New Cannonball record. A.k.a How I drove across the U.S. in under 29 hours.

This one just came across my desk and I felt this one was worth of posting here as I, and many others in our office are Cannonball Run, Gumball Rally, Bull Run, etc fans. Ed Bolian, a Lamborghini dealer from Atlanta, Georgia. is such a fan of the infamous Cannonball Run events, that he once told Brock Yates that he planned to break the record. This was before Alex Roy setting the previous record of 31 hours and 4 minutes in his ultra modified BMW M5.

I guess we should say what the new record is. Would you believe, 28 hours and 50 minutes? Shattering the previous record by about 3 hours. Very impressive, but also extremely dangerous. Bolian's choice of equipment was a 2004 Mercedes Benz CL55 which like Roy's BMW was equipped with several navigation units, and a host of radar detectors and monitoring equipment. And the run was made with co-driver Dave Black and support passenger Dan Huang. So, a pretty comfortable ride for 3. During the run, their top speed was 158 miles per hour with an average of 98 miles per hour from the Red Ball Garage in New York City and finishing at the Portofino Inn, in Redondo Beach, California. The original start and finish of the Cannonball Runs. The only thing that I personally didn't agree with was releasing the details about the run this soon. Alex Roy waited nearly a year before releasing the details of his run so that the statute of limitations would expire. Bolian's run was just made on October 19th. And he only waited about 10 days to release the news. But either way, the record has been broken. I wonder who will break it next, and more importantly, with what car? Congrats go out to the team. But we do caution our readers. If you have the need for speed. Please, take it to the track.

Source & Photos: http://edbolian.com/

2012 Glenmoor Gathering

Ok, I don't live under a rock. I've known of the Glenmoor Gathering of Significant Automobiles in nearby Canton, Ohio for several years now. But I might has well been living under a rock as I have never been to the famed concours d' elegance. All I can say is that if you have never been. Plan on going in 2013. This is an event that is a must attend for any car enthusiast. It doesn't matter what you like, there is a little of something for everyone at the Glenmoor Gathering. Set on the grounds of the beautiful Glenmoor Country Club, the Gathering hosts, I would guess around 500+ of the nation's finest collector cars there are to offer. Each year there are themes This year there were four. Supercharged Autos, Trans-Atlantics (European styling/bodies with American power), The cars of Sydney Allard, and lastly (and the one I was most excited for) Tucker.

Now I have seen a handful of Tuckers in my travels as a car guy. But I have never seen a Tucker outside of the security of an indoor museum and barriers. At this year's event there were 9 Tucker's on display. 7 of which were real honest to goodness members of the original 51 Tuckers built in 1948. These cars take on a whole new life when seen outside in the sunlight. Some highlights included a Tucker from the Gilmore Museum in Michigan which is essentially a brand new car. Tucker #47 has only 53 original miles on the odometer, this Tucker is all original with the exception of one tire. It had just enough patina to look like an older restoration, but once you got up close, well there's that originality vibe. Another standout was Tucker # 48 which came from Wisconsin. This car was interesting because of the numerous accessories added to the car which included wire wheels and a large sign on the back alerting motorists that they had just been passed by a Tucker. Also on display was a fiberglass replica used in the production of the 1988 film, Tucker: The man and his dream. This car sits on a Ford LTD chassis and looks the part far away. And the wildest of the bunch, the Rob Ida Concepts, Tucker 48 continuation. We'll do a feature on that car separately.

Moving to the supercharged cars class, we found a stunning 1938 Mercedes 540k, a 1930 Stutz Model M, a 1927 Hudson Super Six which had a interesting similarity to the the famous Bentley 4 1/2 liter. On display in other classes were a 1948 Davis 3 wheeler, and a 1935 Hoffman X8. The later sporting a X8 mid rear mounted motor. This one had many collectors, including Jay Leno confused as to exactly what a Hoffman was as there was only one ever made.

Probably for me as a car guy, the car that caught my fancy was the 1935 Duesenberg Model SJ "Morman Meteor". This is a car that I have only seen via specials on TV, so to see this famed Duesey in person was a real treat. The car was specially commissioned by David "Ab" Jenkins who was a world renowned test driver. Producing over 400 horsepower, the Mormon Meteor was driven by Jenkins to a world record average of  speed of 135.47mph for 24 hours covering 3523 miles at the Bonneville Salt Flats in 1935. In 1936, with upgrades Jenkins broke his own record with an average speed of 153.823 mph. In 2007, the car was honored with winning Best of Show at the famous Pebble Beach Concours d' Elegance.

