G8 based Chevrolet Caprice for the U.S. is dead again

Perhaps Bob Lutz got a little caught up in the moment after his short lived retirement. After stating a few days ago that it would be a waste to see a car as good as the Pontiac G8 die, and mentioning that it might be a possibility that the car would come stateside badged as a Chevrolet Caprice, ol' Bob has changed course.

"The G8 will not be a Caprice after all. I'd mentioned it, and said we were studying it, giving it a serious look, because a car like the G8 was just too good to waste.

"That's all still true. But I have to say that, with my new "marketing" hat on, upon further review and careful study, we simply cannot make a business case for such a program. Not in today's market, in this economy, and with fuel regulations what they are and will be."

Lutz is quick to point out that the decision to kill the G8 will have no effect on GM's future rear-drive vehicles, and he went on to say, "... we have a tremendous RWD team in Australia that gave us the beloved G8, a team that we will tap into at some point again in the future for its expertise and sheet metal. Just not right now."

Such a shame.

GM confirms Camaro Z28, meanwhile the Camaro outsells Mustang in June

It was feared that the powerhouse Z28 would die a premature death thanks in large part to the ailing economy, GM's bankruptcy, and rising oil prices. But the well connected folks at Camaro5, the Z28 will appear after the Camaro convertible, which is expected in the spring of 2011.

The Z will reportedly offer more power (duh), a hood similar to the Bumblebee edition, a unique grill, and other assorted bits and pieces that make it unique.

In other news, the long drought of the Camaro has obviously gotten fans of the car excited as their beloved pony car has taken out the Mustang in sales for the month of June. GM says it sold a total of 9,320 Camaros, while Ford sold 7,632 Mustangs.

For those who are curious, Dodge sold a meager 1,369 Challengers.

2010 Chevrolet Corvette ZR1 to get upgrades, increase in price

GM needs all the money it can get, and inflation happens. So go figure, the price of admission to the fire breathing ZR1 is going up for the 2010 model year. The supercar will cost you $109,530; an increase of $2,910 over last year's model. But considering most dealers were already charging a good bit over sticker anyway, we suppose this isn't a big shocker.

For your hard earned money, you still get the most powerful production Corvette of all time. You will also get a few upgrades over the '09 model, such as standard side curtain airbags, launch control and Performance Traction Management System. The PTMS gives the driver more control over traction settings when in competition mode.

A much better pallet of colors is also in the works for 2010, including the Torch Red you see above.

PRESS RELEASE:

2010 CORVETTE ZR1: PERFORMANCE TRACTION MANAGEMENT ENHANCES AN ALREADY WORLD-BEATING DRIVING EXPERIENCE

After taking on the world's best supercars and proving a better value and performer by the global automotive press, the Corvette ZR1 returns for 2010 with new Performance Traction Management (PTM) technology. It is an advanced system that is part of a new Launch Control feature, which optimizes traction for greater and more consistent on-track performance.

The PTM system holds a predetermined engine speed while the driver pushes the throttle to the floor. That allows the driver to quickly release the clutch and the system modulates engine torque 100 times per second to maximize the available traction. The system is capable of approaching a skilled driver's best effort and repeats it consistently.

PTM also integrates the ZR1's traction control, active handling and selective ride control systems to enhance race track driving consistency and overall performance. When full throttle is applied upon exiting a corner, it automatically manages acceleration dynamics.

The new PTM technology is the newest element that affirms the Corvette ZR1 is an American supercar with the technology and engineering refinement to take on the world's best – but at a much lower price.

