German Car Scene

Month: June 2012

  • 2013 Opel Astra Saloon


    Opel has added a four-door Saloon model to its current Astra range, joining the likes of the five-door hatchback, Sports Tourer and pretty GTC Coupe.

    With a wheelbase of 2,685 mm, and measuring 4,658 mm in length, 1,814 mm in width and standing 1,476 mm tall, the Notchback Astra’s separate trunk provides 460 litres of volume – 90 litres more than its five-door counterpart, with this figure increasing to 1,010 litres once the 60:40 split rear bench has been folded flat.

    When the orders books are opened, later this month, customers will have a choice of seven engines; four units units, ranging in output from 74 kW (100 hp) to 132 kW (180 hp) three of which can be specified with a six-speed automatic transmission, and three diesel options varying from 70 kW (95 hp) to 96 kW (130 hp) – including two 1.7 CDTI ecoFLEX models developing 81 kW (110 hp) or 96 kW (130 hp). Also utilizing a start/stop function, a consumption figure of 3.7 litres per 100 kilometres can be achieved, along with a CO2 figure of just 99g/km. Early next year Opel will also be offering its super-efficient 1.6-litre SIDI ECOTEC four-cylinder petrol engine in the Saloon.

    Recognizing a strong demand for compact Saloons in Eastern and Central Europe, notably Russia and Turkey, Opel will be débuting its new model at the Moscow Auto Salon 2012 from August 29 to September 9.
    (more…)

  • BMW seven-speed manual on the way


    These patent drawings have surfaced, featuring details of a seven-speed manual transmission currently being developed by BMW. As with the new Porsche 911, the extra cog has been added with the aim of achieving greater fuel efficiency, allowing the engine to run at lower revs during motorway conditions.

    Apparently, to prevent the driver hitting a wrong gear, a computerized shifting module will monitor the car’s speed and prevent an unsuitable gear from being selcted, ie 7th at 20 km/h – or 1st at 200 km/h! This system works by employing magnetorheological fluid (MR fluid); a smart fluid in a carrier fluid – usually a type of oil that, when subjected to a magnetic field greatly increases its viscosity, blocking a potentially catastrophic change.

    We’ve come a long way since Volkswagen’s Formel E 3 + E energy-saving gearboxes.
    (more…)

  • Walter Rohrl in the Porsche 911 GT2 RS [video]


    Here’s a short video from suspension specialists Bilstein, promoting the company’s brilliant Clubsport kit. We’re struggling to think of anything better than viewing the legendary Walter Rohrl putting a 456 kW (620 hp) Porsche 911 GT2 RS through its paces at the Nurburgring. Just wish it was longer.
    (more…)

  • BMW 1M RS by Alpha-N Performance


    Following on from its BT92 program for the BMW 3 Series Coupe, motorsport and tuning specialist Alpha-N Performance has revealed its 1M RS program for the 1 Series M coupe.

    Visually the Baby M receives a host of lightweight goodies, including a ventilated hood, front corner spoilers, rear diffuser, replacement roof panel and boot lid with integrated lip spoiler – all constructed from carbon fibre.

    The company’s engine upgrade consists of an remapped ECU, larger air intake and complete exhaust system, resulting in a rise from 246 kW (335 hp) up to 302 kW (410 hp).

    Further improvements include a MAC brake kit featuring 380 mm discs, 6-piston calipers, high-performance pads and braided stainless steel lines, while a set of OZ Racing’s Superforgiata alloy wheels, measuring 8.5 and 10 x 19-inches and wrapped in Michelin Cup tyres, complete the changes.
    (more…)

  • Underground Racing Lamborghini Aventador [w/video]


    It had to happen; those lunatics over at Charlotte-based tuning specialist Underground Racing have finally bolted a pair of turbochargers onto the 6.5-litre twelve-cylinder engine in Lamborghini’s Aventador.

    Currently developing 1200 hp, although we’re sure there’s more to come, this particular car, which has recorded a 0-60 mph time of just 2.2 seconds, will be attending various race and events throughout this year. UR has asked for interested parties to contact them regarding details and pricing. Insane.
    (more…)

  • Mercedes-Benz C 63 AMG Performance Studio Edition


    Mercedes-Benz has developed a special C 63 AMG Performance Studio Edition for the Japanese market.

    Finished in designo Magno Night Black matte paintwork, with colour-matched AMG multi-spoke alloys in a 19-inch diameter; the rim of the wheels have been painted red along with the brake calipers hiding behind them. Moving inside, the cabin features large amounts of red and black nappa leather, with items including the dashboard, seats, door panels and centre console all receiving a coating, stitched together with red thread. The OMAND Online system not only provides internet access, but also allows the driver to record lap times or even monitor engine output and g-forces being experienced.

    Under the hood, the C 63 AMG Performance Studio Edition has been fitted with the AMG Performance package, which sees power from the 6.2-litre V8 rising from 336 kW (457 hp) to 358 kW (487 hp).

    Set to go on sale this November, prices for this special edition will start at around 15 million Yen (€ 154,240).
    (more…)