The SSC Ultimate Aero

The American-built SSC Ultimate Aero TT is a supercar built by Shelby Super Cars and the fastest street-legal production car in the world. It was built in order to rival the new Bugatti Veyron with speeds of over 408 km/h (254 mph) and a 0-60 mph time of 2.78 seconds (for the Ultimate Aero TT version). The company and vehicle are the brainchildren of Jerod Shelby with Athan Aridas who helped him, who spent over seven years designing the Aero. The car is the world's fastest production car at 412 km/h (256 mph), a speed reportedly achieved on September 13 2007 in West Richland, WA. The results of this test, verified by Guinness World Records on October 9 2007, gave the SSC Aero the world's fastest production car title.The SSC Ultimate Aero TT first appeared in 2004 under the name 'Aero SC/8T'; the Ultimate Aero is a limited production version of the Aero, offering even higher performance. From various sources, only 25 Aeros will ever be produced, but the sources conflict on actual models. The base Aero model is priced from $239,000, while the Ultimate Aero would cost well over $650,000 (as of 2007).The Aero's styling includes the use of butterfly doors similar to the ones found on the Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren, Saleen S7, and the Enzo Ferrari, to name a few. It uses carbon fiber and titanium extensively throughout the car, keeping the weight down to 1233 kg (for the standard Aero). For the Ultimate Aero, weight is further reduced to 1179 kg by marking the navigation system, 10-speaker audio/CD/DVD system, video/DVD screen, and back-up camera as optional equipment; and removing air-conditioning and any trunk space altogether.The engine in the base Aero model is a supercharged 6.2-litre (387.4 cu. in.) V8 engine rated at 787 bhp (587 kW) @ 6600 rpm and 998 Nm (736 ft-lb) torque @ 5800 rpm, while the Ultimate Aero has increased engine displacement and increased supercharger boost, resulting in 1,183 bhp (882 kW) @ 6950 rpm and 1113 Nm (821 ft-lb) torque @ 6200 rpm (Running on 104 octane gasoline).Wind tunnel testing indicates that the Ultimate Aero could possibly reach a top speed of 437 km/h (273 mph) given appropriate transmission gear ratios. The base Aero, however, should only reach around 386 km/h (240 mph).Despite its excellent performance, the Aero's fuel mileage is rated at 18 mpg city and 27 mpg highway (which is unusual for a supercar).
SSC tested the Ultimate Aero TT' Top Speed capabilities on March 22, 2007. The original test was scheduled for March 21, 2007 but was called off because of snow. SSC closed down a 12-mile (19 km) stretch of U.S. Route 93 in Nevada for the event. Their goal was to attempt to replace the Bugatti Veyron as the fastest production car ever produced (which at the time was 253.8 mph). Simulation and testing at NASA's Virginia facility has shown that the car should be capable of about 273 mph (439 km/h). The March 22nd attempt failed to break the record because of sub-optimal temperature conditions. Test driver Rick Doria reported "wheel-spin" at speeds above 190 mph (306 km/h). Despite the weather, the car still managed to reach 230 mph (370 km/h).SSC announced they broke the speed record for the world's fastest production car with 256.15 mph (412.23 km/h) in West Richland, WA on September 13, 2007. The reported record speed comes from an average of two runs, one in each direction, in accordance with Guinness Book of World Record rules. The first run clocked 257.41. The return trip came up with 254.88 for the previously mentioned average of 256.15 besting Bugatti Veyron's speed by 2.35 mph (3.78 km/h). The results of this test, verified by Guinness World Records on October 9, 2007, gave the SSC Aero the world's fastest production car title.

Specification:
Top Speed : up to 273 mph / 439.4 km/h
Skidpad : 1.03 g
Drag Coefficient : 0.357
Stopping Distance : 103 feet from 60 mph
Base Price : $654,500
Production : 25 total
Powertrain Layout : Mid Engine / RWD
Steering : Rack & Pinion
Body Material : Carbon Fiber
Front Wheels : 19 x 9 in.
Brake Type : Vented Discs
Configuration : V-8
Power : 1046 bhp @ 6950 rpm
Torque : 821 lb-ft @ 6200 rpm
Redline : 7200 rpm
Transmission : 6-speed Manual
Length : 176.2 in. / 4475 mm
Width : 82.7 in. / 2101 mm
Height : 43 in. / 1092 mm
Weight Distribution : 42/58
Curb Weight : 2,640 lb.

