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Sebastian Vettel's and Mark Webber's Red Bull RB9 Renaults ran very thin rear wings during the Australian Grand Prix last weekend in Melbourne.

As seen in these photos, the main wing plane and the flap of the rear wing of the RB9s were significantly thinner than those of rivals McLaren and Ferrari.

This is quite surprising because Melbourne, a temporary street circuit, normally requires quite a bit of downforce.

Running such a big rear wing as the McLaren requires a lot of top end power from the Mercedes V8, because a wing not only produces downforce but also drag, which slows the car down on the straights.

We can only assume that McLaren had to run their MP4-28s in this high-downforce configuration because they couldn't get the new Pirelli tires to their correct working temperature.

Red Bull-Renault RB9. (Photo: WRi2)

McLaren MP4-28-Mercedes. (Photo: WRi2)

This significant difference also showed in terms of top speed at various portions of the circuit.

In qualifying, both Red Bulls were, on average, 5-7 km/h faster than the McLarens on the straights. The Ferraris of Fernando Alonso and Felipe Massa were amongst the quickest of all.

It was roughly the same during the race with Button, constantly the slowest. At the main speed trap, Button's McLaren was 6 km/h slower than Vettel's Red Bull. Jean-Eric Vergne's Ferrari-powered Toro Rosso was the quickest of all at 310.7 km/h, followed by Alonso.

We can conclude that -- like its predecessors -- the Red Bull RB9 generates a lot of downforce from his floor and diffuser. Therefore, the team can run its cars with thinner wings which allow better top speeds.

The GT3: Brief history
The Porsche 911 GT3 is mesmerizing. The first such GT3 came about at the very end of the ‘90s as a special edition of the then current 996 generation of one of the most famous sports cars in the world: The Porsche 911.

Through the 997 generation, the car got more powerful and ever more desirable. Colour schemes, initiated by the previous 996, grew wilder with the 997 as did the versions and special editions.

The 996 RS, the kingpin, was available in a limited run between 2003 and 2005. The 997 RS was more common, however, its skills and abilities shone brighter than the sun; ask anyone. The 997 GT3's legacy culminated in the most powerful and most desirable iteration ever and it was the RS 4.0L Limited -- truly a bucket-list car.

My love affair with the GT3 came full circle when I finally got to drive the car in 2010. On that day, every notion of driving dynamics, grip and acceleration that top-notch auto journos talk about reverberated through my being; I became part of the hype. The addiction began.

Photo: Mathieu St-Pierre

2014 991 Porsche 911 GT3
And now, the hype begins all over again. The new 2014 Porsche 911 GT3 was just unveiled at the Geneva Auto Show and it once again rocked my world. And, I've yet to even drive it... here's hoping I actually do get to take it for a spin.

Regardless of my luck in the future, the details on the new GT3 are enough to make high performance drivers, tech-nuts and car enthusiasts' heads spin. I may as well be locked up for good...

No mo' clutch pedal
For one, some car nuts would like to see heads roll for one simple, yet overtly important, point: A PDK (dual-clutch transmission) now replaces the once untouchable 6-speed manual gearbox. Taken aback, angered and frightened even, I quickly came to my senses and realized that Porsche's decision in this matter was inevitable.

The 2014 Porsche 911 GT3 is first and foremost a machine to go quickly. Let's put it this way: give Tiger Woods Ben Hogan's clubs and have him play against Rory McIlroy... Despite Tiger's supposed talent, he'd be ill-equipped to take on Rory.

The same logic applies here. The PDK is by far the superior transmission and so, if the goal is to set lap times, it is the best equipment. Notice that the + and - shift marks beside the lever have changed positions, now reflecting true racecars; the downshift is a forward push; up is a pull. Nice touch.

Future heel & toe historians (such as I) need not chop off their left foot just yet. My guess is that the nice people from Stuttgart will more than likely make a rowing ‘box available in time.

50 years of doing performance right
The engine is, and always will be, in the rear. As with the 997 GT3, the flat-6's displacement remains at 3.8L. Output rises to 475 hp from 435 in the 997. On its own, the increase is little to write home about, however, the performance changes are worthy of a revised edition of the Merriam-Webster dictionary.

