FireBreather movie car shows up at Detroit Autorama

Michigan-based film maker Exodus Pictures has a new movie coming out titled Jinn. The car was designed by, Ajmal Ahmad, who is also the writer and director of the sci-fi film. The one off car is based on the Chevrolet Camaro.

The FireBreather sports a new front fascia, hood, rear fascia, and wheels. The nose bears a strong resemblance to the many Pontiac Firebird concepts we have seen. Performance mods are nill, but the suspension has been upgraded with an Eibach Pro-Plus Performance handling package and Pirelli PZero Rosso tires.

If you want your own FireBreather, you're in luck. Exodus will be offering 50 examples of the car, individually numbered and priced at under $60,000. Orders can be placed at the FireBreather website, and are first come first served.

Classic Recreations Shelby GT500CR revealed

Last year it was reported that Classic Recreations had signed a deal with Shelby to produce new versions of the 1967 Shelby GT500. At that time all we had was a few renderings of what the car would essentially look like. Now we have some pictures the company has released of the new/old Shelby.

New and old parts are mixed together to produce a true modern iteration of the '67. Modern rack and pinion steering, suspension, Baer brakes, and fiberglass panels bring the Shelby into 2010. A 545hp 427ci V8 will ensure that it is considerably faster than the original as well.

Or you can order up a 780hp supercharged option as well. Either way power is routed through a Tremec tranny and 9 inch rear end.





SHELBY GT500CR PROTOTYPE MAKES FIRST APPEARANCE IN VEGAS

Classic Recreations 1967 G.T.500CR makes first public appearance in Las Vegas the same weekend as the NASCAR Shelby American Race

Yukon, Okla. (Feb 25th, 2010) - Less than four months after custom coachbuilder Classic Recreations announced the Officially-Licensed 1967 Shelby G.T.500CR continuation car program at the 2009 SEMA Show in Las Vegas, the first prototype made its debut in the same city but with a very different setting.

Details of the reborn supercar have been a closely guarded secret, but on February 25th, 2010, the first GT500CR prototype was photographed near the Shelby American facility in Las Vegas, prior to an all-Shelby weekend where car owners and NASCAR fans gathered to celebrate the legendary mark during the NASCAR Shelby American GT350 stock car race.

The G.T.500CR is the first official 1967 Shelby Mustang continuation car ever built, and each hand-built vehicle features a 427 cubic inch (7.0L) engine, model specific bodywork, custom paint and hand-stitched upholstery.
Every has an official Shelby serial number, badges and will be included in the Shelby World Registry. The prototype that appeared in Las Vegas is the 545 horsepower Performance Model, featuring a fuel injected, naturally aspirated engine, modern coil-over suspension with rack-and-pinion steering and more.

About Classic Recreations

Classic Recreations founder Jason Engel, and his company's team of skilled technicians and craftsmen, have been modifying and custom fabricating high-performance vehicles for more than 10 years. Each built-to-order G.T.500CR takes approximately four months (nearly 2,500 man hours) of painstaking assembly. Find out more about how to get your own hand built vehicle at www.1967fastback.com.

Dodge announces 2010 Challenger Drag Pak availability, '09 sold out

Ah yes, the good old muscle car days. When you can go to the dealer and order a stripped down shell waiting to be finished with your choice of power mill and rung out at the local dragstrip. Those days are now.

On the eve of selling out it's 2009 run of 100 Drag Pak Challengers, Dodge has released details about the upcoming 2010 model. This year, another 100 lucky folks will get a second shot.

A relative bargain at $39,999, the 2010 Drag Pak features a 6.1 liter Hemi V8 hooked up to either a five speed automatic or a six speed manual. The Drag Pak is designed to run in NHRA Stock, Super Stock and Comp Eliminator classes but is not street legal.

The Drag Paks are of course based on the regular old Challenger, but are an astounding 1,000 pounds lighter. This of course is mostly thanks to eliminating anything that doesn't help the car go fast.

If you want one, get in line. You have to submit an application at www.mopar.com or from the Mopar Direct Connection Tech Line at 888-528-HEMI (4363).

Press Release

Mopar® Announces 2010 Dodge Challenger Drag Pak Program For Grassroots Racers

• Dodge Challenger Drag Pak built for sanctioned NHRA Stock, Super Stock and Comp Eliminator configurations
• Priced at $39,999, production to start this summer
• Applications now available at www.mopar.com
• First-year build program in 2009 sold out

Auburn Hills, Mich., Feb 22, 2010 - Following a first-year sell out of 100 factory-built program vehicles in 2009, Mopar announced its 2010 Dodge Challenger Drag Pak program.

For 2010, the non-street legal V-8 powered, rear-wheel drive Dodge Challenger is available with the 6.1 liter HEMI® that may be set up with a 5-speed automatic or 6-speed manual transmission.