The ZR1's highlights include:

* LS9 supercharged 6.2L V-8 rated at 638 horsepower (476 kW), and 604 lb.-ft. of torque (819 Nm)
* Six-speed, close-ratio, race-proven manual transmission
* High-capacity dual-disc clutch
* Higher-capacity and specific-diameter axle half-shafts; enhanced torque tube
* Specific suspension tuning provides more than 1g cornering grip
* Twenty-spoke 19-inch front and 20-inch rear wheels
* Michelin Pilot Sport 2 tires – P285/30ZR19 in front and P335/25ZR20 in the rear – developed specifically for the ZR1
* Standard Brembo carbon-ceramic, drilled disc brake rotors – 15.5-inch-diameter (394-mm) in the front and 15-inch-diameter (380-mm) in the rear
* Blue-painted brake calipers
* Standard Magnetic Selective Ride Control with track-level suspension
* Wider, carbon-fiber front fenders with ZR1-specific dual ports
* Carbon-fiber hood with a raised, polycarbonate window – offering a view of the intercooler below it
* Carbon-fiber roof panel, roof bow, front fascia splitter and rocker moldings with clear-coated, visible carbon-fiber weave
* ZR1-specific full-width rear spoiler with raised outboard sections
* Specific gauge cluster with boost gauge (also displayed on the head-up display) and 220-mph (370 km/h) speedometer readout
* Curb weight of 3,333 pounds (1,512 kg).

The specialized components of the new ZR1 work harmoniously to deliver the most powerful and fastest automobile ever produced by General Motors. It has a top speed of 205 mph (330 km/h).

In addition to PTM, the following features are also new for 2010:

* Standard launch control
* Available Torch Red exterior color
* Available Cashmere interior color
* Available Competition Gray wheels.

Supercharged LS9 engine

The supercharged LS9 6.2L small-block engine is the power behind the ZR1's performance. A sixth-generation Eaton supercharger helps the LS9 make big power and torque at lower rpm and carries it in a wide arc to 6,600 rpm, as it pushes enough air to help the engine maintain power through the upper levels of the rpm band – the area where supercharged performance tends to diminish. Heavy-duty and lightweight reciprocating components enable the engine's confident high-rpm performance.

The Roots-type supercharger uses a unique, four-lobe rotor design. It is augmented with an integrated charge cooling system that reduces inlet air temperature for maximum performance.

The LS9 is hand-assembled at GM's Performance Build Center in Wixom, Mich., and incorporates special processes typically seen in racing engines to produce a highly refined and precise product. For example, cast iron cylinder liners are inserted in the aluminum block and are finish-bored and honed with a deck plate installed. The deck plate simulates the pressure and minute dimensional variances applied to the block when the cylinder heads are installed. This ensures a higher degree of accuracy that promotes maximum cylinder head sealing, piston ring fit and overall engine performance.

Transmission and axle

The LS9 engine is backed by an upgraded, stronger six-speed manual transmission and a twin-disc clutch that provide exceptional clamping power, while maintaining an easy clutch pedal effort. ZR1-specific gearing in the transmission provides a steep first-gear ratio that helps launch the car, and top speed is achieved in sixth gear.

As the term implies, the twin-disc clutch system employs a pair of discs, which spreads out the engine's torque load over a wider area. This enables tremendous clamping power when the clutch is engaged, while also helping to dissipate heat better and extend the life of the clutch.

The twin-disc clutch system also contributes to the ZR1's exceptional driving quality, with smooth and easy shifting. The twin-disc system's design allows higher torque capacity with inertia and pedal effort similar to the Corvette Z06. It enables a 25-percent reduction in inertia, thanks to smaller, 260-mm plates; the Corvette Z06's uses a 290-mm single-disc system.

The rear axle also is stronger in the ZR1 and features asymmetrical axle-shaft diameters – 33 mm on the right side and 40 mm on the left – that were developed after careful testing to provide optimal torque management. The axles are mounted on a more horizontal plane that correlates with the wider width of the rear wheels and tires.

Ride and handling

The ZR1 is built on the same aluminum-intensive chassis as the Corvette Z06 and features similar independent SLA front and rear suspensions, with aluminum upper and lower control arms. Where the ZR1 differs is the suspension tuning, which was optimized for the car's steamroller-wide front and rear tires.

Magnetic Selective Ride Control is standard and tuned specifically for the ZR1. The system's ability to deliver a compliant ride with nearly instantaneous damping adjustments enabled engineers to develop a surprisingly supple ride quality in a supercar that still delivers cornering grip of more than 1g.

From a high-performance perspective, Magnetic Selective Ride Control helps the rear axle remain planted during launch for smooth, hop-free acceleration. It also helps suppress axle movement when cornering on broken or uneven pavement.