As I said above, I must have been living under a rock to have never gone to the Glenmoor Gathering. Check out our photo album of all the pictures we took.  Glenmoor gallery.

Barrett Jackson bringing a host of interesting cars to Scottsdale.

The folks at Barrett Jackson are really stepping up efforts to go back to their roots in a way by auctioning a wide array of classic cars that you typically would not expect to see. I've been browsing the catalog for the 2012 Scottsdale auction and found several unique classics that are set to be auctioned in a little more than a week's time. Here's what's caught my eye.

1948 Tucker Torpedo. What's not to love about the tucker? A truly uniquely styled car and a great story of the American Dream and free enterprise. Preston Tucker is a person I admire greatly, just imagine if things actually did work and the car flourished. This car comes from the famed private collection of Ron Pratte who is a staple at Barrett Jackson auctions.

1939 Buick Roadmaster. This one caught me because of the fact that it's the 1939 Indianapolis 500 pace car. The catalog doesn't say if it's "The" car that paced the race, but it's still really cool to think of a car this big as the pace car.

1957 Desoto Adventurer convertible. There's just something about the overall look of this one. I don't know if it's the wire wheels or the gold and black paint. A lot of folks might go for the Chrysler, Plymouth, or Dodges of this era, but there's something classy about the Desoto. And I think it looks the best out of them all.

1933 Desoto. This one stood out because it's not only a classic, but it was used in a classic film. 1967's Bonnie & Clyde. What's even more outstanding is that the car is essentially how it appeared in the film. Bullet holes and all. And it still presents itself very well. This one will make a collector very happy.

Also from 1933 comes this Pierce Arrow from the Blackhawk collection. I love the styling of this car cause it is radically different from anything else on the road at that time. This car was owned and restored at one time by the late Bill Harrah of the Harrah's Collection. This will be a significant sale at the auction without a doubt.

Also coming from the Blackhawk collection is this 1954 Mercedes Benz 300 SL Gullwing coupe. If there was ever a blue chip collector car, this is it. The dark silver paint just suits the flowing lines of this SL.

This 1947 Bentley may perhaps be one of the most beautiful cars in the world. This example with Coachworks by Franay comes from the Ron Pratte collection and has over 50 awards won for it's beauty. This is a one of a kind classic that will stop them in their tracks at any concours.

Next up is this 1941 Packard 160 limosine with Body by Rollson. This caught me eye because of the unique town car body style and how the passenger compartment was styled with a traditional carriage roof. This car harks back to the era of old money, and you can just imagine the sort of events and parties this car was used for.

Lastly is a car that is no stranger to Barrett Jackson. This 1970 Plymouth Hemi Cuda convertible was used in the TV show Nash Bridges and was driven by Don Johnson. He liked the car so much, he purchased it when the show went off the air. In 2003 he and Cheech Marin drove the car across the auction block and sold the car, where it returned the following year to move to another collector. You may be saying, wait that's a 71 Cuda. In traditional Hollywood magic, yes the car is a 1970 Cuda that was modified to 1971 standards for the show.

Source & Photos: Barrett Jackson

Porsche on board to celebrate 125 years of the automobile.

Coming up next weekend in Stuttgart, Germany. Porsche will be teaming up with Mercedes Benz and Audi to stage a 125 car parade through Germany's car crazy town. 2011 marks the 125th birthday of the automobile and what a great way to mark the occasion. Porsche will be pulling 45 of their most historic cars. Porsche's presence will include everything from 1948 Porsche 356 no.1 to a 917 that won LeMans in 1970 to a Carrera GT to a 356 Cabriolet police car. Many of the cars will be driven by current and former Porsche  factory race drivers which is an added bonus. All of the festivities will kick off in the Porscheplatz in the center of Stuttgart. This will certainly be a birthday to remember.

Source: Porsche

Press release:

The "125 years of the car" birthday procession kicks off on the Porscheplatz

Porsche classic cars on the streets of Stuttgart

Stuttgart. On Sunday 8 May 2011, Dr. Ing. h.c. F. Porsche AG, Stuttgart, will be teaming up with Mercedes-Benz and Audi, two other car brands also based in Baden-Württemberg, to stage a car procession through Stuttgart. 125 vehicles, contemporary witnesses all, will bring the history of the three carmakers to life – in some cases with well-known drivers at the wheel. The Zuffenhausen sports car manufacturer will be putting 45 current and historic vehicles from more than six decades of Porsche history on the start line.

