Audi R8 Fast Car Built Slow

Audi UK is investing more than £6 million to support its R8 high-performance sports car with one of the most ironic claims in the history of advertising: "the slowest car we’ve ever built". The new campaign featuring the sought-after all-aluminium, quattro four-wheel-driven, V8-powered two-seater breaks this week, and represents the largest investment ever made by Audi UK in the launch of a new car.

The R8 is, of course, anything but slow off the mark: it is the fastest production car Audi has ever produced, but because each one is constructed with painstaking precision, largely by hand, it actually has the by far the slowest build process of all Audi models. Only 450 cars will be delivered in the UK this year, and 750 in 2008, with prices starting at £77,000.

“The R8 is the epitome of Vorsprung durch Technik – it embodies everything it stands for – advancement through technology," explains Peter Duffy, Audi UK’s Head of Marketing. "It also symbolises progressive design, our pursuit of perfection and unrivalled handling built from our motorsport history. We had to tell the story of how the car is built."

That story will be told in a 90-second commercial developed by creative duo Richard McGrann and Andy Clough of Bartle Bogle Hegarty (BBH), Audi’s long-standing creative partner and the agency responsible for encapsulating its values in the UK through the ‘Vorsprung durch Technik’ catchphrase. It uses a filming technique developed by director Olivier Gondry, and observes a group of real Audi mechanics over a number of days as they construct the vehicle from the very first bolt to the finished car.

“We wanted to make a film which made the process of constructing an R8 as beautiful as the car itself,” explains Richard McGrann. The effect captures the workers’ movement through time – each frame measures a point in time compressed into one shot. Filming took place over eight days in Germany, with each frame requiring a minimum of 20 different shots and four layers to achieve the unique visual effect.

The soundtrack for the commercial is provided by critically acclaimed folk singer Simone White, whose pure vocals and haunting melodies have had both critics and listeners spellbound. The beautiful track, ‘The Beep Beep’, is taken from Simone’s new album – ‘I am the Man.’

The multi-channel campaign breaks on 17 October at 1855hrs during the England vs Russia football match on Sky Sports One*. From 16 November, the commercial will also be aired in cinemas across the UK around quality films such as American Gangster – the latest offering from Ridley Scott starring Russell Crowe and Denzel Washington. Around this time a ‘making of’ programme will also be broadcast on the Audi Channel on Sky 884, and the R8 will begin making two-day appearances on the concourses of major UK stations to give travellers a glimpse of the finished article.

HR BMW M3 Coupe

Here's some news to delight M3 fans - right from the launch of the new M3, H&R has sporty components to make it even more agile. Some test drivers believe the car's tuning places too much emphasis on comfort in comparison with its competitors – this can be sharpened up by adding an H&R spring kit. The spellbinding steering precision right from the factory can be improved a few shades more by the 25-millimetre lower suspension setting at the front axle and 15-millimetre lower suspension at the rear. The H&R development team has also taken care to ensure that the spring kit harmonises perfectly with the adjustable dampers, an optional extra, so you can be sure of a comfortable ride, even with the sporty setup. Better traction also facilitates higher cornering speeds – even on hairpin bends and when changing direction quickly. The lower suspension gives the car a wider look, even making it seem a touch more masculine. The wheel spacers, which can be combined with the series and aftermarket rims, take care of the rest, putting the icing on the cake of this chassis package.

H&R-Spezialfedern isn't neglecting those who like to race for fun or glory either. Coilovers and additional stabilisers will soon be available to make the V8 M3 once again the king of all racetracks in its category in the future.

Audi Q7 3.0 TDI 240 hp

The Audi Q7 3.0 TDI with 240 hp of output and 406 lb.-ft. of torque – the latest version of the incredibly powerful 3.0 TDI six-cylinder engine is now available in the Audi Q7. The ultra-modern compression-ignition engine with Common Rail fuel injection system and piezo injectors impresses not only with its sheer power, but also, and even more so, with its remarkable efficiency. On average, the Audi Q7 3.0 TDI requires a mere 9.8 liters of diesel for every 100 kilometers traveled. This means that the new version needs 0.7 liters less than its predecessor, despite the significant increase in power output and torque.

Under the hood of the new Audi Q7 3.0 TDI is the very latest series production diesel engine the brand has to offer. The latest generation of the V6 celebrated its debut in the A5 Coupé and recently also became available in the new A4 saloon. It produces a peak torque of 406 lb.-ft., more than 90% of which is available across a broad speed range from 1,500 to 3,250 rpm. The Audi Q7 3.0 TDI accelerates from standstill to 62 mph in 8.5 seconds. The six-cylinder engine is able to fully exploit its superb pulling power at any speed.

