International Motor Racing Research Center

The Chrysler PT Cruiser.  I like it.  This particular one had a manual gearbox and a very cool looking interior.  It's also comfortable.  Wait, I'm in the PT Cruiser with Bill Green, the leading historian at the International  Motor Racing Research Center in Watkins Glen, New York.  And we were driving the famous Old Course, where road racing in America officially started.  I was getting the grand tour.  As we drove around the course, i absorbed the mounds of information coming from him, and Kevin Hughey, the Archival Associate at the Center.  Bill wasn't just getting this knowledge from books, though.  No, this knowledge was from experience.  He was there when the Alfa Romeo won the first race at Watkins Glen in 1948.  He was there when there was a temporary hay bail chicane on The Railroad Straight, which was taken down after an MG flipped in practice.  I now know about Milliken's corner and why it's called that.  These two were a constant stream of information, and it was probably one of the coolest things I've ever done.
But my story doesn't stop there, you see.  Because I am also a volunteer at the Center, and I was charged with the task of sorting through hundreds of photos.  This was by no means tedious, as I saw the history of 80s motor racing in front of my eyes.  But don't think the center only covers the 80s, because, oh no, they go from the 1895 Benz motor car to today's Ferrari's.  For instance, I saw pictures of Jeff Gordon's Midget car days.  Every single picture I went through came from the collection of pictures given to IMRRC after National Speed Sport News went to the Internet and stopped making papers.  Everything from Midgets to Formula 1 to NASCAR was covered in these pictures.  It was incredible.  Just being there, amongst all things cars, from the Supermodified car in the center of the room to the Jaguar F1 car model on a bookcase.  This place is the car lovers dream.  They also do events, such as this weekend's Supermodified discussion with a panel of experts led by former TV presenter Dick Berggren.  I wish I could go to that, but I have a school Science Bowl event to go to.
So, if you like cars, or need a car identified or anything like that go to these guys and girls.  They know all there is to know, and I hope to have the same knowledge that they do someday.

Car News for February 24th, 2013

Fiat 500L Gets Two New Engines-
Information Source: CarBuzz mobile app
Image Source: www.designboom.com
While U.S. customers will have to wait for the arrival of the Fiat 500L, European buyers now have two new engines to choose from.  They can have a 0.9L (?!) TwinAir turbo from the 500 and a MultiJet II turbo-diesel four-cylinder.  The 0.9L engine makes 105HP and 107 ft-lb of torque.  With a six-speed manual, that engine will propel the 500L from 0-60 in 12.3 seconds and on to 112 mph.  The 1.6L diesel also makes 105HP, however it has 236 ft-lb of torque, nearly twice that of the 0.9L petrol.  If you mate the diesel to a six-speed manual, the car goes from 0-60 in 11.3 seconds and on to 112mph.  It does get 52.2MPG compared to the petrol's 49.  These new engines will be available next month.




Porsche 911 GT3 RSR Preview-
Information Source: CarBuzz mobile app
Image Source: www.carbuzz.com
Porsche has released photos of the upcoming 911 GT3 RSR that will debut at the WEC race at Silverstone on April 14th.  It has completed more testing at Sebring last week.  This new model will race at the 24 Hours of Le Mans as did it's predecessor.  Porsche has not released any specifications or details.  It does have new bumpers, side skirts, and a new aero kit.  Porsche's motorsport chief Helmut Kristen said "We are very pleases with how testing has gone so far.  Our goal is to be well prepared for the challenges of the very strong GTE class in the WEC and at Le Mans.  Until the season kicks off at Silverstone, we will conduct some final tests on the other race tracks so that our new 911 RSR is well and truly ready."

Daytona 500 Starting Grid

Below is the starting lineup for The Great American Race, the Daytona 500.

Driver                                    Manufacturer
1.Danica Patrick                     Chevrolet
2.Jeff Gordon                          Chevrolet
3.Kevin Harvick                     Chevrolet
4.Kyle Busch                           Toyota
5.Greg Biffle                            Ford
6.Kasey Kahne                         Chevrolet
7.Juan Pablo Montoya             Chevrolet
8.Austin Dillon                         Chevrolet
9.Jimmie Johnson                     Chevrolet
10.Clint Bowyer                        Toyota
11.Kurt Busch                           Chevrolet
12.Matt Kenseth                         Toyota
13.Tony Stewart                         Chevrolet
14.Mark Martin                           Toyota
15.Brad Keselowski                     Ford
16.Paul Menard                            Chevrolet
17.Casey Mears                            Ford
18.Jeff Burton                              Chevrolet
19.Dale Earnhardt Jr.                  Chevrolet
20.Jamie McMurray                    Chevrolet
21.Joey Logano                            Ford
22.David Ragan                            Ford
23.Bobby Labonte                        Toyota
24.Marcos Ambrose                      Ford
25.David Gilliland                         Ford
26.Aric Almirola                           Ford
27.Joe Nemecheck                        Toyota
28.Ricky Stenhouse Jr.                  Ford
29.Michael Waltrip                       Toyota
30.Dave Blaney                             Chevrolet
31.Scott Speed                               Ford
32.Josh Wise                                  Ford
33.Trevor Bayne                            Ford
34.Ryan Newman                           Chevrolet
35.Denny Hamlin                           Toyota
36.Carl Edwards                              Ford
37.Martin Truex Jr.                         Toyota
38.Michael McDowell                     Ford
39.Terry Labonte                             Ford
40.Regan Smith                               Chevrolet
41.J.J. Yeley                                     Chevrolet
42.David Reutimann                        Toyota
43.Travis Kvapil                                Toyota