The “125 years of the car” procession will get under way at 11.00 a.m. at the Porsche museum, which will be offering visitors free admission on the day. Matthias Müller, Chairman of the Board of Management of Porsche AG, will head the birthday procession in a Porsche 911 Turbo S – together with his Mercedes-Benz and Audi opposite numbers. Dr. Wolfgang Porsche, Chairman of the Supervisory Board of Porsche Automobil Holding SE, will be driving the first Porsche prototype, the Type 356 “No. 1”, developed by his father Ferry Porsche in 1948.

Current and former Porsche AG works and racing drivers will also be taking part in the drive through the town. For example, racing legend Hans Hermann will be piloting the Porsche 917 KH on the streets of Stuttgart, the same car he and Richard Attwood drove in the 1970 Le Mans 24 Hours when they won the first ever overall victory for the Zuffenhausen company. The three times winning Porsche 908/03 Spyder is being withdrawn from the Porsche museum’s exhibition for Porsche works driver Marc Lieb. Finally, the 612 hp (450 kW) Carrera GT high performance sports car, once limited to 1,270 units, will be driven by double world rally champion Walter Röhrl.

In addition to a “police presence”, the car procession will also give an outing to the Swabian sense of humour. Stuttgart “Tatort” (Crime Scene Investigation) Inspector Richy Müller will be switching on the blue lights on the Porsche 356 C Cabriolet. In the Sixties, this classic car was used by the Württemberg motorway police. And cabaret artist Christof Sonntag will be behind the wheel of a Porsche 911 Targa (Type 964).

The destination of the procession that will start at Zuffenhausen’s Porscheplatz is the Schlossplatz in the centre of Stuttgart. Here there will be an opportunity on Sunday afternoon to admire all the participating vehicles at close quarters. Porsche will also be showcasing itself on the Schlossplatz as part of an innovation exhibition true to its “Porsche Intelligent Performance” philosophy: more power with lower consumption, increased efficiency and reduced CO2 emissions. Three modern day Porsche vehicles await the visitor there, providing an impressive demonstration of alternative driveline technologies: the Porsche Boxster E, the Porsche Cayenne S Hybrid and the Porsche 911 GT3 R.

1990 Mercedes travels over 1 million Kilometers

We all know Mercedes Benz diesels are the automotive equivalent of a bank vault, with thousands covering well over 100,000 miles. News from Mercedes of Canada is that they have found one that has covered 1,110,000+ kilometers under the ownership of its original owner. Robert Miles from Ontario and his 1990 300D (W124) chassis have stood the test of time. That calculates out to roughly 690,000 miles on the original engine and trans. 

Mr. Miles used the car for daily transportation every day since he purchased the car new. Traveling over 5,000 kilometers each month. Mr. Miles credits the cars longevity on the superb service he's received from Mercedes technician Peter Hagen Jr. Congratulations to Mr. Miles on the honor.

Source: Mercedes Benz Canada.

(Press Release)

Mercedes-Benz Canada is pleased to announce today that Mr. Robert Miles of Port Dover, Ontario, has driven more than 1,110,000 kilometres in the 1990 300D he purchased as a brand new car in the winter of 1989. This significant milestone was reached without any modifications to the engine or transmission. As a traveling insurance salesman, Mr. Miles relied on his car for many years to transport him to client meetings and house calls back and forth across the province. 

The Mercedes-Benz 300D is one of the many memorable cars that have made the Mercedes-Benz brand and the E-Class family of cars so highly popular. Currently in its ninth-generation, the E-Class is still considered to be a benchmark in the luxury segment and one of the world’s best business sedans. 

“Indeed, my 300D was a vital part of my business. I simply could not afford to miss a meeting or be delayed. There is no doubt that this very reliable vehicle was crucial to my success over these years,” said Mr. Miles. “I was driving an average of 5 ,200 kilometres a month which meant I had to ensure that the scheduled maintenance was always kept completely up to date. I made a conscious decision to have the car serviced at the same dealership even after the warranty expired. I developed a wonderful relationship with my Mercedes-Benz technician, Peter Hagen Jr, who nurtured this car like his own for more than twenty years. Despite the long distances I would travel, my mind was at ease; I always knew that Peter’s diligence and my trusted 300D would take me back home to my family safe and sound.”

