2013 Porsche Boxster

2013 Porsche Boxster: Lighter, More Muscular, More Distinctive and More Fuel-Efficient

Never before in the history of the Porsche Boxster has a change of generation been so comprehensive. The open-top two-seat car receives an entirely new lightweight body and a completely revamped chassis. The new Boxster weighs less than the previous generation and rides on a longer wheelbase and a wider track. These new dimensions are coupled with larger wheels and a new electromechanical power steering system to significantly enhance the mid-engine sports car's driving dynamics. The new Boxster boasts superior performance and is also up to 15 percent more fuel-efficient than previous models on the European cycle.
The new Boxster benefits not only from an increased wheelbase but also shorter overhangs, while the windscreen has been shifted forward. The passengers are enclosed by the completely redesigned, fully electric top, which now dispenses with a convertible top compartment lid. The interior concept offers the occupants more space and reflects the new Porsche outline with a raked center console, which, originating with the Carrera GT ensures improved ergonomics in all models.

2013 Chevrolet Corvette 427 Convertible Collector Edition

Engine 7 liter V8, Weight 3,355 lbs, Torque 470 lb-ft, HP 505 hp, HP/Liter 72.1 hp per liter.

Corvette Marks 60 Years of Performance with 427 Convertible

DETROIT – Chevrolet today unveiled the 2013 Corvette 427 Convertible Collector Edition – the fastest, most capable convertible in Corvette’s history – as well as a 60th Anniversary Package that will be available on all 2013 Corvette models.

“The 2013 model year will be historic for Corvette, marking its 60th Anniversary and the final year for the current ‘C6’ generation,” said Chris Perry, vice president, Global Marketing and Strategy for Chevrolet. “We couldn’t think of a more fitting way to celebrate these milestones than bringing back one of the most-coveted combinations in the brand’s history – the Corvette convertible and a 427 cubic-inch engine.”

The 60th Anniversary Package and 427 Convertible will make their public debut at the Barrett Jackson collector car auction in Scottsdale, Ariz., on Jan 21, and will arrive at U.S. Chevrolet dealers early this summer.
Corvette 427 Convertible Collector Edition
The Corvette 427 Convertible blends elements of the Z06 and ZR1 models to create the fastest and most-capable convertible in Corvette’s history.

Its heart is the 427-cubic-inch (7.0L) LS7 engine from the Corvette Z06. Rated at 505 horsepower (377 kW) and 470 lb.-ft. of torque (637 Nm), it is the most powerful engine ever installed in a production Corvette convertible – and, like the Z06, the 427 Convertible is only available with a six-speed manual transmission.

The LS7 was co-developed with the Corvette Le Mans-winning GT1 engine and features lightweight titanium connecting rods and intake valves, as well as racing-inspired high-flow cylinder heads and a dry-sump oiling system. It is assembled by hand at GM’s Performance Build Center, where customers who purchase the 427 Convertible Collector Edition can purchase the Corvette Build Experience option and assemble the engine that will power their new car.

Supporting performance elements in the Corvette 427 Convertible include the driveline and rear axle system from the Corvette Z06, a rear-mounted battery and standard Magnetic Selective Ride Control. The standard 19-inch front and 20-inch rear wheels are wrapped in ZR1-style Michelin PS2 tires. Lightweight machine-face Cup wheels – introduced on the 2012 Corvette Z06 with Z07 and Corvette ZR1 with PDE performance packages – come standard and include unique gray-painted pockets. Black Cup wheels or chrome ZR1-style wheels are also available.
The 427 Convertible also features several carbon-fiber components that help reduce weight, including:
• Carbon fiber raised hood (introduced on the 2011 Z06 Carbon Edition)
• Carbon fiber Z06-style fenders
• Carbon fiber floor panels
• The “CFZ” carbon fiber front splitter and rocker panels are optional on the 427 Convertible, and included with the 60th Anniversary package

The weight reduction brings the 427 Convertible’s curb weight to 3,355 pounds (1,522 kg). Combined with its 505-horsepower LS7 engine, it gives the 427 Convertible a power-to-weight ratio of 6.64 – or one horsepower for every 6.64 pounds of vehicle mass. That’s better than:

• Porsche 911 Turbo S Cabriolet – 6.90
• Audi R8 5.2 RSI Spyder – 7.58
• Aston Martin DBS Volante Convertible – 7.82
• Ferrari California Convertible – 8.31
The combination of low mass and high output will make the 427 Convertible one of the fastest convertibles in the world, delivering estimated 0-60 performance of 3.8 seconds, quarter-mile performance of 11.8 seconds, lateral acceleration of 1.04 g and a top speed of more than 190 mph.

