AUTO WORLD BIKERS

Bajaj India has launched the much awaited New Bajaj Pulsar 135 LS (Light Sport). As per the speculations made Pulsar 135 LS features the same headlight as seen in the XCD Sprint Concept shown at the Auto Expo, 2008 in New Delhi. Bajaj had recently launched the updated versions of Pulsar 150, Pulsar 180 & Pulsar 220. Also the Pulsar 200 was discontinued recently, so the main reason of launching Pulsar 135 LS is that they want to eat into the sales of Honda CBF Stunner.

Pulsar 135 LS has been launched with a price tag of Rs. 51000.00 (Ex-Showroom) which is very reasonable in comparison to the features on offer and also the 135cc engine is more powerful in comparison to the engine of XCD 135.

Design & Styling of Bajaj Pulsar 135 LS

Styled aggressively, the motorcycle draws styling cues from its elder siblings in the Pulsar range, but sports a freshly-styled fuel tank with chiseled lines and fresh tank flanks. The headlamp unit sports a bikini fairing with sharp, rakish lines and looks futuristic. The sleek rear-panels give way to a two-piece split grab rail on the split type seat. The footrests are slightly rear-set, and make for a sporty riding position in combination with the two-piece handle-bars.

- All New Design For Fuel Tank Like We Have Seen On The XCD Sprint Concept
- New Design Air Scoops - Again From XCD Sprint Concept
- New Design For Alloy Wheels - Black Matt Finish Mag Wheels
- New Digital Instrument Console
- Restyled Headlamp & LED Tail Tamp - From The XCD Sprint Concept
- Sharply Styled Turn Indicators - Like We Have Seen In XCD 135
- New Exhaust Design
- Sporty Split Seats & Split Grab Rails
- Sporty Rear With High Stance & Sporty Mud Guard

Engine Of Bajaj Pulsar 135 LS - World's First 4 Valve DTS-i Engine

According to Bajaj the 135cc DTS-i engine in Pulsar 135 LS is the world's first DTS-i engine to feature 4 valves. This engine generated maximum power of 13.5 PS at 9000 rpm with maximum torque of 11.4 Nm at 7500 rpm. It has been designed for better performance than regular a 2-Valve engine. Combined with the revolutionary DTS-i (Digital Twin Spark-ignition) technology which maximizes combustion to deliver enhanced power and superior mileage with low emissions, the Pulsar 135 LS has one of the most efficient production engines ever.

1. More Power: The 4 valve provides for a greater intake and exhaust area resulting in more power, almost equivalent a 2 valve 150cc engine.
2. Sustained Top End Power: The light-weight character of the four smaller valves (as opposed to two heavier valves), which allow the engine to effortlessly rev to an eye-popping 10,500 rpm.
3. Sporty Ride: Given the wider rpm band, the engine can be revved hard and high in each gear resulting in a genuine sporty ride.
4. More Mileage: Established superiority of DTS-i blended with 4 valve not only enhances the performance but also returns a very good fuel economy - 68.1 km/l certified by ARAI.
5. More Green: Comfortably meets BSIII regulations.

Shades Available in Bajaj Pulsar 135 LS

Bajaj Pulsar 135 LS is available in two shades:

- Wine Red
- Midnight Black

Price Of Bajaj Pulsar 135 LS

Ex-Showroom price of Pulsar 135 LS is Rs. 51,000.00 which seems to be very competitive in comparison to its main rival - Honda CBF Stunner - which is low on features in comparison to Pulsar 135 LS. But one thing Bajaj should consider that this is not a good strategy to discontinue products and then again launch it with smaller engine or bigger engines in some cases.

FZ-S highlights the style quotient and has more flesh to flaunt with purely European international design like new colours & graphics, aerodynamic chiseled windshield, stylish & sporty carbon pattern meter console, and more aggressive looking headlight. FZ-S scores high in looks not only in its segment but beyond and is designed to satiate the need for style and fashion by riders. Etched with style and geared to today’s fashion conscious customers, FZ-S is a fusion of machismo and fashion.