If you were not convinced of the advantage brought on by the PDK, know that 0-100 km times have dropped from a posted 4.0 to 3.5 seconds. Nürburgring Nordschleife lap times have tumbled to under 7:30 minutes from 7:40+ minutes for the outgoing MKII 997 GT3. A few other stats for your viewing pleasure: 200 km/h is reached in less than 12 seconds and the top speed is now 315 km/h in 7th gear.

Photo: Mathieu St-Pierre

Rear steer
The most novel piece of news to go along the announcement that the new 2014 Porsche 911 GT3 is effin' fast is the introduction of active rear-wheel steering.

The advantage to the 4-wheel steering is always speed based. Depending on rate of ground coverage, the rear wheels steer in the same or opposite direction of the front wheels. This has a direct impact on lateral dynamics, improving stability and agility. From U-turns to rapid passing manoeuvres on a track, every steering wheel input will be met with more immediacy.

To go along with the rear-wheel steering, the GT3's all-aluminium chassis can still be adjusted for height, toe and camber. This car has a serious purpose.

The GT3 great gritty
The 2014 Porsche 911 GT3 is 44mm wider than the Carrera S on which it is based. Specific to the GT3 are sweet and malicious looking 20” forged alloy wheels with central locking. We must not forget the massive signature fixed rear wing. Front and rear bumpers are Kobe-beefed up and look delicious.

The cabin of the 991 GT3 is sexy, albeit not as bare as it once was. The long and wide centre console, now standard across Porsche's lineup, brings elegance and luxury to an area that was once reserved for fast-business meetings only.

Alcantara remains the material of choice, and I'd have it no other way. Grippy sport bucket seats are a must as is the Alcantara-swathed steering wheel. The Sport Chrono Package is an option and allows the ability to display performance data.

Photo: Mathieu St-Pierre

When can you get one?
Never. I'm buying them all!

Pricing should hover around the $150,000 mark, and so I may ever only get to own a used rear tire...

All kidding aside, the 2014 Porsche 911 GT3 perfectly ushers in the 50th Anniversary of the fabled 911. It should arrive in Canadian dealerships by the end of 2013.

Highlights*
Pleasant driving dynamics, a wind-slicing silhouette, and great fuel economy are some of the key attributes of the 2013 Toyota Prius c, the most affordable hybrid in Canada.

Lowlights*
Experts agree that interior trim quality is sub-par. Moreover, the car makes do with a semi-independent suspension (torsion beam) and drum brakes in the back while most competitors use a fully independent setup and four-wheel discs.


Pricing
The 2013 Toyota Prius c starts at $20,440. The more upscale Technology model, available at $23,415, adds convenient features such as XM satellite radio, navigation, steering wheel controls, 15” alloy wheels, push-button start, a leather-trimmed instrument panel, and more.

In some provinces, such as Quebec and Ontario, Prius c customers are eligible to receive a tax credit for the purchase or lease of an energy-efficient vehicle.

Fuel consumption
The 2013 Toyota Prius c has a rating of 3.5L/100km in the city, 4.0L/100km on the highway, and 3.7/100km combined. The hybrid powertrain helps a lot, of course, but so does the start-stop system that turns the engine off when the vehicle comes to a complete stop in traffic or at a stop light.

Together with the electric motor, the car generates a net output of 99 horsepower. (Photo: Toyota)

New for 2013
Based on the concept that made its debut in 2011, the Toyota Prius c appeared for the first time as a production model in Seattle one year ago. In its second model year, option packages have significantly changed. The base MSRP is now $500 lower, while the Prius c Technology is $250 more expensive.

Styling
As a quintessential city car (that's actually what the “c” stands for), the 2013 Toyota Prius c rides on the same B-segment platform as the Yaris. Styling is also similar, although the unique taillights and more aerodynamic profile give it away as a genuine member of the Prius family.

As a quintessential city car (that's actually what the “c” stands for), the 2013 Toyota Prius c rides on the same B-segment platform. (Photo: Toyota)

Cargo capacity
The trunk of the 2013 Toyota Prius c can hold 481 litres of cargo, which is in the same ballpark as the competition.

Powertrain
The 1.5L 4-cylinder gasoline engine that's part of the Toyota Prius c's Hybrid Synergy Drive system is derived from the Yaris. Together with the electric motor, the car generates a net output of 99 horsepower. A continuously variable transmission (CVT) also fits into the equation.

