Ferrari 599 GTB Fiorano

Ferrari 599 GTB Fiorano 2007 review: The Ferrari 599 GTB Fiorano 2007 sets a new name and benchmark of excellence in the sports car world and delivers everything that this promise. This new model was designed with several specific objectives and the most important of these are: -to deliver superior standards of roominess, comfort, ergonomics and safety -to guarantee stunning performance courtesy of its highly innovative content and technology transfers from the F1 single seaters -to increase the intense driving pleasure of such renowned models as F40 The new Ferrari 599 GTB Fiorano 2007 sprints from 0 to 100 km/h in an astonishing 3.7 seconds and boats a top speed in excess of 330 km/h.. However, the new model guarantees superior driving pleasure, handling and sportiness.

The Music of the V12 created for the Enzo

5999 cm3 displacement, a specific power output of 103 hp/litre are the technical specification for the engine. Twin overhead camshafts per cylinder bank boast continuously variable timing on both inlet and exhaust cams to optimise torque delivery and drivability at both low and high revs.A twin-plate and low inertia clutch in unit with the engine helps lower the cetre of gravity. Also the chain driven distribution reduces noise and is maintenance-free. The new engine delivers a maximum torgue of 608 Nm at 5,600 rpm and means that the car pulls well at all the engine speeds. Its maximum power output is 620 hp at 7,600 rpm with a maximum engine speed of 8,400 rpm. The fuel consumption is the same as in the previous model, under similar use.

F-1 Superfast Gearbox for the 2007 Ferrari 599 GTB Fiorano

The F-1-Super-Fast system increase the car�s high-performance by using the elastic energy together with the integrated electronic engine and gearbox management programmes to speed up gear change times. In fact, ti cuts overall gear-shift times to just 100 ms. The system is integrated with the manettino and the driver is till free to choose between either the Automatic mode or the Launch Control setting wich offers smoother starts from standstill.

F-1-Trac

Thans to maximum grip out of bends the result is easier: smoother high-performance driving and predictable handling even in extreme situation. The F-1 trac is integrated with the manettino which adapts the car�s behaviour to the driving conditions because the Sport setting provides the best balance between stability and performance on the road.

SCM (MAGNETORHEOLOGICAL SUSPENSION CONTROL) SUSPENSION

Thanks to the fact that the dampers use a fluid the viscosity of which is modified by applying an electronically controlled magnetic field the result is a much safer and more enjoyable driving experience courtesy of reduced roll and greater control when accelerating , braking and cornering.

EVOLUTION OF THE MANETTINO

The manettino integrates the stability and F1-Trac traction control systems, the F1-SuperFast gearbox and the SCM (Magnetorheological Suspension Control) fluid suspension. The manettino�s readouts are displayed on the new on- board Multi Display unit which it means that the driver can select the correct setting for the grip conditions at any given time.

AERODYNAMIC EFFICIENCY

The optimisation of the Ferrari 599 GTB Fiorano's underbody, the rear diffuser and flying buttresses have resulted in an aerodynamic load of just 160 kg at 300 km/h.

STYLING, ACCESSORIES AND PERSONALISATION OPTIONS

The forms car say all about its extreme sportiness yet still retain a unique sophistication because the balance between the car�s sporty vocation and the feeling of intimacy and safety. The passenger areas of the car are trimmed in leather and the driver area and controls boast more high-tech detailing in carbon-fibre and aluminium. The New Ferrari 599 GTB Fiorano provide other standard accessories include front bi-xenon headlamps and rear LED lights, dusk and rain sensors, dual-zone climate control, electrically adjustable steering-wheel column, hideaway radio/CD player and key with integrated volumetric anti theft device with motion sensors. Exteriors and Colours, Racing and Track, Interior and Materials and Equipment and Travel are other options for the Ferrari 599 GTB Fiorano.
End of Ferrari 599 GTB Fiorano 2007 review.

2008 Porsche Cayenne Turbo

by Don Sherman,

Porsche has updated its Cayenne SUV with new technology, minor appearance changes and a hefty power upgrade for the 2008 model year. While the Cayenne is still offered with three engines — including a 290-hp 3.6-liter V6 and a 385-hp 4.8-liter V8 —anyone aspiring to master-of-the-universe status will skip the lower two and step right up to the Cayenne Turbo with its twin turbocharged and intercooled V8.

Packing 500 hp and 516 pound-feet of torque, this engine is a Teutonic tour de force with ample power to accelerate the 5,191-pound Cayenne to 60 mph in about five seconds and on to a factory-rated 171-mph top speed. Bragging rights to the world’s fastest SUV are part of the Cayenne Turbo’s portfolio of driving delights (although the Spyker D12 Peking to Paris could challenge that).


Exterior

The second-generation Cayenne won’t seem strikingly different to the casual observer, but Porsche has moved the headlamps farther outboard in the fenders and canted their clear covers at a more rakish angle to emulate the immortal 911’s appearance.

