Tuesday, August 31, 2010

S14 in trouble

Nissan Silvia in trouble no.64362 :)

Audi plans declassified until 2015

Audi A7

At the moment, perhaps, no novelty does not cause so much hype and talk, as Audi A7. We must pay tribute to the Germans, the interest in the car, they warmed up very skillfully.

That only stands separate small booth at the MIAS-2010. It is completely hidden from people, and hides this model. Curious reporters could look at the car with my own eyes, but here's pictures of him strictly forbidden.
Meanwhile, from the Audi is expected not only the premiere of this car in the near future. Most recently, representatives of the Ingolstadt automaker presented to the public development plan until 2015. After reading it, we realized that the company's plans in the next 5 years to become the largest manufacturer in the market premium-car, have all chances to come true.
The obvious reason for joy many motorists will be that in early 2011 will provide updated Audi A6. The car, which both recognize and love, even fans of other German brands, should be even better. So far we only know that he is seriously grow up: the length of the machine will be about 4.95 meters. Will the outside of the business sedan. Hopefully will do without drastic solutions, because A6 and now not even a very bad one. For the new model promises to provide his wide range of diesel engines with power from 180 to 265 hp
Also in 2011 will have another representative sports line RS. They will become top model family A3: RS3. The machine will cut a wide swath 340-horsepower engine complete with a 6-speed dual-clutch. The unit, by the way, the one that is now installed on TT-RS.
However, to enjoy their superiority and uniqueness of RS3 will not last long. Already in 2012, will see the light of the new generation A3, which means that the world once again holding their breath in anticipation of the next, very fresh sports car based on this car. In addition, the novelty will be produced in bodies convertible, 3-door Sportback and sedan (!) (This car predict huge success in the U.S.). Besides already known and that all the engines, which it will be equipped, will meet Euro 6. On the platform of the car, incidentally, will deploy a stormy experimental activities. On the basis of A3, released a hybrid, electric trolley and a car that runs on natural gas.
We gathered in the Audi is not ready to challenge with someone else, but with Porsche. For this purpose, in the shops Ingolstadt forge a new weapon: R4. This car will act as a competitor model Boxster. This guide price mid-engine roadster to be something around 22 thousand euros. True, not aware of any engine in question. After all, the novelty will establish and diesel and petrol units. According to unofficial information, the most "frail" will be the engine capacity of 170 and 180 hp
Around the middle of 2013 will present new A1 and A2. The smallest in the family of Audi will be released in 3-door body, as well as variations Sportback and convertible with fabric roof. In addition, see the light hybrid model and S1.
In 2014, rejoice in turn will come to those who adore the Audi TT and do not suffer from claustrophobia (from too many trains on this compartment, have heard that they have started a panic in mind the very limited amount of free space). A brand new generation of the popular car, according to tradition, will be available as a coupé and convertible. The task becomes TT domination in the class sports cars, a little higher than that which will act as R4.
By 2015 we will see and Audi E-Tron, which some time ago did not say just lazy. A fully electric car based on the R8 should open a new milestone in the automotive industry. 313-hp supercar, with a maximum torque of 450 Nm promises to be fast. Very fast. Maybe not the same as its gasoline counterpart, but certainly one of the most rapid in its class.
Perhaps worth mentioning and Q3. The small SUV will complement the line of climbers mud, which now dominate the Q7 (his massive update is scheduled for 2013) and Q5.
However, it is all a question of the future. Now attention is drawn to the very same Audi A7.

Monday, August 30, 2010

2009 Nissan GTR Pictures

2009 Nissan GTR
2009 Nissan GTR
2009 Nissan GTR photos
2009 Nissan GTR
2009 Nissan GTR interior
2009 Nissan GTR Interior

2009 Pontiac Solstice GXP Coupe Pictures

2009 Pontiac Solstice GXP Coupe
2009 Pontiac Solstice GXP Coupe
2009 Pontiac Solstice GXP Coupe photos
2009 Pontiac Solstice GXP Coupe
2009 Pontiac Solstice GXP Coupe Interior
2009 Pontiac Solstice GXP Coupe Interior

S14 Zipties

Zipties to the rescue. I don’t know why, but zipties on Silvia look kinda hot. It’s the knowing that car does it purpose and it is not just a posing queen. Drifter must-have.

