Auto News 5

On April 17th, 2014, the iconic Ford Mustang will celebrate its 50th anniversary, and a day later, the next-generation Mustang will make its world debut at the New York Auto Show.

In a unique countdown, Mustang videos like the following will regularly be uploaded to YouTube by Ford.

The Ford Mustang has sold over 9 million units worldwide since 1964, including one million during its first year of existence.

Source : caradisiac.com

Il Commendatore Enzo Ferrari sadly died 25 years ago today, August 14, 1988.

Enzo Anselmo Ferrari was born in 1898. He was an Italian motor racing driver and entrepreneur, the founder of the Scuderia Ferrari and of the Ferrari automobile marque.

Enzo Ferrari's early days (Photo: WRi2)

Enzo Ferrari died on August 14, 1988 in Maranello at the age of 90. His death was not made public until two days later, as by Enzo's request, to compensate for the late registration of his birth.

The Italian Grand Prix was held just weeks after Ferrari's death, and, fittingly, the result was a 1-2 finish for Ferrari, with Gerhard Berger leading home Michele Alboreto. Ironically, it was the only race that the mighty McLaren-Honda team did not win that season.

Gerhard Berger wins the 1988 Italian Grand Prix (Photo: WRi2)

From GMM

Daniel Juncadella has confirmed he is in the running for a future with the Williams team.

The Spaniard was signed up by the Grove team's 2014 engine supplier, Mercedes, to race in the German touring car series DTM this year.

Daniel Juncadella racing Mercedes' C-Coupé (Photo: DTM)

Another link that could pay off for Juncadella is his sponsor deal with the Kazakhstan investment company TAK Group, to promote the capital Astana.

TAK's Artur Ardavichus said in June: "Astana wants Dani to progress and gain experience with Williams, to prepare him to be a formula one driver with Mercedes."

Juncadella initially played down those comments, but reports now suggest the Spaniard could be groomed for a race seat by Williams in the same way that Valtteri Bottas was.

The 22-year-old drove Williams' 2013 car at the recent Silverstone test, and has now told Russia's Championat: "We'll see what happens in the future.

"Next year, Williams and Mercedes will have the same engine, and so Mercedes can send its young and inexperienced drivers to a team it is connected with, where the driver has the opportunity to show his potential.

"There is a good chance that in a few years I can become the main driver for Williams.  We'll see.  First I need to show strong results."

Juncadella also revealed he could contest the pre-season winter tests ahead of the 2014 season, and then make appearances on Friday mornings at grands prix.

Asked if he was talking about driving a Williams or a Mercedes, he answered: "I cannot say.  But I think in 2014 there may be some surprises."

Australian IndyCar driver Ryan Briscoe, who injured his right wrist a month ago in Toronto, has been cleared to get back behind the wheel.

So yesterday, the Panther Racing driver participated in a multi-team test at Sonoma, ahead of the upcoming GoPro Grand Prix of Sonoma.

Without a full-time seat in IndyCar this season, the 31-year-old had been racing sportscars in American Le Mans Series (ALMS) with Level 5 Motorsports until his injury. And as it happens, he was joined by the winningest driver in the history of the ALMS at the Sonoma test, German Lucas Luhr.

Lucas Luhr (Photo: Joe Jacobson)

The former Audi and Porsche factory driver made his test debut at the wheel of Sarah Fisher Hartman Racing's second Dallara-Honda, in preparation for his first race, which will be the Grand Prix of Sonoma.

Also in his debut outing was 2012 Japanese F3 champion Ryo Hirakawa, at the wheel of the No. 18 Dale Coyne Racing entry.

Several other regular drivers were in action, including Marco Andretti, James Hinchliffe, Ryan Hunter-Reay, EJ Viso and Sébastien Bourdais.

Marco Andretti (Photo: Sonoma Raceway)

I recently watched an episode of one of my favourite motoring television shows, Top Gear. On this particular episode, they talked about the brand new Porsche 911. James May was behind the wheel and spewing out technological stats left, right and centre. Most notably, he brought up the fact that the new Porsche 911 has electromechanical power steering, which 911 enthusiasts the world over are lamenting.