Drive4COPD 300 Results

NASCAR Nationwide Series-

I only had the chance to watch the final 12 laps of the race, but that's all that any one is talking about. On the final lap coming to the checkered flag the leader Regan Smith spun, triggering a massive accident that sent rookie Kyle Larson's #32 car into the catch fence.  The engine was torn from his car and deposited on the other side of the destroyed catch fence.  One of his tires and suspension parts flew into the stands and injured at least 24 people.  Last i heard, 2 of them were in critical condition at the Halifax Medical Center, with one of them being a small child.  Tony Stewart did manage to sneak past the early stages of the accident and win the race.  This was his 19th win a Daytona.  I hope all who were injured in yesterday's accident are okay.  Results are below.
Driver                                        Manufacturer
1.Tony Stewart                           Chevrolet
2.Sam Hornish Jr.                      Ford
3.Alex Bowman                          Toyota
4.Dale Earnhardt Jr.                    Chevrolet
5.Parker Kligerman                     Toyota
6.Brian Scott                                 Chevrolet
7.Justin Allgaier                           Chevrolet
8.Eric McClure                              Toyota
9.Robert Richardson Jr.                 Chevrolet
10.Travis Pastrana                           Ford
11.Nelson Piquet Jr.                       Chevrolet
12.Brad Keselowski                         Ford
13.Kyle Larson                                Chevrolet
14.Regan Smith                                Chevrolet
15.Elliot Sadler                                 Toyota
16.Matt Kenseth                                 Toyota
17.Mike Harmon                                Dodge
18.Joe Nemecheck                              Toyota
19.Brian Vickers                                 Toyota
20.Kasey Kahne                                  Chevrolet
21.Austin Dillon                                 Chevrolet
22.Jeffrey Earnhardt                            Ford
23.Mike Bliss                                      Toyota
24.Jason White                                    Toyota
25.Danny Efland                                 Chevrolet
26.Michael Annett                                Ford
27.Johanna Long                                  Chevrolet
28.Hal Martin                                        Toyota
29.Jamie Dick                                        Chevrolet
30.Reed Sorensen                                   Chevrolet
31.Trevor Bayne                                     Ford
32.Kyle Busch                                         Toyota
33.Jeremy Clements                                Chevrolet
34.Mike Wallace                                      Chevrolet
35.Kurt Busch                                          Chevrolet
36.Danica Patrick                                     Chevrolet
37.Juan Carlos Blum                                 Ford
38.Blake Koch                                          Toyota
39.Scott Lagasse Jr.                                  Chevrolet
40.Jeff Green                                            Toyota

Car News for February 23rd, 2013

Bertone Bringing Concept to Geneva-
Information Source: CarBuzz mobile app
Image Source: www.autoguide.com
Italian car designer Bertone has released a single teaser image of a four-door coupe that they will be bringing to Geneva.  It has looks similar to those of an Aston Martin Rapide.  We will just have to wait.





Wiesmann to Bring MF4 ClubSport to Geneva-
Information Source: CarBuzz mobile app
Image Source: www.carbuzz.com
Wiesmann, a German niche manufacturer of retro sports cars, will be bringing a track-day version of their GT MF4 to the Geneva Motor Show.  It will be called the GT MF4 ClubSport, and it is lighter, with a weight of less than 1300kg.  Under the hood, it has a 4.4L twin-turbo BMW V8 producing 420HP and a 0-60 time of less than five seconds.  Only 25 MF4 ClubSports are to be produced.




2014 Jeep Cherokee Revealed-
Information Source: Automobile News mobile app
Image Source: www.autoblog.com
The Cherokee name is back as a replacement for the old Liberty midsize SUV.  The new Cherokee will debut at the New York auto show later in March.  The Cherokee's looks are new, with 3 sets of headlights and a prominent grille.  The Cherokee is said to offer much better fuel economy than the outgoing Liberty.  It will have a 3.2L V6 with a possible 9-speed automatic.

