona in 1999 – the first for a production-based American car.

The Dodge Viper Competition Coupe, introduced in 2003, delivered the next chapter with its coupe-shaped carbon/Kevlar body and a track-ready chassis, based on the Dodge Viper SRT10. The Viper Competition Coupe has continued the on-track prowess by capturing the 2004 SCCA Speed World Challenge GT title, championships in Formula D Drifting series in 2004 and 2006 and the British GT Championship in 2007 and 2008.

viperheadquarters.com:

Dodge has created a new website designed to showcase the Dodge Viper SRT10 both on the street and on the track. Check out the new online home for all things Viper at www.viperheadquarters.com

Viper Racing League:

The Viper Racing League is one race series within the group of three (including Challenge Series and Driving School) sanctioned by Viper Days. The series has 11-weekend events scheduled for the 2010 season at some of the country's most prestigious race tracks. For more information including the 2010 race schedule, visit www.viperdays.com

CB/1 Cobra Replica is the most radical yet

Nothing says outrageous American performance quite like a Cobra, whether it be real or replica. This is nothing more primal, loud, and in your face with the possible exception of an all out race car. Most are not even meant to turn corners, just go brutally fast in a straight line.

And then came the CB/1 Cobra Replica. Powered by a twin turbo Ford 385 V8, it produces an astounding 650 hp and 640 lb-ft of torque. All that power is routed through a Porsche 930 5 speed transaxle and the car weights a mere 2600 pounds. That's a good enough power to weight ratio to get you a 2.85 second 0-60 run and a quarter mile time of 10.5 seconds at 135mph. And unlike most Cobras, this one will pull 1.15 g's on the skidpad.


Press Release


CB1 Specs and Overview


Performance

(estimated)


0-60 mph: 2.85 sec

0-1/4 mile: 10.5 sec @ 135 mph

Top Speed: 155 mph (electronically limited)

Lateral Acceleration: 1.15 g


Fuel Economy

Highway: 20 mpg

City: 14 mpg



Specifications


Engine

385 cid / 6.3 liter V8, Ford Windsor based

Twin Turbocharged, Intercooled

Boost: 12 psi

Output: 650 hp, 640 lb-ft

Compression Ratio: 8.0:1

Fuel Requirement: 91 octane


Drivetrain

Rear-wheel drive

Transmission: Porsche 930 5–speed manual, transaxle


Chassis

Body-on-frame

Monocoque reinforced, central backbone space

frame

1018 and 1020 Alloy Steel

TIG Welded


Body

Prototype: Fiberglass molded from Cobra 427SC

Production: Carbon Fiber or Aluminum


Dimensions

Wheelbase: 90 in

Track (front/rear): 56/60 in

Length: 156 in

Width: 68 in

Height: 49 in

Curb Weight: 2600 lbs

Wt Distribution (front/rear): 44%/56%


Suspension

Front: Long A- arm style, zero scrub, cast aluminum

uprights, coil spring, adjustable gas-charged shock

absorbers, antiroll bar

Rear: Long A- arm style, zero scrub, cast aluminum

uprights, coil spring, adjustable gas-charged shock

absorbers, antiroll bar


Wheel/Tire

Front: 17x9 in, 285/40-17

Rear: 17x12 in, 345/35-17


Steering

Power assisted, ball bearing steering column


Brakes

Power assisted

13 in vented rotors (front and rear)

Four piston aluminum calipers (front and rear)


Capacities

Fuel: 15 gallons

Cargo: 9.5 cubic ft


Design Philosophy

The CB/1 represents the engineered blending of modern automotive and racing technology with one of the all time high performance legends, the venerable 427 Cobra. The ultimate performance version of this classic powered by a twin turbocharged, 385 cubic inch V8, delivering a track tearing 650 horsepower and 640 lb-ft of torque. Meld this brutal power with a race designed chassis and modern suspension components for precise control, then add an ergonomically corrected cockpit and you have the most potent, most useable, most enjoyable evolution of the 427 Cobra.


The CB/1 is based on a newly designed platform, engineered specifically for the performance and usability requirements of this vehicle. No cut corners, no secondhand components, no compromises. This vehicle is engineered from a clean sheet of paper to yield unparalleled performance. Modern control, power and driveability all tucked under one of the most beautifully forceful shapes in automotive design.

Dodge Challenger tops in Consumer Reports owner satisfaction survey

Consumer Reports has surveyed 380,000 subscribers to rank satisfied new car owners and surprisingly the Toyota Prius is no longer the champion. 92 percent of Dodge Challenger owners said they would definitely buy another one if they had the chance to do it again.

