SUV mayhem: 1,000 HP Nissan Patrol

Nissan is currently getting ready to release it's next generation Patrol, an overseas sensation that may indeed be coming to the United States. There have been rampant rumors about a possible V8 powertrain, but the big news is a diesel engine developed in conjunction with Renault that pumps out 405 lbft of torque.



A certain Dubai business man apparently wasn't impressed enough with the new SUV to wait for it, so he turned his Patrol over to HKS and had them up the ante a little.



A little means an all wheel drive SUV that pumps out around 1,000hp, or 1,000 PS. The mostly stock exterior makes this ride a major sleeper, with the exception of the large squarish hood scoop. Just imagine the look on that guys face next to you when you embarrass him in his fancy pants sports car.

Ford names new head of SVT and TeamRS, will develop performance models globally

Image via WikipediaFord's goal of developing cars that can be sold in the U.S and overseas could finally involve some of it's hot European offerings, thanks to the appointment Jost Capito to the newly-created position of director of global performance vehicles and motorsports business development.



Long have enthusiasts begged for this very scenario to occur, and thanks to the past summer's rising gas prices Ford finally put a plan in motion. While we've had to adore models like the Focus RS from abroad, Capito's new gig overseeing and consolidating both the North American Special Vehicle Team (SVT) and the European TeamRS means that cross pollination between the two performance brands is assured.



Capito -- a Dakar Rally veteran and former engineer for BMW and Porsche -- has been with Ford of Europe since October of 2001, and managed Ford's European motorsport and performance vehicle programs from 2003 through 2007. During that time, he was instrumental in Ford's WRC campaign and helped to bring the Fiesta ST, Focus ST and Focus RS to market. Capito will be moving from the UK to Dearborn, Michigan before he takes the reigns in January next year.



PRESS RELEASE



FORD ANNOUNCES SENIOR MANAGEMENT CHANGES TO STRENGTHEN GLOBAL PERFORMANCE VEHICLES STRATEGY



Jost Capito is appointed Director, Global Performance Vehicles and Motorsport Business Development

Jost will be based in Dearborn, USA, and will report to Hermann Salenbauch, Director Advanced Product Creation and Performance Vehicles, and Brian Wolfe , Director North America Motor Sports

Ford's North American Special Vehicle Team (SVT) led by Jamal Hameedi, Chief Nameplate Engineer, and Kerry Baldori, Chief Functional Engineer will report to Capito in his new role

Ford of Europe's performance vehicle operations will be managed by Dirk Densing, who will continue to be based in Cologne, Germany, and report to Capito and, depending on vehicle, the relevant Vehicle Line Director based in Cologne

DEARBORN, Mich., Dec. 4 – Ford Motor Company is strengthening its commitment to performance vehicles by appointing Jost Capito to the newly-created position of Director, Global Performance Vehicles and Motorsport Business Development. Jost will take up his new position in January 2009.



In his new role, Capito will be responsible for the global development of Ford's performance vehicles business. The North American SVT and European TeamRS performance vehicle organizations will come together, both reporting to Capito, to focus on the development of global performance vehicles, and the implementation of consistent vehicle attributes and DNA in future Ford performance models.



Additionally, Capito will assume responsibility for global motorsport business strategy and aligning Ford's global motorsport plans and programs. He will lead the development of motorsport opportunities for Ford's future global car products around the world, advising and working closely with the company's regional Motorsports directors.



Jost Capito joined Ford of Europe in October 2001 as director of Special Vehicle Engineering. Between 2003 and 2007, he assumed responsibility for Ford of Europe's motorsport and performance vehicle programs, leading the company's successful World Rally Championship efforts and winning Manufacturers' Championship titles for the BP Ford Abu Dhabi World Rally team in 2006 and 2007. In November 2007, Capito was appointed Vehicle Line Director for Ford of Europe's Performance Vehicles, and since then has led the development of the eagerly-awaited new Focus RS road car which will be launched in Europe in the first quarter of 2009. He was also responsible for European Fiesta ST and Focus ST performance models.



Jost Capito is 50 years old, and currently lives with his family in the UK. In his new position, he will relocate to Ford's World Headquarters in Dearborn, Michigan.