Safety
The 2013 Toyota Prius c boasts nine standard airbags. Like every other model in the lineup, it benefits from the Japanese automaker's STAR Safety System to avoid accidents: ABS, brake assist, electronic brakeforce distribution, stability control, traction control, and Smart Stop technology.

Competitors
Honda Insight, Toyota Prius, Scion iQ, Volkswagen Golf TDI, Honda Fit


* Based on expert reviews.
Lefrançois Éric, L'auto 2013, Montreal, Les éditions La Presse, 2012, p.547
Brière Francis, L'Annuel de l'automobile 2013, Montreal Transcontinental, 2012, p.578
auto.sympatico.ca

From GMM

Now the popular and traditional home of Brazil's annual race, the Autodromo Jose Carlos Pace is however regarded as perhaps the worst venue on the grid in terms of its ageing facilities.

Now, rumours of a change of venue have emerged.

"In Brazil, the economic situation is very strong," Indycar driver Helio Castroneves, whose category will race on the Sao Paulo streets in May, said last week.

"I heard now that formula one might move from Sao Paulo to the south of Brazil. Obviously it's all about how much the promoters are willing to spend. I think it's more than just interest," the Penske driver added.

Photo: Williams F1 Team

The warm-weather travel season is upon us, and chances are you'll soon hit the road with your family for trips, activities, visits, and exploration.

With spring comes challenging driving conditions across the country including temperature fluctuations, reduced visibility thanks to heavy precipitation, potholes, and freshly awakened wildlife wandering onto roadways.

Few things provide confidence on the road like knowing your ride is up for handling your family voyages safely and with maximum efficiency. A thumbs-up from a mechanic, a tune-up, and some fresh fluids can go a long way to ensure your ride turns in worry-free and fuel-efficient travels.


Consider our list of springtime maintenance tips to make sure you're ride is ready to tackle the season ahead.

Yank the winter tires
Once temperatures stay consistently above plus 7 degrees Celsius, it's time to remove those winter tires. Running winter rubber in warm weather will quickly wear them out, result in a noisier ride, and may adversely affect safety.

Remember to re-torque your wheel nuts approximately 100 kilometres after having the all-season tires and wheels mounted. Not doing so could cause an accident. Follow the instructions of your mechanic or tire installer.

Stay cool
The warm weather will soon push two key cooling systems on your vehicle to their limits: the car cooling system, and the passenger cooling system (or air conditioner). Have both checked out ahead of the heat to ensure both will work properly when called upon. A mechanic can inspect your engine cooling system in minimal time, looking for signs of leaks as well as worn hoses and belts, and the condition of the coolant itself.

The air conditioning system is similarly easy to have checked out, too. If possible, find the condenser assembly (it looks like a small radiator) and clear it of any leaves, sand or salt buildup that may have accumulated over the past few months.

The underside
If you've hit any frozen-solid slush boulders this winter on the road, they've probably struck the underside of your ride harmlessly -- against something like your muffler or axle. Still, peace of mind can be had by asking a mechanic to inspect the underside of your vehicle for signs of damage, just to be safe.

Charging system and battery
A quick and simple check of your ride's battery and charging system will tell a technician if there's an electrical problem that could leave you stranded in a parking lot, at home or on the side of the highway. Also, note that a common cause of electrical problems in vehicles comes from a simple buildup of dirt and salt around the battery terminals. Because of static, contaminants are naturally attracted to this part of the battery, so locate the terminals and clean them with a wire brush if they're caked with dirt and salt crystals.

See and be seen
With the increased risk of encountering wildlife on the roads and highways comes an increased need for maximum visibility from your ride. Check headlights for proper aim, replacing any burnt bulbs in the process. Your mechanic can help. Lose the winter wipers, as they will “lift” away from the windscreen at higher speeds which impedes effectiveness. Consider applying a water-repellant treatment, like Rain X, to your windscreen ahead of the April showers.

Alignment
If you've cranked any good potholes this winter or early spring, your vehicle's alignment might be out of whack. Not only is this a safety concern, but it can affect drivability, shorten the life of your tires and waste gas. Check for signs of bad alignment yourself by ensuring tread wear is even across the width of your tires. Uneven treadwear is a good sign of an issue. Ask your mechanic for help if you're unsure.