"We're proud of our drag racing heritage at Mopar and we will continue to support our drag-race customers where they compete," said Pietro Gorlier, President and Chief Executive Officer - Mopar Service, Parts and Customer Care, Chrysler Group LLC. "The Dodge Challenger Drag Pak program was a success last year, and we'll be carrying that momentum into our 2010 build."

Based on the 2010 Dodge Challenger SRT8® and finished in a Stock Eliminator configuration, Mopar engineers eliminated select production components and systems to reduce vehicle weight by approximately 1,000 pounds. To accentuate weight savings, the Dodge Challenger Drag Pak features unique drag-race components including: composite lift-off hood with functional scoop, Dodge Viper-style front seats, polycarbonate door windows, a light-weight cooling module with electric fan, manual rack-and-pinion steering, a special cable-operated deck-lid release, special light-weight front-brake assemblies and special cable-operated throttle linkage and pedal assembly.


The Dodge Challenger Drag Pak features a retro Stone White paint scheme and is sanctioned for NHRA Stock, Super Stock and Comp Eliminator drag racing. The Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price is $39,999 and production begins this summer.

The 2009 Dodge Challenger Drag Pak program commemorated the 40th anniversary of the legendary 1968 Dodge Hemi Dart and Plymouth Hemi Barracuda package cars. The '68 Package Cars were sold as actual running cars with VIN identification. The 2009 and 2010 Package Cars are not running cars and do not come with VIN identification.


Orders for the 2010 Challenger Drag Pak must be submitted using the Dodge Challenger Drag Pak Application which is available now at www.mopar.com or from the Mopar Direct Connection Tech Line at 888-528-HEMI (4363). Customers should work with their local Dodge dealer to submit their application.

About Mopar
Mopar distributes approximately 280,000 parts and accessories in more than 90 countries and is the source for all original equipment parts for Chrysler, Jeep, Dodge and Ram vehicles. Mopar parts are unique in that they are engineered with the same teams that create factory-authorized vehicle specifications for Chrysler, Jeep, Dodge and Ram vehicles – a direct connection that no other aftermarket parts company can provide.

More than 70 Years of Mopar
When Chrysler bought Dodge in 1928, the need for a dedicated parts manufacturer, supplier and distribution system to support the growing enterprise led to the formation of the Chrysler Motor Parts Corporation (CMPC) in 1929.

Mopar (a simple contraction of the words Motor and PARts) was trademarked for a line of antifreeze products in 1937. It also was widely used as a moniker for the CMPC. The Mopar brand made its mark in the 1960's – the muscle-car era. The former Chrysler Corporation built race-ready Dodge and Plymouth "package cars" equipped with special high-performance parts. Mopar carried a line of "special parts" for super stock drag racers and developed its racing parts division, called Mopar Performance Parts, in order to enhance speed and handling for both road and racing use.

Dodge celebrates 40 years of performance with Furious Fuchsia Challengers, 15 most popular performance upgrades revealed

Back in the day, folks liked their Mopar muscle cars in some pretty funky colors. Plum Crazy and Panther Pink, and all sorts of vibrant colors were a guarantee that you would attract attention. Now Dodge is reaching back to the past with the insanely bright, almost pinkish Furious Fushia color for it's Challenger.

According to Dodge president and CEO Ralph Gilles, the introduction of the retro color celebrates "four decades of Challenger performance." We'll just stick with black, thanks.

In other Mopar news, it seems that the average Dodge Challenger owner spends about $600 on accessories and performance parts from Chrysler's Mopar catalog. Strangely enough, the most popular item are the brushed stainless steel door sill guards.

See the press release below for the complete list of Mopar's top selling Challenger accessories.

Press Release

Dodge Celebrates Four Decades Of Challenger's Muscle-car Heritage With Limited-edition Furious Fuchsia Models

2010 Dodge Challenger Furious Fuchsia editions commemorate 40 years of Dodge muscle-car performance
Limited-edition Furious Fuchsia exterior answers customers' desire for the return of more Dodge brand high-impact heritage paint hues
2010 Dodge Challenger R/T Classic edition is available in all-new Pearl White performance seats and Bright White A-line body-side R/T stripes
Dodge Challenger SRT8® Furious Fuchsia edition features unique 20-inch SRT forged aluminum wheels with Satin Black painted pockets, serialized dash plaque, Pearl White leather SRT performance seats with Furious Fuchsia accent stripe and retro-inspired chromed quad exhaust tips
Limited-production run of Dodge Challenger R/T Classic editions and only 400 Dodge Challenger SRT8 editions in Furious Fuchsia available
Auburn Hills, Mich., Feb 8, 2010 - Two of the wildest and rarest 2010 Dodge Challenger models will soon be available to Dodge fans and collectors to commemorate 40 years of Dodge Challenger performance; the 2010 Dodge Challenger R/T Classic and Challenger SRT8® Furious Fuchsia editions. With its Furious Fuchsia Pearl Coat exterior paint and all-new Pearl White leather performance seats, these limited-edition Dodge Challenger models deliver the best of modern American muscle-car characteristics-unmistakable design, world-class handling, powerful HEMI® V-8 engines and technology-now in one of the most significant hues.