"Performance vehicles and motorsport have been important to Ford since the company was founded more than a century ago. With Jost's immense experience in both areas, performance vehicles and motorsport, we expect that tradition to continue and be strengthened within our One Ford strategy," said Hermann Salenbauch, Director of Advanced Product Creation and Performance Vehicles, Ford Motor Company.

Superformance and Roush team up for special edition MKIII-R

Superformance, the only Shelby-licensed producer of Cobra kit cars, has teamed up with Roush for a special edition version of their MKIII replicar that features a Roush 427 IR crate motor pumping out 576 horsepower.



In addition to standard features like TIG welded ladder frame chassis, independent front and rear suspension, fiberglass body, and Wilwood brakes, the MKIII-R gets custom Cobra seats with four-point harnesses, black chrome trim, Roush floor mats and short throw shifter, custom Roush-engraved wind wings, and a unique Monza Red paint scheme with silver stripes and black pin stripes.



The package is now on sale and will be sold as an upgrade for the standard MKIII chassis. You can check out the full details in the press release below.



PRESS RELEASE:



The Question:



What happens when you take the most sought after 1965 licensed reproduction Cobra replica and shoehorn in an engine built by a company that has more Ford wins than any other manufacture?



The Answer:



You get the Roush/Superformance Special Edition MKIII-R!



The Project:



The Roush/Superformance Special Edition MKIII-R was built specifically to tour the country and represent the bread and butter of what Roush Performance Engines and Superformance LLC have to offer. The plan was to build a one off display vehicle, but the project's high interest quickly changed everyone's mind and suddenly the car was slated for production. The Special Edition car was introduced to the public at the 2007 SEMA show in Las Vegas Nevada. The MKIII-R showed the public what it has always wanted to see - two industry leaders working together to produce the best of both worlds, a stunning double diamond with the roar of a lion under the hood. A car that is truly pleasing to all of your senses!



Now Available for Purchase:



The Roush components will be available as an upgrade package that will be sold separately from the standard Superformance MKIII roadster. The interior features a set of Roush embroidered leather seats, unique gauges, billet short-throw shifter, Roush embroidered floor mats, dual gauge pod, and a serialized plaque. Customers can choose from a variety of Roush crate motors including the 427 IR V8 that is dyno tested at 576 horsepower and comes with a 2-year/24,000 mile warranty.



The Players:



Superformance LLC, the leader in "Licensed Reproduction" replica and continuation component chassis of the 1960's. As one of the first players in the industry, Superformance has over 20 independent dealers throughout the world including Europe, Africa, and Australia. Superformance has earned the reputation of being the best through their relentless attention to detail, quality, craftsmanship, fit, finish, and customer service. Superformance teamed with Hi-Tech Automotive RSA (the world's largest specialty car production facility with more than 600 craftsmen and associated employees in their 400,000 square foot build facility located in South Africa) has built over 4000 rolling component chassis to date.



Roush Performance Engines, a division of Roush Industries and better known to the general public as Roush Fenway Racing has been producing complete performance crate "street engines" since 2003 and currently has over 15 different combinations from mild to wild to choose from.



Hillbank Motor Corporation is Southern California's Superformance licensed reproduction replica and Shelby continuation vintage racing and component chassis dealer. Hillbank has the largest selection and inventory of complete "turn-key minus" MKIII's, Cobras, Daytona Coupes, and GT40's on the West Cost and is a premier retailer of the top name brand and genuine aftermarket American Muscle performance parts & accessories.



Exotic Auto Restorations is a well respected installation center for Hillbank Motor Corp. Exotic specializes in custom fabrication of classic vintage race cars, early & late model Mustangs, and show quality vehicles. Owner, George Cunha and his crew have over 26 years of experience in and around the custom fabrication and restoration industry. Exotic holds numerous awards with their show winning cars and has recently been seen on Hot Rod TV.



The Journey:



Hillbank Motor Corp collected all the pieces of this performance puzzle and began to align the stars for this new venture. Once the pieces were all collected, Hillbank called on Exotic Automotive Restorations to masterfully assemble the dream car!



The MKIII-R started its journey in South Africa, where it was built completely minus the engine and transmission by Hi Tech Automotive RSA and shipped Hillbank Motor Corp. After 5 weeks on the water it arrived at Hillbank and was quickly sent over to Exotic where it began the transformation process.