The 427 Convertible is available in 2LT, 3LT and 4LT trim levels and will carry a unique vehicle identification number sequence, similar to the Corvette ZR1.

2011 Novitec Alfa Romeo 8C Spider

Engine 4.7 liter V8, Aspiration supercharger, Torque 434 lb-ft @ 5400 rpm, HP 600 hp @ 7300 rpm, HP/Liter 127.7 hp per liter, 0-62 mph 3.9 seconds, Top Speed 190 mph.

The World’s Most Powerful and Fastest Alfa Romeo: 8C Spider with 600-hp Supercharged Engine and a Top Speed of 190 mph
The most powerful and fastest street-legal Alfa Romeo of all time comes from NOVITEC, the world leader in tuning for the automobiles from Alfa Romeo, Fiat and Lancia. Power output of the Alfa Romeo 8C, Coupe and Spider, jumps to 600 hp thanks to a high-tech supercharger system. Top speed grows to 190 mph. In addition, the tuner offers a stainless-steel high-performance exhaust system, a custom-tailored tire/wheel combination with 21- and 22-inch diameters and a height-adjustable sport suspension.
The limited-edition sports car is based on the technology of the Maserati GT. For this reason NOVITEC adapted a development by sister company NOVITEC TRIDENTE, which specializes in tuning the models carrying the trident emblem, to the 8C. The high-tech supercharger conversion for the 4.7-liter V8 was modified to fit into the space under the hood of the Alfa Romeo 8C.

The supercharger is driven by a cogged-tooth belt directly from the crankshaft and thus breathes more power into the eight-cylinder four-valve engine even at very low engine speeds. Maximum boost pressure is limited to 0.37 bar. The mechanical charging system is rounded out by a water-to-air intercooler with dedicated radiator, and by custom injectors.
Newly calibrated mapping for injection and ignition ensure a potent and harmonious power delivery and clean emissions.

Performance figures are accordingly impressive: The compressor conversion, which sells for EUR 19,900, boosts power output of the 450-hp stock V8 by 150 hp. The maximum rated power output of 600 hp is available at 7,300 rpm. Peak torque jumps to 434 lb/ft torque at 5,400 rpm.

This elevates driving performance to a level never before attained by a street-legal Alfa Romeo: the sprint from rest to 62 mph is shortened to just 3.9 seconds. Top speed increases from standard 180 mph to 190 mph.

The optionally available NOVITEC stainless-steel sport exhaust system for the Alfa Romeo 8C benefits more than just power yield. The integrated flap system varies the exhaust note depending on engine speed from sporty to racing-like. The exhaust system with its four tailpipes is designed to perfectly fit into the standard cutouts in the rear apron.

While the body of the 8C Coupe or Spider remains untouched, NOVITEC adds some thrilling highlights to the appearance of the two-seater with three-piece NA3 wheels. To further emphasize the wedge-shape design of the 8C, the specialists chose a staggered combination with 21-inch diameter in front and 22 inches on the rear axle. The alloy wheels feature five double spokes and are available in any desired color. In sizes 9×21” and 11.5×22” they fill out the available space in the wheel wells perfectly. The matching high-performance tires are supplied by Formula 1 supplier Pirelli in sizes 255/30 ZR 21 and 315/25 ZR 22.
The height-adjustable NOVITEC threaded coil-over suspension is precisely calibrated to these king-sized tires. It allows each driver of the Alfa Romeo to select ride-height and damper rates to suit his or her personal taste.

Upon customer request NOVITEC also personalizes the cockpit of the 8C with exclusive appointments made from the finest leather and Alcantara in any desired color.