The Audi Q7 3.0 TDI transmits its power through a six-speed tiptronic gearbox and a sportily configured quattro drive train. In normal operation, this transmits 40 percent of the drive force to the front wheels and 60 percent to the rear wheels. In addition to steel springs, the optional pneumatic adaptive air suspension is also available – this marries dynamic handling with the ride comfort of the luxury class.

The beefed up bestseller in the Audi Q7 range, the 3.0 TDI, accounts for more than 80 percent of all Audi Q7 vehicles sold in Germany.

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Lexus IS F Premium

The IS F is a Lexus "F" premium sports car based on the concept of proposing a new level of performance for Lexus through a refinement of basic performance with the addition of new cruising technology. The vehicle was developed to pursue, to the fullest extent possible, the "joy of driving" - which is one of the fundamental appeals of the automobile - by responding reliably and performing as intended.

Based on the IS series, the IS F boasts a completely new engine and transmission, an exclusive suspension and specially selected aluminum wheels and tires. The vehicle was tested extensively on race circuits in Japan and overseas, including Fuji Speedway, in order to demonstrate its full potential. Detailed attention to the responsiveness of the acceleration, gear shifting, steering and brakes, as well as to the actual experience of quality (such as engine sound and the sensation of acceleration), has created a new type of driving pleasure - not just for the driver but for passengers as well - thus expressing the emotional appeal of the Lexus brand.

Based on the idea of creating a vehicle that can run on various types of roads, the vehicle was extensively tested on race circuits, including Higashifuji Technical Center and Fuji Speedway. The "F" in the IS F name comes from the "F" in "Fuji Speedway".

Note: Products described in this and in any attached materials are for the Japanese market only.

Monthly Sales Target (in Japan): 40 units
Assembly Plant : Tahara Plant, Toyota Motor Corporation

Model: IS F
Engine: 2UR-GSE
Powertrain: 5.0-liter V8, Front-engine, rear-wheel drive
Transmission: 8-Speed Sport Direct Shift
Price (including consumption tax)*: 7,660,000

Excluding recycling fees

Vehicle Outline
1. Performance that Can Maximize Driving Pleasure

The newly developed 5.0-liter V8 engine is a D-4S (direct injection four-stroke gasoline engine, superior version) that combines both port and direct fuel injection. Advanced technologies, including electric motor-driven VVT-iE (Variable Valve Timing-intelligent system by Electric motor) on the intake side of the Dual VVT-i (Dual Variable Valve Timing-intelligent system), maximize the performance of the engine. This naturally aspirated engine provides a feeling of linear acceleration, high acceleration response and powerful, enjoyable acceleration even at high engine speeds.

By adopting the dual-intake system, the IS F provides smooth and even torque at low or medium engine speeds and high torque with both air inlets open at high engine speeds. In addition, the engine sound goes through three transitions in line with rpm to offer true sports car stimulation.

Engine Specifications
Model: 2UR-GSE
Type: V8 DOHC
Displacement [cc]: 4,968
Bore x stroke [mm]: 94.0 x 89.5
Fuel supply system: D-4S (direct fuel injection + port fuel injection)
Fuel type: Premium unleaded gasoline
Compression ratio: 11.8:1
Maximum output [kW (PS) / rpm]: 311 (423) / 6,600
Maximum torque [N-m (kg-m) / rpm]: 505 (51.5) / 5,200
Exhaust emissions levels compared to the Japanese 2005 standards(1): 75% lower
Fuel efficiency in the 10-15 Japanese test cycle(2) [km/l]: 8.2

1. Specified under the Japanese Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport's (MLIT) Approval System for Low-emission Vehicles
2. Outlined by MLIT

The 8-Speed Sport Direct Shift transmission is based on the eight-speed automatic transmission used on the LS460 series, with electronic control technology that provides the benefits of both the smooth shifting of an automatic transmission for comfortable driving and a full-scale, sporty manual transmission that does not need a clutch - which is without precedent anywhere in the world* for an eight-speed transmission. The two-pedal sports transmission also offers new value and perfectly suits a premium sports car. In addition to smooth shifting when the lever is in "D", the torque converter allows smooth and powerful acceleration when starting up in first-gear by putting the lever in "M". In gears two through eight, the direct connection between the engine and the transmission results in direct acceleration response. While achieving one of the fastest gear-change responses in the world, the transmission also has a blipping (revving) control feature that-in the fashion of the heel and toe technique used by race drivers-automatically increases engine rotation speed during downshifts to avoid downshift jolts. In addition, the IS F also features a special paddle shifter that can be operated without the need to remove one's hand from the steering wheel.