"Commemorating four decades of Challenger performance, the new R/T Classic and SRT8 Furious Fuchsia editions modernize one of the most memorable hues from 1970 to create a modern muscle-car that exudes more performance, passion and even more nostalgia," said Ralph Gilles, President and Chief Executive Officer, Dodge Car Brand and Senior Vice President-Product Design, Chrysler Group LLC. "As an ode to our Dodge fans, these highly collectible models feature all-new Pearl White leather performance seats with Furious Fuchsia accents to deliver a customized, yet contemporary look to the heritage-inspired interior. Sum it all up, and Dodge is delivering a muscle-car tribute that no other manufacturer can even match."

The U.S. Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for the new 2010 Dodge Challenger R/T Classic in Furious Fuchsia Pearl Coat is $35,140, while the high-performance SRT8 model is $45,150 (both prices include $725 destination). Both Furious Fuchsia editions will be available for order at Dodge dealerships nationwide in March.

2010 Dodge Challenger R/T Classic Furious Fuchsia
Based on the powerful 2010 Dodge Challenger R/T, the Dodge Challenger R/T Classic Furious Fuchsia edition features dual throwback A-line body-side R/T stripes in Matte Black or Bright White. Completing the look are "Challenger" fender badges in classic script, large 20-inch polished-aluminum heritage wheels with all-season performance tires, classic egg-crate grille with heritage "R/T" badge, body-color rear spoiler, functional hood scoop and bright racing style fuel-filler door.

On the interior, the trapezoidal theme of the door-panel and gauge cluster, dark headliner and slanted shifter console are inspired by the original Dodge Challenger. Inspiration from the past continues with exclusive Pearl White performance seats accented with Dark Slate Gray and Furious Fuchsia French-seamed stitching as a factory-installed option. Monotone Dark Slate Gray leather performance seats and center console armrest with Furious Fuchsia accent stitching are standard.

When paired with the Tremec six-speed manual transmission, the 2010 Dodge Challenger R/T Classic Furious Fuchsia edition includes the performance-minded Track Pak with precision-shift "pistol-grip" shifter, anti-spin 3.92 differential and a performance-tuned dual exhaust with two low-restriction bottle resonators for maximum "throatiness." And when it's time to deliver, the Furious Fuchsia R/T Classic can accelerate from 0–60 mph in less than six seconds with its powerful 376 horsepower (280 kW) and 410 lb.-ft. of torque (556 N•m) 5.7-liter HEMI V-8 engine.

2010 Dodge Challenger SRT8 Furious Fuchsia
If the tire-smoking Furious Fuchsia R/T Classic is not exciting enough, the 400 ultra-exclusive 2010 Dodge Challenger SRT8 versions delivers even more punch with a 6.1-liter HEMI V-8 engine-with engine block lacquered in original HEMI Orange paint-producing 425 horsepower (317 kW) and 420 lb.-ft. (569 N•m) of torque, performance-tuned ride and handling, benchmark braking and race-inspired interior with unique SRT-designed appointments.

The limited-production Dodge Challenger SRT8 in Furious Fuchsia is based on the 2010 Dodge Challenger SRT8 and features several standard equipment upgrades, including all-new Pearl White leather SRT performance seats with Furious Fuchsia accented stripe, unique 20-inch SRT forged-aluminum wheels with Satin Black accents, serialized dash plaque indicating the limited production series of 400 and retro-inspired chromed quad-exhaust tips.

Production of the 2010 Dodge Challenger R/T Classic and SRT8 Furious Fuchsia Editions
Production of the all-new 2010 Dodge Challenger R/T Classic and SRT8 in limited-production Furious Fuchsia Pearl Coat will start in May 2010 at the Brampton Assembly plant in Brampton, Ontario, Canada. These special-edition coupes will be built on the same assembly line as the award-winning and quality-proven Dodge Charger and Dodge Charger SRT8 sedans.

Mopar(R) Announces Best-Selling Performance Parts and Accessories for 2010 Dodge Challenger

Mopar crashes Challenger's 40th birthday party bearing performance parts and accessories

AUBURN HILLS, Mich., Feb. 15 /PRNewswire/ --

Mopar offers an array of performance parts and more than 100 accessories for the Dodge Challenger lineup
Complete list of Chrysler, Jeep, Dodge and Ram performance parts and accessories is available at www.mopar.com
Mopar is bringing a truck-load of performance parts and accessories to Dodge Challenger's 40th birthday party.