Saturday, August 28, 2010

Toyota Supra on Vossen VVS-007

Boosted Supra standing on Vossen Gloss Black VVS-007 rims. Rice or nice? Gotta hate rear spoiler and bumpers...

Friday, August 27, 2010

Got camber?

Honda S2000 having bad luck...

Thursday, August 26, 2010

Black R35 GTR

Mean Godzillas for your desktop. 

S14 on GTR rims

Nissan Silvia S14 borrowing rims from big brother R34 GTR. Skyline rims should be on S14 since the day it left Nissan factory!


Wednesday, August 25, 2010

2009 Pontiac G8 GXP Pictures

2009 Pontiac G8 GXP
2009 Pontiac G8 GXP
2009 Pontiac G8 GXP
2009 Pontiac G8 GXP
2009 Pontiac G8 GXP interior
2009 Pontiac G8 GXP Interior

2009 Pontiac G6 Pictures

2009 Pontiac G6
2009 Pontiac G6
2009 Pontiac G6
2009 Pontiac G6
2009 Pontiac G6
2009 Pontiac G6 Interior

2009 Pontiac Vibe GT Pictures

2009 Pontiac Vibe GT
2009 Pontiac Vibe GT
2009 Pontiac Vibe GT
2009 Pontiac Vibe GT
2009 Pontiac Vibe GT interior
2009 Pontiac Vibe GT Interior

2011 Porsche Panamera
2011 Porsche Panamera
2011 Porsche Panamera
2011 Porsche Panamera
2011 Porsche Panamera
2011 Porsche Panamera interior

2011 Porsche 911 Turbo S Pictures

2011 Porsche 911 Turbo S
2011 Porsche 911 Turbo S
2011 Porsche 911 Turbo S
2011 Porsche 911 Turbo S
2011 Porsche 911 Turbo S interior
2011 Porsche 911 Turbo S Interior

2011 Porsche Cayenne Pictures

2011 Porsche Cayenne
2011 Porsche Cayenne
2011 Porsche Cayenne
2011 Porsche Cayenne
2011 Porsche Cayenne interior
2011 Porsche Cayenne Interior

Lamborghini Gallardo LP 570-4 Superleggera

Lamborghini Gallardo


Even more dynamic, lighter, more powerful and stunning – the Lamborghini Gallardo LP 570-4 Superleggera is the new top model in the Gallardo line-up. Its evocative “superlight” badge refers to a driving machine of true sporting character and describes a high-performance and lean automotive athlete.



Compared with the already lean Gallardo LP 560-4, the weight of the Gallardo Superleggera has been trimmed by 70 kilograms (154 lb). The super sportscar from Sant’Agata Bolognese boasts a dry weight of no more than 1340 kilograms (2954 lb) – the lightest road-going model in Lamborghini’s range, and a new arrival in one of the most exclusive market niche segments.



One key factor is the exterior and interior components made from carbon-fiber. Carbon-fiber is ideal for the manufacture of sportscars as its use allows for weight reduction and improved mechanical features. The car’s performance is thus enhanced thanks to a better weight-to-power ratio and reduced total mass, which means that CO2 emissions are also lower. Lamborghini has been at the forefront in this material’s application for many years, and now the brand is extending its leadership even further.



The V10 power unit with 5.2 liters (317,6 cu in) of displacement generates 419 kW (570 CV*) in the Gallardo Superleggera. This puts the weight-to-power ratio of the new top model at only 2.35 kilograms (5.18 lb) per CV and guarantees breathtaking performance. The Gallardo LP 570-4 Superleggera handles the dash from zero to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) in 3.4 seconds and flies past the 200 km/h (124 mph) mark only 10.2 seconds later, ultimately reaching 325 km/h (202 mph). The engine with “Iniezione Diretta Stratificata” gasoline direct injection also boasts an impressive degree of efficiency. Its fuel consumption and CO2 emissions have been reduced by 20,5 percent compared to the previous model.