Why?

Because, according to James May (and I'd bet a fair number of diehard Porsche fans), this new bit of kit is taking away from what driving a 911 “feels” like. Sure, it makes things easier and safer, but it detracts from the experience -- an experience you paid a pretty penny for.

So, May came up with a solution: Don't buy a new 911; get an old one instead. Specifically, a Singer Porsche 911.

What is a Singer Porsche? Well, for starters, it's a work of art. Stunning to behold, the Singer 911 is a fully restored early '90s Porsche 911 coupe that's been modified to each customer's specifications. Maintaining the car's original body style, shape and design, Singer inserts carbon fibre in various areas and adds a speed-sensitive rear spoiler in the classic '73 “ducktail” design that lifts when driving at 60 mph or faster.

You can choose from two engines in your Singer Porsche 911: a 3.6L or a 3.8L. Each is hand-built using new components. You can also choose between 5-speed and close-ratio 6-speed transmissions, which are rebuilt with new components as well.

So, what about that steering? Well, I figured Singer said it best: “The steering on the 964 model 911s has long been heralded as one of the finest in existence, and we retain this hydraulically power assisted rack-and-pinion system.”

Of course, customization inside is endless, from the leather you prefer to the types of knobs you want on the dash. This truly becomes your 911. And while it might look to be a few decades old, it will be absolutely brand new. The Singer Porsche 911 is as bespoke as they come.

In my opinion, your Singer 911 will have so much more personality and charisma than a 2013 Porsche 911 parked in your driveway. What Singer has done is take the spirit of the 911 and everything the car stands for, and raise it to a level akin to a classic work of art.

Singer's entire strategy is based on embracing and showcasing everything that Porsche built its reputation on, from the classic silhouette right down to the 17” ‘60s-era Fusch wheels (which can even be ordered with either closed lug nuts or extended wheel studs and open brass-plated aluminum lug nuts and without centre caps for a more track-inspired look).

The intense detail that goes into a Singer Porsche 911 is extraordinary and makes you sit back and realize how cookie-cutter even the most “original” new cars are nowadays. You think you're stepping out from the crowd by purchasing your new 911 with colour-matched seatbelts and customized interior detailing, but you're not: It's just another car in the lineup of today's vehicles.

If you're in the market for a new Porsche 911 because of the history of the brand and what it means to drive a Porsche, consider a Singer 911. Sure, it costs nearly twice as much as a brand new Porsche 911 Turbo S, but I think it's well worth it.

Now the question becomes: How do I get behind the wheel of one?

Photo: Singer Vehicle Design

On April 17th, 2014, the iconic Ford Mustang will celebrate its 50th anniversary, and a day later, the next-generation Mustang will make its world debut at the New York Auto Show.

In a unique countdown, Mustang videos like the following will regularly be uploaded to YouTube by Ford.

The Ford Mustang has sold over 9 million units worldwide since 1964, including one million during its first year of existence.

Source : caradisiac.com

We're now halfway through the 2013 season of the Drift Mania Canadian Championship (DMCC), and it's safe to say fans in attendance have gotten their money's worth. Hopefully, the drivers will put on an even greater show in the second half.

In the meantime, here are the top 10 photos from the 2013 DMCC so far:

Francis Tassé drifts like a master at Autodrome de Montmagny.

Photo: Joël Couture / Eric Taillefer

Continue reading Top 10 photos from the 2013 DMCC

From GTA

GTA Co., Ltd announced Wednesday the 2014 Super GT series schedule. The planned schedule for the coming 2014 season will feature a total of ten: nine regular series rounds and one non-championship race.

According to the announcement, the regular series will consist of the nine rounds on the same six Japanese circuits as this year plus two foreign circuits.

The opening round is scheduled for April 6th (race day) at Okayama International Circuit and the final round will be held on November 16th (race day) at Twin Ring Motegi.