"Dodge Challenger is one of our most accessorized vehicles," said Pietro Gorlier, President and Chief Executive Officer - Mopar Service, Parts and Customer Care, Chrysler Group LLC. "Unlike any other automotive aftermarket company, Mopar parts and accessories are specifically designed, engineered and quality-tested to further enhance the performance and appearance of our Chrysler, Jeep, Dodge and Ram vehicles. This results in Dodge Challenger owners spending more than $600 on Mopar accessories."

The 2010 Dodge Challenger is available in three models - SE, R/T and SRT8. With cutting-edge technology and ultimate performance in two available HEMI® V-8 engines, Dodge Challenger delivers on the brand's "bold, powerful and capable" credo.

Following are Mopar's best-selling accessories for Dodge Challenger:

1. Door-Sill Guards: Mopar's brushed stainless steel guards make scratches to the interior sills a thing of the past. Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP): $140

2. Vehicle Cover: Dodge Challenger owners may cover their prized possession with Mopar's vehicle cover. Protection from ultraviolet rays, dirt and other pollutants is available with a washable cover that features a Dodge Challenger logo and elastic edges. MSRP: $323

3. Chromed Fuel-Filler Door: A chromed custom fuel door complements Dodge Challenger's exterior paint colors and provides the retro look of muscle cars from the past. MSRP: $176

4. Rear Deck-Lid Spoiler: Mopar's "go-wing" spoiler attracts additional attention for the owner who is looking for that enhanced heritage look. MSRP: $316

5. Splash Guard Kits: Molded splash guards provide excellent protection for front fenders, rocker panels and rear fascias. MSRP: $52.75/pair

6. Classic Mopar T/A hood: Available with an integrated scoop that adds to Dodge Challenger's aggressive appearance. The scoop is matte black and may be painted to match any exterior. MSRP: $1,275

7. Decal Kits: Mopar offers a variety of graphics that provide long-lasting appeal and are constructed of fade- and weather-resistant vinyl. Among the available choices are a full body-side beltline graphic in matte black or matte silver (MSRP: $190) or a custom strobe stripe beginning on the front of the vehicle and fading out midway through the door (MSRP: $182).

8. Floor Mat Kit: A set of four dark-slate grey mats provide excellent protection for floor surfaces and feature a Dodge Challenger logo. MSRP: $82.25

9. Hitch Receiver: Available for base and R/T models, the 1,000-pound tow-rated hitch has a 2-inch receiver opening. MSRP: $298

10. Interior Trim Bezel: Provides an upgraded look on the center stack bezel and console trim plate with a carbon weave finish. MSRP: $172

On the performance side, Mopar continues to offer key engine and suspension components for any production Challenger. Following are a few of the most popular offerings:

1. Cold-Air Intake Systems: Replaces the factory system for the 5.7-liter HEMI (MSRP: $371) or 6.1-liter HEMI (MSRP: $384) and allows cooler outside air into the engine for gains in horsepower and torque.

2. Cat-Back Exhaust Systems: Deliver a throaty exhaust tone while providing improved horsepower and torque. Available for 5.7-liter HEMI (MSRP: $1,190) and 6.1-liter HEMI (MSRP: $1,745).

3. Stage 2 Coilover Suspension Kit: Allows Dodge Challenger owners to lower the ride height of their vehicle for a low, custom look and a sporty ride. MSRP: $1,750

4. Mopar Strut Tower Brace: Reduces body flex in the front end while improving handling. MSRP: $359

5. Performance Brake Pads: Offer superior braking and pedal feel without brake fade at higher operating temperatures. MSRP: $74

About Dodge Brand

Dodge is a full line of cars, SUVs and MPVs that are agile, daring, sensible and inventive. The product line includes the Dodge Caliber, Dodge Avenger, Dodge Challenger, Dodge Charger, Dodge Grand Caravan, Dodge Journey, Dodge Nitro and Dodge Viper SRT10.

Dodge introduced two new vehicles for the 2009 model year: the all-new 2009 Dodge Journey, the brand's first crossover vehicle and the 2009 Dodge Challenger, a modern-day American muscle car. Dodge also celebrated the 25th anniversary of the minivan during the 2009 model year. With more than 65 minivan-firsts introduced since 1983 and more than 12 million Dodge and Chrysler minivans sold, Chrysler Group LLC has solidified its leadership in the segment. J.D. Power and Associates further acknowledged this leadership by naming the Dodge Grand Caravan the Most Dependable Van for 2009. The 2010 Dodge Grand Caravan continues to set the mark in the minivan segment with unsurpassed fuel economy of 17 city / 25 highway mpg and minivan-first innovations including the segment's only Stow 'n Go® and Swivel 'n Go® seating and storage systems. The 2010 Dodge Journey and 2010 Dodge Avenger (with ESC) also earned the 2009 Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS.