The Gallardo Superleggera is an uncompromising driving machine. Its running gear, with its mighty braking system, has a dedicated and exceptionally precise set-up, while its 19-inch wheels, Pirelli P Zero Corsa, clad in Pirelli sports rubber, are extremely light. The Lamborghini Gallardo LP 570-4 Superleggera brings a whole new meaning to the term “super sportscar”.

Lamborghini Gallardo LP 570-4 Superleggera

Lamborghini Gallardo


Even more dynamic, lighter, more powerful and stunning – the Lamborghini Gallardo LP 570-4 Superleggera is the new top model in the Gallardo line-up. Its evocative “superlight” badge refers to a driving machine of true sporting character and describes a high-performance and lean automotive athlete.



Compared with the already lean Gallardo LP 560-4, the weight of the Gallardo Superleggera has been trimmed by 70 kilograms (154 lb). The super sportscar from Sant’Agata Bolognese boasts a dry weight of no more than 1340 kilograms (2954 lb) – the lightest road-going model in Lamborghini’s range, and a new arrival in one of the most exclusive market niche segments.



One key factor is the exterior and interior components made from carbon-fiber. Carbon-fiber is ideal for the manufacture of sportscars as its use allows for weight reduction and improved mechanical features. The car’s performance is thus enhanced thanks to a better weight-to-power ratio and reduced total mass, which means that CO2 emissions are also lower. Lamborghini has been at the forefront in this material’s application for many years, and now the brand is extending its leadership even further.



The V10 power unit with 5.2 liters (317,6 cu in) of displacement generates 419 kW (570 CV*) in the Gallardo Superleggera. This puts the weight-to-power ratio of the new top model at only 2.35 kilograms (5.18 lb) per CV and guarantees breathtaking performance. The Gallardo LP 570-4 Superleggera handles the dash from zero to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) in 3.4 seconds and flies past the 200 km/h (124 mph) mark only 10.2 seconds later, ultimately reaching 325 km/h (202 mph). The engine with “Iniezione Diretta Stratificata” gasoline direct injection also boasts an impressive degree of efficiency. Its fuel consumption and CO2 emissions have been reduced by 20,5 percent compared to the previous model.



The Gallardo Superleggera is an uncompromising driving machine. Its running gear, with its mighty braking system, has a dedicated and exceptionally precise set-up, while its 19-inch wheels, Pirelli P Zero Corsa, clad in Pirelli sports rubber, are extremely light. The Lamborghini Gallardo LP 570-4 Superleggera brings a whole new meaning to the term “super sportscar”.

Silvia S15 on Work rims

Clean Nissan Silvia S15 standing on Work Meister S1 rims. Awesome photography, one of my favorites at the moment.

As close to perfection as it can get. 



Joe Dantone's Flickr

2009 Infiniti EX35

2009 Infiniti EX35


2009 Infiniti EX35 is pleasant and easy to drive. That’s either good or bad, depending on if you like that or not. Handling is great though – it has very little body roll for its size, and is very nimble through the turns. This is one of the very few small SUVs that you can take on a winding road at high speed and still have fun without worrying about tipping over. Suspension and ride is comfortable, and the 297 hp 3.5-liter V6 is the perfect engine for this vehicle. You always have plenty of power when you need it, and throttle response is very smooth. Fuel economy is average at 16/23 for the AWD model; I averaged 19.7 mpg under aggressive driving.



The EX35’s only transmission is a 5-speed automatic with manual shift mode, downshift rev matching, and Drive Sport mode. It’s a good transmission, but acts a bit like a CVT, which is strange. It holds revs depending on your driving style (that would be the Adaptive Shift Control,) and when it does shift, you don’t feel it. It’s a very refined system that makes the EX35 very smooth and drivable, without any sort of jerkiness or excitement in the shifting.