The stylish yet innovative FZ-S has macho and muscular looks redefining the 150cc bikes segment. It keeps it simple, with street-tough naked styling and super-civilized power delivery and a specially designed riding position that gives riders extra confidence at lower speeds.Each and every part of FZ-S has been designed with a lot of detailed attention and careful thought. This ultimate degree of perfection means even the slightest feature has not been overlooked. Only Yamaha ensures this kind of craftsmanship.

The rider and the machine share a feeling of oneness, and from different angles the impression is different. This is particularly because the finest components have been used in its precise manufacturing. The FZ-S possesses both a rough and brutish expression as well as a certain subtlety. This high quality masterpiece will without doubt become a rage for the next generation.

Everything about this bike is big, the wide tyres, the huge tank, the beefy forks. Viewed side on it looks like a well built athelete on the start line flexing its muscles, waiting to smash all the records. FZ-S is an urban-cool motorcycle built for great performance and easy-living functionality, because that’s the whole idea of a bike like this. It has got heart-pumping knockout performance and it’s got serious attitude on top of that, a lean and mean look that’s all about raw power.

Engine & Features

FZ-S is powered by a 153cc, air cooled, 4 stroke, SOHC engine which generates maximum power of 14 Bhp @ 7500 rpm with maximum torque of 13.6 Nm @ 6000 rpm. The 153cc engine of this bike is designed for the urban commute. The broad tyres, low center of gravity and high torque at low rpm makes it a breeze to drive in city traffic.

The bike covers the world standard 0-60 kmph sprint in just 5.5 seconds. The mid range thrust and the highly tuned throttle response are designed to give you the feel of a ultra-powerful bike in the urban ride. The meters on the FZ-S are installed in a Full Liquid Crystal Display (LCD). The speedometer, tachometer, trip meter, fuel gauge and other indicators are set in optimum position to keep the field of vision clear. Also, the engine starting signal is an example of the spirit of innovation.

The steel fuel tank with a plastic resin outer cover takes advantage of the freedom of shaping that plastic provides, giving the tank cover a powerful shape with modulations suggestive of the muscular body of an athlete. To give a sense of volume to the machine, an external diameter of 35mm is adopted in a two-layer type exhaust to minimize the effect of heat on the pipe.

The layout features a large-volume primary character on the underside of the crankcase. The muffler is an irregular shaped tapered type mid-ship muffler. A Monocross rear suspension unit provides 120 mm of wheel travel, while optimized oil and damping valve specs help ensure agile running performance and handling. It inhibits bottoming while riding with a tandem passenger as well as providing a very comfortable ride.

The petrol tank, silensor, the yellow-gold plated rear shock absorber and fat tyres give enough clues to the true strength of the Yamaha FZ-S motorcycle - torque that is a bit higher than the 160 Apache RTR and tuned for acceleration and mid-range than outright top speed. FZ-S gets its DNA from global FZ series of Yamaha motorcycles. Fat tyre at the rear, beefy tank, beefy front fork compliment the FZ-S’s muscular character, which has become a huge hit among the young crowd in India.
The on Road Price of Yamaha FZS is Rs-75,000 Mumbai. May vary.

How does it perform?

When I was ready to take Yamaha YZF R15 for a test ride, I really did not expect much out of this machine. I thought it was just another 150cc bike with too much of external make up. But the actual ride did prove my thoughts wrong. Even with a pillion rider, the pickup was awesome. I went upto 30 kmph in the first gear easily without much resistance from the engine.

The bike vibrates a lot and it is not smooth, but users have reported that the engine sound really becomes nice and the bike becomes very smooth after riding 700-1000 kms. So do not let the test ride performance disappoint you!

Do not be disappointed about the thin tires. I heard from some bike owners that the thin tires actually perform very well, the bike is very stable even on wet roads. Yamaha engineers realized that along with great looks, indians also need mileage – hence the thin tires which reduces friction and consumes much less fuel. The bike is said to have a fuel efficiency of 40 kmpl in citis and 50 kmpl in highways.