Wheel openings have been resculpted. Overall, the front-end design is more aggressive looking with three large sewer grates serving as grilles on the Cayenne Turbo (the lesser models look slightly different up front), and there are minor tweaks to the mirrors and roof spoiler.

At least the wind tunnel is happy with the results; according to Porsche, the drag coefficient for V8 models has dropped appreciably — from 0.39 to 0.35.

The new-for-’08 10-spoke aluminum wheels do a commendable job of showing off the Cayenne Turbo’s chili-pepper-red brake calipers. The view of this vehicle that others see from the rear is quite intimidating thanks to the Cayenne Turbo’s muscle-bound haunches.


Interior

You know you’re in a Porsche when you’re expected to key the engine to life with your left hand — a throwback to the 1950s at the 24 Hours of LeMans, where the racing driver’s right hand was occupied nudging the shifter into first at the start of the race.

Five silver-edged dials in an attractive overlapping motif succinctly convey critical information on the dash. The tach runs to 8,000 rpm, the speedometer has a maximum reading of 180 mph, and there’s a handy turbo boost gauge at the far right position.

A three-spoke steering wheel offers shift buttons for the 6-speed automatic transmission, plus another eight keys to handle lesser functions. The 3×5-inch navigation screen in the center dash area is ringed by no less than three dozen small buttons: Porsche does not subscribe to the iDrive (BMW), Comand (Mercedes-Benz) or MMI (Audi) school of knob controllers, nor does it use touch-screen technology.

Drivers can choose from three suspension damping modes and two shift modes. There’s also a Sport mode which alters transmission shifting, damper firmness, ride height, the active roll stabilization system, and how quickly the stability management system intervenes.

Leather trim on seats, dash and door-panel surfaces is standard in this top model. The French seams are laser straight. Matte-finished silver accents are another elegant touch.

The pedals are trimmed in polished metal. One odd touch is a pair of grab handles adjacent to the console-mounted shift lever, which serve no real function.

Thanks to very long rear doors, access to the roomy rear seat is ample. Front seats are comfortable, very supportive in the bends, and highly adjustable. Carpet, headliner and pillar trim materials are all top-shelf. One hassle is that the rear-seat headrests must be removed to fold that seat forward and expand cargo capacity.

Performance

The horsepower windfall — up 50 hp from last year — comes from more displacement (up from 4.5 to 4.8 liters), new direct fuel injection, and variable intake- and exhaust-valve timing used here for the first time. The four pipes out back sound off with a happy, healthy salute when the throttle is down. Shifts at 6,400 rpm, or sometimes a few hundred rpm beyond that redline, are crisp enough to adjust your upper vertebrae.

Unfortunately, throttle response at the low end, before the turbos spool up, is sluggish, and the six-speed automatic tends to start in second gear unless manually levered or fingered (by pressing a steering wheel shift button) into first.

The Cayenne Turbo’s heft is burdensome even for an engine this mighty. But once it’s energized, there’s more than enough torque to rock this SUV back on its rear wheels while hurtling out of tight turns.

A second annoyance is steering that’s touchy when off center. Some drivers will require a week or two to adjust their reflexes. The Cayenne Turbo feels as if it’s tuned more for race track and mountain road use than ordinary suburban driving and commuting. The key is to steer with tidy wrist action instead of major elbow motion. Fast drivers will love it, patient cruisers probably won’t.

Porsche condones towing up to 7,716 pounds with the Cayenne, which seems excessive for the 290-hp V6 model, but not for the mighty Turbo. Ride quality, even with the chariot-sized wheels and short sidewall tires, is quite tolerable.

Ultimately, one question looms: Who needs this much power in combination with a two-speed transfer case for off-road excursions but 21-inch high-performance tires suitable only for warm climates? The answer: The same individual who wears a $15,000 Rolex Submariner wristwatch with no inclination to check its waterproof-to-1,000-feet capability.

Is the Porsche Cayenne Turbo for You?

Buy the Cayenne Turbo if
The Porsche 911 in your garage is lonely and craves companionship. Or you feel insecure entering your local watering hole without legitimate 500-hp bragging rights.

Keep Looking if
You believe in global warming and consider 170-mph vehicles that consume a gallon of gasoline every 15 miles socially irresponsible.

Who Fits?
Roomy for four with center rear seat belts for a fifth passenger in a pinch. No third-row seating offered.

Options Worth Splurging on
21-inch wheels and tires, $4,145; Porsche Dynamic Chassis Control (active front and rear anti-roll bars), $3,510; Moonroof, $1,190; tow hitch, $630.