DRIVE4COPD 300 Starting Grid

NASCAR Nationwide Series-

Today is the season opener for the NASCAR Natiowide Series, taking place at the Daytona International Speedway in Daytona Beach, Florida. The green flag will be dropped today at 1:00 Eastern Standard Time.  Here is the starting lineup
Driver                                   Car                     Notes
1. Trevor Bayne                   Ford                     2011 Daytona 500 Winner
2.Sam Hornish Jr.                Ford
3.Parker Kligermann           Toyota
4.Travis Pastrana                  Ford                      Famous Off-Road/Stunt Driver
5.Austin Dillon                     Chevrolet              2012 NCWTS Champion
6. Elliot Sadler                      Toyota
7.Kyle Busch                        Toyota                  NASCAR Sprint Cup Driver/Winner of Duel 2
8.Alex Bowman                    Toyota
9.Matt Kenseth                      Toyota                 2012 Daytona 500 Winner
10. Tony Stewart                   Chevrolet             NASCAR Sprint Cup Driver
11. Brad Keselowski              Ford                     2012 NASCAR Sprint Cup Champion
12.Danica Patrick                   Chevrolet             Daytona 500 Polesitter/First Woman Polesitter
13.Dale Earnhardt Jr.              Chevrolet             NASCAR Sprint Cup Champion
14.Justin Allgaier                   Chevrolet
15. Regan Smith                      Chevrolet            
16.Jeff Green                           Toyota
17. Nelson Piquet Jr.                Chevrolet
18.Jamie Dick                          Chevrolet
19.Kasey Kahne                        Chevrolet            NASCAR Sprint Cup Driver
20.Brian Vickers                       Toyota                  NASCAR Sprint Cup Driver
21.Kyle Larson                          Chevrolet
22.Michael Annet                      Ford
23.Mike Wallace                        Chevrolet
24.Scott Lagasse Jr.                   Chevrolet
25.Johanna Long                        Chevrolet
26.Mike Bliss                             Toyota
27.Mike Harmon                        Dodge
28.Eric McClure                          Toyota
29.Brian Scott                              Chevrolet
30.Robert Richardson Jr.             Chevrolet
31.Jeffrey Earnhardt                     Ford
32.Hal Martin                               Toyota
33.Joe Nemechek                         Toyota
34.Blake Koch                             Toyota
35.Jason White                             Toyota
36.Juan Carlos Blum                    Ford
37.Jeremy Clements                      Chevrolet
38.Danny Efland                           Chevrolet
39.Reed Sorensen                          Chevrolet
40.Kurt Busch                                Chevrolet             NASCAR Sprint Cup Driver

NextEra Energy Resources 200 Results

The NASCAR Camping World Truck Series race on the Daytona International Speedway in Daytona Beach, Florida:
Information Source: www.nationalspeedsportnews.com
Image Source: www.baynews9.com  www.sports.yahoo.com
The NextEra Energy Resources 200 may have started off with minimal accidents, but ended just the opposite.  The "big one" on lap 54 took out rookie Brennan Newberry among many others.  Leaders included Ty Dillon, Kyle Busch and Todd Bodine.  Kyle Busch had the lead coming off of a caution on lap 81, but Johnny Sauter, with a push from Todd Bodine, took the lead.
As the field came to the white flag, Sauter still lead with Busch hot on his tail.  But just as the leaders took the white flag, a wreck erupted from mid-pack, causing the race to end under caution.  It is the 100th victory for Toyota and the seventh-strait win a Daytona for Toyota.  Results are below the images.



Driver                                            Make
1. Johnny Sauter                                Toyota
2.Kyle Busch                                    Toyota
3.Ron Hornaday Jr.                           Chevrolet
4.Justin Lofton                                  Chevrolet
5.Jeb Burton                                      Chevrolet
6.Ty Dillon                                        Chevrolet
7.Miguel Paludo                                Chevrolet
8.Ryan Blaney                                   Ford
9.Matt Crafton                                   Toyota
10.Ryan Sieg                                        Chevrolet
11.Todd Bodine                                   Toyota
12.Darrell Wallace Jr.                           Toyota
13.James Buescher**                               Chevrolet
14.Ross Chastain                                  Ford
15.Chris Cockrum                                Toyota
16.Tim George Jr.                                Ford
17.Norm Benning                                 Chevrolet
18.John King*                                        Chevrolet
19.Dakoda Armstrong                          Chevrolet
20.Dusty Davis                                     Chevrolet
21.John Wes Townley                          Toyota
22.Joey Coulter                                    Toyota
23.Jeff Agnew                                      Chevrolet
24.Max Gresham                                  Chevrolet
25.German Quiroga                              Toyota
26.Clay Greenfield                               Dodge/RAM
27.Timothy Peters                                Toyota
28.Ryan Truex                                      Chevrolet
29.Brendan Gaughan                            Chevrolet
30.Jason White                                     Chevrolet
31.David Starr                                      Toyota
32.Bryan Silas                                       Ford
33.Brennan Newberry                          Chevrolet
34. Chris Fontaine                                 Toyota
35. Jennifer Jo Cobb                             Chevrolet
36.Scott Riggs                                       Chevrolet