From the safety point of view, the bike performs great. The user’s have reported that the rear disc brakes does make a difference. It wouldn’t be long before all the high end bikes in India comes with compulsory rear disc brakes. The bike comes with mono suspension as in the Unicorn and claims to have better stability. But personally I don’t find a remarkable difference in mono-suspension.

If you give high importance to the looks and status of owning one of the costliest bikes in India, go ahead and buy this bike. As for me I wouldn’t buy it because it is not a good justification to spend nearly one lakh and buy a 150cc bike. If it had a 250cc engine, I would buy it right now. Even though the bike may have 6 speed transmission and other advanced technologies, it will never be able to cover up the low displacement of Yamaha YZF R15 engine.

There needs to be a match in looks and performance. If I buy the the original 1000c Yamaha YZF-R1, it wouldn’t really make a great difference because people will think that it is R15 in the first look. The bottom line is, R1’s value has gone down! The brochure consists of too many feature indications like DAISIL cylinder, liquid cooled engine, 33mm front fork etc… but it doesn’t make much difference to a common man. In fact, it makes people feel ignorant and shy away from the bike.

Bike Advice Overall Rating: 4.25/5

Beauty Rating: 5/5

Performance Rating: 3.5/5

Pros: Great looks, 6 speed gear

Cons: Low displacement, Thin tires, no leg guard

Yamaha YZF-R15 Specifications:

Engine type: Liquid-cooled, 4-stroke, SOHC, 4-valve
Cylinder arrangement: Single cylinder
Displacement: 149 .8cc
Bore x Stroke: 57×58.7mm
Compression ratio: 10.4:1
Maximum power: 17PS @ 8,500rpm
Maximum torque: 15 N.m @ 7,500rpm
Starting system: Electric Start
Fuel tank capacity: 12 liters
Fuel supply system: Electronic fuel injection
Clutch type: Constant-mesh wet multi-plate
Transmission type: Return type 6-speed

Dimensions

Overall length x width x height: 1,995mm x 670mm x 1,070mm
Seat height: 790mm
Wheelbase: 1,290mm
Minimum ground clearance: 160mm
Dry weight / Curb weight: 120kg / 131kg

This is the good looking twin to be roaming the streets of india!!!

You get the same aggressive nose and headlight, the same six-spoke wheels and exhaust. It would have been nice to see that silencer mounted under the engine both for a lower center of gravity and a more compact look, but, apparently, they go for the classic, but matte black sport bike exhaust most likely because the full fairing didn’t allowed that.

It seems that Kawasaki managed to achieve their goal of updating the bike and the visual aspect is the first thing that strikes you and even harder now with the new color schemes.
Press Reviews

“If you plan on using your Ninja 250R primarily as a city commuter bike, or a weekend toy to bomb around town, the 250R is a great choice. It has no problem keeping up with traffic, and it can outrun most cars to 40mph.” – beginnermotorcyclereviews

"The 249 cc twin-cylinder engine boasts double overhead cams, liquid-cooling, a six-speed transmission and a rarity on motorcycles these days: twin carburetors.”– wheels

“Something that makes this motorcycle really fun is its 14,000 rpm redline; it’s a real screamer when you take it on the highway! The ninja really loves being wound up to 9,000 rpms, and at around 10,000 you can really feel it start to grip the asphalt.” – bestbeginnermotorcycles

"Read all of the statistics you want, the new Ninja 250R is just a flat-out blast to ride. Wind it up and let it go, it screams and howls like a factory racer. It’s sleek, sporty, and has a big bike feel without the struggle or the price tag." – motorcycle

Although lacking a direct competitor, the 2010 Kawasaki Ninja 250R features a $4,299 base MSRP. And by achieving a fuel consumption of 55 to 75 miles per gallon and being cheap to maintain, the small Ninja will get most of that money and even more back to you depending on how much you prefer to ride it so it isn’t just fun, but budget-friendly too.



Still, it didn’t lose any of its fans simply because it was related to a consecrated name and reflected that each time a rider would have looked at it. For 2010, things haven’t changed, so riders get the same sharp looking Ninja with color schemes to match the aggressive design and line the bike up to bigger models such as the ZX-10R and ZX-6R. Available in Metallic Island Blue, Passion Red, Lime Green/Pearl Stardust White and Ebony/Candy Persimmon Red, it sure won’t pass unnoticed wherever you ride, but the Special Edition Lime Green and Metallic Diablo Black color scheme will increase the chances for this bike to end up being confused with one of its bigger siblings.