Gumpert Apollo 2006

The Gumpert Apollo is the first supercar produced by Gumpert Sportwagen manufaktur GmbH in Germany. The project is the creation of Roland Gumpert, a former Audi employee who oversaw many a rallying success working as competitions chief in their Quattro division. Gumpert's partner is Roland Mayer, the boss of German tuning house MTM.Being a premiere in Geneva with all the rumors made during the exhibition in 2006 it can be considered the perfect car. No matter if it is driven on roads or on races it is just like a bird with full energy that provoke the others but at the end it gains due to the exquisite acceleration and easily handling .Probably it is time that another one take its place. During the 77 the edition of Geneva Motor Show Gumpert Sportwagen manufaktur is going to introduce the Apollo Sport.Apollo is one of the most furious spot cars. Its external design fits perfectly with the aerodynamic form, cool curves and powerful edges. The main desire of the company was to create a car both for racing and for general use, with all necessary to be the queen of the road/race.Even if it is a speed car you don?t have to worry about your life. It has a perfect security system .For example the tubularspace frame made of chrome-molybdenum steel has safety mano coque made of carbon fiber that passed in all crash tests. Another example is the security offered by the cash box. The eight cylinders, bi-turbo mid-engine with up to 800 hp ca are ready of catapulting this 1200 kg missile from 0-100 km/h in only 3 seconds.An extra part of the car gives aero dynamism to this car: a racing wing that can influence the car speed to 360km/h.Due to all these features the name has been chosen: Apollo (the Roads� God).Even if it is a car with only two seats it has a superb interior, sporty, combined with all the electronic stuff: air-condition, CD-player, navigation system and reverse view camera as. In addition it has an air jack �a pneumatic jacking pad.The Apollo is a 1100 kg (2425 lb), street-legal race car with up to 650 hp (485 kW) and 627 ft·lbf (850 N·m) of torque, designed to take on the Porsche 911 GT3, it is a mid engined, rear wheel drive two seater constructed on a tubular Chromoly frame, with fiberglass or optional carbon fiber body panels. An Audi 4.2L V8 engine is joined to a six-speed sequential gearbox with Formula 1 influences. Estimated top speed is 360 km/h (224 mph) with 0-100 km/h (0–62 mph) reached in 3.0 seconds, making it the 9th best accelerating production car in the world, behind the Ariel Atom.The highest importance was attached to safety: the tubular space frame in chrome-molybdenum steel with integrated safety monocoque fabricated in c Sport wagen manufaktur GmbH in Germany. The project is the creation of Roland Gumpert, a former Audi employee who oversaw many a rallying success working as competitions chief in their Quattro division. Gumpert's partner is Roland Mayer, the boss of German tuning house MTM.Being a premiere in Geneva with all the rumors made during the exhibition in 2006 it can be considered the perfect car. No matter if it is driven on roads or on races it is just like a birdarbon-fiber passes all crash-tests regulations, while a cashbox offers additional protection. The gaping air intakeThe Gumpert Apollo is the first supercar produced by Gumpert with full energy that provoke the others but at the end it gains due to the exquisite acceleration and easily handling .Probably it is time that another one take its place. During the 77 the edition of Geneva Motor Show Gumpert Sport wagen manu faktur is going to introduce the Apollo Sport.Apollo is one of the most furious spot cars. Its external design fits perfectly with the aerodynamic form, cool curves and powerful edges. The main desire of the company was to create a car both for racing and for general use, with all necessary to be the queen of the road/race.Even if it is a speed car you don�t have to worry about your life. It has a perfect security system .For example the tubular stub over the roof and on the rear signals power, dynamics and superiority. The eight cylinder, bi-turbo mid-engine with up to 800 horsepower is capable of catapulting this 1200 kg rocket from 0-100 km/h in only 3 seconds.The apollo sport is equipped with an extended aerodynamic package and, in contrast to the three part spoiler of the apollo, possesses a racing wing which gives even more down force and pushes the apollo sport’s maximum speed up to 360 km/h. As you can guess, it is not for nothing that this cars is named after the fierce Greek God.The two-seater also convinces from the inside, with its sporty and elegant interior, and offers air-condition, CD-player, navigation system and reverse view camera as standard equipment. A two-layer metallic finish available in any conceivable color, gives this bolide a particular luster. As a special accessory the apollo sport is equipped with an air jack, a pneumatic jacking pad.The apollo is a synthesis of dynamic and design with pure driving pleasure and unique performance. On the road it speeds like a god and on the race track it cries out to be challenged by an opponent that can match its breathtaking acceleration and incomparable handling. It is eager to demonstrate this at the Top Marques, the only super sport car exhibition where the cars can be driven as well.