For additional information please contact:
NOVITEC Automobile GmbH
Hochstrasse 8
D-87778 Stetten
Germany
Phone: +49 / (0) 82 61 / 2 13 48
Fax: +49 / (0) 82 61 / 2 16 40
E-mail: info@novitec.net
Internet: www.novitec.com

NOVITEC ROSSO USA
18471 NW Chemeketa Ln Unit C
Portland, OR 97229
Phone: 503-336-0176
E-mail: rosso@novitecrosso.com

Exotica Motorsports
Phone: 360-607-0709
Fax: 360-326-1584
E-mail: info@exotica-motorsports.com
Internet: www.exotica-motorsports.com
About Exotica Motorsports
Exotica Motorsports was founded by Jason Godsil to be the best parts supplier in the marketplace for high-end luxury and exotic sports cars. Exotica Motorsports has spent many years ensuring that we stay true to our roots and only offer the finest parts from the premier tuners from around the world. Combine this with superior customer service and Exotica Motorsports is second to none in the industry. Exotica Motorsports currently represents companies like Novitec, Elite, ASI, Premier 4509, as well as many other premier tuners. If you don’t see it in our website then it probably isn’t good enough.

THE JAGUAR XKR-S SPECIFICATIONS

PERFORMANCE & ECONOMY
PERFORMANCE (MANUFACTURER'S ESTIMATES) 5.0 LITRE V8 SUPERCHARGED PETROL
Acceleration 0-60mph (seconds) 4.2
Top speed (mph) 186
FUEL CONSUMPTION
Urban (mpg / ltr/100 km) 14.9 (18.9)
Extra Urban (mpg / ltr/100 km) 33.0 (8.6)
Combined (mpg / ltr/100 km) 23.0 (12.3)
Carbon Dioxide emissions (g/km) 292
Tank capacity (gals / ltr approx.) 15.6 (71.0)
ENGINE & TECHNICAL
ENGINE 5.0 LITRE V8 SUPERCHARGED PETROL
Cylinders/valves per cylinder 8/4
Bore/Stroke (mm) 92.5/93
Capacity (cc) 5,000
Maximum Power (PS / kW) 550 (404)
@ rev/min 6,000-6,500
Maximum torque (Nm/ lb.ft.) 680 (501)
@ rev/min 2,500 - 5,500
Compression ratio:1 9.5:1
Transmission 6-speed automatic
WEIGHT
WEIGHT 5.0 LITRE V8 SUPERCHARGED PETROL
Weight (kg) 1,753
Gross vehicle weight (kg) 2,145
DIMENSIONS
Overall height (mm) 1,312
Wheelbase (mm) 2,752
Overall length (mm) 4,794
Overall width inc mirrors (mm) 2,028
Overall width with
mirrors folded in (mm) 1,892
Internal headroom - Front (mm) 950
Internal headroom - Rear (mm) 767
Ground Clearance (mm) 100
Turning circle (m) 10.9
Boot volume with
roof up (litres VDA) 330
Boot volume with
roof down (litres VDA) n/a

2011 Smart Fortwo Cabriolet review

The Smart Fortwo minicar came to the US in 2008, and I think most Americans -- myself included -- didn't quite know what to make of it. For 2011, Smart has given the Fortwo a very minor makeover. The cosmetic changes to the front fascia and instrument panel are almost impossible to spot, but the functional changes are much more noticeable: Knee airbags for all models, side-curtain airbags for coupes, and options like integrated navigation and (finally!) cruise control.

Lots to like
Skeptical as I was about the last Smart I drove, I was surprised at just how much I enjoyed this one. Not that it was love at first site; my first day of driving felt like a mobile prison sentence. But with each passing day I got used to the Smart's foibles and found myself looking for excuses to drive it. By the end of my test week, I was reluctant to give it up.

What did I like about the Smart? For one thing, the Cabriolet version I drove is the least-expensive convertible sold in the US. For $18,400 -- same as a decently-equipped Honda Civic -- you get an open-top car with air conditioning and an automatic transmission. The Smart's convertible roof slides back like a giant sunroof (link goes to photo) and then folds into a bundle at the rear of the car (where it blocks half the view in the rear-view mirror). Getting the full convertible effect requires manually removing the side rails, but it's an easy job and they store neatly inside the trunk lid. One advantage to leaving the roof rails in place is that you can open and close the top at any speed -- something no other convertible I know of can do. And because the Fortwo Cabriolet is so small and so stiff, it doesn't suffer from the chassis flex that plagues most convertibles.