*Last years event winner
**Last years series champion

Car News for February 22nd, 2013

Citroen Restyles C3 for Geneva-
Information Source: CarBuzz mobile app
Image Source: www.telegraph.co.uk   www.topgear.com
Citroen's hatchback has received some upgrades such as new fascia, bumper mounted LED DLRs, new taillight clusters with new reflectors under the rear bumper.  The interior has gotten chrome detailing and dashboard strips available in matte black, brown and Moondust grey.  The C3 has borrowed 1.0L and 1.2L Puretech 3 cylinder gasoline engines from the Peugeot 208.  The 1.0 produces 67HP, while the 1.2 makes 81HP.  A 118HP VTi engine is also available with either a manual or automatic, along with four diesel options.






Land Rover Freelander 3 Spied Testing-
Information Source: CarBuzz mobile app
Image Source: www.garagecar.blogspot.com
The next Land Rover Freelander, known as the LR2 in the US, has been spotted cleverly camouflaged in Evoque body panels.  The new Freelander 3 could be offered in three different body styles.  Expect it to be revealed in 2015.





2014 Kia Soul Prototype Spied-
Information Source: MotorTrend mobile app
Image Source: www.forums.subdriven.com
The 2014 Kia Soul has been spied, and we can now see its updated interior.  It has a larger touch screen,  a redesigned center stack featuring a large clock, and infotainment controls on the steering wheel.  It has black leather seats with yellow stitching.

Car News for February 21st, 2013

Peugeot 208 GTI Limited Edition-
Information Source: CarBuzz mobile app
Image Source: www.autoexpress.co.uk
To celebrate Peugeot's returning of the GTI name to the hot-hatch market, the automaker has announced a limited edition.  Only 54 Limited Editon 208 GTI's will be built.  The Limited Edition is distinguished by a flag motif underneath the grille, 17-inch wheels, and red brake calipers.  It has a 1.6L turbo four making 200HP, developed with BMW.  This means it goes from 0-62 in 6.8 seconds.




Audi Unveils A3 E-Tron-
Information Source: CarBuzz mobile app
Image Source: www.worldcarfans.com
The A3 Sportback will get a plug-in hybrid version to be unveiled at Geneva.  It will have a 150HP turbo four mated to a 100HP electric motor.  The electric motor has been limited to protect the 6-speed dual clutch transmission.  The A3 e-tron can go from 0-62 in 7.6 seconds and on to 138MPH.  Not bad for a hybrid.
The e-tron features little differences between the A3 Sportback, other than a different grille, a hidden exhaust pipe and 19-inch wheels, although those will likely disappear.





Volkswagen Finished XL1-
Information Source: CarBuzz mobile app
Image Source: www.netcarshow.com
VW's plan to build a car that can go 100 kilometers on one liter of fuel may be met by the XL1.  They have announced specifications before the XL1's official debut at Geneva.
The XL1 has a 47HP two-cylinder turbodiesel paired with a 27HP electric motor all mated to a 7-speed DCT transmission.  The XL1 goes from 0-62 in 12.7 seconds, bu thats not the point.  This car is supposed to be economical.  It can go 100km using just 0.9 liters of fuel, and can go 31 miles using electric power only.  It has a drag coefficient of 0.189, better than a Prius or the GM EV1.




VW Shows Golf GTD-
Information Source: CarBuzz mobile app
Image Source: www.autoblog.com
The diesel version of the GTI has been revealed ahead of its debut at Geneva.  It will be the most powerful GTD ever, with its 2.0L turbo four making 181HP and 280 ft-lb of torque, sent to the front wheels via a 6-speed manual.  The GTD gets 56 mpg combined.  With a DSG gearbox that figure drops to 50mpg.  VW says it will go from 0-62 in 7.5 seconds and on to an electronically limited top speed of 143 MPH.  The GTD has LED rear lights and an LED license plate illumination distinguishing it from other seventh-gen Golfs.  It also feature dual chrome exhaust pipes, 17-inch alloy wheels, a diffuser and a roof spoiler.  The interior features a GTD gear shift, GTD trim and GTD instrument cluster.  The Golf GTD will be officially revealed at the Geneva Motor Show with a starting price of 29,350 euros.




Lamborghini Urus to have a 670HP Hybrid?-
Information Source: CarBuzz mobile app
Image Source: www.carbuzz.com
It has been rumoured that Lamborghini will offer a 670HP hybrid version of its upcoming Urus SUV.  The Urus won't likely have an engine from one of Lamborghini's supercars, like the LM002 of the 1980s.  Lamborghini could pair a twin-turbo V8 with an electric motor to produce over 600HP compared to the Porsche Cayenne Hybrid's 380.