Specification:
Country Of Origin : Germany
Year Of Introduction : 2006
Body Type : 2 Door Coupe
Curb Weight : 2425 lbs
Powertrain Layout : Mid Engine / RWD
Transmission : 6 Speed Sequential
Configuration : Twin Turbocharged V8
Displacement : 4163 cc
Power : 650 bhp @ 6000 rpm
Torque : 627 lb ft @ 4500 rpm
BHP / Liter : 156 bhp
BHP / Weight : 591 bhp per tonne
Redline : 7500 rpm
Top Speed : 224 mph
0 - 62 mph : 3.0 seconds

The McLaren F1

McLaren F1 is the world's first production road car to feature an all carbon composite monocoque and body structure. The unique material is low weight and has exceptional strength. The low-weight is necessary for performance and the exceptional strength ensures that the safety standards are met.McLaren F1 is powered by 6.1 litre, quad-cam, 48-valve V12 engine, which produces a peak power of 627 bhp and can attain a maximum speed of 240.14mph. Some of the salient design features of McLaren F1 are: Central driving position, ground-plane shear suspension geometry, intelligent brake cooling, and fan-assisted ground-effect aerodynamics. The McLaren F1 was designed as the ultimate road car. It was to have minimum weight, maximum driveability, practicality, and lots of driver appeal.It was designed in 1990 with the concept already laid down but still without the team knowing what engine to use. Whatever it was, it had to be large in capacity yet light in weight and also compact. Turbo or Supercharging was out of the question - it had to be naturally aspirated but still with a power output of 500+ bhp. Eventually the team decided on BMW's unleaded 6 Litre V12 with quad overhead cams operating four valves a cylinder with variable valve timing. The engine block and heads are cast Aluminium alloy. The cam carriers, housing for the variable valve timing, and the casing for the sump are all a magnesium alloy, bringing the engine's weight to just 573lbs. The engine develops 550bhp @ 7000 RPM and 440 lb/ft of torque from 4000 to 7000 RPM giving the car a top speed of 242 mph.The McLaren F1 has a composite monocoque chassis and double wishbone suspension all round. Vented Brembo brakes give the F1 the ultimate in stopping power aided by a break and balance foil on the back of the car which is extended by electronic sensors during heavy breaking.which car has the better power to weight ratio: the Bugatti Veyron or the McLaren F1? Answer: the car with the carbon monocoque that was designed to take it into account. The F1 might no longer be the fastest supercar ever made but it clearly remains the car that does the most with its power. The Bugatti’s 521bhp/ton is impressive but the McLaren’s 559bhp/ton is more telling, especially when you consider that the Veyron has 1000bhp at its disposal and the Macca a ‘mere’ 627bhp. So, even though the Bug has twice the torque of the Mac (479 plays 922lb ft), it’s just 12mph faster flat out and 0.8sec quicker to 100mph. Let’s look at it another way. Each of the Bugatti’s bhp delivers 0.25mph and each of the McLaren’s 0.38mph.But then the F1’s prodigious performance was a consequence of its sublime design and engineering and not the starting point. And that’s why the F1 still delivers such a pure and exhilarating driving experience that reaches far beyond the initial hit of its fabulous acceleration. The central driving position requires effort and a certain gymnastic dexterity to access but that’s only right.

Specification:
ENGINE:V-12, aluminum block and heads
Bore x stroke:3.38 x 3.41 in (86.0 x 87.0mm)
Compression ratio:10.5:1
Power - 618 bhp @ 7400 rpm
Torque - 479 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm
Redline: - 7500 rpm
Transmission: - 6-speed
Length - 168.8 in
Width - 71.6 in
Height - 44.9 in
Top Speed:231mph/372kph
Price:$1.13 million

