German Car Scene

Month: September 2012

  • BMW 3 Series KW adaptive coilovers


    Fichtenberg-based suspension specialist KW Automotive has developed its adaptive coilover system to suit BMW’s 3 Series convertible (E93) and coupé (E92) models.

    Already available for the 3 Series estate (E91), the stainless steel KW DDC ECU coilover kit allows a drop in ride height of up to 50 mm on the coupe and 60 mm on the convertible, while a choice of adaptive driving modes; Comfort, Sport and Sport+, can be chosen via a button mounted inside the car’s cockpit.

    On top of that, owners with an iPhone, iPad or iPod touch will be able to fine-tune their own damper set-up thanks to the free KW DDC app from Apple’s App Store. “When our W-LAN module is connected, the damper characteristics can easily and individually be adjusted. With the push of a button’ the driver’s set-ups can also be shared with friends via Email,” said KW’s Product Manager Johannes Wacker. Up to five separate setups can be stored at any one time.
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  • Testing the Porsche 935


    In this new video from Porsche, Chief Driving Consultant, Gordon Robertson gets behind the wheel of a 760 bhp 935 at the Porsche Experience Centre in Silverstone. Introduced in 1976, as the factory racing version of the Porsche 911 turbo, the 935 won over 150 races worldwide, including the 1979 24 Hours of Le Mans. Enjoy.
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  • Carlsson CML35


    Merzig-based Mercedes-Benz tuning specialist Carlsson has released details of its CML35 vehicle based on the ML-Class.

    Visually, the popular SUV wears an aero package consisting of a bold front apron, double headlamp units with integrated LED daytime running lights, stainless steel mesh grille inserts, wheel arch extensions, side skirts and rear bumper apron. A choice of wheels are available, including the 22-inch, one-piece CR 1/5 Evo DS (Dark Series) items pictured here.

    Lowering the CML35 is Carlsson’s C-Tronic module which features iPhone connectivity, meaning the airmatic suspension can be controlled via your iPhone via the company’s app. Moving inside, past the illuminated sill plates, as well as the usual aluminium pedals, door pins and deep carpet floor mat set, customers can specify the cabin to suit their own tastes, with materials including leather and Alcantara available to reupholster the cabin along with wooden and carbon fibre trim elements.

    Based on the ML350 BlueTEC model, Carlsson has fitted its CD35 BT control unit, which sees output rise from 190 kW (258 hp) and 620 Nm of torque to 228 kW (310 hp) and 700 Nm, allowing a new top speed of 235 km/h (146 mph).

    Available to buy from October 1, pricing starts from €69,900.
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  • evo Diaries: Pagani Huayra and Bugatti Veyron Vitesse


    In this latest episode of evo Diaries, magazine founder Harry Metcalfe attended a Pagani meeting before getting behind the wheel of the stunning Huayra. Powered by a revised version of the SL 65 AMG Black Series’ 6.0-litre Mercedes-AMG V12 Bi-Turbo engine, the Huayra enjoys 515 kW (690 hp) and 1,000 Nm (740 lb/ft) of torque, allowing a 378 km/h (235 mph) top speed. Later on, Harry also takes us for a look around the insane 895 kW (1,200 hp) Bugatti Veyron Grand Sport Vitesse.
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  • Porsche Boxster by TechArt


    Leonberg-based Porsche tuning specialist TechArt has released details of its options for the current (Type 981) Boxster model.

    TechArt can provide owners with its five-spoke Formula wheel or the lightweight Formula III forged wheel in a five-double spoke design measuring 21-inches in diameter, which offers a weight advantage of around 40 percent compared to the factory wheel. The company’s sport spring kit lowers the Boxster by 30 mm on the front and 20 mm at the rear. The final mechanical upgrade is a stainless steel exhaust system with adjustable valve control and a muffler with twin tailpipes.

    Moving inside, the cabin enjoys a full leather retrim with decorative stitching, carbon fibre inlay packages and a 3-spoke sports steering wheel with flappy paddles.

    TechArt’s Boxster, complete with aero program, will make its début at the Essen Motor Show later this year (December 1 to 12).
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  • Virtually undisguised Porsche 991 GT3 spotted [w/video]


    Many thanks to Dani at Colla Verglas for sharing these photos of three virtually undisguised Porsche 991 GT3 models.

    The rear wing appears to be the same as that from Porsche’s Sport Design Package for the 991 Carrera, but below it lies the obligatory central twin tailpipes, while the front is brilliantly aggressive, featuring a heavily-vented bumper with colossal lower spoiler.

    All three cars were equipped with PDK flappy paddles, steel brake discs (no PCCB) with six and four-piston calipers and 305/30 ZR20 and 245/35 ZR20 Pirelli P-Zero tyres.

    We love it, but can’t wait for the GT3 RS to arrive.
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