Fluid Check
Many mechanics say that fluid changes are the single most important part of maintaining the driveline of your ride. Winter is hard on your fluids, especially the transmission fluid and engine oil. Replacing these fluids increases your chances of worry-free travels for the spring and summer ahead.

Air filter
Air filters become dirty and clogged. That's what they're for. When this happens, they wind up impeding or blocking the stream of air to your engine, reducing performance and cranking up gas use. Constant exposure to dirt, sand, salt, and moisture over the winter months can clog an air filter in quick order, so be sure yours is clean and clear for the sake of performance and gas mileage.

German car manufacturer, Mercedes-Benz confirmed Tuesday morning that it will run a AMG C-Coupe for Canadian, Robert Wickens in this year's DTM championship.

STIHL, a producer of chainsaws, will sponsor Wickens' car this season.

Photo: Mercedes-Benz

Canadian driver Robert Wickens is about to embark on his second season in the DTM.

In his debut year behind the wheel of a DTM Mercedes AMG C-Coupé, Wickens achieved three Top 10 positions and finished 16th in the championship on 14 points.

Before making the move to the DTM, he acquired experience as a Formula 1 test driver with Marussia Virgin Racing and Lotus Renault GP. He also won the 2011 title of the Formula Renault 3.5 series, beating against drivers such as Jean-Eric Vergne and Daniel Ricciardo, today Formula 1 drivers.

The season starts May 5 at the Hockenheimring.

American Honda, following a three-month selection process, picked incumbent RPA to remain its advertising agency for the Honda brand, but has given the Acura business to Boston-based Mullen.

How would you react if you saw that the and#8220;Mona Lisaand#8221; was going up for auction? What about the Statue of Liberty or Big Ben? Would you sit there, jaw agape, dumbfounded that a cultural treasure -- one-of-a-kind irreplaceable objects -- are...

Mitsubishi's restyled Outlander crossover is a vast improvement in interior refinement, packaging and technology over the outgoing model. The outgoing Outlander was among the worst-selling compact crossovers in the industry.

Also in this episode: An entry-level Corvette in our midst; Nürburgring is for sale.

Midsize Madness - Day One

It’s all about character.

Mainstream sedans--millions of them. Get out there on the road and you'll find them. Not too big and not too small, all built for the way we drive in this country--even if the carmakers labels seem to come from elsewhere. These are midsize cars built to suit American roads and American drivers, so we really should call them American sedans.

Photo Gallery: Midsize Madness - Day One - Automobile Magazine

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It's the father of the venerated 300 SLR. It was driven by Juan Manuel Fangio, Hans Hermann and Sir Stirling Moss.

Mini revealed Monday it will announce details regarding its expanded performance driving school as well as new app partnerships during the New York auto show.

Noise, Vibration & Harshness: Free the Fiat 500

It was no surprise in 2009 when large swathes of America's Fourth Estate, Automotive Division, practicing a sort of misguided car nationalism, moaned and groaned about Chrysler's takeover by Fiat.

It was no surprise in 2009 when large swathes of America's Fourth Estate, Automotive Division, practicing a sort of misguided car nationalism, moaned and groaned about Chrysler's takeover by Fiat. How, they wondered, could an Italian company run an American one -- by government edict no less -- especially after they'd spent so many years dismissing Italian carmakers as hopeless automotive romantics, sharp-suited, socialist incompetents with a flair for snappy shoes, snazzy camshafts, and doing lunch?

Photo Gallery: Noise, Vibration & Harshness: Free the Fiat 500 - Automobile Magazine

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Pininfarina may produce a few examples of the Sergio concept we saw at the Geneva motor show for a few well-heeled buyers with about $3.9 million in liquid assets.

When Steve Loudin and Tom Drewer hit the road this May in a heavily modified SRT Viper, they'll be carrying a message that ought to resonate with anyone who likes Chrysler's and#8220;Imported From Detroitand#8221; campaign: Buy American.

The production version of the 2014 Acura MDX will be revealed at the New York auto show at the end of this month.

News 18 Mar, 2013

Range Rover could move more upmarket to compete with a Bentley SUV

Oh wait, we're going up there?

China will save the electric car, Renault-Nissan boss Carlos Ghosn predicts - and with it the vision of battery-powered motoring on which he has staked his credibility.