The Exotic crew first removed all of the chrome factory trim pieces including the windshield, hood and trunk latches, headlight rings, quick jacks, all the way down to the Tonneau cover rivets and roll bar and sent them out to be coated in a black chrome finish. With the help of our sponsors (Roush, GTP, Wilwood Engineering, Tremec, American Racing, Sube Sport, Michelin USA, and Snake Power Performance) this vehicle was well on its way to its new transformation!



Specs:



2007 Superformance MKIII chassis

Monza red paint with dark silver Le Mans stripes and black pin stripes

Independent Suspension

Limited slip differential

Billstein shocks and custom H & R springs

GTP sway bars

Heavy duty TIG welded ladder frame chassis with crumple zones

Custom Wilwood upgraded power- assisted vented disc brakes. 4 pot calipers

Heater and defogger

American Racing 18" pin drive wheels

Hand laminated fiberglass body with reinforcing inserts

Original style Smith gauges

Original style Lucas switches

Safe Craft fire suppression system

Ceramic coated headers and side pipes

Custom floor mats

Custom Roush engraved wind wings

Cobra seats with custom embroidery

4 point harness seat belts

Black chrome trim

Tri pod head lamps

Soft top and tonneau cover

Stainless steel 17 gallon pressure tested fuel tank

Roush 427 IR dry sump motor:

o 576 HP

o 2 year/24,000 mile warranty

o Hard coat anodized billet covers

o Tremec 5 speed transmission

o Oil cooler and braided hoses

2010 Chevrolet Camaro prices surface

GM has finally unveiled pricing for it's shiny new Camaro. The V6 equipped LS will base at $22,995, and the V8 equipped SS will start out at $30,995. Both prices include the destination fee of $750 and orders are being taken as of today, October 13th.



Production begins mid-February at GM's Oshawa, Ontario facility and dealerships should begin taking deliveries soon afterwards.



Both LS and LT models will come equipped with the 3.6-liter V6, putting out 300 hp and 273 lb.-ft. of torque and sending power to a Hydra-Matic 6L50 six-speed automatic gearbox equipped with TAPshift control.



Buyers who opt for the big-boy SS equipped with the six-speed TR6060 manual transmission get to play with 422 hp and 408 lb.-ft. of torque courtesy of the 6.2-liter LS3 V8, while six-speed automatic buyers will have to make do the 400 hp and 395 lb.-ft. of twist culled from the L99 V8.



All models benefit from a 4.5-link independent rear suspension, four wheel disc brakes (Brembos on the SS), StabiliTrak traction control, 18-, 19- or 20-inch wheels, RS appearance package (available on the LT and SS), which includes HID headlamps with "halo" rings, spoiler, restyled taillamps and 20-inch wheels. Bluetooth, remote start, USB connectivity, OnStar and XM Satellite Radio are all available, and ten colors are available on all models.



See the press release below for more detailed options and pricing.



PRESS RELEASE



Chevrolet Announces Pricing for the 2010 Camaro



Lineup Includes Fun and Efficient V-6 models rated at 27 mpg and High-Performance Camaro SS



DETROIT – Chevrolet today announced pricing for the all-new, 2010 Camaro. It starts at $22,995 MSRP for the V-6-powered LS model, and $30,995 for the V-8-powered Camaro SS (all prices include $750 destination charge). Customer ordering opened on Oct. 13, with production scheduled to start in first quarter of 2009.



"The wait is almost over," said Ed Peper, GM North America vice president, Chevrolet. "The return of the Camaro gives sports car enthusiasts a reason to rejoice. It's a 21 st century sports car with a distinctly American legacy.



More than 600,000 enthusiasts have requested information on the Camaro since its production was announced. Chevrolet is reaching out to give them the opportunity to be the first to order one.



The Chevy.com/Camaro Web site carries information regarding early ordering, along with vehicle packaging information, a specification sheet and anticipated frequently asked questions about the ordering process.



Production is scheduled to begin in mid-February at GM's Oshawa, Ontario production facility, with dealership deliveries shortly thereafter. Complementing the Camaro's introduction is a range of performance, appearance and convenience accessories – including 21-inch wheels and tires; ground effects and stripe kits; and even a classic-styled Hurst shifter – that customers can order and have installed at their dealership. In some cases, the cost of the accessories and their installation can be rolled into the monthly payments.