The springs, shock absorbers, stabilizers and other parts have been optimally tuned for an exclusive suspension that is based on the IS series suspension, which provides both outstanding stability and a feeling of agility. The vehicle offers excellent cruising performance that is capable of handling race circuits.

In addition to 19-inch forged aluminum wheels that are both strong and light, the IS F uses large-diameter, wide 225/40R19 tires at the front and 255/35R19 tires at the rear for superior gripping performance, excellent handling and cruising stability.

The IS F has high-performance brakes that can withstand even extreme braking on race circuits.
The VDIM (Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management) system stabilizes the vehicle by coordinating control and achieving an optimum balance between drive power, steering and braking, thus allowing high preventive safety. The IS F's VDIM has a "sports" mode that ensures safety while maximizing vehicle performance.

As of September 2007, according to a TMC survey

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HAMANN Thunder BMW 3 Series coupe

The HAMANN Thunder is a modified BMW 3-Series coupe that now is equipped with a V10 engine that develops 560 PS and 574 Nm of torque. Other performance modifications of the HAMANN Thunder include sports brake system for the front and the rear.

The HAMANN Thunder has body modifications making it look like the BMW M3 and 20-inch wheels Edition "Race” with Hankook high performance tires.

At the interior the HAMANN Thunder has a sports steering wheel, SMG paddles, carbon elements and sport seats.

HAMANN Press Release:World premier: HAMANN ”Thunder”
Imposing V10 modification for BMW 3-Series coupe

- Engine exchange for M V10 with 560 PS and 574 Nm!
- Sophisticated M3 look including HAMANN components starting with 325i
- Sports brake system front and rear
- 20-inch wheels Edition “Race” with Hankook high performance tires- Interior refinement with sports steering wheel, SMG paddles, carbon décor and racing sports seats

Is the 3-Series coupe not sporty enough? Too unspectacular? Engine too weak? HAMANN, one the most experienced and competent references for the challenging BMW tuning takes a crowning moment with its BMW E92 modification program for the coupe, that changed both exterior and interior design as well as underneath the hood beyond recognition. The awe-inspiring coupe answers to the perfectly matched name “Thunder“!Most powerful through potent V10

HAMANN thought wherever a V8 engine can fit, a V10 can fit in as well and look, voilá it fits! The BMW 3-Series coupe comes with a whole array of series-produced engines. The most powerful series-made of these is the M3. When it rolls off the assembly line, it has a 4-litre engine, 420 hp and 400 Nm torque. Whoever wants to top these performance characteristics, receives from HAMANN not only the “normal“ V10 out of the BMW M-program, but an advanced performance version with560 hp /412 kW (at 7.750 U/min) as well! Featuring an impressive 574 Nm of torque at 6.100 U/min, it delivers a surge of power through a seven-speed manual SMG transmission resulting that most passengers are shocked groping for something to hang on to during acceleration. The sprint takes 4,3 seconds from 0 to 100 km/h. Only upon reaching top speed of 335 km/h does this transmission begin to meet its limitation in compulsion to move forwards.

HAMANN sport catalysts provide one with a clear conscience. A HAMANN four-pipe sports rear muffler with four round tailpipes bears the right to the perfect name “Thunder” matching acoustically. The four stainless steel pipes, each 76 mm in diameter, make the rear end of this coupe even more attractive and create a goose-bump producing sound.

M3-look plus HAMANN components
Such a power-operated modified 3-Series coupe can linger as an understatement or embark enroute directly to HAMANNs aerodynamic department. There this muscle car receives a complete M3-look kit including a carbon car roof. A HAMANN front spoiler reduces lift even more effectively. In back the same is accomplished with a HAMANN rear diffuser.

Sports brake system – just in case
Whatever looks tremendously fast, generally is driven tremendously fast. As HAMANN takes safety close to heart, each “Thunder” receives a sports brake system front and back. It consists of two slotted and ventilated brake disks (front 405x43 mm / rear 380x28 mm), 2 HAMANN fixed brake callipers (six-piston front, four-piston rear) and special brake pads.