The Ferrari F50

1996 marked the 50th Anniversary of Ferrari, and with it came the revolutionary F50. The smooth contours and sleek body became an instant hit. Ferrari had begun designing cars that could be both streetwise and racetrack worthy.50 years of know-how was integrated into the design of this vehicle. 'It will be impossible to do it again,' said Luca di Montezemolo, Ferrari president.Designed with huge forward air intakes, low-slung with sleek lines leading to the rear airfoil, the F50 is a 12-cylinder, 4.75-liter engine. With the ability to achieve from 0 to 60 miles in 3.7 seconds, the F50 banks a top speed of 203 mph. Based on a Formula One engine, the F50 was built and designed in Ferrari's factory in Maranello, Italy. Only 349 models were built, though studies clearly showed a market for 350 such vehicles. Considering it a challenge that would appeal to only the most devoted die-hard Ferrari fans, the F50 had to be difficult to find, and a challenge to own.The F50 was designed solely for its purpose: there was no styling in the normal sense of the word. The surfaces enveloped the mechanicals in a single sweep from the front air intake to the rear spoiler, volumes were kept to the minimum required by the project. Pininfarina succeeded in designing shapes that recalled the great prototype racers. Aerodynamics played an important role from the beginning of the F50 project because: it was a highly advanced car in terms of performance; there was a link between the internal aerodynamic components (cross-flows) and surface layer flows; there needed to be a balance between aerodynamic loads in the dual configuration (Berlinetta and Barchetta) because of the high performance.The chassis of the F50 was made entirely of carbon fibre, weighing 225 lbs and offering a torsional rigidity of 25,677 lbs-ft/°. Like a Formula 1 car, occupants sat in the central tub formed by the chassis, and the aeronautical rubber fuel cell was located in a protected position between the passenger tub and the engine and rear suspension. The result was in advanced driving position, with a front to rear weight distribution of 42:58. A oad-bearing element, the F50’s engine acted as a support for the suspension, rear bumper and bodywork elements. To guarantee perfect suspension operation, the engine-transaxle assembly was rigidly attached to the chassis.The suspension and engine-gearbox assembly were mounted via low-fatigue light alloy inserts co-polymerized to the chassis. To optimize the1996 marked the 50th Anniversary of Ferrari, and with it came the revolutionary F50. The smooth contours and sleek body became an instant hit. Ferrari had begun designing cars that could be both streetwise and racetrack worthy.50 years of know-how was integrated into the design of this vehicle. 'It will be impossible to do it again,' said Luca di Montezemolo, Ferrari president. Designed with huge forward air intakes, low-slung with sleek lines leading to the rear airfoil, the F50 is a 12-cylinder, 4.75-liter engine. With the ability to achieve from 0 to 60 miles in 3.7 seconds, the F50 banks a top speed of 203 mph.Based on a Formula One engine, the F50 was built and designed in Ferrari's factory in Maranello, Italy. Only 349 models were built, though studies clearly showed a market for 350 such vehicles. Considering it a challenge that would appeal to only the most devoted die-hard Ferrari fans, the F50 had to be difficult to find, and a challenge to own.The F50 was designed solely for its purpose: there was no styling in the normal sense of the word. The surfaces enveloped the mechanicals in a single sweep from the front air intake to the rear spoiler, volumes were kept to the minimum required by the project. Pininfarina succeeded in designing shapes that recalled the great prototype racers. Aerodynamics played an important role from the beginning of the F50 project because: it was a highly advanced car in terms of performance; there was a link between the internal aerodynamic components (cross-flows) and surface layer flows; there needed to be a balance between aerodynamic loads in the dual configuration (Berlinetta and Barchetta) because of the high performance.The chassis of the F50 was made entirely of carbon fibre, weighing 225 lbs and offering a torsional rigidity of 25,677 lbs-ft/°. Like a Formula 1 car, occupants sat in the central tub formed by the chassis, and the aeronautical rubber fuel cell was located in a protected position between the passenger tub and the engine and rear suspension. The result was in advanced driving position, with a front to rear weight distribution of 42:58. A structure that made up the fulcrum of the entire system, even from the safety viewpoint, finite element calculation techniques were employed, using programmes that included sandwich elements and multi-ply shells, typical of laminated composite structures. Engineers and designers had to solve problems of the long-term stability of dimensional and structural elements. Tests were carried out on computerized vibration benches. The interior was designed with efficient functionality, ergonomics, and safety in mind. The multi-sized composite seats were upholstered in Connolly leather and special 'transpiring' material. The driving position was fully adjustable, including the pedals - the control pads adjusted to the driver's shoe size - with an F1-type heelrest. The gear shift was the classic Ferrari unit, with gated selector, lever, and knob all in composite. The rearview mirror was shaped to improve visibility in both roof configurations. All controls were specially designed to guarantee ergonomy, and the environmentally-friendly climate control unit was designed for maximum comfort even when the car is open. Originally owned by the Sultan of Brunai, this Pininfarina coach built automobile, with carbon fiber body construction, is one of 359 cars produced to celebrate the Ferraris 50th Anniversary. The cost per automobile was approximately $569,690.00