Brakes, wheels and tires

Commensurate with the ZR1's engine output is the braking system, which is headlined by Brembo carbon-ceramic brake rotors. Found on only a few exotics and more expensive supercars, carbon-ceramic brake rotors are made of a carbon-fiber-reinforced ceramic silicon carbide material . The advantages of these rotors are low mass and resistance to wear and heat. In fact, the rotors should never show corrosion or require replacement for the life of the vehicle, when used in normal driving.

The vented and cross-drilled rotors on the ZR1 measure 15.5 inches (394 mm) in diameter in the front and 15 inches (380 mm) in diameter in the rear – making them among the largest carbon-ceramic rotors available on any production vehicle.

Clamping down on the high-tech rotors are six-piston front calipers and four-piston rear calipers, each painted a ZR1-exclusive blue. The brakes are visible through the ZR1's exclusive wheels: 20-spoke alloy rims that measure 19 x 10 inches in diameter in the front and 20 x 12 inches in the rear. A Sterling Silver paint finish is standard; chrome and Competition Gray versions are optional. The wheels are wrapped in Michelin Pilot Sport 2 tires developed specifically for the ZR1, measuring P285/30ZR19 in front and P335/25ZR20 in the rear.

Exclusive exterior

The ZR1 is instantly recognizable, with perhaps the most identifiable feature a raised, all-carbon-fiber hood that incorporates a clear, polycarbonate window. The window provides a view of the top of the engine's intercooler, with the legend "LS9 SUPERCHARGED" embossed on the left and right sides, and an engine cover with the Corvette crossed flags logo debossed at the front.

The underside of the hood has a visible carbon-fiber-weave. Visible carbon-fiber is used on the roof, roof bow, rocker molding and front splitter. These exterior components are protected by a specially developed glossy, UV-resistant clear coat that resists yellowing and wear.

Widened, carbon-fiber front fenders with specific, dual lower ports; and a full-width, body-color rear spoiler incorporating the center high-mounted stop lamp are also unique to the ZR1. All of the exterior features were developed to enhance high-speed stability and driver control.

Interior details
The ZR1 interior builds on the brand's dual-cockpit heritage, with high-quality materials, craftsmanship and functionality that support the premium-quality performance. The ZR1 cabin differs from the Corvette and Corvette Z06 with the following:

* ZR1-logo sill plates
* ZR1-logo headrest embroidery
* Specific gauge cluster with "ZR1" logo on the tachometer and a 220-mph (370 km/h) readout on the speedometer
* Boost gauge added to the instrument cluster and head-up display.

The standard ZR1 (RPO 1ZR) comes with accoutrements based on the Z06, including lightweight seats and lightweight content. The uplevel interior package (RPO 3ZR) includes power-adjustable, heated and leather-trimmed sport seats (embroidered with the ZR1 logo); Bose premium audio system; navigation system; Bluetooth connectivity; power telescoping steering column; custom leather-wrapped interior available in four colors; and more.

By the numbers

In addition to the exterior cues and powertrain, ZR1 models are distinguished from other Corvette models by their vehicle identification number, or VIN. Each carries a unique, identifying VIN digit, as well as a sequential build number. This makes it easy to determine the build number of a specific car – information treasured by enthusiasts and collectors. For example, a ZR1 with a VIN ending in "0150" would indicate it is the 150th ZR1 built for the model year.

Ford Mustang and Dodge Challenger reportedly heading to NASCAR in 2010

Admittedly, I'm just not much of a NASCAR fan. Maybe it's because they drive around endlessly in circles. More likely, it's because I don't find Impalas and Camrys all that interesting racing around a track.

So finally, someone seems to be waking up in the stock car world and smelling the proverbial coffee. In an attempt to boost the series' viewers and souvenir sales, Fox Sports is reporting that Ford and Chrysler plan to introduce Mustang- and Challenger -bodied racers into the Nationwide series next year.

The new deigns are due to be submitted for approval on June 26th, and reportedly the new stock cars are going to look a whole lot more like real cars than the ones we see today. Unfortunately, GM is opting to stick with the Impala instead of going with the Camaro. Bummer.