Wheels in 20-inch
Wheels in 20-inch size match best to modified “Thunder”. HAMANN offers this size with design “Edition Race”. The appearance of this three pieced, ultra-lightweight, forged rim in cross-spoke design with black spider is characterized by 9 main spokes, each branching outwards into two further spokes. Next to this striking, exciting design the titanium bolts are particular attention getters. Icing to the cake is the elegant looking high-gloss polished rim flange. Applied in front, this wheel comes in 8,5Jx20 with tires in 10,5Jx20-inch. Rear end of the 560 hp “Thunder” is carried across asphalt in tires 325/25 ZR20.

HAMANN equips the “Thunder” with S1 EVO high performance tires from technology partners HANKOOK.

Racing atmosphere in Cockpit
With its interior design too, HAMANN leaves no question of its bond to motor racing sports. During high speeds around the corners, the driver is comfortably supported with light-weight constructed racing sport seats. With a HAMANN sports steering wheel designed in carbon components, Formula 1 feelings come through. The complete sports racing look is finished with a total carbon interior décor design providing a race track ring atmosphere.

All listed modifications from engine changes, to aerodynamics, brakes, wheels and interior designs are undertaken by HAMANN for all gas engine 3-Series coupes starting with 325i, 330i, 335i through the M3 .

Lamborghini BF Performance GT 660 Murcielago

In the footpath of the past success with its Lamborghini individualisation program, BF Performance is proud to present its conversion for the Lamborghini Murciélago, the GT 660.When you look at the silhouette of the GT 660, you think you are looking at a FIA GT race car. It is fitted with an optional aerodynamic kit which greatly enhances downforce. BF Performance offers two versions, one with a race type rear spoiler and one with a traditional Lamborghini type rear spoiler.

BF Performance designers have produced a set of side skirts to enhance the definite shape of the Murciélago. The front spoiler is a two piece adjustable one producing considerable more down force.The three part rear diffuser has been redesigned.

The engine performance has been tweaked by the same company hat designs parts for the leading five Formula One Teams. The result is an impressive 25 horsepower more and torque is increased by over 20 Nm. This makes the car much more drivable and powerful.

BF Performance offers a selection of wheels from 19 to 21 inch.

The interior is enhanced with a 12 piece carbon fiber kit.There is also a specially designed steering wheel which is ergonomically superior.

A special high end entertainment kit with 15 new components is also available.

All BF Performance parts are made of carbon kevlar. They are available in either visible carbon kevlar or primered for painting.BF Performance has also completed a GT 620 kit for the older LP 580, upgrading the car to nearly the same specifications of the newer LP 640.

Lamborghini Reventon

Clearly a Lamborghini, but nothing quite like it. A super car without equals: the Lamborghini Reventón is a road vehicle with an extreme specification and, at the same time, a limited edition masterpiece - a coherent style, angular with sharp lines, inspired by the very latest aeronautics.

With just 20 produced, each 1 Million Euro (without taxes) Lamborghini Reventón is a symbol of extreme exclusivity, yet still offering the extraordinary performance that makes the Reventón so unrivalled: under the completely autonomous design, the Reventón possesses the entire technical and dynamic competence of the twelve cylinder Lamborghini.

Lamborghini prides itself on being the extraordinary manufacturer of extreme super sports cars without compromise. Sensuality and provocation characterise every Lamborghini, with an aggressively innovative style. "However, the Reventón is the most extreme of all, a true automotive superlative. Our designers at the Lamborghini Style Centre took the technical base of the Murciélago LP640 and compressed and intensified its DNA, its genetic code," affirms Stephan Winkelmann, President and CEO of Automobili Lamborghini S.p.A.

Born in Sant'Agata Bolognese
The Lamborghini Reventón has been entirely designed in Sant'Agata Bolognese, the original birthplace of the Lamborghini and the native home of every super car born under the sign of the bull. The design drawn up in Lamborghini's Centro Stile (Style Centre) is fine-tuned in close collaboration with the Lamborghini Research and Development Department. Thus, the Reventón is not only "haute couture" but it also stands out for its elevated dynamism whilst being entirely suitable for every day use.

The Lamborghini Reventón is not destined to remain a one-off. A total of 20 Lamborghini friends and collectors will be able to own this extraordinary car and, naturally, enjoy the incomparable pleasure of driving it.

The name Reventón has been chosen according to Lamborghini tradition. Reventón was a fighting bull, owned by the Don Rodriguez family. It is included in the list of the most famous bulls ever and is known for killing the famed bullfighter Felix Guzman in 1943.

Inspired by the fastest airplanes
The present day Lamborghini models are distinguished by the clear language of their shape. The coherent proportions of the Murciélago and Gallardo highlight their power and dynamism. Sharp edges, precise lines and clean surfaces: these are ingredients of a style reduced to the essential. Each element is created exactly according to its function; ornaments and decorations are totally foreign to a Lamborghini.