Automotive News for February 20th, 2013

VW e-Golf Details Arrive Early-
Information Source: CarBuzz mobile app
Image Source: www.autoevolution.com
Details on VW's new electric Golf have arrived early.  The electric Golf VII will have a 115HP electric motor producing 199 ft-lb of torque.  This allows for a 0-62MPH time of 11.8 seconds and a not-very-fast electronically limited top speed of 84MPH.  The e-Golf has a range of 109 miles, and weighs 250kg more than a standard Golf.  A full charge from a normal outlet takes 5 hours.  Three different driving modes are available on the e-Golf, Normal, Eco and Range.  Normal is, well, normal, Eco limits power to 95HP  and the top speed to 75MPH.  Range turns off the a/c and limits the top speed to 59MPH.
The e-Golf is quieter than the normal golf, and has redesigned bumpers to aid air flow.  New MMI graphics show the driver whats going on, similar to that of the Prius.  The e-Golf will officially debut at Geneva.




Bentley Reveals Flying Spur-
Information Source: CarBuzz mobile app
Image Source: www.motortrend.com
The Flying Spur was supposed to be unveiled at Geneva, but following yesterdays leaked image, Bentley has revealed the new Flying Spur.  The Flying Spur no longer carries the Continental name, but has many of its upgrades.
The Flying Spur is one-hundred pounds lighter than the outgoing model, although it still weighs a hefty 5451 lbs.  Bentley has put a 616HP, 6.0L W12 in the Flying Spur, which gives it 64 more horsepowers than the old model.  The power is sent to all wheels via an 8-speed automatic, meaning the Spur can go from 0-60 in 4.3 seconds, and on to 200MPH.  Power wasn't Bentley's main objective (huh.), so they've fitted higher-profile tires for a smooth ride.  The suspension is softer with adaptive dampers to make it smooth, but still handle.  The redesigned body reduces noise and vibrations.
As far as tech goes, the FS has an 8-inch touchscreen, two 10-inch screens in the back, Wi-Fi, 64-gig hard drive, and a touchscreen remote for the climate control and media.
You can have it in four or five seat configurations,.  Buyers can choose between 100 colors.








Mclaren Releases Details on P1 Hybrid-
Information Source: CarBuzz mobile app
Image Source: www.inhabitat.com
Mclaren will be pairing a more powerful version of the MP4-12C's twin-turbo V8 with an electric motor to produce 900HP.  The P1 will be good for 903HP.  The 3.9L V8 alone will produce 727HP and 531 ft-lb of torque, with the electric motor giving 176HP and 192 ft-lb of torque.
There is a button on the steering wheel that gives you electric boost through the Instant Power Assist System.  The P1 can go for six miles on just the electric motor, that will reach full charge in two hours.  The P1 also has DRS, yes, Drag Reduction System, same as you get on a Formula One car.



Audi RS Q3 Revealed Ahead of Geneva-
Information Source: CarBuzz mobile app
Image Source: www.canberratimes.com.au
The RS Q3 will be the first of a range of RS SUV's in Audi's lineup.  The RS Q3 has a 2.5L five-cylinder engine producing 306HP and 310 ft-lb of torque.  This means it can dart from 0-60 in 5.5 seconds and on to 155MPH, throttling the BMW X1.  But this has put it in the firing line of the Mercedes-Benz GLA45 AMG that will have a 345HP turbocharged 2.0L 4-cylinder engine.  The RS is distinguished from the standard Q3 by matte aluminum body accents, black grille, RS front bumper with Quattro badge, diffuser insert and a single elliptical exhaust.  It is also 25mm longer than the Q3, and weighs 1730kg.  The power is sent to all wheels via a 7-speed dual-clutch gearbox that has Drive, Sport and Manual settings.  It has launch control and automatic stop/start meaning 26MPG.
The RS Q3 is also 25mm lower than the Q3 with stiffer suspension. Brakes also received upgrades.  The interior features sport seats, gray faced gauge cluster and a three-spoke multi-function steering wheel.  It also features black piano trim, aluminum pedals, an MMI system, and a 14-speaker Bose sound system.  The RS Q3 has been priced at 54,600 euros in Germany.





2015 Mercedes-Benz S Class Coupe Spotted-
Information Source: MotorTrend mobile app
Image Source: www.autoblog.com
We've seen countless spy pictures of the S Class, but now the first pictures of the S Class two-door are available.  The next S Class is appears to be much more striking than the saloon, with a grille similar to that of the CLA.  Other features include a long hood, wide taillights and a high belt line.  The S Class Coupe should have the same engines as its sedan counterpart, with a 4.7L twin-turbo V8 and a 5.5L twin-turbo V12 from the CL550 and the CL600.  The AMG models should have versions of the CL63's 5.5L twin-turbo V8 and the CL65's 6.0L twin-turbo V12, with AWD being a possibility.  The 2015 S Class Coupe should makes its debut at the 2014 Geneva Motor Show.