"My Own Worst Enemy"



Enthusiasts will see the new Camaro this fall as part of NBC's new drama, "My Own Worst Enemy." It stars Christian Slater as a man with two personalities – a suburban dad and covert spy – with the Camaro featured prominently, along with the new Chevy Traverse crossover. The show premiers Oct. 13, the same day ordering opens for the Camaro.



Camaro's supporting role on "My Own Worst Enemy" follows its big-screen debut as the Autobot named Bumblebee in the blockbuster 2007 movie, "Transformers."



World-class performance, American heritage



Built on GM's new, global rear-wheel-drive architecture, the Camaro is offered in V-6-powered LS and LT models, as well as the V-8-powered SS. All models and powertrain combinations are matched with fuel-saving six-speed transmissions. Advanced technologies, including engines with direct injection and Active Fuel Management, enable a satisfying balance of exhilarating performance and good fuel economy.



Camaro product highlights also include:



* Sleek styling with heritage cues and 10 available exterior colors

* Four-wheel independent suspension system, including a 4.5-link rear suspension

* Four-wheel disc brake systems standard on all models, including four-piston Brembo calipers on SS models

* StabiliTrak stability control system and traction control standard on all models

* Family of 18-, 19- and 20-inch wheels

* Six standard air bags, including head curtain side-impact air bags and front seat-mounted thorax side air bags

* RS appearance package available on LT and SS, including HID headlamps with integrated halo rings, spoiler, specific taillamps and 20-inch wheels

* Bluetooth phone connectivity

* USB connectivity

* Remote vehicle starting system

* OnStar

* XM Satellite Radio



Under the hood, Camaro LS and LT use a 3.6L engine with variable valve timing to optimize performance and fuel economy. It is rated at an estimated 300 horsepower (224 kW) and 273 lb.-ft. of torque (370 Nm). A six-speed manual transmission is standard with the 3.6L engine; a Hydra-Matic 6L50 electronically controlled six-speed automatic, with TAPshift control, is available. LS and LT models are estimated at 27 mpg in highway driving, for great fuel economy to complement their fun driving experience.



The high-performance 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, estimated at 422 horsepower (315 kW) and 408 lb.-ft. of torque (553 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 estimated at 400 horsepower (299 kW) and 395 lb.-ft. of torque (535 Nm). It is matched with a Hydra-Matic 6L80 six-speed transmission that helps delivers an estimated 23 mpg on the highway.



Chevrolet is one of America's best-known and best-selling automotive brands. With the largest dealer network in the United States, Chevy is the leader in full-size trucks and the leader in sales of vehicles priced $35,000 and above. Chevrolet delivers more-than-expected value in every vehicle category, offering cars and trucks priced from $12,120 to $103,300. Chevy delivers expressive design, spirited performance and great value with standard features usually found only on more expensive vehicles. More information on Chevrolet can be found at www.chevrolet.com.



UPDATED Pricing and Packages:



OFFICIAL 2010 Camaro Pricing



Model:

Camaro LS -- $22,995 (MSRP)

Camaro 1LT -- $24,630 (MSRP)

Camaro 2LT -- $27,330 (MSRP)

Camaro 1SS -- $30,992 (MSRP)

Camaro 2SS -- $34,180 (MSRP)



Options:

Convenience and Connectivity w/ Automatic Transmission -- $665

Concenience and Connectivity w/ Manual Transmission -- $465

Interior Trim Package -- $500

RS Package w/ 1LT -- $1,750

RS Package w/ 2LT -- $1,450

RS Package w/ 1SS or 2SS -- $1,200

Carpeted Front -- $60

Engine Block Heater -- $75

Red Jewel Tint Premium Paint -- $295

Boston Acoustics System -- $495

Compact Spare Tire and Wheel -- $150

Cyber Gray Metallic Stripes -- $395

White Stripes -- $395

Power Sunroof -- $900

Transmission, Automatic 6-speed -- $995

19" Polished Aluminum Wheel w/ 1LT -- $720

19" Polished Aluminum Wheel w/ 2LT -- $470

20" Polished Aluminum Wheel -- $470

Featured Foureye - Alejandro Manglano's '79 Mustang Turbo

Automotive restoration is an addiction. Restoring or modifying any car is a time consuming, often heartbreaking process that typically ends up costing too much money and taking too much time. But the appeal is unexplainable, a very rewarding experience indeed. And unlike those who pay to have a car restored, one can take a certain amount of pride in the fact that you can boast that you did all the work yourself.