With the Reventón the Centro Stile designers have coherently developed this philosophy, inspired by another sphere where speed and dynamism reign absolute: modern aeronautics, responsible for the fastest and most agile airplanes in the world. This has created an extremely precise, technically striking style with a new vitality: interrupted lines and contorted surfaces create a fascinating play of light, giving the car incredible movement.

Made of carbon fibre and precision
Although it is based on the extraordinarily successful Murciélago LP640, the exterior design of the Reventón is completely new. Just like the base model, the exterior is made of CFC, a composite carbon fibre material, which is as stable as it is light. The exterior components are glued and fixed to the body comprised of CFC and steel.

The front is characterised by the acute angle of the central 'arrow' and by the powerful forward-facing air intakes. Although they do not supply air directly to the turbine like an airplane, bearing in mind the 650 hp, an abundant volume of air is necessary to cool the carbon brake disks and the six cylinder callipers.

Characterised by coherent functions
Naturally, both doors on the Reventón open upwards - since the legendary Countach this has also been a symbol of the V12 Lamborghini product line. With their asymmetric configuration, the large air intakes below the doors provide an example of the extreme coherence with which a Lamborghini fulfils its function: on the driver's side it is large to increase the flow of oil to the radiator. On the passenger's side of the vehicle, the air intake is flat because in this case, it only has to ensure the flow below the floor. The aerodynamically optimised flat floor structure terminates at the rear with a diffuser featuring an accentuated shape. This guarantees excellent road grip and stability even at 340 km per hour.

In spite of the extreme and innovative language of its shape, the Reventón not only maintains all the strong features of the Murciélago LP640, but also offers further amelioration in terms of aerodynamics, the important engine cooling system, the air intake system and brakes. The airflow and the section of the variable geometry air intakes of the engine and the rear spoiler (also adjustable) have been modified.

Owners of the 20 examples will be able to test the performance of his or her Lamborghini in person.

Perfected to the ultimate detail
The engine hood made of glass laminate with open ventilation slits offers a glimpse of the beating heart of the twelve cylinders of the super car. The glass also features the marked arrow angle that characterises the design from the front to the rear spoiler. The Lamborghini designers' love for detail is beautifully illustrated by the fuel tank lid: a small mechanical work of art, achieved by milling a solid aluminium block.

The combination lights transform the incisiveness of the design into light: the front features the most modern light-emitting diodes alongside Bi-Xenon headlights. Seven LEDs ensure continuous daylight while there are a further nine diodes for the indicator and hazard lights. Another technical innovation is found in the rear light LEDs. Because of the high temperature in the rear low part of the car, special heatproof LEDs are used for the indicator and hazard lights, stoplights and rear lights with a triple arrow optical effect.

A new body colour
Naturally, such a refined language of shape also demands an extraordinary colour. For the 20 examples of the Reventón, the designers from Sant'Agata Bolognese have created a totally new hue: Reventón, a mid opaque green/grey without the usual shine. However, thanks to the metallic particles, in the daylight this colour tone features surprising depth.

Opaque and brilliant colours for the wheel rims
This play of opaque and lustre is also featured on the wheel rims, especially created for the Reventón. Opaque carbon fins are screwed onto the black aluminium spokes, not only creating a visual effect with the precision of a surgeon's scalpel, but a turbine effect also ensures optimum cooling for the powerful ceramic brake disks.

TFT display similar to an airplane
The same innovative force applied to the exterior design characterises the cockpit of the Reventón. Designed and created using Alcantara, carbon, aluminium and leather that comply with the top quality standards, the interior is inspired by the next generation cockpits: just like in modern airplanes, the instruments comprise three TFT liquid crystal displays with innovative display modes. At the touch of a button, the driver can choose from two vehicle information display modes. The instruments are housed in a structure milled from a solid aluminium block, protected by a carbon fibre casing.

The G-Force-Meter is also completely new: this display shows the dynamic drive forces, longitudinal acceleration during acceleration and braking, as well as transversal acceleration around bends. These forces are represented by the movement of an indicator on a graduated 3D grid depending on the direction and intensity of the acceleration. A similar instrument can be found in the airplanes. Formula One teams also use a similar device to analyse dynamic forces.

Customisable instruments
The instrument on the left of the speedometer associates the number of revolutions in the form of a luminous column with the display of the selected gear. Finally, every Reventón is equipped with a robotised e.gear controlled by two small levers under the steering wheel.