Mopar Brand

Mopar distributes approximately 280,000 parts and accessories in more than 90 countries and is the source for all original equipment parts for Chrysler, Jeep, Dodge and Ram vehicles. Mopar parts are unique in that they are engineered with the same teams that create factory-authorized vehicle specifications for Chrysler, Jeep, Dodge and Ram vehicles - a direct connection that no other aftermarket parts company can provide.

More than 70 Years of Mopar

When Chrysler bought Dodge in 1928, the need for a dedicated parts manufacturer, supplier and distribution system to support the growing enterprise led to the formation of the Chrysler Motor Parts Corporation (CMPC) in 1929.

Mopar (a simple contraction of the words Motor and PARts) was trademarked for a line of antifreeze products in 1937. It also was widely used as a moniker for the CMPC. The Mopar brand made its mark in the 1960s - the muscle-car era. The former Chrysler Corporation built race-ready Dodge and Plymouth "package cars" equipped with special high-performance parts. Mopar carried a line of "special parts" for super stock drag racers and developed its racing parts division called Mopar Performance Parts to enhance speed and handling for both road and racing use.

Source: Chrysler Group LLC

Video: Hennessey Cadillac CTS-V

The Cadillac CTS-V has earned many accolades in the years since it was first introduced in 2002. It is indeed a four door Corvette, combining the best of both worlds with lots of performance and lots of style to boot.

Of course, having a world class four door luxury sports car still isn't enough for some folks. A market certainly exists for more, and Hennessey Performance specializes in finding more.

Enter the V700 upgrade package for the current Cadillac CTS-V. The package boosts power to an astounding 707 hp and 701 lb-ft of torque from the 6.2 liter V8. The extra 150hp comes courtesy of a cold air induction system, a smaller supercharger pulley, a new engine management system, long tube headers, three-inch exhaust system with high-flow cats, an upgraded intercooler, more aggressive cam, and high-flow heads.

All that power adds up to some equally impressive performance numbers. 0-60 comes in 3.3 seconds with top speed hitting 211 mph. Check out the video to see the performance testing for yourself and see what makes this beast the best of both worlds.

Video: SpeedFactory builds quickest Dodge Charger in the world

SpeedFactory, a Chrysler loving tuner, has taken a 2006 Dodge Charger to a new level of fast. By inserting a Gen III stroked Hemi motor complete with Vortech supercharger under the hood, they are generating a stout 900+ horsepower. Amazingly the stock transmission and rear end back it up.

The result is, according to LXForums.com, the fastest run on any LX/LC platform car with a quarter mile of 9.453 seconds at 145.38 miles per hour. Check out the video evidence above, or the press release below for more details.

PRESS RELEASE

SpeedFactory 426 Charger Again Sets World Record Quarter Mile Time for Chrysler LX/LC Platform Vehicles

Atlanta, GA, January 27, 2010 - On January 23, 2010, SpeedFactory's 426 Charger completed the quarter mile in 9.453 seconds with a trap speed of 145.38 mph at South Georgia Motorsports Park in Valdosta, Georgia. According to records kept by the LXForums.com moderators, SpeedFactory bested all previous quarter mile times set by actual production LX/LC-platform cars-modern Dodge Chargers, Challengers, Magnums and Chrysler 300Cs. SpeedFactory driver Eddie Rosa piloted the Charger.

SpeedFactory, in collaboration with partners Landmark Dodge Chrysler Jeep, Vortech Superchargers and Paramount Performance, built this car from a 2006 Dodge Charger platform utilizing a unique combination of heavily modified stock components. The SpeedFactory R&D (Research and Development) Charger is a test platform for high horsepower technology destined to power SpeedFactory's production vehicles.

A GEN III 426 HEMI stroker motor is boosted by a Vortech centrifugal-style V-7 YSi-trim supercharger and is controlled through factory electronics, producing over 900 HP. The car retains modified factory components: transmission, IRS differential with 1000HP half shafts, suspension and shocks. A curb weight of 3,750 pounds was achieved by removing the interior.

"We are all very proud of this achievement, which showcases our continued commitment to the development of our brand and ultimately carries over into our customers' vehicles," said Mark Brucks, general manager, SpeedFactory. "With the introduction of the Drag Pack Challengers, we knew that records would be broken, and to achieve this with a modified stock vehicle that still utilizes the factory components makes this even more exciting to us and our partners. We believe there is more that can be done to produce even faster times."

"The Vortech V-7 YSi-trim supercharger supports up to 1200HP with 78 percent efficiency," said Gil Cormaci, director, sales and marketing for Vortech Engineering. "We are very pleased to be associated with SpeedFactory and Landmark Dodge Chrysler Jeep. The application of our YSi-trim compressor to this HEMI Charger was done with the highest expertise, resulting in this impressive time and speed."