Such is the case with Alejandro Manglano and his 1979 Mustang. Alejandro and his wife were on a mission to replace his wrecked BMW with a Mustang. They did a lot of looking around until they found a mint 1980 Ghia V6. Alejandro and his wife decided that this would be the one they would purchase.



The very next day, Alejandro was on his way to purchase the '80 with his friend when he spotted a brown '79 coupe that appeared to have seen better days. It sat motionless with a flat tire, no brakes to speak of, a ratted out interior, torn up suspension, and a rather dented up body from an apparent accident.



Alejandro saw past the sad state the fox was in and saw a large amount of potential in the little turbo coupe. He immediately changed his mind and decided to forgo the perfect '80 for the ratty '79. To compound matters further, the little couple wouldn't start or run so he and his friend had to load it up on a trailer and tow it home.



Alejandro arrived home to pretty much the same reaction that we all get at some point and time from his wife. All she wanted to know was "where is that pretty green car we looked at yesterday?" (Editors note: the reaction I got when I drove my '83 home was much worse than this). Alejandro explained to her that the '79 was a great project to begin with, and that it wouldn't take long since it was a solid, rust free car.



The restoration took 5 years. The mangled body was straightened out and covered with layers of tan/gold pearl. The ol' four banger was rebuilt and freshened up for the time being, Alejandro has future plans of completely going through it. Brake were upgraded with escort calipers and disks in the rear. Wheels are 15x7 American Racing Outlaws with Sumitomo tires all around.



The interior was completely restored from dash to console to upholstery. The steering wheel and shifter knob are custom units that have been painted to match the body color.



Now that Alejandro's foxbody is finished, it's being used in a TV show. How's that for having your car work for you? And instead of tooling around in a car that was perfect from the get go, Alejandro has a ride that's both unique and has history. That's what this hobby is all about.



AmericanMuscle.com has all the Mustang Parts you will need to spice up your 'Stang.



You can view the pictures of the restoration here.

2008 Mustang Shelby GT - is it worth it?

The original mid 60's Mustang Shelby GT started life as a car Ford built to certain specifications, which was in turn shipped to Shelby American for additional upgrades. Shelby's crew would add bolt-on, go-faster parts for the engine and suspension, a few splashy bits to make it look racier, a Shelby ID number, those iconic Shelby stripes from nose to tail, and the rest is musclecar history. Not much has changed circa 2008.



The new 'Stang takes performance parts with ease, so why not have a professional outfit do the work for you?



The '08 Shelby features 319 hp with a rumbling exhaust that's quite pleasant, especially if you opt for the convertible for some top down fun. $11,800 for some upgrades is some serious cash, however, and that's the premium you'll pay over the cost of a loaded GT convertible.



The best thing about the Shelby is it's exclusivity. It's not like you'll see one of these in every parking lot of America. It's an easy ticket to turn heads and get noticed.



But then again, for $11k you could do a lot more to your base GT, and achieve better results under the hood. But name recognition costs money, and that's what you get with the Shelby GT.



Check out AmericanMuscle.com's large selection of 2008 Mustang Parts

1968 Mustang Fastback from Fast and the Furious Tokyo Drift on Ebay

The 68 Mustang Fastback in The Fast and the Furious : Tokyo Drift stole the show at the end of the movie, but purists surely scoffed when they realized that it was powered by a Nissan Skyline GT-R turbocharged motor.



Surely one of the only, if not the only classic Stang powered by a GT-R motor, this car is now for sale on Ebay. As of this moment the bids are up to $45,000 and the reserve has not yet been met.



A list of some of the modifications done to the car include: Wilwood four wheel disc brakes with 4 pistons up front, Volk GT-7 19 x 9 wheels up front and 19 x 10 in rear, Toyo Praxes T1R tires, KYB shocks, Flaming River rack & pinion steering, Sperco Intercooler, G Ready manifolds, N1 Magflow Exhaust, Fuel safe fuel cell with stainless lines, Global West upper lower control arms, Wenco drive shaft, 9" Currie rear end, Year One interior including new replacement seats, Hurst shifter, and front power windows.



Since completion of the movie, the fastback has been on display in a museum near Chicago. This car was only driven around 200 miles for filming purposes and was not the stunt car.