By simply pressing a button, the driver can switch to the second, quasi-analogical display, where the classic circular instruments, speedometer and engine speed indicator are configured in an equally innovative way and transformed into luminous pilot lamps with varying colours. The G-Force-Meter naturally remains at the centre in this display mode.

Electronic system developed entirely by Lamborghini
All this is possible thanks to the fact that the entire electronic platform of the Reventón, together with all the control devices, has been autonomously developed by the Lamborghini experts.

The same process for integrating the electronic displays in the car was applied to the Lamborghini Engineering Department.

From the conception of the very first radical ideas, the entire Reventón has been developed in Sant'Agata Bolognese thanks to tight teams of remarkably creative experts. An extremely refined and efficient process was employed: CAD design and development, creation of the prototype in the Prototype Department, all carried out under the constant supervision of the Research and Development Department's technicians and testers.

Aston Martin V8 Vantage N400

Aston Martin is not only showing the DBS for the first time in Europe at the Frankfurt motor show next week but will also showcase two new special editions - the Aston Martin DB9 LM and the V8 Vantage N400. Both special editions draw inspiration from the company's recent achievements at Le Mans and the Nurburgring 24-hour races.

The V8 Vantage N400 commemorates Aston Martin’s achievements at the Nurburgring where the company enjoyed success in the gruelling ADAC 24-hour race with the V8 Vantage N24 production race car. Aston Martin develops and tests all of its road cars extensively on the Nurburgring Nordschleife circuit and the Vantage N400 recently broke the eight minute benchmark around the legendary 14-mile circuit.

The Vantage N400 includes a number of technical improvements as well as enhancements to the car’s standard range of renowned colour and trim specifications. These include a power upgrade to Aston Martin’s 4.3 litre V8 engine, lifting peak power to 400bhp and peak torque to 420Nm. The car also comes equipped with a new Sports Pack which offers subtly different driving dynamics tailored to enthusiasts who seek even more responsive handling. The Sports Pack comprises a unique lightweight graphite-finished aluminium wheel with diamond turning, up-rated springs and dampers and a new rear anti-roll bar (for the Coupe). The Vantage N400 also includes a number of exterior design changes, including a revised side sill design, Magnum Silver bonnet and side strake meshes, clear rear lamp lenses and a bright finish grille.

Interior enhancements include perforated black leather seats, micro-spin alloy facia trim and a unique numbered sill plaque. The Vantage N400 will be available in three new exterior colours; Bergwerk Black, Lightning Silver or Karussell Orange, with either Sportshift automated manual or conventional manual transmission and in either Coupe or Roadster forms. Additionally, the Vantage N400 comes equipped with a range of normally optional equipment, including Satellite Navigation, 700W Aston Martin Premium Audio System, Bluetooth telephone preparation, HID headlamps, cruise control and memory/heated seats.

The DB9 LM celebrates Aston Martin’s GT1 class victory in the Le Mans 24-hour endurance classic in June with the DBR9 – a race car derived from the DB9.

This special edition car, available in Coupe form only with Touchtronic transmission, includes a unique Sarthe Silver exterior paint finish, meshes and rear crossbar finished in Magnum Silver and red brake calipers. Inside, the DB9 LM is fitted with handcrafted black leather finish, perforated leather inserts, unique ‘Tertre Rouge’ facia trim and numbered sill plaque. The car is also equipped with the normally optional DB9 Sports Pack as standard, with colour keyed and diamond turned alloy wheels.

Audi A5 S5 Pricing

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Audi has announced pricing for the all-new 2008 A5 and S5 coupes. A5 models with a six-speed manual transmission will start at $39,900 and S5 models with a six-speed manual start at $50,500.Both the A5 and S5 have asymmetric quattro® all-wheel drive standard. Destination charges are $775 for both models, and are not included in the base price. Six-speed Tiptronic® automatic transmissions are available for both models and are a $1,300 option.

Manual transmission S5 models will arrive at dealers in November 2007. All A5 models and Tiptronic S5 cars will be available in spring of 2008.The 2008 A5 is powered by 3.2 FSI V6 engine with the new Audi Valvelift System, and produces 265 hp at 6500 rpm and 243 ft.-lbs. of torque between 3250-5000 rpm. The S5 has a 4.2 FSI V8 engine making 354 hp at 6800 rpm and 325 ft.-lbs. of torque at 3500 rpm. Both engines give the new coupe breath-taking acceleration. The A5 takes just 5.8 seconds from 0-60 mph, while the S5 is an even faster 4.9 seconds.