2009 Infiniti EX35

2009 Infiniti EX35


2009 Infiniti EX35 is pleasant and easy to drive. That’s either good or bad, depending on if you like that or not. Handling is great though – it has very little body roll for its size, and is very nimble through the turns. This is one of the very few small SUVs that you can take on a winding road at high speed and still have fun without worrying about tipping over. Suspension and ride is comfortable, and the 297 hp 3.5-liter V6 is the perfect engine for this vehicle. You always have plenty of power when you need it, and throttle response is very smooth. Fuel economy is average at 16/23 for the AWD model; I averaged 19.7 mpg under aggressive driving.



The EX35’s only transmission is a 5-speed automatic with manual shift mode, downshift rev matching, and Drive Sport mode. It’s a good transmission, but acts a bit like a CVT, which is strange. It holds revs depending on your driving style (that would be the Adaptive Shift Control,) and when it does shift, you don’t feel it. It’s a very refined system that makes the EX35 very smooth and drivable, without any sort of jerkiness or excitement in the shifting.

Tuesday, August 24, 2010

2012 Tesla Model S - 25 Aug, 2010

2012 Tesla Model S


2012 Tesla’s Model S will rival other EVs, like the plug-in hybrid Fisker Karma, plus traditional luxury vehicles, like the BMW 5-Series and Mercedes-Benz E-Class. The 2012 Tesla Model S will be Tesla’s second model, joining the Roadster sports car, with production slated for late 2011.



 Tesla has yet to announce an official on-sale date for the Model S, but the sporty EV sedan will retail from $49,900 after a $7,500 tax credit when it finally rolls into dealerships. Tesla says Model S customers will be able to order the car with a 160-mile, 220-mile, or 300-mile battery pack. It’s not clear how the price will be affected by the range options.



But where the 2012 Tesla Model S really shines is in its performance. The electric sedan will be offered with a range of up to 300 miles, and a QuickCharge system taking only 45 minutes to top off the EV’s battery, given the correct electrical connection. For those looking for even faster fueling, the 2012 Tesla Model S’ battery can also be swapped out in just five minutes, making it compatible with Shai Agassi’s Better Place initiative. The 2012 Tesla Model S’ door handles even retract for improved aerodynamics, proving Tesla really has an eye for efficiency.





Despite its 3,825 pound curb weight and single-speed transmission, the Model S can make the sprint from zero to 60 mph in 5.6 seconds, crossing the quarter-mile stripe in 14 seconds flat. Give the Model S a longer track and it will top out at 120 mph.

2012 Tesla Model S - 25 Aug, 2010

2012 Tesla Model S


2012 Tesla’s Model S will rival other EVs, like the plug-in hybrid Fisker Karma, plus traditional luxury vehicles, like the BMW 5-Series and Mercedes-Benz E-Class. The 2012 Tesla Model S will be Tesla’s second model, joining the Roadster sports car, with production slated for late 2011.



 Tesla has yet to announce an official on-sale date for the Model S, but the sporty EV sedan will retail from $49,900 after a $7,500 tax credit when it finally rolls into dealerships. Tesla says Model S customers will be able to order the car with a 160-mile, 220-mile, or 300-mile battery pack. It’s not clear how the price will be affected by the range options.



But where the 2012 Tesla Model S really shines is in its performance. The electric sedan will be offered with a range of up to 300 miles, and a QuickCharge system taking only 45 minutes to top off the EV’s battery, given the correct electrical connection. For those looking for even faster fueling, the 2012 Tesla Model S’ battery can also be swapped out in just five minutes, making it compatible with Shai Agassi’s Better Place initiative. The 2012 Tesla Model S’ door handles even retract for improved aerodynamics, proving Tesla really has an eye for efficiency.





Despite its 3,825 pound curb weight and single-speed transmission, the Model S can make the sprint from zero to 60 mph in 5.6 seconds, crossing the quarter-mile stripe in 14 seconds flat. Give the Model S a longer track and it will top out at 120 mph.

Ferrari 599 Hybrid

0


Ferrari showed off a new prototype for their vision of hybrids going forward. The Ferrarri 599 HY KERS concept is meant to give an idea of how Ferrari is looking to adopt hybrid and other green technology over the next four years.