You can view the listing here.

2009 Ford Fiesta preview

Some of us remember the original Ford Fiesta. If you don't, don't feel too bad. It was an utterly forgettable car, a sad little box that was indicative of the early 90's junkbox that was coming from Detroit. Lost in the sea of unreliable with other prime rides like the Tempo and Probe, the little Fiesta was long ago forgotten. Seeing one on the road today is akin to spotting the loch ness monster basking on the beach somewhere.



The Ford Fiesta has enjoyed a revival, however, on the small car friendly shores of Europe. Small fuel efficient cars are all the rage in these countries, and Europeans are willing to pay a good premium for them. And now Ford is betting that Americans will forgive and forget, embracing the little box that could when it returns to North America in 2010.



The Fiesta is the testbed for the new process of designing and engineering cars for a global audience, and it's a strategic move into a new market segment. American car buyers are getting a taste of what the rest of the world has experienced for decades, and now appear more than willing to choose something small and efficient as opposed to large and thirsty. In a time of market upheaval the Fiesta could end up having to serve as a lifeline to beleaguered workers, dealers, and shareholders.



The good news in all of this is that the Fiesta is a superb car.



When it debuts here in America, it will initially be offered as a sedan, with a hatchback version soon to follow (note: isn't it funny, how Americans, who wouldn't be caught dead in a hatchback a year ago, are now buying Honda Fits at an alarming rate?).



The Euro version's 1.6-liter engine, its chassis, its exterior and interior design, even its equipment, will barely change for the U.S. Funny enough, Ford sold another 1.6-liter compact hatch called Fiesta in the mid-70s. It was designed by Tom Tjaarda, then working at Ford's Ghia studio in Turin. It proved a strong seller in that fuel-starved decade, and the company is hoping the same good fortune will strike the new one.



The Fiesta is zippy and fun to drive, thanks to a happy revving 1.6 liter and a slight 2250 pound curb weight. It now matches the best small cars anywhere for crash test integrity. It also comes with up to seven airbags and, on most versions, ESP.



Seat and door trim fabrics are inspired by high-tech outdoor gear rather than your aunt's La-Z-Boy. And the dashboard is clad in a lush-feeling soft finish, a notable contrast over the cheap, hard materials in Japanese and Korean subcompacts.



The little four cylinder pumps out 120 hp and 112 lbft of torque. With a 0-60 time of 9.9 seconds you won't mistake it for a club racer, but it gets the job done. The number you're looking at here is an estimated 39.9 mpg.



The beauty of the package is how well built it is. Everyone who has tested the new Fiesta raves about it's build quality and overall feel on the road. The only bad news is that we still have to wait a year to get one.



Ford still has some stuff to do before it intros the car in the States. Like get itself a production line somewhere in the Americas. Ah well, they become vacant all the time these days. It also has to sort out a name for the car. Fiesta is a badge that has been attached to almost 13 million cars sold in Europe, so it has cred. But in the U.S., it's a cipher.



After all, when was the last time you saw a Fiesta on the road?

Electric Supercar, the Italdesign Quaranta

Motor Trend recently had an exclusive test drive of an outrageous new electric car, the Italdesign Quaranta.



This futuristic, fighter jet canopied car features a central driver's seating position and was designed by the same man who brought us the Lamborghini Gallardo. Instead of a roaring V-10, the Quaranta makes a lot of noise by making none at all.



The Quaranta is indeed a mid engine car, one sporting all wheel drive. It is entirely overwhelming in design quality, concept, and execution. And unlike most show ponies, this one is built to be driven as it most certainly was less than 60 days after making it's show circuit debut.



Italdesign and Toyota have a great relationship, so it's no surprise that the powertrain is sourced from the Lexus RX 400h. Toyota provided the 3.3-liter DOHC V-6 engine, electric-motor assist hardware, continuously variable transmission, and all-wheel-drive system, but the rest of the car has all been hand crafted by Italdesign.



The 3100 pound green muscle machine is rated at 268 total horsepower. Battery charging is assisted by Toyota's regenerative braking system and also by solar panels affixed to the car's front and rear horizontal surfaces. As functional and styling elements, the panels generate an additional 250 watts of free power, so long as the sun is shining.