Pretty long, low and sleek, the Ninja 250R is built for speed and yet accommodates the rider in a fairly relaxed riding position, although not as relaxed as on the previous generation model. The handlebars are mounted higher than on regular sports models and the seat positioned at only 30.5 inches from the ground, prepping up the quarter-liter bike for riders who are just starting out.

Engine and transmession:

Engine: Four-stroke, liquid-cooled, DOHC, parallel twin
Displacement: 249cc
Bore x stroke: 62.0 x 41.2mm
Compression ratio: 11.6:1
Maximum torque: 22 Nm 2.24 kgf/m 16.2 lb-ft / 9,500 rpm
Cooling: Liquid
Carburetion: Keihin CVK30 x 2
Ignition: Digital
Transmission: Six-speed
Final drive: O-ring chain


Frame: Semi-double cradle, high-tensile steel
Wheelbase: 55.1 in.
Rake / trail: 26 degrees / 3.2 in.
Front suspension / wheel travel: 37mm hydraulic telescopic fork / 4.7 in.
Rear suspension / wheel travel: Bottom-Link Uni-Trak® with 5-way adjustable preload / 5.1 in.
Front tire: 110/70-17
Rear tire: 130/70-17
Front brake: Single 290mm hydraulic petal disc with two-piston caliper
Rear brake: Single 220mm petal disc with two-piston caliper
Overall length: 82.1 in.
Overall width: 28.1 in.
Overall height: 43.7 in.
Seat height: 30.5 in.
Curb weight: 374.9 lbs.
Fuel capacity: 4.8 gal.

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.

Atelier of creativity and high efficiency

Inaugurated in 2004, the Centro Stile is dedicated to design and characterised by a high degree of efficiency: an "atelier" of creators, designers and prototype constructors, who encapsulate the Lamborghini culture and spirit by using their remarkable skills to create aesthetic innovation.

The Centro Stile is located in a 2,900 square two-storey building. The large pavilion houses two test floors and related production and analysis equipment, while other rooms are set aside for the most advanced computerised workstations for designers and a style-model construction workshop. The Centro Stile is also closely linked to the nearby Engineering Department: the direct line between the Lamborghini development departments guarantees that ideas rapidly become reality.

Creativity and production under the same roof

The Lamborghini Reventón is a practical illustration of the streamlined functionality and efficiency characterising the Centro Stile: it took less than a year to progress from the first ideas to the finished car. The complete design process from the first sketches on paper, to three dimensional computer models with 1:10 or 1:4 scale, right up to the real size prototype is organised around streamlined, fast, efficient work groups. Thanks to the Centro Stile, for the first time in its history, Lamborghini is now able to create its own style philosophy in-house without having to rely on any external collaboration.

The 20 units will be manufactured in Sant'Agata, using a production process characterised by artisan perfection and rigorous quality standards.

A masterpiece with tested technology

The technology found in the Murciélago LP640 has not been modified. The engine in the LP640 forwards is the classic twelve-cylinder engine with 6.5 litre displacement. Only for this car, Lamborghini guarantees, an astounding 650 HP (478 kW) at 8,000 revolutions per minute (rpm). The huge torque, equal to maximum 660 Nm, ensures a powerful switch from any number of revolutions: even the slightest pressure on the accelerator is spontaneously transformed into thrust. The robotised e.gear changes gear faster than even the most expert driver. In addition, the permanent Viscous Traction four-wheel drive system ensures that every force is constantly translated into movement.

As in the original Murciélago LP640, the Reventón accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in just 3.4 seconds, with a maximum speed over 340 km/h.

Born to become a legend

Since its foundation, Lamborghini has been a creator of trends in the world of sports cars and has always manufactured cars with an absolutely unmistakable character. Models such as the Miura or Countach, for example, were veritable forerunners and rapidly acquired the status of timeless classic cars. From the moment they are launched, every new Lamborghini promises to become a legend, destined to become a sought-after and precious possession.