This is huge for Chrysler, as they have long been known for nagging issues with their vehicles, as well as being routinely beaten down by Consumer Reports.

The Big 3 improved their standings in the rankings overall, as 9 percent of American models were at the top of the list. For all the details, head over to the Consumer Reports website.

Video: Nissan GT-R vs. Ford Mustang Shelby Super Snake

Pitting a plain old Mustang GT against a Nissan GT-R isn't exactly fair. Neither, for that matter is having a Shelby GT500 against Godzilla. The problem here is that the GT-R has tons of technology to back up that horsepower and a lot less weight to move it with. Granted, that comes with a price premium.

But what if we pitted the ultimate Mustang, the Shelby Super Snake, against a GT-R? Motor Trend did exactly that and had video cameras document the whole thing. While on paper it may seem that it is the 412hp GT-R may be a tad outmatched by the 635hp snake, you'll have to check out the video to see who comes out on top.

Dodge Viper enters it's final year with tweaks

The Dodge Viper is entering it's final year of production, at least for the next couple of years. To celebrate it's leaving the model lineup temporarily, Dodge is rolling out new colors, more performance, and a few limited edition models.

The two new exterior colors are Toxic Orange Pearl Coat and Bright Silver Metallic Clear Coat. A shorter fifth gear ratio (changing from .74 to .80) improves high speed acceleration, as the 0-200 mph run drops by 14 seconds. The track-bred ACR models get a new short-throw shifter, and aerodynamic tweaks to the rear wing lower drag while improving downforce (top speed bumps up to 184 mph on the ACR model).

Two special edition models of the Viper have been announced, the Dodge Viper ACR 1:33Edition and the Vooodoo-edition Viper ACR. The 1:33 aims to pay homage to the record breaking version of the car that lapped Laguna Seca. It sports a unique two-tone Black Clear Coat/Red Clear Coat exterior color.

The Voodoo Edition gets an all black exterior with a Graphite stripe with red outlines. Only ten of the special cars will be produced. Be sure and check out the press release below for all the details.

Dodge Viper SRT10® Lives On As The Ultimate American Sports Car

Last model year for current generation Dodge Viper
More exclusive than ever before with more than 7,600 possible appearance combinations available for limited production run of 500 cars
Two new exterior colors, including Toxic Orange Pearl Coat and Bright Silver Metallic Clear Coat
New wider, dual racing stripe pattern
Revised fifth gear ratio
New wing endplate and revised wing profile on American Club Racer (ACR) model
Short-throw shifter on ACR model
Various special, limited-edition models available across 2010 lineup
Auburn Hills, Mich., Dec 2, 2009 -

To celebrate the final production year of the current generation Dodge Viper SRT10, Dodge plans to deliver a vehicle lineup like no other since the introduction of the iconic American sports car in 1992.

At the heart of the 2010 Dodge Viper SRT10 remains the venerable 8.4-liter (510 cu. in.) V-10 engine that produces 600 (450 kW) horsepower and 560 lb.-ft. (760 N•m) of torque. Benchmark performance numbers, including 0-60 mph in less than 4 seconds, quarter-mile time in the mid 11-second range and 0-100-0 mph in 11 seconds flat, and a top speed of 202 mph, continue to prove how the serious, race-inspired, street-legal two-seater performs without apology.

Body style offerings remain unchanged with the availability of Roadster and Coupe models along with the ACR (American Club Racer) package. Approximately 500 vehicles will be built for the 2010 model year.

With the introduction of two new exterior colors–Toxic Orange Pearl Coat and Bright Silver Metallic Clear Coat–Dodge Viper SRT10 is now available in 12 different colors – the most regularly available choices in one model year. And with six stripe options in the new wider configuration, five different interior color combinations, four different wheel choices and three available interior bezels; the 2010 Viper SRT10 will be available in more than 7,600 combinations–the most for any one model year–significantly adding to the exclusivity of each car like never before.

New across the Viper lineup is a shorter fifth gear ratio (changing from 0.74 to 0.80) for improved high-speed acceleration and higher straightaway speeds. Acceleration from 0-200 mph has improved by 14 seconds. This improvement is a direct result of the Chrysler Group LLC Street and Racing Technology team's experience at the 12.9-mile Nürburgring Nordschleife circuit in Germany where during the lap-record run in 2008, it was found that a revised gear ratio would have resulted in higher top gear acceleration and a quicker lap time.

The Viper SRT10 channels its power through a ZF Sachs twin-disc clutch that reduces rotating inertia by 18 percent, reduces clutch-pedal effort and improves engagement feel. Transferring power to the rear wheels is a heavy-duty six-speed manual transmission.