Closest Competitors
Mercedes-Benz ML63 AMG; Land Rover Range Rover Sport Supercharged

FORD SHELBY GT 2008

FORD SHELBY GT DROPS ITS TOP FOR 2008 MODEL YEAR

New convertible version of the Ford Shelby GT available beginning this summer
New signature Vista Blue exterior with Shelby GT Silver stripes
Production of 2008 Shelby GT aimed at 2,300 to assure exclusivity for collectors
Ford Mustang is America’s top-selling convertible
DEARBORN, Mich., June 13, 2007 - The magic duo of Ford Mustang and Carroll Shelby bring open-air excitement to the road for the 2008 model year as the Ford Shelby GT returns with a new convertible body style and a new standard color combination. Like all Shelby Mustang models, production will be limited to assure exclusivity for collectors. The 2008 Shelby GT will be available in coupe and convertible from select Ford dealers beginning in August 2007.

The 2008 Ford Shelby GT convertible will be formally introduced to Shelby and Ford enthusiasts at the Mid-America Ford Performance and Shelby Meet, which opens today in Tulsa, Okla.

“The Shelby GT was engineered for people that put performance first,” said Carroll Shelby. “Working with Ford Racing, we created this Shelby to be an everyday driver that’s tuned for fun at the track. Those who value a well-balanced package will appreciate it. Those who don’t will be left behind staring at its tailpipes.”

In 2007, Ford Division, Carroll Shelby and Ford Racing joined forces to create a retail version of The Hertz Corporation Shelby GT-H coupe called the Shelby GT. Fewer than 6,000 total 2007 Shelby GTs were built and were only available in Performance White or Black.

For 2008, the highly-coveted Shelby GT is available in a new paint combination of Vista Blue with Silver stripes and the choice of two body styles, coupe or convertible.

“The Mustang convertible is the number one selling convertible in the U.S.,” states Robert Parker, Ford Division Car Marketing Manager. “Since t he Mustang program never stands still, we wanted to continue offering consumers what they want, and they told us it was a Ford Mustang Shelby GT convertible. ”

Shelby GT models begin life as a specially-equipped Mustang GT assembled at the AutoAlliance International assembly plant in Flat Rock, Mich. The cars are then shipped to the Shelby Automobiles facility in Las Vegas for transformation before delivery to Ford dealerships nationwide.

“The birth of the Ford Shelby GT was so well received last year, especially by young enthusiasts, that we brought the car back for the 2008 model year,” said Amy Boylan, President of Shelby Automobiles. “The enormous response to the Shelby GT-H convertible convinced us to offer a drop top Shelby GT. And we had so many requests for blue that we decided to make it our signature color in 2008.”

Every Shelby GT is built to perform and is the result of extensive development. Aerodynamics were key to sculpting t he powerful, unique front fascia with aggressive lower air dam. The hood scoop comes directly from the famed Shelby Cobra roadster while unique side scoops are positioned just before the rear wheel arches. The rear fascia frames dual exhaust tips and a Shelby badge is on the trunk lid.

“The partnership between Ford Racing and Shelby demonstrates our ability to work together to deliver some of the most exciting Mustang’s ever built,” said Jamie Allison, manager of the Ford Racing Performance Group. “Ford Racing has a full line of performance parts for Mustang enthusiasts. The Shelby GT convertible is another example of how working together, Shelby and Ford Racing are developing, producing and delivering niche performance Mustangs directly to the customer.”

Under the hood, the engine is upgraded with a Ford Racing Power Upgrade Package to increase output of the 4.6-liter V-8 to 319 horsepower and 330 lb.-ft. of torque. A high-flow exhaust system with X-pipe crossover offers better power delivery and a throaty V-8 exhaust note. Shelby GT comes standard with a five-speed manual transmission featuring a Hurst short-throw shifter for precise shift action. A five-speed automatic transmission is optional.

The balanced package includes a Ford Racing Handling Pack with special-tuned dampers, unique sway bars and a 3.55:1 ratio rear axle assembly for improved off-the-line acceleration. The overall ride height was dropped to reduce body roll while a front strut-tower brace adds additional strength to the chassis structure.

The 2008 models will sport 18-inch polished wheels with high-performance P235/50ZR18 BF Goodrich gForce tires to maximize the upgrades. Like all Mustang convertibles, each drop top will have supplemental bracing to give the car additional stiffness and the Shelby team will add a stylish light bar.

“The Shelby GT is for drivers,” says Boylan. “We enhanced the motor, the chassis and other bits to make it a fun, balanced car that is equally at home on the street or track. It’s easy to drive, very fast and offers great value for the price.”

Approximately 2,300 2008 Shelby GT coupes and convertibles will be built, available with manual or automatic transmission. Each car will feature an authentication plate on the center dashboard, as well as a matching tag under the hood for documentation in a forthcoming registry. Shelby Automobiles production is scheduled to begin in August 2007.

About Ford Motor Company

Ford Motor Company, a global automotive industry leader based in Dearborn, Mich., manufactures or distributes automobiles in 200 markets across six continents. With more than 280,000 employees and more than 100 plants worldwide, the company’s core and affiliated automotive brands include Ford, Jaguar, Land Rover, Lincoln, Mercury, Volvo, and Mazda. The company provides financial services through Ford Motor Credit Company. For more information regarding Ford’s products, please visit www.fordvehicles.com.