Specification:
Engine : 4.7 liter DOHC 60 valve V12
Transmission : 6 Speed Manual
Suspension: Front and rear
Brakes : Front and rear
Length : 176 in.
Width : 78 in.
Height : 44 in.
Top Speed : 203 mph
0-60 mph : 3.6 sec
Horsepower : 513 @ 8,500 rpm
Torque : 347 @ 6,500 rpm
Price : $560,000

The Audi R8

The Audi R8 is equipped with a 4.2 L V8 developing 414 bhp (309 kW), the same engine seen in the Audi RS4. Pricing for the 414 bhp (309 kW) model starts from €104,400(€160,000 in Ireland) or £77,000. The base price in the US is $109,000 for the 6-speed manual. An R-Tronic equipped R8 will be priced at $118,000. The R8 has a dry weight of 1560 kg (3439 lb). Its suspension utilizes magneto rheological front and wider 295/50/R19 at the rear.High horsepower and low quarter-mile times are great and all, but in an era when speed comes cheaper than ever, any manufacturer that expects to launch a successful six-figure sports car out of the blue had better bring something unique toThe Audi R8 is equipped with a 4.2 L V8 developing 414 bhp (309 kW), the same engine seen in the Audi RS4. Pricing for the 414 bhp (309 kW) model starts from €104,400(€160,000 in dampers.As Audi AG owns Lamborghini, 15% of the R8 is shared with the Lamborghini Gallardo, including the transmission and chassis. The R8 is made further distinct by its exterior styling, cabin, engine and pricing.The European Audi R8 will also be the first production vehicle to feature all-LED headlights.The Audi R8 also features an optional Bang & Olufsen sound system. The 1,560kg Audi Space Frame aluminium-body Audi R8 is a mid-engined, all-wheel drive coupe, powered by a 4.2 liter V8 producing 420PS at 7,800rpm, revving all the way up to a 8,250rpm redline. Torque peaks at 430Nm constant between 4,500rpm and 6,000rpm. The all-wheel drive system is of course Audi’s acclaimed quattro system, and the car has a pretty good weight balance of 44:56, not a perfect 50:50 but close. Wheels are either 5-spoke or 6-spoke 19 inch wheels fitted with 235/50/R19 tyres at Ireland) or £77,000. The base price in the US is $109,000 for the 6-speed manual. An R-Tronic equipped R8 will be priced at $118,000. The R8 has a dry weight of 1560 kg (3439 lb). Its suspension utilizes magneto rheological dampers.As Audi AG owns Lamborghini, 15% of the R8 is shared with the Lamborghini Gallardo, including the transmission and chassis. The R8 is made further distinct by its exterior styling, cabin, engine and pricing.The European Audi R8 will also be the first production vehicle to feature all-LED headlights.The Audi R8 also features an optional Bang & Olufsen sound system. The 1,560kg Audi Space Frame aluminium-body Audi R8 is a mid-engined, all-wheel drive coupe, powered by a 4.2 liter V8 producing 420PS at 7,800rpm, revving all the way up to a 8,250rpm redline. Torque peaks at 430Nm constant between 4,500rpm and 6,000rpm. The all-wheel drive system is of course Audi’s acclaimed quattro system, and the car has a pretty good weight balance of 44:56, not a perfect 50:50 but close. Wheels are either 5-spoke or 6-spoke 19 inch wheels fitted with 235/50/R19 tyres at the table. The midengine 2008 Audi R8 could be just the thing.When one looks at what Audi has done with its R8 and the focus on performance and everyday comfort, it's pretty obvious that the intended target is Porsche's 911. Impressively, the 2008 Audi R8 stands tall in just about every possible measure, and it's more controllable at the limit than the rear-engined Porsche. However, pricing is such that the R8 competes against some true exotics, such as the 911 Turbo, the Aston Martin V8 and the new Maserati GranTurismo. Among this group, the R8's the R8 stands as the obvious choice.The R8’s width and height don’t do practicality or ease of use any favours. And its packaging will force compromises; the nose boot totals only 100 litres, and although Audi claims that two golf bags can fit behind the seats, inserting them would block off what little rear visibility there is. drawbacks include less steering feel and a lack of possible customization through the factory. Still, to those who prefer the "middle ground" of driving sports cars, appreciate all-wheel drive and have an eye for Audi's innovative interiors, However, both occupants have plenty of space, and get to enjoy a really special cockpit. We’re not convinced by the curved centre console, nor seats that are a touch high. But in every other regard, the R8 is stunning. There’s no faulting the seats, material quality and assembly, flat-bottomed steering wheel, the dash layout, or the fact that it simply makes you feel so special. It’s a shame it isn’t better-equipped, though. Audi seems to be adopting Porsche’s policy of charging extra for everything; not even cruise control is standard, when it is on an A3 SE hatch. This will only push up the list price, which will make running costs of nearly £2 per mile even higher. Needless to say, the R8 is thirsty as well, averaging 18mpg in our hands; but at least it has a large fuel tank, giving the fuel range a boost. Then there’s the small matter of the waiting list – which stretches for years!On the open road, the R8 is a serene machine. Despite low gearing, road and engine noise levels are subdued enough for the daily drudge. My tester was afflicted with a few squeaks and rattles; an indication of early build problems or journalists’ ability to abuse Audi’s horsepitality. Anyway, over any road surface, the R8’s ride quality is superb, even without the optional 'Audi magnetic ride' adaptive damper system.When pressing on, the R8's exhaust note morphs from metallic rasp to barrel chested roar to banshee wail. The endless mechanical aria is a welcome alternative to the standard-issue sound system, which is no better than an A4’s ICE. And while we’re here, the R8’s armrests are poorly positioned for long term comfort and the cupholders are useless.