With the Lamborghini Reventón, Lamborghini has done it again; it has created an unequalled super car; the perfect synthesis between the exclusivity and appeal of a limited edition design masterpiece, and the dynamism and driveability of a standard sports car. Thus, the Lamborghini legend is further enhanced by another, stylish future classic.

Lamborghini Reventón - Technical data
Frame
High strength tubular steel structure with carbon fibre components.
Bodywork
In carbon fibre, except roof and door external panels (steel)
Steering
Type: Mechanical (rack and pinion) power-assisted
Right-hand turning circle: 12.55 m (41.17 ft)
Wheels and tyres
Front: 245/35 ZR 18
Rear: 335/30 ZR 18
Engine
Type: 12 cylinders at 60°
Bore and stroke: 88 mm x 89 mm (3.46 in x 3.50 in)
Displacement: 6496 cc (396.41 in3)
Compression ratio: (11 ± 0.2):1
Maximum power: 650 HP (478 kW) at 8000 rpm (guaranteed through the engine selection)
Maximum torque: 660 Nm (487 lb-ft) at 6000 rpm
Engine position in vehicle: Longitudinal central-rear
Cylinder heads and engine block: Aluminium
Intake system: Variable geometry with 3 operating modes
Performance data
Top speed: 340 km/h (211.3 mph)
Acceleration 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph): 3.4 s (before: 3.8 s)

Fans of the new Chevrolet Camaro and the blockbuster Transformers movies can now combine their love of the car and the films with the Chevrolet Camaro Transformers Special Edition announced today at Comic-Con in San Diego.

"When the first Transformers movie was setting box office records, we had countless customers asking to purchase the 'Bumblebee' Camaro," said Karen Rafferty, product marketing director, Chevrolet. "Now, they can buy one with the new Chevrolet Camaro Transformers Special Edition. Streets all over North America will be buzzing in no time."

Features such as an EPA-rated 29 highway mpg on the V6-powered Chevrolet Camaro, Bluetooth phone connectivity, USB connectivity, XM Satellite Radio and OnStar combined with Transformers design cues add to the car's status as a 21st century sports car.

"Hasbro is thrilled to team up with Chevrolet and excited to see the Chevrolet Camaro Transformers Special Edition come to market for our fans to enjoy," said Samantha Lomow, Global Brand Leader for Transformers at Hasbro. "The yellow Chevrolet Camaro with the black stripes has become so iconic and closely associated with the Bumblebee character that this edition was a natural fit for both companies."

While the aggressive styling of the Chevrolet Camaro is unmistakable, true Transformers fans will notice some of the unique, but subtle features of the Chevrolet Camaro Transformers Special Edition.
The high-performance Chevrolet Camaro SS is equipped with a powerful 6.2L V-8, with a choice of a six-speed manual or six-speed automatic transmission. Manual transmission-equipped models receive the LS3 engine, SAE-certified at 426 horsepower (318 kW) and 420 lb.-ft. of torque (569 Nm). It is paired with a TR6060 six-speed transmission.

A new, L99 V-8 engine is used on automatic transmission-equipped SS models. It is based on the LS3, but also includes GM's fuel-saving Active Fuel Management feature. It is SAE-certified at 400 horsepower (298 kW) and 410 lb.-ft. of torque (556 Nm). It is matched with a Hydra-Matic 6L80 six-speed transmission that helps delivers an EPA-estimated 25 mpg on the highway.

The Chevrolet Corvette Grand Sport combines the Corvette's LS3-based powertrain with unique, wide-body styling and a racing-bred suspension for a distinctive model that delivers a great balance of road and race track performance. It is offered in both coupe and convertible body styles, with either a six-speed manual or six-speed automatic transmission. The LS3 6.2L engine is rated at 430 horsepower (321 kW) and 424 lb.-ft. of torque (575 Nm) with the standard exhaust system. An optional two-mode exhaust system elevates the power ratings to 436 horses (325 kW) and 428 lb.-ft. (580 Nm).