Rolls-Royce Teases Wraith, With a Door Panel-
Information Source: Automobile New mobile app
Image Source: www.rumors.automobilemag.com
Rolls-Royce has teases the upcoming Wraith with......a door panel.  But quite a nice door panel at that.  It has a leather armrest in a sea of wood veneer.  Rolls has said the Wraith's interior "echoes the cove at Le Canadel", which is the French cove where Henrey Royce's design team went in the winter.  My kind of stuff, that.
The Wraith will be a version of the Ghost, sharing its twin-turbo V12, that could produce more than 600HP in the Wraith.  The Wraith will debut at Geneva.




2014 BMW 4 Series Spied in the Snow-
Information Source: Automobile News mobile app
Image Source: www.wot.motortrend.com
The BMW 4 Series has been caught testing in the snow.  The 4 Series should have a 3.0L, turbo I-6 making 300HP and 300 ft-lb of torque.  It may also have BMW's xDrive AWD system.  It has air vents that BMW say channel air into the outside of the front wheels.  The headlights appear to be similar to those of the 4 Series Concept.

Automotive News for February 19th, 2013

Note: I have received a few replies for the 2013 Car Survey.  Keep em' coming!

Spyker Teases B6 Concept-
Information Source: CarBuzz mobile app
Image Source: www.carscoop.blogspot.com
Following the failed attempt to buy Saab and form a sucessful F1 Team, Spyker has returned its focus to their products.  Spyker has released a teaser of the B6 Concept, set to arrive at the Geneva Motor Show and target the Porsche 911.  I don't know about that one.  It appears to be mid-engined.  If produced, the B6 could be a slot below the existing C8 Aileron.





Fiat Dealers to Sell the Alfa Romeo 4C-
Information Source: CarBuzz mobile app
Image Source: www.gizmag.com
The task of getting a network of dealers set up on a given continent is tough, and with Alfa Romeo's return to the US, they've decided to use Fiat's set of dealerships.  The 4C, set to bow at Geneva, will spearhead Alfa's return to North America.  The 4C will be a sort of reward for the best Fiat dealerships, who will get the opportunity to sell the car.





2014 Bentley Flying Spur Arrives Early-
Information Source: CarBuzz mobile app
Image Source: www.autoguide.com
Some leaked images of the Flying Spur have surfaced ahead of the new Bentley's debut.  It has new front fascia, different taillights and lowered door handles.  Interior upgrades include a new infotainment system.  The Flying Spur should have a 500HP twin-turbocharged 4.0L V8 or a 635HP 6.0L W12.  The full information will be available tomorrow.





Volvo Reveals Six Facelifted Models-
Information Source: CarBuzz mobile app
Image Source: www.worldcarfans.com
Volvo has revealed facelifts for the S60, V60, XC60, V70, XC70 and the S80.  The most significant upgrades were given to the S60, V60 and XC60.  The three have bigger headlights, and wider grilles.  The XC60 has received a new hood, and the S60 and V60 have an optional Lower Sport Chassis.  The V70, XC70 and S80 have gotten larger grilles.  The front bumper and spoilers have been redesigned.  All models received a Sensus HMI system.  Paddle-shift gearboxes are also available.  The V40 now comes with sport seats and a digital dashboard.  Fuel economy has been improved across the range.  The S60 is capable of 59MPG!





2014 Acura RLX Details Released-
Information Source: MotorTrend mobile app
Image Source: www.motortrend.com
Acura has released full pricing and trim details on the new RLX.  The base model starts at $49,345 US Dollars.  The RLX will have a standard 3.5L V6 making 310HP and 272 ft-lb of torque connected to a six-speed auto with paddle shifters.  It also has the new Precision All-Wheel Steer system, which changes the angle of the rear wheels.  LED headlights, 8-inch infotainment screen and a 7-inch touch-screen display are all standard, as well as keyless access, noise-reducing wheels, 10-speaker sound system and Bluetooth.
The RLX Navigation trim, costing $51, 845, has sat-nav with voice recognition, color infotainment, and the AcuraLink system.   The $55,345 Technology trim adds noise-reducing rims, premium leather, blind-spot monitoring, ELS audio system, noise-reducing acoustic glass, rain-sensing windshield wipers, power side mirrors and keyless access.
The Krell Audio trim, costing $57,845 gets you a Krell 14-speaker sound-system, rear door sunshades and a power rear window sunshade.  The Advance trim, costing the most at $61,345 gives you adaptive cruise control, Collision Mitigation Braking System, Lane Keeping Assist, front and rear parking sensors, ventilated front seats, heated rear seats, lighting for the rear foot wells and auto-dimming side view mirrors.
The RLX will be on sale next month.  Late this year, Acura will add the Sport Hybrid Super Handling All-Wheel Drive system, which adds an electric motor for each wheel to give you a total of 370HP.  Sounds interesting.