About SpeedFactory
Based in Atlanta, GA, Speedfactory is a specialty vehicle company focused on unleashing the performance potential of modern Dodge/Chrysler muscle cars. Speedfactory builds enhanced, high-energy modern muscle cars such as Dodge Challengers, Chargers, and Chrysler 300's. Speedfactory offers supercharged and naturally aspirated performance packages with limited powertrain warranties on certain vehicles and configurations. Through select Dodge/Chrysler dealers, Speedfactory sells complete turnkey vehicles and parts and enhances existing cars as well. To learn more, visit: www.SpeedFactoryCars.com.

Video: Matech Ford GT GT1 racer

The Ford GT was one bad supercar, one that could do business with the world's best and fastest cars. Matech Competition is a Swiss racing team that is quite fond of the GT, already having raced it to victory in the FIA GT racing.

For 2010, Matech has made some serious changes to it's GT and is eyeballing the bigger and better GT1 class. Check out the press release below for details, and the video for some seriously sweet tailpipe music.

Press Release

The 2010 Matech Ford GT1 unveiled

As early as 2009, before the regulations of the new GT Championship came into force, Matech Concepts started developing a new Ford GT1 based on the prototype fielded in the previous season. On the way to the Portuguese circuit at Portimão, Matech Competition stopped in Spain at the Ascari circuit to perform the roll-out of the new car. With Thomas Mutsch at the wheel, the first metres of the Ford GT1 went according to plan, just as the driver and Martin Bartek had been hoping: "The car is completely new. Not a single element, be it the engine, the transmission system, the suspension or aerodynamics are the same as those of the Ford GT1 from 2009. The roll-out was very promising, and we are confident with regard the forthcoming season." The next step will be the "balance of performance" at Portimão on 3 and 4 February, followed by further testing at the Alcañiz circuit where a handful of previously selected drivers will take the wheel of the Ford GT1. This first stage will then be concluded by the presentation of the vehicle to the press in Paris on 1 March.

The driver pairings...

To determine the final line-up for the cockpits of the two Ford GT1 cars, Matech Competition has invited seven drivers to participate in a comparative test in a "special" Ford GT3 on the Portimão circuit. In addition to the five men – Mathias Beche, Yann Zimmer, Borja Garcia, Casper Elgaard and Carlo Van Dam – the group also includes two ladies, Natacha Gachnang and Cyndie Allemann. ''Our goal, clearly, is to form two teams that are as strong as possible by giving young drivers, including
women, an opportunity to compete. For these tests, they will be driving one of our Ford GT3 cars on which we have removed the ballast and the air-restrictor so that it will handle in a similar way on the track as the GT1," explains Martin Bartek. After this initial evaluation, there will be some candidates for further tests, this time in the Ford GT1 at the Motorland circuit near Alcañiz. Jonathan Hirschi and Marc Hennerici will join this test as well.

Video: Hear the 2011 Ford Shelby GT500's aluminum soundtrack

In case you missed all the details of the 2011 Ford Mustang Shelby GT500 and it's reveal yesterday, you can find it here.

And if you are curious as to what the new car sounds like, we have two spankin' new videos for you to check out, one of the coupe and one featuring the convertible. Press play to hear all that glorious supercharged sound.

2011 Ford Mustang Shelby GT500 (officially) revealed!

Details surrounding the updated 2011 Ford Shelby GT500 have been one of the worst kept secrets in Detroit. Pretty much every detail about the car has been leaked out over the course of the last few weeks. This does not, however, make the car any less amazing and drool worthy.

At the heart of the new GT500 is an aluminum block, which (combined with other weight saving features) shaves a hefty 120 pounds off the already heafty car's nose. The SVT team has opted not to use an aluminum block until they could make one as strong as an iron block, and now they have. The block is created using a Plasma Transferred Wire Arc (PTWA) process which Ford engineers developed to lower weight as well as improve efficiency and power output. Power is up 10hp to a total of 550 hp and the same 510 lb-ft of torque as the previous model.

The rest of the weight loss can be attributed to new, lighter wheels that save 4.7 pounds each in the 19 inch fronts, and 2.8 pounds in the 20 inch rears. Rear gears are more aggressive at 3.73:1. These wheels are wrapped in the latest generation Goodyear F1 supercar tires. The suspension has also been tweaked, with 20.5 percent stiffer front springs and 9.5 percent tighter rear springs.

Also for 2011, the convertible version of the GT500 has been heavily tweaked. The main complaint about the previous ragtop version was that it was more of a cruiser that lacked structural integrity. For 2011, much effort has been put into making the convertible more rigid and a better performer.

While straight line performance has jumped up a tenth of a second in the quarter mile, fuel economy has also improved. The new GT500 is up 1 mpg to 15 city and 23 highway, which seems slightly insignificant until you realize that it is enough to take the dreaded gas guzzler tax away from the previous car.