With tough new CO2 emissions in the works, Ferrari is looking to cut fuel by up to 40% over the next few years, or risk being squeezed out. They plan on having green technology across their entire line-up by 2015.



The spokesperson noted the concept would cost twice as much as the £207,000 petrol 559 GTB Fiorano on which the concept is based. But, the price should come down to below £300,000 in the next four years.



The HY KERS concept uses the Formula One developed system called Kinetic Energy Recovery System (KERS). The system allows for regenerative braking, but will not run the vehicle on electric power alone.



The two-seater comes with a 6.0 liter V12 mated to an electric motor powered by lithium ion batteries. The prototype has a top speed of 200 mph and can go from 0-60 in 3.5 seconds. That's faster than the standard version. It can reach 125 mph in 10.4 seconds and has a top speed of 200 mph.



But that extra power also comes at greater efficiency, with a 35% improvement in CO2 emission (down to 270 g/km) and they estimate a fuel efficiency of 25 mpg (up from 16 mpg).



The battery pack is set low in the floor, which lowers the center of gravity, allowing for better 'cornering dynamics.' They also do not affect interior space of functionality.



Ferrari painted the concept green, making it stand out from the rest of the Ferrari line-up. The company is hoping this is the leading edge of their goal of reducing fuel use in their entire line-up by at least 40%.

Ferrari 599 Hybrid

0


Ferrari showed off a new prototype for their vision of hybrids going forward. The Ferrarri 599 HY KERS concept is meant to give an idea of how Ferrari is looking to adopt hybrid and other green technology over the next four years.



With tough new CO2 emissions in the works, Ferrari is looking to cut fuel by up to 40% over the next few years, or risk being squeezed out. They plan on having green technology across their entire line-up by 2015.



The spokesperson noted the concept would cost twice as much as the £207,000 petrol 559 GTB Fiorano on which the concept is based. But, the price should come down to below £300,000 in the next four years.



The HY KERS concept uses the Formula One developed system called Kinetic Energy Recovery System (KERS). The system allows for regenerative braking, but will not run the vehicle on electric power alone.



The two-seater comes with a 6.0 liter V12 mated to an electric motor powered by lithium ion batteries. The prototype has a top speed of 200 mph and can go from 0-60 in 3.5 seconds. That's faster than the standard version. It can reach 125 mph in 10.4 seconds and has a top speed of 200 mph.



But that extra power also comes at greater efficiency, with a 35% improvement in CO2 emission (down to 270 g/km) and they estimate a fuel efficiency of 25 mpg (up from 16 mpg).



The battery pack is set low in the floor, which lowers the center of gravity, allowing for better 'cornering dynamics.' They also do not affect interior space of functionality.



Ferrari painted the concept green, making it stand out from the rest of the Ferrari line-up. The company is hoping this is the leading edge of their goal of reducing fuel use in their entire line-up by at least 40%.

Nissan LEAF Electric Car - 25 August, 10

Nissan LEAF Electric Car


Nissan has just unveiled a new zero emissions vehicle that is slated to go on sale in Japan, Europe and the United States next year. Called the LEAF, this C-segment (sub-compact) car is powered by an electric motor and lithium-ion battery packs. Nissan says it will be able to drive 100 miles on a single charge. The batteries will be able to be charged up to 80 percent in less than 30 minutes with a special quick charger, or in roughly eight hours through a standard 200V outlet. Nissan says that through extensive research the 100 mile range will be suitable for 70 percent of car buyers.



Output from the lithium-ion battery packs is rated at 80kW/280Nm, (107-hp and 207 ft-lbs of torque), which should make this sub-compact a sporty little car.



Pricing has yet to be released but Nissan aims to give the LEAF an MSRP competitive with well-equipped C-segment cars. That should put it near the $20,000 mark. The car will also qualify for government rebates and tax incentives desigend to help promote the sale of fuel-efficient cars.



“Our car had to be the world’s first, medium-sized, practical EV that motorists could afford and would want to use every day. And that’s what we’ve created. The styling will identify not only Nissan LEAF but also the owner as a participant in the new era of zero-emission mobility,” said the LEAF product boss Masato Inoue.