More likes: The Smart's tiny size makes for unbelievable maneuverability, and I loved being able to parallel-park in half-size spots -- you know, those otherwise useless gaps left by people who aren't courteous enough to pull up close to the car in front. Thanks to the tall driving position, the Smart doesn't feel nearly as tiny as it looks from the outside. Acceleration from the 70 hp 3-cylinder engine is quicker than you might expect, and it makes a cool growly sound when you rev it. The Fortwo grips the road pretty well, and standard electronic stability control ensures things won't get too far out of hand.

Mazda MX-5 Review

Performance
The MX-5 comes with either a 124bhp 1.8- or a 158bhp 2.0-litre engine. Both normally have five-speed gearboxes but the 2.0-litre is available with an optional close-ratio six-speed unit.

A six-speed automatic gearbox is an option for the 2.0. Both engines only come alive when they're worked hard, but do so and they're lively.

Ride & Handling
You want your roadster to be fun? The MX-5 will be right up your street. The light body and rear-wheel drive chassis give it outstanding balance and just keeps on gripping through corners. Sensitive, communicative steering adds to the experience.

The ride is firm but not uncomfortable, although Sport versions have stiffer suspension that is less forgiving.
Refinement
With the roof down, the breeze is well isolated and the high-backed sports seats help prevent draughts around the driver and passenger. Roof up, the fabric does a decent job of blotting out wind noise, but if you do a lot of winter motorway driving, it is worth paying the extra for the Roadster Coupe's hard top. Both engines sound rather gruff and boomy, and it's best to avoid the automatic gearbox, which isn't very smooth.

BMW 6 Series Convertible 650i

Perhaps it's the sweeping hood and long wheelbase of the 6 Series' muscular profile. Perhaps it's the 400 hp and 0-60 time of 4.9 seconds. Maybe it's the groundbreaking luxury. Of the many features captivating enthusiasts, one thing is certain: the all-new 650i Convertible is simply irresistible.

Handling, ride and braking
Vehicle-speed-sensitive variable-assist (Servotronic), variable-ratio power steering
Twin-tube gas-pressure shock absorbers
4-wheel ventilated anti-lock disc brakes (ABS) with Dynamic Brake Control (DBC)
Sport suspension

Exterior
Star Spoke (Style 367) 19 x 8.5 light alloy wheels, and 245/40 run-flat1 all-season tires 2
Xenon Adaptive Headlights with dynamic auto-leveling, Corona headlight-surrounds and Cornering Lights
Retractable, high-intensity headlight washers
Power-adjustable, heated, body-color, power-folding side-view mirrors with automatic-dimming function
Choice of standard or metallic paints
8-Speed Sport Automatic Transmission with Driving Dynamics Control
The close spacing of gear ratios in this 8-speed Sport automatic transmission makes maximum use of the optimum rev range, reducing fuel consumption and allowing smoother shifts.

4.4-liter, V-8 engine, 400 hp
The 400-hp response of the 650i Convertible's 4.4.-liter V-8 engine is nearly instantaneous. This is achieved thru TwinPower Turbo boost, High Precision Direct Injection, and four overhead camshafts controlling 32 valves with exacting Double-VANOS steplessly variable valve timing. 6-speed manual transmission with Driving Dynamics Control

Onboard Navigation System with Traffic Alerts
With the route taken care of, you can concentrate on more important things - like enjoying every twist and turn along the way. Our optional onboard navigation system, controlled via iDrive, uses GPS satellites, a digital map and, where available, Real Time Traffic Information (RTTI) to guide you to your destination. Choose the fastest route, the shortest route or the one that avoids traffic. Where available, traffic information is received by a separate radio tuner and then displayed on the navigation system. You don't have to listen to a specific radio station, or even have the radio on, to receive updates every few minutes. And you can see everything clearly on the large, high-resolution screen.

Safety and security
Driver's and passenger's front airbag supplemental restraint system (SRS) with advanced technology: dual-threshold, dual-stage deployment; and front-passenger seat sensors designed to prevent unnecessary airbag deployment
Active Head Restraints in front seats
Front-seat side-impact airbags
LATCH attachment for child-restraint safety installation
Interlocking door anchoring system to help protect against door intrusion in side impacts
Adaptive Brakelights
Coded Driveaway Protection (prevents engine start when your key fob with constantly changing electronic code is not used)
Anti-theft alarm system with keyhead remote operation and interior motion detector