Along with the success of the recently reintroduced Cobra Jet Mustang, might we see a return to the old adage "race on Sunday, sell on Monday?"

Superior Glass Works Sport Wagon

Back at the 1954 Motorama in New York, Chevrolet displayed a Corvette-based wagon called the Nomad. The public loved the styling of the sport wagon, so naturally Chevy rushed to produce the car. Problem is, they didn't base it on the Corvette.

Superior Glass Works is pitching in to help all those folks who felt snubbed by the Nomad. For $125,000, they will build you a 1954 Corvette Nomad in appropriate fiberglass and stick it on a C5 chassis.

You get your choice of engine, interior, and wiring at an additional cost. A $50,000deposit will be required. Brad Peterson, owner of Superior Glass Works, says that no preorders were taken and none have yet been sold. If you want to check out the car in person, it will be at Back to the 50s in St. Paul, Minn. June 19-21 or at the NSRA Street Rod Nationals in Louisville, Kentucky, August 6-9.

June 2, 2009, Molalla, Oregon - Superior Glass Works today proudly introduces the Limited Edition Superior 54 Sport Wagon. Styled in tribute to the 1954 General Motors' Motorama Corvette Nomad, The Superior 54 is enhanced with 21st century performance. Available only as a Complete Rolling Package, each will be delivered with the body and chassis fully assembled - ready for paint, interior, engine, wiring and other personal touches to create the Restomod, Custom, or Pro-Touring vehicle desired.

Manufactured in Oregon with the highest-quality, hand-laid composite and reinforced with a stout steel sub-structure, the body includes a complete set of custom-crafted window glass and chrome trim. The body's stunning looks are complemented with modern conveniences such as power windows, power door locks and air conditioning.

"The Superior 54 Sport Wagon is a very special car," said Brad Peterson, owner of Superior Glass Works. "There has always been a mystique surrounding the Motorama cars and we are excited to offer our Superior 54 to a select few looking to drive their own piece of history."

The Superior 54 Sport Wagon chassis is equipped with modern, high-performance, C5 Corvette suspension.

Features include:
The custom frame designed and built in partnership with Art Morrison Enterprises, Inc., including Morrison's front cross member, steering arms, sway bar, and power rack and pinion steering.

The independent front and rear suspensions use 1997-2004 C5 Corvette components.

The front suspension includes stock Corvette control arms, spindles, and brakes, plus high-performance coil over shocks in place of the stock leaf spring.

The rear suspension utilizes a custom narrowed stock cradle, with the half-shafts and leaf spring narrowed accordingly.

The choice of 6-speed manual or automatic transaxle.

Superior Glass Works is completely tooled up and ready to build the Limited Edition Superior 54 Sport Wagon. A $50,000 deposit secures a spot on the waiting list for one of the 25 Complete Rolling Packages to be sold. The initial total package price is $125,000. Call 888-244-9259 or visit www.Superior54.com for more information.

Superior Glass Works has served street rodders, drag racers, customizers and restorers for more than 30 years. We've earned our reputation by producing the highest quality fiberglass bodies and parts, and complete, custom chassis. We are the leading manufacturer of fiberglass parts for 1931 - 1955 Chevrolet cars and trucks. The company also offers 14 street rod bodies, 11 drag race bodies, in fiberglass and carbon fiber, along with a full-service chassis shop. Superior Glass Works is a long-term member of industry organizations: Specialty Equipment Market Association/Hot Rod Industry Alliance, National Street Rod Association and Goodguys Rod & Custom Association. Visit www.superiorglassworks.com for more information.

1969 Chevrolet Camaro gets a ZR1 LS9

The 1969 Camaro is the "been there, done that" car for hot rodders, and you can almost hear the moans around the country every time Hot Rod features one in it's magazine (even one that featured a Toyota Supra mill). But with new engines come new possibilities, and the new LS9 motor is a beast in all respects.

This particular Camaro, constructed by GM engineer and Pro Touring stud Mark Stielow, is the first classic Camaro to feature GM's most powerful production motor ever. Stielow also added the wheels, tires, and carbon ceramic brakes from the ZR1, along with an Art Morrison subframe and a Tremec T56 tranny from a Dodge Viper.