Specification:
Type : mid-engine, 4-wheel-drive, 2-passenger, 2-door coupe
Price : $110,000
Engine Type : DOHC 32-valve V-8, aluminum block and heads, direct fuel injection
Displacement: 254 cu in, 4163cc
Power : 420 bhp @ 7800 rpm
Torque : 317 lb-ft @ 4500 rpm
Transmissions : 6-speed manual, 6-speed manual with automated shifting and clutch
Wheelbase: 104.3 in
Length: 174.4 in
Width: 74.8 in
Height: 49.2 in
Curb weight: 3450 lb
0 to 62 mph: 4.6 sec
Top speed : 185 mph

The Ferrari F430 Scuderia

The F430 Scuderia, which joins the F430 Coupe and Spyder already on the market, is powered by a 510-hp, 9000-rpm, 4.3-liter V8 engine that makes almost 30 horsepower more than the standard F430 engine. Ferrari says it can go from a dead stop to 62 mph in a mere 3.7 seconds. The engine uses a carbon-fiber intake manifold and a sophisticated spark plug ionization monitoring ignition system. A paddle-shifted six-speed semiautomatic transmission is standard on the car.The Scuderia model is a lightweight version of the existing F430 coupe, with a few extra grilles and vents on the body for cooling, and a pair of pointed stripes running over the body from nose to tail. Ferrari says it is completely street legal in the United States, but the car has only the bare minimum of creature comforts for the weekend racer who wants the fastest version available.Some of the exotic extra-cost features on the Scuderia version include the latest version of the F1 Superfast2 software, which reduces gearshift time down to 60 milliseconds. A new traction control system incorporates F1-Trac traction and stability control with an E-Diff2 electronically controlled clutch-pack differential. Ferrari says the Scuderia version marks the first time all three systems have been combined in a single black box control system. Carbon ceramic brakes are standard equipment.For the Scuderia interior, the seat shells are made of carbon fiber and come in different sizes to suit any driver. Optional carbon fiber parts for lighter weight on the body include the headlamp assembly, engine cover, front spoiler, side sill panels and the rear diffuser. Ferrari says it will offer buyers a color-matched carbon-fiber helmet to go with the car, among 18 other customization options.Ferrari says the F430 Scuderia weighs 2775 pounds, a sizeable weight reduction of 220 pounds when compared to the regular F430 coupe. No U.S. pricing information was available at the time the car was unveiled, but it should be well above the $200,000 plateau when it arrives in the States.Scuderia Ferrari was the original name of the company when it was strictly a racing team. The F430 Scuderia was introduced at the 2007 Frankfurt auto show by seven-time Formula One World Champion Michael Schumacher, and Ferrari says Schumacher was instrumental in the development of the car.Serving as the successor onto the 360 Challenge Stradale, the 430 Scuderia was unveiled by Michael Schumacher at the 2007 Frankfurt Auto Show. Aimed to compete with cars like the Porsche RS-models and Gallardo Superleggera, it is 100 kg (220 lb) lighter than the standard F430 and increases engine output to 375.4 kW (503 hp) at 8500 rpm. Thus the weight to power ratio is reduced from 2.96 kg/hp to 2.45 kg/hp. In addition to the weight saving measures, the Scuderia sequential manual transmission gains improved 'Superfast' software for faster 60 millisecond shift-times. A new traction control system combines the F1-Trac traction and stability control with the E-Diff electronic differential. The Ferrari 430 Scuderia does 0-60 mph in less than 3.5 s, with a top speed of 198 mph (319 km/h).