The new, tweaked and improved 2011 GT500 will go into production this spring with an on sale date in the summer. Check out the press release below for all the details.

2011 FORD SHELBY GT500 GOES LIGHTWEIGHT WITH ALUMINUM ENGINE, OFFERS ULTIMATE IN HANDLING

With 550 horsepower and 510 ft.-lb. of torque, Ford's Special Vehicle Team (SVT) delivers the new Shelby GT500® with a 10 horsepower increase; an all-new 5.4-liter all-aluminum engine is 102 pounds lighter than the previous cast-iron engine and uses Ford-patented plasma-coating technology

For 2011, Shelby GT500 offers EPA-projected improved fuel economy in city and highway from 2010, eliminating the gas guzzler tax

The addition of Electric Power Assist Steering (EPAS), a new optional SVT Performance Package, enhanced convertible rigidity and a lowered ride height contribute to improved driving dynamics and handling

DEARBORN, Mich., Feb. 8, 2010 – Ford's Special Vehicle Team (SVT) engineers are taking high performance to a new level with the 2011 Ford Shelby GT500, resulting in a car that has an all-new aluminum-block engine, even better driving dynamics and handling, improved fuel economy and more horsepower than ever.

"The SVT team continues to push the performance standards of the Shelby to even higher levels and better refinement," said Jost Capito, director of global performance vehicles and motorsports business development. "All the changes we made reflect a desire for even better handling and outstanding driving dynamics – from weight savings to improved balance."

Weight savings, new technology headline all-new aluminum engine
The 2011 Shelby GT500 is powered by an all-new aluminum-block 5.4-liter supercharged V-8 engine, which produces 550 horsepower and 510 ft.-lb. of torque, a 10 horsepower increase versus the 2010 model. The engine also is 102 pounds lighter than its predecessor, delivering a better power-to-weight ratio, improved fuel economy, acceleration, handling and steering precision.

"Cutting weight to improve performance is a tradition among hot rodders," said Carroll Shelby, founder of Shelby American. "It might not be as sexy as adding more horsepower or bigger brakes, but shaving pounds off of a car is the single smartest move you can make."

The new engine uses state-of-the-art Plasma Transferred Wire Arc (PTWA) liner coating, a process that applies a 150-micron composite coating that contains nanoparticles on the internal surfaces of engine cylinder bores, replacing cast-iron liners typically used in aluminum engine blocks. The Intellectual Property Owners Education Foundation honored the inventors of the Ford-patented PTWA technology with the 2009 National Inventor of the Year Award.

This is the first Ford application of the technology, and it offers improved overall performance and durability, along with functional benefits of reduced friction between piston rings and cylinder bores, improved heat transfer due to increased surface contact area and a weight savings of 8.5 pounds compared to a typical steel-sleeved aluminum block. A mechanical roughening process provides higher material adhesion for the spray coating.

The PTWA process uses air and electricity to create a plasma jet of 35,000 degrees Fahrenheit, which melts a steel wire that is fed into a rotating spray gun. Using atomized air, the melted steel wire is blown into a specially machined surface of the aluminum-block engine cylinder bore. In the process of melting and applying the metal to the surface, the steel wire oxidizes, creating a composite coating consisting of both iron and iron oxide.

"Ford's Global Research and Advanced Engineering looks to all industries for advanced technologies – and this comes from aerospace. It's the same technology you would find on aircraft engines," said Glenn Jorgensen, SVT powertrain team leader. "We've invented a coating as a replacement for cast iron that delivers improvements in power and performance and fuel economy."

The new engine also has its roots in the iconic Ford GT. The new 5.4-liter engine is an evolution of the GT engine, with improved block structure through the use of a unique bulkhead chilled process and six-bolt billet main bearing caps. This new advanced engine will exceed Ford GT performance with its traditional supercharger technology.

"The Ford GT has solidified itself as one of the world's most coveted supercars. To make improvements to the engine from this supercar and make it available in a Mustang is impressive," said Kerry Baldori, SVT global performance vehicle chief functional engineer. "The aluminum-block engine is robust and strong enough to produce the performance numbers and durability our customers demand."

Increased power and increased fuel economy
The 2011 Shelby GT500 combines power and fuel economy into one impressive package. This 2011 Shelby GT500 will be the first modern Shelby without the gas guzzler tax, thanks to the EPA-projected 23 mpg highway and 15 mpg city it will deliver. This is up from 22 mpg highway and 14 mpg city for the 2010 model.

The 5.4-liter V-8 achieves 80 percent of its torque between 1,750 and 6,250 rpm, giving the car a higher level of performance feel. A larger two-row intercooler for the supercharger system has 40 percent more cooling capacity, helping to make power more consistent in higher ambient conditions.

Fuel economy gains come from the new 102-pound-lighter aluminum-block engine, EPAS and detailed aerodynamic changes to the underside of the vehicle.