The first LEAFs will be built at Nissan’s plant in Oppama, Japan with plans to also start production soon at the company’s Smyrna, Tennessee plant. The LEAF is the first of three electric vehicles that Nissan plans to launch in the next few years.



”The Nissan LEAF is a tremendous accomplishment – one in with all Nissan employees can take great pride,” said Nissan President Carlos Ghosn. “We have been working tirelessly to make this day a reality – the unveiling of a real-world car that has zero – not simply reduced – emissions. It’s the first step in what is sure to be an exciting journey – for people all over the world, for Nissan and for the industry.”

Nissan LEAF Electric Car - 25 August, 10

Nissan LEAF Electric Car


Nissan has just unveiled a new zero emissions vehicle that is slated to go on sale in Japan, Europe and the United States next year. Called the LEAF, this C-segment (sub-compact) car is powered by an electric motor and lithium-ion battery packs. Nissan says it will be able to drive 100 miles on a single charge. The batteries will be able to be charged up to 80 percent in less than 30 minutes with a special quick charger, or in roughly eight hours through a standard 200V outlet. Nissan says that through extensive research the 100 mile range will be suitable for 70 percent of car buyers.



Output from the lithium-ion battery packs is rated at 80kW/280Nm, (107-hp and 207 ft-lbs of torque), which should make this sub-compact a sporty little car.



Pricing has yet to be released but Nissan aims to give the LEAF an MSRP competitive with well-equipped C-segment cars. That should put it near the $20,000 mark. The car will also qualify for government rebates and tax incentives desigend to help promote the sale of fuel-efficient cars.



“Our car had to be the world’s first, medium-sized, practical EV that motorists could afford and would want to use every day. And that’s what we’ve created. The styling will identify not only Nissan LEAF but also the owner as a participant in the new era of zero-emission mobility,” said the LEAF product boss Masato Inoue.

The first LEAFs will be built at Nissan’s plant in Oppama, Japan with plans to also start production soon at the company’s Smyrna, Tennessee plant. The LEAF is the first of three electric vehicles that Nissan plans to launch in the next few years.



”The Nissan LEAF is a tremendous accomplishment – one in with all Nissan employees can take great pride,” said Nissan President Carlos Ghosn. “We have been working tirelessly to make this day a reality – the unveiling of a real-world car that has zero – not simply reduced – emissions. It’s the first step in what is sure to be an exciting journey – for people all over the world, for Nissan and for the industry.”

The New 2011 Ford Shelby GT500 has a surprise in store

2011 Ford Shelby GT500




The new 2011 Ford Shelby GT500 has a surprise in store for true performance enthusiasts – an optional SVT Performance Package. One lap around the racetrack, and drivers will feel the difference.



Data show the 2011 coupe with the SVT Performance Package is 3.0 seconds faster per lap than the 2010 Ford Shelby GT500 on a 2.3-mile test track. Cars with the optional package will be able to pull 1.0 lateral g, with stopping distances improved by 7 percent versus the base 2011 Shelby.



“More and more enthusiasts are putting their cars on the track to have some fun,” said Carroll Shelby, founder of Shelby American. “It’s a great way to enjoy the performance of your car in a safe environment. No one likes to run at the back of the field, so a track-oriented package is a smart option for the serious Ford Shelby GT500 owner.”



Tires make the difference

The SVT Performance Package features the first application of the all-new Goodyear Eagle F1 SuperCar G: 2, a tire that offers superb dry traction and precise handling, complete with a high-performance tread compound with more grip. SVT engineers worked directly with Goodyear to develop the new compound, and it’s only available on the Ford Shelby GT500. The tire is unidirectional, corner-specific – meaning the directional tread must match its specific location.



“We wanted to couple the improved weight distribution and the improved handling of the vehicle with the new tire, and with that offer the customer one of the most advanced summer tires from a manufacturer,” said Jamal Hameedi, SVT chief nameplate engineer. “That led us down a road to the new tire. It’s instantly recognizable with an all-new tread pattern and construction.”