Specification:
Engine : 4.3L V8 DOHC 32-valve
HP (hp@rpm) : 510 @ 8500
Torque (lb.ft@rpm) : 346 @ 5250
Drivetrain : Rear-wheel drive
Transmission : 6 speed manual
Brakes : 4 wheel disc
Maximum Speed (km/h) : 320
Acceleration 0-100 km/h (s) : 3.6
ength (mm) : 4,512
Width (mm) : 1,923
Height (mm) : 1,199
Wheelbase (mm) : 2,600
Curbweight (kg) : 1,250

The Lotus Exige

The essence of the new Lotus Exige is that of a racing car. Even compared with the Elise, this bewinged coupe is a hard-core driving experience-and we mean that in a good way.What's curious is that from the same set of basic components-190-hp, 1.8-liter, four-cylinder Toyota engine; click-clack-shifting six-speed manual gearbox; extruded aluminum chassis; plastic body-Lotus has created a pair of cars sufficiently different in character that the coupe version can be regarded as a genuinely separate model. A quicker, more extreme, yet separate model.In many ways, Lotus's recently announced decision to bring the Exige to the States is a brave one. As a convertible, the Elise can count on the residual glow of the golden years of British roadsters, with the added edge of being fantastic to drive. The Exige has only the latter. So, while Lotus moves 2000-plus Elises per year in America, it expects to sell only 200 to 300 Exiges.Those 200 to 300 enthusiasts will be getting an out-and-out driver's car. Where the Elise evokes delicacy, intimacy, and fluid motion, the Exige is a much more physical machine. It's not brutish or raw or clumsy but more alert and instantly responsive, more aggressive in its steering and ride.Being a true mid-engine sportscoupé, the high tech engine is located behind the cockpit and in front of the driven rear wheels. Power comes from the state-of-the-art 2ZZ-GE 1.8 litre 4 cylinder 16-valve VVTL-i (Variable Valve Timing and Lift-Intelligent) engine linked to the C64 six-speed gearbox. The engine and gearbox combination, sourced from Toyota, was chosen as the ideal engine for the Exige and perfect for the Lotus brand philosophies.The lightweight engine, with a compact metal matrix composite alloy cylinder block has been subject to a rigorous testing and development programme which, as part of Lotus' key federal Elise programme, has involved over half a million miles of testing in a wide range of extreme climate conditions from the Arctic Circle to the Arizona and Nevada deserts and at altitude in Colorado. This is in addition to Toyota's world renowned development and testing programme that had already been applied to the engine prior to the installation in the Exige.To enable this class leading engine to carry the Lotus driving DNA, a brand new, custom engineered Lotus T4 engine management system ( EMS) has been developed. The software for the EMS was designed and developed by Lotus specifically for the Exige. This bespoke management system and the extensive calibration and validation work ensures that the Exige has unique performance characteristics perfectly suited to the fast road and track environments.The engine management system enables the VVTL-i system to select the optimum camshaft profile, lift and timing across the full range of engine operating conditions. This interaction between the Lotus T4 EMS and the VVTL-i system gives the Exige its optimum linear torque characteristics, peaking at 181 Nm at 6800 rpm with the peak power of 141 kW at 7800 rpm.The very high revving engine is governed to a maximum engine speed of 8500 rpm on up changes (8000 rpm at steady state). The change from the low speed cam to the high speed cam is controlled by the Lotus engine management system to achieve a smooth transition, which will not upset the balance of the car. This change occurs at around 6200 rpm, but can vary by a few hundred rpm depending on engine operating conditions. The return switching from the high speed to low speed cam occurs at 5800 rpm to extend the operating range of the engine on the high speed cam. This helps the enthusiastic driver stay on the high output cam between gear changes.In order to protect the engine during the warm up phase, the maximum engine speed is limited to 6000 rpm and is restricted to the lower speed cam when the engine coolant temperature is below 70 ˚C.A tell-tale red LED located in the centre of the instrument binnacle illuminates to indicate to the driver the optimum point to change gears.The lightweight C64 six-speed gearbox (with an aluminium casing) is fitted with an all-new Lotus designed and developed shift operating mechanism. With the closest ratios and gearset afforded by the transmission, the gearbox offers a fast, precise and light gearshift, ensuring drivers have total control and flexibility to apply the power exactly as and when required.