The Chevrolet Corvette Grand Sport replaces the Corvette's previous Z51 package and brings a greater degree of handling performance, with wider wheels and tires; revised shock, stabilizer bar and spring specifications; and specific gearing. The equipment enables cornering capability of 1.0 g, as well as a 0.2-second improvement in 0-60 acceleration vs. standard LS3-powered models.

Chevrolet Corvette Grand Sport coupe models equipped with the manual transmission are uniquely outfitted for race track competition, too, with a dry-sump oiling system, differential cooler and a rear-mounted battery.

The complete list of content and special features for the Chevrolet Corvette Grand Sport includes:
Wider front and rear fenders - including specific front fenders with integrated Grand Sport badges
Z06-style front splitter and tall rear spoiler
Functional brake ducts and extra cooling
Unique 18-inch front and 19-inch rear wheels; painted finish standard and chrome finish optional
Large 275/35ZR18 tires in front and 325/30ZR19 tires in the rear
Z06-size brakes, including 14-inch (355 mm) front rotors with six-piston calipers and 13.4-inch (340 mm) rear rotors with four-piston calipers
Specific manual transmission gear ratios
Specific rear axle ratio on automatic-equipped models
With its special equipment, the Chevrolet Corvette Grand Sport offers a unique blend of performance and amenities. Its suspension package approaches that of the Chevrolet Corvette Z06, but includes a removable roof on coupes (Z06 has a fixed roof) and, of course, the availability of a convertible body style. Also, the paddle-shift six-speed automatic transmission is offered, while a manual transmission is the only choice with the Z06.
All of Corvette's exterior colors are offered on the Chevrolet Corvette Grand Sport, and an available Heritage package adds iconic front fender hash marks offered in four colors, as well as two-tone seats with Grand Sport embroidery. The Chevrolet Corvette Grand Sport can be ordered with 1LT, 2LT, 3LT and 4LT trim packages, too.

Grand Sport history

Envisioned by legendary Corvette engineer Zora Arkus-Duntov as a factory-built, lightweight and race-ready production model that would trump domestic and foreign road-racing competitors, the original Chevrolet Corvette Grand Sport was a promising idea that led to the production of five special prototypes in 1963. The project was later shelved, following GM's agreement to stay out of manufacturer-backed motorsports.

The five prototypes were based on the styling of the 1963 Corvette and were hand-assembled under Duntov's watchful eye. But while they looked like production models, the prototypes were purpose-built race cars that shared little with their assembly-line cousins. Duntov also oversaw the Chevrolet Corvette Grand Sport engine program that featured a special, 377-cubic-inch small-block V-8 with side-draft carburetors.

Although never officially sanctioned by General Motors, the five Grand Sport prototypes saw extensive racing experience throughout the 1960s in the hands of "private" racers who had strong contacts within Duntov's engineering circle. All five original cars are accounted for today and are among the most valuable in the collector market.

Chevrolet offered a limited-edition  production model in 1996, commemorating the original racing cars and marking the end of the C4 era in Corvette production. All of the 1,000 examples were painted Admiral Blue and featured a white center stripe and red "hash mark" graphics on the left front fender, a graphic scheme that mimicked the look of some of the original race cars.

The Ferrari Enzo with its 660 horsepower is arguably one of the most exclusive cars in the world, both in terms of its driving dynamics and purchase price. Those looking for something considerably faster and more exclusive choose the edo Ferrari Enzo XX Evolution.

A bump in displacement from 6.0 to 6.3 liters, new camshafts, new titanium valve spring retainers and connecting rods, modified cylinder heads, new high performance exhaust headers, high flow catalytic converters, mufflers and air filters: that's the scope of edo competition's engine modifications. The standard hydraulic tappets are replaced with newly developed solid tappets, enabling the 12 cylinder engine to rev to an incredible 9,600 rpm. This is unmatched by any other 12 cylinder engine at this time! Additionally the intake system of the V12 was modified, a new high performance clutch - available with „strada" or „pista" friction pads - and a more powerful oil pump were installed. The power output is increased by 180 to 840 horsepower. Without mufflers more than 860 horsepower is possible. The maximum torque of 780 Nm (575 ft-lb) is available at 5,800 rpm.