The new ultra-high-performance compound is made of a proprietary blend of race-derived carbon black and high-stiffness polymers and resins that help deliver enhanced wet and dry handling performance on both the road and track. Asymmetrical, directional tread designs with massive tread blocks on the outboard side of the tire help enhance dry cornering grip. Sweeping Aquachannel™ grooves on the inboard side of the tread help move water. An innovative multi-radius mold shape offers precise handling and smooth, even wear.



“These tires are as close as you can get to a race car tire,” said Eric Zinkosky, SVT technical specialist. “We have a tire that’s way more capable, with better grip, is firmer and more race-oriented. From there, we tuned the chassis around it. The tires told us what we had to do.



“We took some lessons from the Shelby KR program and applied them to these tires,” he added. “That was our first attempt at a similar compound, and we learned a lot and rolled those lessons into the new Shelby to provide an even better tire.”



Nineteen-inch forged-aluminum wheels in the front, which are 4.7 pounds lighter than the base Shelby GT500’s, complement the all-new wider 265/40R-19 front tires. New 20-inch forged-aluminum wheels at the rear are 2.8 pounds lighter than the standard 19-inch wheel, and the new 3.73 rear axle ratio takes advantage of the new larger rear wheels and tires.

The New 2011 Ford Shelby GT500 has a surprise in store

2011 Ford Shelby GT500




The new 2011 Ford Shelby GT500 has a surprise in store for true performance enthusiasts – an optional SVT Performance Package. One lap around the racetrack, and drivers will feel the difference.



Data show the 2011 coupe with the SVT Performance Package is 3.0 seconds faster per lap than the 2010 Ford Shelby GT500 on a 2.3-mile test track. Cars with the optional package will be able to pull 1.0 lateral g, with stopping distances improved by 7 percent versus the base 2011 Shelby.



“More and more enthusiasts are putting their cars on the track to have some fun,” said Carroll Shelby, founder of Shelby American. “It’s a great way to enjoy the performance of your car in a safe environment. No one likes to run at the back of the field, so a track-oriented package is a smart option for the serious Ford Shelby GT500 owner.”



Tires make the difference

The SVT Performance Package features the first application of the all-new Goodyear Eagle F1 SuperCar G: 2, a tire that offers superb dry traction and precise handling, complete with a high-performance tread compound with more grip. SVT engineers worked directly with Goodyear to develop the new compound, and it’s only available on the Ford Shelby GT500. The tire is unidirectional, corner-specific – meaning the directional tread must match its specific location.



“We wanted to couple the improved weight distribution and the improved handling of the vehicle with the new tire, and with that offer the customer one of the most advanced summer tires from a manufacturer,” said Jamal Hameedi, SVT chief nameplate engineer. “That led us down a road to the new tire. It’s instantly recognizable with an all-new tread pattern and construction.”



The new ultra-high-performance compound is made of a proprietary blend of race-derived carbon black and high-stiffness polymers and resins that help deliver enhanced wet and dry handling performance on both the road and track. Asymmetrical, directional tread designs with massive tread blocks on the outboard side of the tire help enhance dry cornering grip. Sweeping Aquachannel™ grooves on the inboard side of the tread help move water. An innovative multi-radius mold shape offers precise handling and smooth, even wear.



“These tires are as close as you can get to a race car tire,” said Eric Zinkosky, SVT technical specialist. “We have a tire that’s way more capable, with better grip, is firmer and more race-oriented. From there, we tuned the chassis around it. The tires told us what we had to do.



“We took some lessons from the Shelby KR program and applied them to these tires,” he added. “That was our first attempt at a similar compound, and we learned a lot and rolled those lessons into the new Shelby to provide an even better tire.”



Nineteen-inch forged-aluminum wheels in the front, which are 4.7 pounds lighter than the base Shelby GT500’s, complement the all-new wider 265/40R-19 front tires. New 20-inch forged-aluminum wheels at the rear are 2.8 pounds lighter than the standard 19-inch wheel, and the new 3.73 rear axle ratio takes advantage of the new larger rear wheels and tires.

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