Round four and eight will be the overseas rounds in the Republic of Korea (Circuit TBA) and the Kingdom of Thailand (Buriram United International Circuit) respectively. The one non-series race is planned.

Photo: SuperGT.net

2014 Super GT Calendar (FIA application pending)
Rounds    Dates    Circuit    Pref./Country
Round 1     Apr. 5-6     Okayama International Curcuit     Okayama Pref.
Round 2     May 3-4     Fuji Speedway     Shizuoka Pref.
Round 3     May 31-Jun.1     Autopolis     Oita Pref.
Round 4     Jun. 28-29     TBA     Rep. of Korea
Round 5     Jul. 19-20     Sportsland SUGO     Miyagi Pref.
Round 6     Aug. 9-10     Fuji Speedway     Shizuoka Pref.
Round 7     Aug. 30-31     Suzuka Circuit     Mie Pref.
Round 8     Oct.4-5     BURIRAM INTERNATIONAL CIRCUIT     Thailand
Round 9     Nov. 15-16     Twin Ring Motegi     Tochigi Pref.
Special Event     TBA     TBA     TBA

Audi will launch the Q7 e-tron before the next-generation Q7 makes its debut in late 2015, the company's Australian managing director announced.

“We have a plan going forward for e-tron. It will be rolled out across all the models now,” Andrew Doyle said while staying mum about the powertrain specifications of the Q7 e-tron.

He also confirmed that the future Q7 will again share its platform with the Volkswagen Touareg and Porsche Cayenne, both of which will be redesigned a year earlier than the Audi. Doyle didn't say why, however. .

Source : caradvice.com

Photo: Mathieu St-Pierre

Everyone's got a story
And the Volkswagen Beetle's story is a long and interesting one. I was lucky enough to partake in the launch of the new Beetle in Berlin, and I was mildly impressed with the new design and the drive of the more masculine Bug. However, this boosted version takes the Beetle to a new level, a “super” level if you will, that lets it wear its name with pride.

Turbocharged, accessorized and sporting one of the best car stereo systems I've ever heard, the 2013 Volkswagen Super Beetle is well worth consideration if you're in the market for a funky, fun-to-drive vehicle that's also rather practical.

It's time the modern generation started making their own Beetle stories.


What is the Volkswagen Super Beetle?
The Super Beetle first appeared in the 1971 alongside the standard Beetle. It was available with a MacPherson strut front suspension, an elongated front end, tighter turning radius and eventually a larger rear window, and more over the original Beetle. Super indeed.

As possibly the second coolest Beetle of the modern era behind the New Beetle RSi, the VW Super Beetle now features a jump in horsepower, racier exterior visuals and wheels, as well as other interior goodies.

The Super Beetle first appeared in the 1971 alongside the standard Beetle. (Photo: Colin Styker)

Volkswagen Super Beetle Price and Specs
When it comes to the 2013 Volkswagen Super Beetle, the Ford Model T standard applies: there are very few options to choose from including only three colours (white, red, black). Really, the only choice to make is in the transmission: 6-speed manual or 6-speed automatic DSG with Tiptronic. The DSG option puts an extra $1,400 on the already steep $32,850 price tag, but is a worthy option if you're really not into the manual vibe.

Equipped with a 2.0L turbocharged TSI 4-cylinder engine, the Super Beetle pushes out 210 hp and 207 lb-ft of torque. This is the same TSI engine that will be featured in the MKVII GTI.

The VW Super Beetle comes fully equipped with two-tone leather interior, Fender audio and 19” alloy wheels.

Equipped with a 2.0L turbocharged TSI 4-cylinder engine, the Super Beetle pushes out 210 hp and 207 lb-ft of torque. (Photo: Colin Styker)

Driving the Volkswagen Super Beetle
In all honesty, I didn't think I'd enjoy driving the 2013 Volkswagen Super Beetle as much as I did. From the moment I got behind the wheel, pressed the start/stop button and the little 2.0L rumbled to life with some attitude, I was sold.