Dramatic performance upgrades
New for 2011 is an SVT Performance Package for enthusiasts who want even more performance out of their Shelby GT500 for racetrack-ready driving dynamics. Complete with all-new Goodyear Eagle® F1 SuperCar G: 2 tires that SVT engineers worked directly with Goodyear to develop, the car is ready to race. The tires offer superb dry traction and precise handling, complete with a race-inspired high-performance tread compound.

The optional package also offers unique styling, lighter wheels, a higher rear axle ratio and stiffer springs, and it is available on both the convertible and coupe. Data show the 2011 coupe with the SVT Performance Package is 3.0 seconds faster per lap than the 2010 Shelby GT500 on a 2.3-mile test track.

Carried over from 2010, the 2011 Shelby GT500 features AdvanceTrac®, Ford's stability control system with several options for performance. Calibration of the system for the 2011 Shelby has been uniquely tailored to each vehicle configuration (base or optional) to optimize the performance.

SVT has worked very hard to make EPAS better than the outgoing hydraulic steering system. The addition of EPAS makes for a dramatic contribution to Shelby GT500 driving dynamics, with improved torque build-up and road feel that delivers quicker and more precise steering, increased effort on the racetrack or winding roads, and reduced effort in low-speed parking maneuvers.

Slotted brake dust shields were added to improve brake cooling and handling, and a new pedal box improves clutch and pedal efforts even more. A lowered ride height of 11 millimeters in front and 8 millimeters at the rear provides a sportier attitude and improved handling.

More engine sound, less road noise For 2011, Shelby GT500 also benefits from NVH (noise, vibration and harshness) improvements. Overall road noise is reduced by 20 percent versus the 2010 Shelby. Actions undertaken to achieve this improvement include additional sound-deadening material on either side of the instrument panel, additional sound absorption behind interior trim panels, and a rear wheel arch liner to reduce noise on gravel or wet surfaces – all resulting in the driver hearing more exhaust and engine sound and less road and air noise.

The Shelby GT500 convertible model features enhanced structural rigidity, with lateral stiffness improved by 12 percent versus the 2010 model. The V-brace has been stiffened by adding gussets. The secondary crossmember also has been stiffened, while a front Z-brace has been added, connecting primary and secondary crossmembers. A-pillar stiffening foam has been added to increase rigidity.

The structural improvements to the convertible gave SVT the opportunity to be more sport-oriented in the chassis tuning, without trading comfort. Along with the chassis and structural improvements, the 2011 model also will get standard 19-inch aluminum wheels.

"One of the biggest changes for this Shelby is that the convertible acts and feels like a coupe," said Jamal Hameedi, SVT chief nameplate engineer. "Before, they had a very different character, and the convertible is taking a big step in the sportiness and handling precision area, without degrading the ride."

GT500 gets a new exhaust for 2011, roaring with an even more aggressive sound than the 2010 model. The 2.75-inch exhaust with all-new tuning helped to deliver the additional 10 horsepower.

Added convenience content
New for 2011 is an optional glass roof, providing customers with a less expensive option than a convertible and without compromising the coupe's versatility, headroom or climate-controlled environment.

The specially formulated glass also protects interior fabric material from solar radiation deterioration and discoloration by reducing solar light transmittance. To help improve acoustics and interior quietness, the glass features a layer of vinyl that reduces noise, vibration and harshness.

Other new convenience technologies include:
Standard HID (high-intensity discharge) headlamps
MyKey™ programmable vehicle key
Integrated spotter mirror
Fold-down rear headrests
"Whether you're looking to take the GT500 out on the streets or have some fun at the track," Capito says, "this car will satisfy the most discriminating performance driving enthusiasts."

Video: 2011 Ford Mustang Shelby GT500 with SVT Performance Package

The latest Ford Racing email newsletter reveals some interesting tidbits, including the confirmation that the 2011 GT500 will be revealed on Monday, February 8th. The new Shelby will be shown on a live webcast at 1:30pm eastern time.

As we learned from the recently leaked order guide, the newest Shelby will have some nice new options. They include a new aluminum block, optional glass roof, and the new SVT Performance Package. The hoodstripes for the SVT car are skinny compared to the regular GT500, and they also get a 3:73 rear. Stay tuned for much, much more info on Monday afternoon.

Video: Motor Trend drives 2011 Ford Mustang V6

Although 2011 didn't bring a total redesign for Ford's venerable Mustang, it did bring two very important upgrades. The new 3.7 liter V6 is arguably just as important as the new 5.0 V8, maybe even more important. After all, the majority of Mustang sales are with the V6 powerplant.

Motor Trend's Arthur St. Antoine was invited to Ford's Arizona proving grounds to experience the new V6 Mustang, just not drive it. The results were obviously good and positive, even from the passenger seat. Check out the video, or head over to Motor Trend to see the article.