While the power output is increased, the Ferrari Enzo's weight is decreased by a respectable 100 kilograms (220 lb). The result in numerical terms is that the edo Ferrari Enzo XX Evolution accelerates from zero to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 3.2 seconds, 200 km/h (124 mph) in 9.0 seconds and 300 km/h in just 19 seconds. The top speed exceeds 390 km/h (242 mph).The acoustical side of things is obviously not being neglected. A stainless steel muffler featuring remote-controlled butterfly valves is available on request. This setup lets the driver switch the high performance exhaust between two different sound levels.

Astonishing transmission shift times: While the production Enzo takes 110 milliseconds, the edo Ferrari Enzo XX Evolution shift times were reduced to an incredible 60 milliseconds! For comparison, an F1 car shifts in 40 milliseconds.

The edo/KW race suspension from the FIA GT series was retuned for the Enzo XX Evolution, promising ultimate driving dynamics. The nose lift functionality is retained. The low-friction 3-way adjustable shock absorbers can be adjusted to the individual tastes of the driver and provide excellent steering precision and feedback. The edo-installed tire pressure monitoring system displays the pressures for each of the four wheels. Providing ample grip for the edo Ferrari Enzo XX Evolution are 19 inch front wheels and 20 inch rear wheels with 335 mm wide tires.

The drive shafts were replaced due to the higher propulsive forces acting on them. The new units are 4 kg (8.8 lb) lighter and considerably more robust in order to cope with the enormous power increase.

The aerodynamics package is absolutely unique. It includes a complete exhaust system with tips machined from billet aluminum, now relocated to the top of the body. The tips are plasma-coated using a special process. The newly developed rear skirt featuring winglets and a rear wing profile, adjustable in 3 steps, improves the ground effect and can be tuned to the tastes of the driver. The new retractable rear wing is upgraded with a taller flap resulting in increased downforce and stability, especially at high speeds. New LED tail lights round off the rear view of the car.

A test day with an instructor, mechanics, data logging, transport and hospitality is included in the conversion package.

Unveiled at the 2002 North American International Auto Show, the Ford GT40 concept became an instant sensation. And just 45 days after the vehicle was unveiled, Ford stunned the world again, officially announcing that a production version was in the works. Ford's GT40 concept car was created to celebrate that great era in history and look forward to the great years to come.Although the new production car and the original race car both share the mystique of the Ford GT name, they do not share a single dimension. The new car is more than 18 inches longer and stands nearly 4 inches taller. Its new lines draw upon and refine the best features of Ford GT history and express the car's identity through modern proportion and surface development.

The Ford GT production car, like the concept, casts the familiar, sleek look of its namesake; yet every dimension, every curve and every line on the car is a unique reinterpretation of the original. The car features a long front overhang reminiscent of 1960s-era race cars. But its sweeping cowl, subtle accent lines and high-intensity-discharge (HID) headlamps strike a distinctly contemporary pose.

Race History

The original Ford GT40 racers were engineering and design marvels demonstrating Ford's dedication and perseverance. In a few short years, under the direction of Henry Ford II, the company built a program from scratch that reached the pinnacle of international motorsports competition - and stayed there for four racing seasons.

Perhaps the world's most significant - and glamorous - motorsport contest, Le Mans in the early 1960s was showing signs of becoming a Ferrari showcase, because the Italians had become the leaders in a number of endurance classes and events. But the Ford GT race car changed Le Mans forever, and today it signifies a new era for Ford Motor Company.

Major Equipment

Brembo monoblock brake calipers, one-piece BBS wheels (18-inch front, 19-inch rear), Goodyear Eagle F1 supercar tires, carbon-fiber bucket seats with ventilated leather seating surfaces, 6-speed manual transmission, AM/FM stereo with CD, bi-xenon headlamps, fog lamps, driver and passenger front air bags, ABS, leather-wrapped tilt steering wheel, passive anti-theft system, power exterior mirrors, windows and door locks, air conditioning, remote keyless entry and rear window defroster.