All coupe models will come with numerous luxury features as standard such as leather covered power front seats, three-zone automatic climate control, in-dash six-CD changer and Sirius®satellite radio, electromechanical parking brake, driver info display, rain and light sensor for automatic lights and wipers, and a leather-covered, multi-function tilt and telescoping three spoke steering wheel. A5 models come with 18-inch alloy wheels while S5 models have 19-inch alloy wheels with performance tires.

The A5 has a comprehensive list of options that enhance the model in styling, comfort, and sportiness. A $1,850 Convenience package includes bi-xenon headlamps, heated front seats,HomeLink®, driver seat and mirror memory, heated, auto-dimming, and power folding exterior mirrors, and auto-dimming interior mirror with compass. For drivers who value performance, there is the $2,900 S line Sport package consisting of more aggressive front and rear bumpers with headlight washers, sport suspension, 19-inch alloy wheels with performance tires, sport seats, brushed aluminum interior trim, black headliner, and S line interior and exterior badging.

Options that are available on both the A5 and S5 include Audi Navigation system ($2,390), 505-watt Bang & Olufsen® audio system ($850), and Audi side assist ($500). Both models also have an available $1,700 Technology package that includesAudi rear parking system with rear-view camera, adaptive headlights, and Advanced key.

ACS5 Sport Touring BMW M5 552

The ACS5 Sport Touring is based on the BMW M5 has 500 liters luggage space meeting 552 red-hot HP (406 kW). Plenty of room in every respect for incomparable driving pleasure on one hand, and a hang-glider, surfboard or mountain bike on the other. Drivers of vehicles like this think in different terms from conventional sports car drivers. But no way do they lag behind when it comes to driving dynamics.

In comparison with the 507 HP base model, AC Schnitzer extracts a good ten percent more power from the free-revving ten-cylinder M-engine. While the luggage space can be expanded by simply foldingdown the seats, this is far more complicated for engine power. As well as a custom engine control module, AC Schnitzer fits a special exhaust manifold, sports catalysts and a twin rear silencer with increased gas flow to keep the exhaust back pressure as low as possible.

To avoid reining in this highly trained endurance athlete unnecessarily, AC Schnitzer has also removed the V-max limit so the ACS5 Sport Touring is only slowed by driving resistance at around 320 km/h. Or by the driver's right foot, which via the AC Schnitzer alloy pedals gains access not only to a powerful engine but also to thesuperb braking system. In contrast to the standard vehicle, which is slowed by a two-pot brake, the front wheels are fitted with an 8-pot high performance system.

The ACS5 Sport however is more than a "muscle car" with tremendous acceleration capacity. With the AC Schnitzer suspension components, it develops the dynamism and agility of an Olympic hurdler. The package was set up personally by racing driver and technical director Manfred Wollgarten on the Nürburgring. The kit includes sports performance springs, which lower the center of gravity of thevehicle further and reduce body roll thanks to the harder set-up, and a special aluminum strut brace for the front axle.

Power is sexy, but since extra power can be felt but not seen, AC Schnitzer has designed a comprehensive aerodynamic package. But this is more than mere decoration. The AC Schnitzer carbon front spoiler elements with their optional chromed aluminum webs and chromed front grille, are not only reminiscent of classic super sports cars but provide any quantity of cooling air for the greedy power plant. All in all, the front of the ACS5 Sport looks far more dynamic.

Form follows function: This principle has been systematically applied by the engineers anddesigners at the rear too. Form-perfectly integrated into the rear skirt, a carbon diffuser together with a roof lip spoiler provides additional downforce. Integrated flush into the rear design, the AC Schnitzer exhaust tailpipes in "Sports Trim“ design are particularly aesthetically pleasing.

The beauty of alloy wheels also lies in the eye of the beholder. Everyone is impressed with the totally new Racing Type VI forged wheel in 20". It combines the classic Y-spoke design with five striking frame spokes. With their bright-turned finish, the latter offer a striking contrast to the anthracite wheel bed. The Bicolor finish gives numerous interesting light effects, especially "on the move“. Further highlights certainly include the forged Type V wheel in 20". Its strikingly curved, interrupted spokes, not only look irresistible but thanks to the lightweight construction, the weight of the unsprung mass is kept low. No less attractive are the racing rims Type IV in silver – or with trendy black finish as "Magic Black“. The range in this case is from 20" to 21".