Automotive News for February 18th, 2013

2015 Mercedes-Benz S-Coupe Testing-
Information Source: CarBuzz mobile app
Image Source: www.carbuzz.com
The replacement for the out-going CL has been spotted in light camouflage.  The S-Coupe will share a platform with the S Sedan.  The sedan should be revealed at Geneva.




A V16 Rolls-Royce?  Maybe.-
Information Source: CarBuzz mobile app
Image Source: www.transportspecs.com
Rolls-Royce has been planning the Wraith, the most powerful Roller yet, but maybe not, as Royce is working on a V16 Roadster.  Rather than put a V16 in the Phantom, Rolls-Royce will build a separate model.  It could produce a whopping 700HP.




Note:  Below is a 2013 Car Survey, please fill that in and send it to me at skeeter00@rochester.rr.com

Automotive News for February 17th. 2013

Aston-Martin Vanquish Volante Shown Ahead of Geneva-
Information Source: www.carbuzz.com
Image Source: www.gencoupe.com
Up Close spy shots of the new Vanquish Volante have been revealed.  There is no camouflage on the Vanquish Volante.  It will have the same 6.0L V12 as the coupe version.  That engine makes 565HP sent to the rear wheels through a six-speed Touchtronic automatic.



AMG Reveals A45 Edition 1-
Information Source: www.carbuzz.com
Image Source: www.autoguide.com
Mercedes-Benz always makes an Editon 1 the first year a standard car is produced.  They have done this with the A45 AMG.  The A45 Edition 1 features Cirrus White paint with matte grey stripes and red accents.  It has an upgraded aero kit.  On the inside, the Editon 1 has AMG seats.    The engine is the same 360HP 2.0L Turbo four as the AMG.


Spy Shots of BMW 2 Series Coupe-
Information Source: www.carbuzz.com
Image Source: www.rumors.automobilemag.com
The next 2 Series has been spied under-going winter testing.  The 2 Series is the replacement for the 1 Series Coupe and Convertible.  The 2 Series will be sold in the US (YES!), and we will hopefully get an M2.





Dodge Ram 1500 to Have a Diesel V6 Option-
Information Source: www.carbuzz.com
Image Source: www.autoblog.com
Chrysler has announced that it will put the only small diesel engine for the pick-up segment in its Dodge Ram 1500.  Buyers can have a 3.0L EcoDiesel V6 with an eight-speed automatic.  This will be the first diesel for a 1500 pick-up.  The Ram 1500 Diesel is expected to have class-leading torque and fuel economy.  This diesel is the same engine for the new Jeep Grand Cherokee.




Chevrolet Reveals 2014 SS-
Information Source: www.carbuzz.com
Image Source: www.autoblog.com
Ever since the Pontiac G8 was discontinued, GM has not had a V8 RWD sedan on the market.  Until now.  Chevrolet has recently revealed our America's Holden Commodore. It is called the SS and it has a 6.2L LS3 V8 with 415HP and torque.  Chevy says it can sprint from 0-60 in 5 seconds.  It has a 6-speed paddle shifter auto.  It has Brembo brakes and a near perfect weight distribution.  The SS should be available this summer.

2013 Car Survey

Please fill out this form and send it back to me at skeeter00@rochester.rr.com
I will post updates every week on the survey.  Note: I can take surveys in other languages, any car will be accepted.
1.  Make, model and year of car.____________________________  ex.  2011 Toyota Camry SE

2.  Would you buy this car again?  Y/N ___________

3. Has the car broken down at all?  Was this a reliability issue? ______________________________

4.  Are you satisfied with your dealer?  If no, why not? __________________________________

5.  What is your favorite and least favorite feature or characteristic of your car? ______________________________________________________________________

6.  Do you you enjoy getting in your car each morning? _______________________________________________________________________________

7. Do you service your car regularly? ______________________________

8.  What do you use your car for most often? ______________________________________ ex. the school run

9. Does the car meet your original expectations? ______________________________________

10.   Would you recommend your car to a like-minded friend? _______________________________

2013 NASCAR Sprint Unlimited Results

The Sprint Unlimited was known as the Budwieser Shootout in past years.
Information Source: www.sbnation.com
The Sprint Unlimited is a non-points race held before the Daytona 500.  In order to qualify for the race, a driver needs to have won a pole or be a previous winner of the race.  Nineteen drivers qualified.  The Sprint Unlimited was divided into three segments.  Tony Stewart won the first segment.  The third segment is a short, 20 lap dash.  A huge wreck in the second segment took out Jimmie Johnson, Denny Hamlin, Jeff Gordon, Mark Martin, Kyle Busch and Kurt Busch.  Full race results are below.