The twin fuel tanks hold a total of about 16 gallons of gas and offer a claimed range of over 600 miles. That equates to around 37.5 mpg. 0-60 comes in around 5.6 seconds or so. This is no Lambo beater, but it does get roughly 3.5 times the gas mileage, after all.

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Shelby celebrates Terlingua Racing Team with Texas "Bullrun"

A little known story among Mustang fans is that of Carroll Shelby and his Terlingua Racing Team. Shelby automotives plans to celebrate Shelby's racing lineage next month with it's first annual Shelby "Bullrun" Challenge deep in the heart of Texas.

The tale first unfolds in the 1960's in the town of Terlingua, Texas. A group of gearheads were approached by Ford to build Mustang racers. The group consisted of Carroll Shelby, Bill Neale, Dave Witts, Tom Tierney and David E. Davis, Jr, who willingly accepted the offer and ended up building the now famous GT350 and GT500 Mustangs. The group was famous for it's wild parties and fast paced lifestyles in between races.

The distinguishing mark of this crazy bunch was a yellow and black logo penned by co-founder Bill Neale. At the center of the badge was a rabbit with one paw raised into the air. With the bunny leading the charge on each team member's hood, the Terlingua's wreaked havoc on the Trans Am Series and quickly became notorious both in paddocks and on the streets.

After multiple wins and a lot of cars being built, the race team was all but forgotten until last year when Shelby rolled out its Terlingua Racing Team V-6 Mustang. According to Shelby officials, the main focus in building the car was to create an affordable, genuine Shelby Mustang capable of competing in all sorts of racing situations with ample power and handling prowess. From drifting and drag racing, to circuit and autocross racing, the Terlingua Racing Team Shelby Mustang aims to have everything covered.

In celebration of the team's past successes and future growth, Shelby Automobiles is hosting the Texas-style Shelby "Bullrun" Challenge at Terlingua this September 25 to 28. For three days, anyone that comes to the festivities in a Shelby vehicle (Mustang, Cobra, etc.), factory Mustang, or Ford GT will be able to participate in the variety of planned drives and events.

"We created the Shelby Terlingua Racing Team so our small group of rebels could have some real fun," stated Carroll Shelby in a press release. "Now, I'm inviting a new generation to return with me for a weekend they'll always remember."

Organizers have mapped out a 350 mile rally run, a 12 mile time trial course, airstrip track and half mile dragstrip for enthusiast wanting to burn a little rubber over the weekend. Other fun to be had at the "Bullrun" includes the mandatory car show, hole-in-one golf tournament, Texas "shootout", chili cook-off contest and autograph session with Carroll Shelby.

Come take a peak at AmericanMuscle's line of Carroll Shelby Mustang Wheels.

Apocalypse Now - Ford and GM to team up?

Image by Getty Images via Daylife
The domestic automakers are in a rut right now, with the exception of Chrysler, which just posted a healthy profit for the quarter. Ford and GM are bleeding money fast, trying to keep up with the rapidly changing consumer needs.

The struggle facing both companies is the high cost of developing new, fuel efficient engines to meet customer demand. In a move that could help fuel both companies bring new cars to market quickly and lower costs, the two are discussing a possible collaboration to share engine and powertrain technology. Both automakers already have some new products in the pipeline to combat high fuel costs.

Ford will introduce the first in a line of EcoBoost engines next year, beginning with the new Lincoln MKS. GM will also be rolling out the Chevy Volt by the end of 2010 in a limited supply.

Collaborating on future powertrains and sharing current technology could lower costs for both companies substantially. According to reports GM actually approached Ford about joining forces months ago, and after Dearborn's board of directors voted to authorize further discussions there were three meetings between the two automakers regarding powertrain development. And while a formal agreement has yet to be reached, things are said to be progressing smoothly and covering a wide range of possible collaborations. Neither company will confirm or deny these reports.

This wouldn't be the first time the two automakers joined forces. Recently they both joined forces to develop a six speed automatic transmission that has been used successfully in several vehicles across many product lines today.

While this all seems like blasphemy to the die hard contingency of loyal Chevy and Ford fans, it really is a good idea. I for one have nothing against foreign automakers but I have grown tired of seeing them take over the market. What's wrong with Americans teaming up to make the country stronger, and helping to protect some of our blue collar work force?