Specification:
Country of origin : Great Britain
Displacement : 1.796 liter / 109.6 cu in
Bore / Stroke : 82.0 mm (3.2 in) / 85.0 mm (3.3 in)
Compression ratio : 11.5:1
Weight : 935 kilo / 2061.3 lbs
Length / Width / Height : 3797 mm / 1727 mm / 1163 mm
Power : 218 bhp / 163 KW @ 7800 rpm
Torque : 215 Nm / 159 ft lbs @ 5500 rpm
BHP/Liter : 121 bhp / liter
Power to weight ratio : 0.23 bhp / kg
Top Speed : 238 km/h / 148 mph
0-60 mph Acceleration : 4.1 s
0-100 mph Acceleration : 9.9 s

The Ford GT40

Ford, a mass producer of cars, has just built a Ferrari rival. And what sounds like a recipe for disaster is in fact an impressive effort.Rebuffed in his 1960s bid to buy Ferrari, Henry Ford II vowed to beat Enzo Ferrari's blood-red race cars at Le Mans with a car called the GT40, and did so. Repeatedly. The car notched up four straight wins in the Le Mans 24-hour race from 1966 to 1969.The new version of the GT40 made its first public appearance as a concept at the 2002 Detroit Motor Show, a visual carbon copy of the Le Mans GT40s.Public response to the 2002 concept car was so enthusiastic that the current boss, William Clay (Bill) Ford jnr suggested adapting the concept to production. Such suggestions have the weight of an imperial decree and, before you could say supercar, the development team had started work.Ford sold a few road-going versions of the old GT40 race cars, but that was a different era with far simpler rules and regulations. Today's GT, in contrast, is a contemporary vehicle that meets current crash standards and emissions regulations, not to mention mundane requirements such as comfort and everyday driveability. The GT40 was fabricated, in the manner of racing cars of its day, with a central monocoque chassis of riveted and welded sheet steel. Much of the chassis rigidity was due to the two wide torque boxes used both as door sills and fuel tanks. All GT40s had right-hand drive and a right-hand gearshift lever, which made entry and exit for the driver a bit tricky. As did the wide sills. They were race cars, so creature comforts - and space - were minimal. Yes, there were a few made for the street, and a number of replicas of varying degrees of fidelity to the originals, but none of those were much better in the accouterment department, either.This GT was the development car, which had been clocked at 207 mph in testing, almost exactly the same top speed as the GT40 MkII in LeMans trim. Journalists were not allowed to drive as it was privately-owned - by Steve Saleen. How'd he get the development car? Perk of the job - among his other interests, he is in charge of GT construction. And, hey, if it was my car I'd be more than a little hesitant about letting journalists drive it, too.Braking is handled by six-piston aluminum Alcon calipers with cross-drilled and vented rotors at all four corners. When the rear canopy is opened, the rear suspension components and engine become the car’s focal point. Precision-milled aluminum suspension components and attached 19-inch Goodyear tires – combined with the overwhelming presence of the V-8 powertrain – create a striking appearance and communicate the GT40 concept’s performance credentials. The GT40 concept was created to foretell and test the future of exciting Ford cars to come. As with other Living Legends concepts – including the 1999 Thunderbird concept and Forty-Nine concept – the GT40 was engineered from the beginning for production feasibility. Ford’s SVT Engineering – which also created performance versions of the Focus, Mustang Cobra and F-Series Lightning – developed the chassis and powertrain. SVT Engineering worked closely with Living Legends designers to ensure the concept would live up to its performance heritage.

Specification:
Price [$US] : $139,995
Layout : mid-engine / rear wheel drive
Curb Weight [lb (kg)] : 3485 (1580)
Weight Distribution [%f / r] : 43 / 57
Steering : Rack & Pinion; power-assisted
Engine Type : Supercharged V8; aluminum block and heads
Valvetrain : DOHC 4-valve / cyl.
Displacement [cc] : 5409
Bore & Stroke [mm] : 90.2 x 105.8
Compression Ratio : 8.4:1
Redline [rpm] : 6500
Max. Power [Bhp at rpm] : 550 at 6500
Max. Torque [lb-ft (Nm) at rpm] : 500 (678) at 3750
Bhp/Liter : 101.7
0 - 60 mph [secs] : 3.3
Top Speed [mph] : 200