Stopping power is another carefully developed part of the Viper SRT10 equation, with 14-inch brake rotors gripped by Brembo 44/40 dual-opposing piston calipers in the front and Brembo 42/38 dual-opposing calipers in the rear. This system results in world-class braking performance of 60-0 mph in less than 100 feet.

Interior color options for 2010 include: standard black, two-tone black and red with red accent stitching, two-tone black and blue with blue accent stitching, two-tone black and medium slate grey with medium slate grey accent stitching and the two-tone black and natural tan with premium tan Nappa leather seats, tan center console, lower instrument panel and door panels introduced for the 2009 model year. On the Roadster model, the black and tan package includes a matching tan cloth convertible top.

Viper SRT10 ACR

The Dodge Viper SRT10 ACR receives a new short-throw shifter in 2010 for enhanced driver experience and better performance. The rear wing profile and end plates are redesigned to further optimize the vehicle aerodynamics and improve rear yaw downforce. These changes combined with the new fifth gear ratio result in an increased top speed of 4 mph (to 184 mph for the ACR model).

The enhanced four-wheel independent suspension features high-performance aluminum control arms and knuckles, KW suspension with two-way adjustable competition coil-over shock absorbers with remote reservoirs.

The aerodynamic package features a carbon fiber "fanged" splitter in front and adjustable carbon-fiber wing with seven-position stanchions that allow up to an amazing 1,000 lbs. of downforce at 150 mph. Lightweight wheels, two-piece slotted StopTech brake rotors and Michelin PS Cup tires round out the Dodge Viper ACR package.

New Special, Limited-edition Models

Numerous special, limited-edition models are planned for the 2010 model year, including the Dodge Viper ACR 1:33 Edition, which will pay tribute to the new production car lap record set on Nov. 24 at Laguna Seca raceway. The unique two-tone Black Clear Coat/Red Clear Coat exterior color scheme on this model is the opposite form of the original Viper ACR. Interior highlights include piano black console bezels with red gauge highlights complemented with red accent stitching in the seats. Only 33 cars will be produced as 1:33 Edition Viper ACR models.

The 2010 Vooodoo-edition Viper ACR will feature an all Black Clear Coat exterior with a Graphite Driver's Stripe outlined in red. Only 10 cars will be produced with the unique striping on both the exterior, as well as on the steering wheel.

Additional special edition models will be announced closer to their individual introductions. Pricing on the 2010 Dodge Viper lineup also will be announced at a later date.

Classic Recreations reveals specs of it's Shelby GT500CR Mustang

At SEMA Classic Recreations announced that it had reached a deal with Shelby to build a continuation version of the legendary Shelby Mustang GT500. Not much was know at that time regarding any sort of specifications of the car.

Thanks to the latest press release below, we have much more information on the GT500CR Mustang. Three models will be offered: the Intro, Performance, and Venom.

The Intro comes standard with a 427ci V8, 150hp nitrous kit, upgraded suspension and steering, Tremec 5 speed tranny, and Baer brakes.

The Performance model ups the ante with better seats, bigger wheels, and a coilover suspension.

The top of the line Venom sports an intercooled supercharger that nets the car 780hp, along with lots of other performance upgrades.

PRESS RELEASE:

Custom coachbuilder Classic Recreations has released preliminary technical details and package specifications for the G.T.500CR, a 1967 Shelby continuation vehicle that was announced opening day of the annual SEMA Show in Las Vegas. All three G.T.500CR models will feature a hand-built 427 cubic inch (7.0L) engine, model specific bodywork, custom paint and hand-stitched upholstery. Every car will have an official Shelby serial number, badges and will be included in the official Shelby Worldwide Registry.

The G.T.500CR will be offered in three models. The "Intro" model is powered by a 545hp fuel injected 427, built in-house at Classic Recreations using top-shelf performance parts and Mass Flo digital fuel injection. A 150hp NOS nitrous oxide system provides extra power when needed. Upgraded suspension and power rack and pinion steering modernize the car's handling, and a Tremec five speed manual transmission sends the power to ZR rated tires on 17x8" Shelby 427 wheels over front and rear cross drilled Shelby/Baer brakes. Inside, the driver will find a custom stereo, climate control and Carroll Shelby Signature seats, gauges, console, and floormats. The exterior is available in five different color schemes and features authentic Shelby Performance parts, such as lights, emblems and a real Shelby Le Mans racing gas cap.

The "Performance" model has all the features of the "Intro", including the 150HP Nitrous system, rack and pinion steering and 160mph speedometer, plus Carroll Shelby Scat Rally series 1000 seats, larger 17x9.5 rear wheels and a Total Control front and rear coilover suspension system for modern sports car handling.