Ford to continue building small cars, announces new models

Image by Getty Images via Daylife
In spite of potentially dropping gas prices, Ford CEO Alan Mullaly recently told FOX Business Network that Ford will not shift it's focus away from increasing production on small cars. Mullaly said that Ford's previous plan to focus on large vehicles was not the right business plan. "No, I think the dye is cast," Mullaly said. "It really starts with a point of view about the future and a couple of points of view for Ford. We clearly focused on big SUVs and trucks in the United States and we focused on dynamite cars and smaller vehicles around the world. That's not a balanced plan."
Despite rumors to the contrary, Ford will not abandon it large car and truck division altogether. "We've been the preferred industry leader in trucks and SUVs for 33 years," he said. "These are wonderful vehicles. Even though the market is down substantially, there's going to be a market for large trucks and SUVs. We're going to continue to invest the appropriate amount and maintain our leadership." Having said this, Ford won't ignore the trends altogether. It is already planning on retooling two of it's U.S. plants and one Mexico plant to build small cars instead of trucks and SUV's.
Ford also recently dropped some information on some of it's future product. They weren't kidding about a total overhaul in the next couple of years...
2010 Ford Fusion, Mercury Milan, Lincoln MKZ Refreshed versions of these midsize sedans are expected to launch in early 2009. Fusion and Milan will also be offered as hybrids, with fuel economy that's promised to top that of the Toyota Camry hybrid. 2010 Ford Mustang A revised form of the pony car, already being previewed to enthusiasts across the country, will hit dealers in early 2009. We're expecting a debut at the 2008 Los Angeles auto show. 2010 Ford Taurus A thoroughly restyled Taurus sedan will launch in the middle of 2009. Ford plans on offering its EcoBoost technology (turbocharged engines with direct-injection) in the new car. 2010 European Ford Fiesta and Focus We knew the cars would (finally) make their way to the U.S. for 2010, and Ford has now revealed they'll arrive in both four- and five-door models. There's no word on whether a three-door Focus, especially in RS trim, would make its way stateside. 2010 Lincoln crossover Ford claims its luxury division will receive a seven-passenger crossover halfway through 2009. Given the vehicle's description and the hint that it'll receive the EcoBoost powertrain, we're expecting a Lincoln version of the Ford Flex. Time will tell if styling from the MKT concept transitions into production. 2010 "Small Cars" We've precious little detail on what Ford is planning here, but the company claims it will launch a new small car as a Mercury in 2010, alongside another small vehicle with roots in Europe. The latter is described as a "whitespace" entry, suggesting it may be a unique offering in our market. 2010 Ford Explorer The ubiquitous Explorer will abandon the traditional body-on-frame structure for unibody construction in 2010. Given that, and the promise of an EcoBoost motor and a six-speed automatic, we're expecting it to be similar in concept to the Explorer America concept shown at the 2008 Detroit show. Ford claims the changes will help the model return a 25 percent improvement in fuel economy. Along with the new products come a number of changes to Ford's assembly plants. The automaker already revealed its intention to switch factories from building slow-selling full-size trucks to small cars, so these revelations aren't earth shattering. Ford's Michigan Truck Plant in Wayne, Michigan, may have to revise its name. Presently home to the Ford Expedition and Lincoln Navigator SUVs, the factory will be retooled starting in December of 2008 to build the 2010 European Focus for the North American market. Production for both the Expedition and Navigator will move to the truck plant in Louisville, Kentucky, although a line in the same facility will also be responsible for assembling the 2010 Focus. Ford's factory in Cuautitlan, Mexico, will build the 2010 Fiesta for North America instead of its present product, the F-Series trucks. Expecting further declines in the full-size truck segment, Ford has extended the life of the Ford Ranger by two years, giving the plant in St. Paul, Minnesota, an extra two years of work.

Mustang Week 2008

Just got back from the car show at Mustang Week 2008! Lots of nice cars out there. Not the nicest of days as it's been overcast all day long but that didn't stop the hundreds of spectators that showed up to check out the 200+ stangs in attendance. The great thing about the show is that there were numerous cars in the parking lot that were just as nice as the ones entered in the show. I was also surprised to see all the big name vendors that were in attendance. Lots of great stuff indeed. The only thing that dissapointed me is that there were only a few four eyes inattendance. My goal is to get mine finished by next year so that I can take the week off and attend all of the festivites. On to the pictures! Click on any of them to view the larger image.