Monday, January 2, 2012

2012 Mercedes Benz SLK 55 AMG

Ever since its inception, AMG is known to turn Mercedes Benz vehicles into full a fledged force of the streets. With their years of experience working with the brand, they are capable of bringing out the best performance from any Mercedes that rolls off the assembly line. And now, for 2012, they have created the fastest SLK to date: the 2012 Mercedes Benz SLK 55 AMG.


A Different Look
Known as a compact 2 seater convertible offering from Mercedes Benz, the SLK is seen more as a cruiser that is capable of providing sharp performance. But AMG apparently has other plans for this edition of the SLK. The first thing that would make you think that it is special is its looks at first glance. It is equipped with AMG-made add-ons such as custom wheels, a more aerodynamic body kit and 2 twin exhaust pipes at the rear. But it doesn’t end there.

Performance
AMG has managed to maximize the performance of the SLK. They have thrown in a 5.5 liter V8 engine that is unique in a lot of ways. It produces a healthy 422 horsepower while being the most fuel efficient V8 of its size in the world today. This innovative engine is enough to propel this car to 100 kph from a standstill within 4.6 seconds. Other modifications include a modified AMG suspension, torque vectoring brakes and ESP. The combination of these modifications promises a dynamic driving experience.

 

When put together, the 2012 Mercedes Benz SLK 55 AMG may not just be the fastest SLK ever. Perhaps the most advanced car in its segment, it is a car that is definitely ahead of its time.

                                 Specifications

General Info
Vehicle Type: Convertible Est. Market Price: NA
Fuel Tank Capacity: 18.5 gallons (70 liters) MPG: 14 city / 22 hwy
 
Dimensions
Length: 161.5 in. (410 cm) Width: 70.6 in. (179 cm)
Height: 50.7 in. (128.7 cm) Wheel Base: 95.7 in. (243 cm)
Curb Weight: 3472 lbs (1575 kg) Ground Clearance: NA
Luggage Capacity: 9.8 cu ft Maximum Seating: 2
 
Performance
Engine: V8 Displacement: 5.5 LITERS
Horsepower: 422 HP Torque: 398 lb-ft
0-60 mph: 4.6 seconds                 Top Speed: 155 mph / 249 km/h

Sunday, January 1, 2012

2012 Aston Martin V12 Vantage GT3

Aston Martin is no stranger to motorsports. And now they are making a comeback.
The next step to their world motorsports plans is the introduction of the 2012 Aston Martin V12 Vantage GT3, a car that is seen to succeed the successful DBRS9 GT3 race cars that dominated touring car races worldwide.

 

This car is the next step towards Aston Martin’s goal of ruling the world racing circuit once again. And now, armed with 6 years of experience campaigning with the DBR9 and the DBRS9, the V12 Vantage GT3 is expected to be much better than its predecessors. The heart of this new racer is the same 6.0 liter V12 engine found in the street version of the V12 Vantage, but it has seen its share of modifications to better withstand the demands of racing.

Performance Driven
To increase performance and reliability, a lightweight crankshaft, new valve trains, and dry sump lubrication has been added into the engine. Ventilated disc brakes on all 4 corners are used in this car, designed to provide adequate stopping power even during endurance races. A double wishbone suspension is used for both the front and rear ends of the car.

Tested
 

It is scheduled to be released next year as the DBRS9s are still eligible to compete. This car is far from finished, but if there’s any indication that this car is going to be good, 2 day testing showed that it was able to cover 1000 kilometers with ease. Even better is that it is a marked improvement to the already formidable DBRS9. The 2012 Aston Martin V12 Vantage GT3 seems poised to take the motorsports world by storm next year.

Specifications

Performance
Engine: V12 DOHC Displacement: 5935 cc
Horsepower: 600 HP Torque: 516 lb-ft