The "Venom" maintains the authentic Shelby look of the "Intro" and "Performance" models, but boosts horsepower to 780hp with an F1-R Intercooled ProCharger supercharged engine. The interior is upgraded with a 200mph speedometer and racing-style bucket seats. The "Venom" also boasts suspension and chassis upgrades as well as 17x11" rear wheels and wider ultra high performance Goodyear tires. Model line specifications and details are subject to change.

Video: 2011 Ford Mustang comes to life!

2010 brought a full on refresh of the Ford Mustang, but 2011 brings with it another redesign. It has been many years since the Mustang had any direct competitors, but with the Camaro and Challenger breathing down it's neck it is vital to keep up with the proverbial joneses.

The first update brought us this, the V6 powered 2011 Mustang. Sporting a much improved 3.7L aluminum blocked, direct injected mill, the 6 banger puts out a very respectable Camaro beating 305hp. A six speed automatic transmission delivers a reported 30mpg.

The video above depicts a red V6 'stang making a stroll down a side road and also an open hood, high revving moment. The car sounds good and promises to be quite fun to drive, especially for those who want to get some semblence of gas mileage out of their pony car.

1969 Danz Camaro SS "concept"

The 1969 Chevy Camaro is perhaps the most overdone and the most popular muscle car of all time. Every car show, every car magazine has featured more than it's fair share of '69 Camaros. As a matter of fact, there are a couple of companies out there that will supply you with everything you need to build a "new" one.

The 1969's popularity is obviously a big reason why Chevrolet used the car as it's inspiration for the 2010 Camaro. But what would happen if someone had the opposite idea, and wanted to model a '69 after the 2010?

The answer is this particular car, the 1969 Danz Camaro SS concept. While we have mixed feelings on this one, it is an interesting piece and the anser to an interesting question that maybe nobody asked.

GM confirms Chevy Camaro Convertible for Oshawa production

Below you will find a normal looking press release for the 2011 Buick Regal. GM is announcing that it will produce the new Regal in the beginning of 2011 at it's assembly plant in Oshawa, Ontario.

So what, you ask, does this have to do with the Camaro? Well, Oshawa is the same assembly line that builds the new Camaro. That, and GM subtly slipped in something about the upcoming Camaro convertible being produced there as well.

GM has been leading us back and forth on the issue of whether or not it would actually go through and produce a convertible version of it's pony car. This discreet little press release all but confirms it.

PRESS RELEASE:

2011 Buick Regal to be built at the Oshawa Car Assembly Plant

2009-11-25

o Second new car built on Oshawa's state-of-the-art flexible manufacturing line
o Production to begin in first quarter 2011

Oshawa, ON - North American production of the all-new 2011 Buick Regal was today confirmed for the Oshawa Car Assembly plant beginning in Q1 2011. The new 2011 Regal is a midsize sport sedan based on the award-winning Opel Insignia – the 2009 "European Car of the Year" – and it brings all of Insignia's award-winning design, technology and European-inspired performance capabilities to the North American market.

"The new Regal gives Buick a modern performance sedan and its production here in Oshawa is terrific news for our employees, the CAW, dealers and suppliers," says Arturo Elias, president, General Motors of Canada. "Combining Buick's top position in the industry in terms of brand quality with the Oshawa Car Plant's long-standing reputation for top quality assembly means customers' highest expectations will be met with this midsize sport sedan."

Production of the new Buick Regal is the latest in a string of positive news for GM manufacturing in Canada including:

* Oshawa Car Plant running maximum overtime since June 2009 that will continue into the new year to keep up with demand for the Chevrolet Camaro
* Production of the Camaro Convertible in Oshawa beginning in Q1 2011
* The recent addition of a 3 rd shift plus scheduled overtime at CAMI Automotive to keep up with strong demand for the all-new Chevrolet Equinox and GMC Terrain
* The investment of $C90 million in CAMI Automotive which will add an additional 40,000 units of capacity to current production and result in full employment at CAMI
* The introduction of flexible transmission production at GM Canada's St. Catharines facility beginning with assembly of the fuel-efficient 6-speed front-wheel-drive transmission

The new Buick Regal joins the Chevrolet Camaro and Equinox and the GMC Terrain as the third new vehicle in the production commitment that was part of the agreement with the Canadian and Ontario Governments.

General Motors of Canada (GMCL) is headquartered in Oshawa, Ontario and employs 9,000 people nationwide. GM of Canada manufactures vehicles, vehicle powertrains, and markets the full range of General Motors vehicles and related services through dealerships and retailers across Canada.