Occupants of the ACS5 Sport Touring however also enjoy more attention in Aachen. On request a carbon interior is available in sports titanium finish "Exclusive“, or a 3-spoke airbag sports steering wheel. The matching i-Drive controller in wheel design and AC Schnitzer foot mats complete the harmonious concept. So the only sports equipment the driver need be concerned with, goes in the boot.

Performance Upgrade:
ACS5 Sport performance upgrade for M5; from 373 kW / 507 HP to 406 kW / 552 HP; control unit programming incl. V-max increase, AC Schnitzer rear roof spoiler and exhaust system as following:

AC Schnitzer BMW 3 Series Coupe GP3.10

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Driving pleasure has been written large atAC Schnitzer for 20 years. And happily, nothing will change for the 62nd IAA. But this goal can be reached in a totally alternative way, as the launch of the superb AC Schnitzer GP3.10 GAS POWERED shows. This high-performance coupe has LPG (Liquified Petroleum Gas) drive, where power and efficiency, economy and ecology, meet in an exciting study.

As if the extravagant exterior of the project vehicle, based on the current 3-series coupe, were not enough, under the bonnet growls the V10 engine of the current M5/M6 which AC Schnitzeris presenting at the show for the first time in bivalent design: The vehicle has a fully sequential LPG system with two parallel 5-cylinder vaporizers. There's no loss of power or dynamics. The engine, tuned with a remapped control unit and modified exhaust tract with sports catalyst and exhaust manifold, develops 552 HP/406 kW and produces up to 540 Nm at the crankshaft. In itself, that's 45 horses more than the M5/M6. But why power this with LPG?

Liquified Petroleum Gas is a sensible alternative to normal petrol fuel, both economically and ecologically, and after corresponding conversioncan be burned in almost any petrol engine. Per liter, LPG is not only cheaper than petrol but produces around 15 percent less CO2 from the exhaust. With over 2700 filling stations in Germany alone, fuel supplies are guaranteed everywhere, and the 80 liter gas tank fits on board with the original 60 liter petrol tank. So you can switch between fuels at any time. In any case, acceleration is more than just acceptable. The sprint to 100 km/h takes 4.5 seconds, and the 200 mark is passed after just 13.9 seconds. Only at 320 km/h does the pressure on your back begin to ease. Nimble enough to show the rear lights to many powerful sports cars.Especially when a racing suspension from Aachen provides incredible handling qualities. And to match the power of the acceleration, there's the brakes on the AC Schnitzer GP3.10 GAS POWERED : At the front, 8-pot fixed caliper brakes with perforated and vented discs size 374 x 36 mm, at the rear a 4-pot brake system with 350 x 24 mm discs.

Talking of slowing down: the striking body design will soon bring passers-by to a stop. In conjunction with the mineral green special paintwork, the AC Schnitzer aerodynamic kit is a real eyecatcher. The air intakes on the front wings, with their characteristic chrome ribs, and the rear 60 mm wheelarch extensions, are particularly successful. With theAC Schnitzer GP3.10 GAS POWERED , AC Schnitzer has created a feast for all the senses, where the centrally positioned sports rear silencer with its sonorous crescendo takes center stage acoustically.

The rear styling with its special contours and the rear skirt with integral diffuser, the rear roof wing with carbon center part, are as aesthetically pleasing as the powerful front skirt with its coarsemesh sports grille. The latter makes an effective contribution to the breathing of the oxygenhungry five-liter engine. Equally breathtaking for the spectator is the first sight of the racing rims Type VI.

The latest creation from the Aachen wheel manufacturer combines the classic Y-spoke appearance with five striking hollow spokes and bicolor finish. Naturally these decorative elements are not just available for the AC Schnitzer GP3.10 GAS POWERED . For the moment however the latter is a unique creation not for sale, with an estimated value of 198,000 Euro. But we can still get excited because for sure, numerous components will soon find their way into the regular AC Schnitzer range. Parts of the exciting sports interior can already be ordered for example by customers with a 3-series coupe.

Performance Upgrade:
Replacement of the standard engine by an upgraded M5/M6 engine with 406 kW / 552 HP and 540 Nm; Control Unit programming including Vmax increase; bivalent combustion, full sequential LPG system with two parallel switched 5-cylinder vaporizers and 80 liters- LPG fuel tank

Technical Details:
- Performances kW / HP: 406 kW / 552 HP at rpm: 8000 rpm
- maximum torque: 540 Nm at rpm: 6200 rpm
- Performances: 0 - 100 km/h = 4,5 sec. 0 - 200 km/h = 13,9 sec.
- Maximum speed: 320 km/h