2011 Audi R8 Spyder – Still Looks Luscious
It’s been all but confirmed by Audi that the R8 Spyder is due to debut alongside the new A5 Sportback at the Frankfurt Motor Show this September, but according to two reports from Car and Driver, there will be one less vehicle on the show stand in Germany and only one engine available in the drop-top supercar.
The 2011 Audi R8 Spyder will reportedly be available with the 525 hp, 5.2-liter V10 at launch — meaning no V8 — with a standard six-speed manual gearbox or optional R-tronic automated transmission. The 420 hp, 4.2-liter V8 currently fitted to the standard R8 could be added later, but Audi seems to favor sticking with the V10 until the R8′s replacement arrives a few years down the road.
Tags: audi a8, c amp, detroit auto show, frankfurt motor show, la auto show, liter v8, manual gearbox, public exhibitionRelated posts
2009 NISMO 370Z – Offers Racing Inspired Performance and Style
The hardcore NISMO 370Z first appeared in April at the New York Auto Show, but Nissan didn’t stick a price tag on it at that time. Those interested in the ultimate in factory Z performance now know that they will have to save up $39,130 in order to get a taste. For that near 40 grand price tag, pretty much everything is included on this late-to-the-party 2009 model. The only options available for the NISMO are back-lit sill plates, carpeted floor mats and a carpeted trunk mat, none of which do anything to make the NISMO any quicker.
All of the go-faster bits are included in price of admission, including an upgraded 3.7-liter V6 that bumps power from 332 to 350 horsepower, and torque nudges from 270 to 275 pound-feet. Like the standard Z, the NISMO gets SynchroRev matching for its close-ratio gearbox, and unique five-spoke 19-inch wheels work with the upgraded suspension and brakes to get the most out of that more powerful engine. Needless to say, the car’s airflow get a substantial reworking thanks to the less-than-subtle aerodynamics package.
Tags: 19 inch wheels, design attributes, new york auto show, nissan nismo, nissan north america, nissan north america inc, ratio gearbox, true sports car