1. Kevin Harvick
2. Greg Biffle
3. Joey Logano
4. Tony Stewart
5. Matt Kenseth
6. Aric Almirola
7. Kasey Kahne
8. Dale Earnhardt Jr.
9. Martin Truex Jr.
10. Juan Pablo Montoya
11. Marcos Ambrose
12. Carl Edwards
13.Kurt Busch
14. Jimmie Johnson
15. Denny Hamlin
16. Kyle Busch
17. Jeff Gordon
18. Mark Martin
19.Terry Labonte

Automotive News for February 16th, 2013

Mercedes-Benz C Class Spied with Less Camo-
Information Source: CarBuzz mobile app
Image Source: www.wot.motortrend.com
Mercedes had been hard at work preparing the 2014 C Class, and it has been spotted with less camouflage.  The C Class's styling won't be dramatic, but just a bit more sporty.  The new C Class will be offered with gas and diesel engines, and for the first time, a hybrid.





Audi S1 Confirmed for Production-
Information Source: CarBuzz mobile app
Image Source: www.motorauthority.com
A performance version of the Audi A1 has been confirmed for production.  The new S1 will be revealed for the 2014 model year.  An RS1 is unlikely, however if sales are up, we may see one.  The S1 will be offered with a 2.0 or a 1.8L engine with over 200HP, sent to all wheels.  It is expected to have a 0-60MPH time of 5 seconds and on to 155MPH.  Unfortunately, we probably won't see the S1 in the US for a while yet.

Automotive News for February 14th, 2013 Happy Valentines Day!

BMW 2 Series Convertible Winter Testing
Information Source: CarBuzz mobile app
Image Source: www.carbuzz.com
The old 1 Series is to be replaced with the 2 Series as part of a new numerical naming system.  The new 2 Series will be available in the US, and will be the base for the M2, a replacement for the 1M.






RUF Under New Ownership by Genii Capital-
Information Source: CarBuzz mobile app
Image Source: www.excellence-mag.com
Genii Capital, current owner of the Lotus F1 team, have bought a majority share in RUF Automobile.  RUF is a tuning company, mainly focusing on Porsche's.  Some of their best works include the CTR Yellowbird which could hit 214MPH in 1987, and the CTR3 of 2008.

Automotive News for February 12th, 2013

Nissan No Longer a Part of the DeltaWing Project-
Information Source: CarBuzz mobile app
Image Source: www.wired.com
Nissan has decided to back out of the DeltaWing program, just as it scored a 5th place finish at Petit Le Mans.  Dr. Don Panoz and co. will replace the 1.6L Nissan engine with a 1.9L unit from Mazda, producing 345HP and 350 lb-ft of torque.  The new Mazda DeltaWing is expected to debut at the 12 Hours of Sebring this March, after which there are plans to make a DeltaWing coupe for Laguna Seca.  For me, i hope the DeltaWing continues to have success.




New Smart ForTwo and ForFour Spied-
Information Source: CarBuzz mobile app
Image Source: www.autoguide.com
The next-gen Smart city cars have been spied testing in Sweden.  These cars are built collaboratively with Renault, using a RWD, rear engine Daimler platform.  The four-door could be the base of a new Renault Twingo.  The two-seat ForTwo will be offered in 2014 as a petrol, diesel or full-electric version.  The ForFour should be out in 2015.  The styling of these two should be based off of the Forstars concept that was shown at the Paris Motor Show.



Seat Unveils Leon SC-
Information Source: CarBuzz mobile app
Image Source: www.carscoop.blogspot.com
Seat has revealed a sportier version of its five-door Leon.  It has two less doors than the standard Leon and a shorter wheelbase.  The Leon SC will have many petrol and diesel engines ranging from 1.2L to 2.0L, and between 105 and 184HP.




Hyundai Tucson Refresher
Information Source: Automobile News mobile app
Image Source: www.rumors.automobilemag.com
A heavily camouflaged Hyundai Tucson has been spotted.  Despite the camouflage the grille appears to be redesigned as well as new taillights.  The engines are expected to get better fuel economy in the new Tucson.  Expect to see the Tucson at the Frankfurt Motor Show.

Automotive News for February 11th, 2012

Next VW Golf R to Have 286HP-
Information Source: CarBuzz mobile app
Image Source: www.autoblog.com
Details on Volkswagens next Golf R are coming out just after VW showed the Golf R Cabriolet.  The next R Will be lighter, thanks to VW's new MQB platform.  The 286HP comes courtesy of a 2.0L TFSI.  This will make 286HP and 280 ft-lb of torque, sent to all wheels via a 6-speed dual-clutch gearbox.  This could mean a 0-60MPH time of 5 seconds and a limited top speed of 155MPH.  Fuel economy will also improve despite the extra power.  The new Golf R should debut at next years Frankfurt Motor Show.




SsangYong Shows SIV-1 Concept-
Information Source: CarBuzz mobile app
Image Source: www.topspeed.com
SsangYong is a Korean manufacturer of mainly small, cheap SUVs.  They have just released teasers of its latest crossover concept.  The SIV-1 is a very edgy and sleek design, with a rear reminiscent of an Alfa Romeo.  The SIV-1 will be at the Geneva Auto Show.