You have to give Stielow credit, as the quality of the build looks top notch and it's not easy to create something so unique from something so played out.

n2a Motors Anteros Roadster and Coupe

The Anteros Roadster made it's debut at this year's SEMA, with the coupe surfacing just a couple of months ago. And now n2A Motors, who builds the Corvette based sports car, is taking orders for the coupe and convertible, priced at
$149,500 and $154,500, respectively.

Both cars are based on the chassis and running gear of a 2009 Chevrolet Corvette, with a carbon composite body, hand-stitched leather interior, three-piece aluminum wheels, and a custom exhaust.

Under the hood is the Corvette's LS3 V8 putting out 430 horsepower and 424 lb-ft torque, complete with Chevrolet's 100,000 mile powertrain warranty intact. Customers can also choose to have the Z06 used as a base vehicle, and upgrades between 525 and 1000 horsepower are available at additional cost.

The transformation from Corvette to Anteros takes approximately 800 hours, and no two cars will be alike (hence the name n2a).

2009 Pontiac G8 GXP priced at $39,995, ST dead?

Nothing like a little good news offset by some bad news in the same day. On a positive note, Pontiac has announced that it's BMW-like G8 GXP will start out at a very reasonable $39,995.

That price includes a $1700 gas guzzler tax and $685 destination fee in the base automatic equipped sedan. The six speed manual will cost an additional $695, and seriously, who wouldn't opt to row their own?

Fuel economy is of course not stellar, coming in at 13mpg city and 20mpg on the highway. But of course there is a price to pay for all that pavement scorching fun, especially as you repeatedly outrun more expensive and exotic cars in stoplight mayhem. All with three passengers comfortably in tow.

And, now for the bad news. Much to the chagrin of El Camino lovers everywhere, the G8 ST will likely live a short life. There have been several rumors coming out of Detroit, along with hints that GM would kill Pontiac altogether. There has also been speculation that it would indeed live on, but only with around half of it's current lineup.

Susan Docherty, vice president of Buick-Pontiac-GMC, has stated that the G8 sport trucks lifespan could be short, saying "We would be foolish if we didn't take a second look at whether or not that is the right thing to do."

In a separate article, Docherty goes even further and suggests Pontiac's lineup could be pared down from six vehicles to a single nameplate. According to Docherty, "We are not going to spend tons of money on product development" for Pontiac and that the Pontiac Torrent will be dropped for 2009.

So what will Pontiac be selling? According to Docherty, the G8 is the most likely candidate for GM's performance brand, and that the ideal future for Pontiac would be "very focused, very specialty or niche."

Chevrolet Camaro convertible on hold

Image by Getty Images via DaylifeIt wasn't a big surprise when Chrysler announced that it had nixed the idea to produce a Challenger convertible. The LX based coupe wasn't developed with a soft top in mind and it would have taken too much cash to beef up the chassis in order to remove the roof. And cash is in short supply for the big three nowadays.

Now Motor Trend is reporting that GM is delaying the release of the Camaro convertible for the same reasons. They will be delaying it's release for a year as the automaker tries to keep it's head above water. Spending money on a niche vehicle is a hard sell for GM when they're trying to get their hands on some federal bailout money, after all.

CFCS to auction off 2010 Camaro SS #3

The all new and much anticipated Camaro is only a few months away from showroom floors, so that means it's charity auction time! Ford and Chrysler have already proven that a new Mustang or Challenger can bring hundreds of thousands of dollars to a deserving charity, and GM and the College for Creative Studies hope they can create similar bidding magic. Up for grabs on eBay is the number three production Camaro. It's a loaded SS model with a 422 hp 6.2L V8 mated to a six speed manual tranny. The winning bidder should take delivery of the vehicle at Suburban Chevrolet Cadillac Saab HUMMER of Ann Arbor, MI in the spring of 2009, but the auctioneer warns that delivery could be delayed until later in the year.

The winning bidder better have a nice surplus supply of cash, as the current bids are already over $45,000. The auction ends on October 25th, and you can view it here.