While I understand the sporty attraction of making an automatic preform like a manual, I did find it a bit obnoxious that the Beetle would shudder upon throttle application as if I'd not given it enough gas while releasing the clutch as I pulled away from a full stop. This only happened in “D,” not in Sport.

As for my son, he may have enjoyed the 2013 Volkswagen Super Beetle more than I -- windows down, music up, my son had a blast. And here's why: the Super Beetle is all about youth and fun!

With the faintest amounts of turbo spool audible, a grumbly exhaust note and quick-to-respond transmission and handling, the 2013 VW Super Beetle is a joy to drive. When pushed, the Beetle happily complies, feeling nimble and agile all the while being grounded and stable.

From the moment I got behind the wheel, pressed the start/stop button and the little 2.0L rumbled to life with some attitude, I was sold. (Photo: Colin Styker)

Inside and Out of the Volkswagen Super Beetle
Thanks to the rather large ‘80s-esque TURBO decal on the side skirts, 19” rims and rather large wing off the rear, the 2013 Volkswagen Super Beetle is instantly recognizable. I think the half-moon LED daytime running lights are also a great touch, giving the Super Beetle even more character.

Inside, the only-option two-tone red and black leather seats are both comfortable and stylish. Sadly, the Beetle's touchscreen is not responsive, and something I've complained about in other Volkswagen products. In addition, the Super Beetle is only a 2+2. Room in the back seat is limited, and while my Britax baby seat fit with ease; my son had very little legroom.

Perhaps the best part about the interior of the 2013 Volkswagen Super Beetle is the Fender audio system. Audiophiles take note: This is one you have to hear. Never have I heard such a rich, full sound in a vehicle. Thanks to the Beetle's unique shape, the partnership with Fender is truly a match made in heaven.

Inside, the only-option two-tone red and black leather seats are both comfortable and stylish. (Photo: Colin Styker)

Comparing the Volkswagen Super Beetle
There are some decent options in the same vein as the 2013 Volkswagen Super Beetle in the Ford Fiesta ST, MINI Cooper S and even the Fiat 500 Abarth. While those three may all seem smaller, the Super Beetle's small back seat brings it down to their size.

In the end, there are two things that will hurt the Super Beetle: its final price (close to the $40k mark) and its association with being a girlie car. Why, oh why, did you ever put flowers on the dash, Volkswagen?!

Top auto industry executives around the world are maneuvering for the top job at an American carmaker as General Motors boss Dan Akerson, 64, and Ford CEO Alan Mulally, 68, may retire soon.

Top auto industry executives are maneuvering for the top job at an American carmaker as General Motors boss Dan Akerson, 64, and Ford CEO Alan Mulally, 68, may retire soon.

Top auto industry executives are maneuvering for the top job at an American carmaker as General Motors boss Dan Akerson, 64, and Ford CEO Alan Mulally, 68, may retire soon.

As the top lieutenant to Renault SA CEO Carlos Ghosn, Carlos Tavares admits he's unlikely to succeed his boss, who's just 59. So he wants to run General Motors or Ford. instead.

Fiat, taking its lead from Nissan Europe, now wants to sell large numbers of cars into what were once small segments. Expanding the 500 into a family of models is the new big idea. Glenn Brooks tries the 500L to see how well the strategy works.

Fiat, taking its lead from Nissan Europe, now wants to sell large numbers of cars into what were once small segments. Expanding the 500 into a family of models is the new big idea. Glenn Brooks tries the 500L to see how well the strategy works.

Fiat, taking its lead from Nissan Europe, now wants to sell large numbers of cars into what were once small segments. Expanding the 500 into a family of models is the new big idea. Glenn Brooks tries the 500L to see how well the strategy works.

Jaguar Land Rover will recall 11,852 vehicles in China over possible engine and oil leakage problems, China's quality watchdog said.

Jaguar Land Rover will recall 11,852 vehicles in China over possible engine and oil leakage problems, China's quality watchdog said.

Jaguar Land Rover will recall 11,852 vehicles in China over possible engine and oil leakage problems, China's quality watchdog said.