Even with countless hours on the road, Mr. Miles was never involved in an accident in his office-on-wheels, and was also never wary of driving his beloved Mercedes-Benz through the most extreme weather conditions. Despite the lovely patina it has accumulated over the years, Mr. Miles’ car is still in good condition. It truly epitomizes the unmatched quality and exemplary durability that is inherent in every Mercedes-Benz vehicle.

“Mercedes-Benz vehicles are engineered to stand the test of time. Mr. Miles’ personal story highlights what kind of longevity is possible through regularly scheduled maintenance, and also demonstrates the benefits of a strong and trusting relationship between a customer and his or her dealership,” said Marcus Breitschwerdt, President and CEO of Mercedes-Benz Canada. “I would like to personally thank Mr. Miles on behalf of our entire organization for his loyalty to the brand and to his dealership throughout the years. In addition, I would also like to recognize and applaud Peter Hagen Jr. and the Mercedes-Benz Oakville staff for their dedication to excellence in customer service.” 

He adds, “It was 125 years ago when our company’s founding fathers invented the automobile; they made a historic promise to always offer our customers the absolute best automotive experience in the industry. Today, our collective and unwavering resolve remains squarely focused on upholding this guarantee and ensuring that the three-pointed star continues to represent the benchmark in the luxury segment.”

Penske calls it quits with Smart

Yes you heard that correct. Penske Automotive is giving up distribution rights to the Smart brand and all duties there within. However, this does not mean that Smart is simply going to vanish from the U.S. .Mercedes Benz will pick up where Penske is leaving off and will continue to offer Smart for years to come.

Since coming to the United States in 2008. Smart has sold over 45,000 cars in this country.


Source: Mercedes Benz

(Press Release)

Mercedes-Benz USA Intends to Transition the Distribution of smart from Penske Automotive Group
MONTVALE, N.J., Feb. 14, 2011

Mercedes-Benz USA (MBUSA) and Penske Automotive Group (NYSE: PAG) today announced they have started negotiations to transition the distribution rights, management, sales and marketing activities of smart USA from Penske Automotive Group to Mercedes-Benz USA. The transition is expected to occur by the end of the second quarter of 2011.

The proposed change marks a further step in implementing the future growth strategy of the smart brand. It also reflects last year's reorganization at smart headquarters in Germany, where smart is now managed as an independent brand, but is fully integrated into Mercedes-Benz Cars business unit of Daimler AG.

"We are very excited about working toward integration of smart into the MBUSA organization, and look forward to working with our dealer partners to exceed customer expectations for this unique vehicle," said Mercedes-Benz President and CEO, Ernst Lieb. "The addition of smart, combined with our Autohaus dealer initiative, will help us build upon the tremendous momentum the Mercedes-Benz brand has achieved here in the U.S."

"Introducing the smart brand to the U.S. has been a unique opportunity for us," said Penske Automotive Group Chairman Roger Penske. "Over the last three years I've experienced the passion consumers express for the brand as we delivered over 45,000 vehicles. Aligning smart distribution with Daimler, as it is worldwide, is the logical next step for the smart brand in the U.S. This alignment will enable the smart brand to grow through the Mercedes-Benz dealership network and lead the way in conservation and meeting future fuel economy standards."

The addition of the fuel efficient smart fortwo and smart fortwo electric vehicles to Mercedes-Benz USA's product portfolio underscores the company's commitment to meet even more stringent fuel economy standards in the future. The smart fortwo achieves EPA estimated 41 mpg in highway driving. Manufactured by Daimler AG, smart is currently sold in more than 40 countries, and more than 1.2 million smart fortwo have been sold worldwide since 1998. Since then, smart has established itself as the think tank for urban and electric mobility for Daimler AG and plays an important role in the Corporation's plans to make innovative future mobility concepts such as car2go available in Europe and the United States.


Dear smart Owners,

I wanted to take a moment and let you know that today Penske Automotive Group announced plans to transition the smart USA business to Mercedes-Benz USA. It was important to us that you hear this news from us and not via news reports.

As a loyal smart owner this is good news for you. The brand will continue under the responsibility of Mercedes-Benz USA, a natural home for the smart brand given the product is designed and engineered by Mercedes-Benz. This transition will be seamless for you. You will be serviced in your market as you are today. Your warranty does not change. We are working through all the transition details which we anticipate to be complete by no later than the end of June. We of course will continue to have open dialogue with you through the next few months and please do not hesitate to reach out to us if you have questions.

Thank you for your continued loyalty to smart.

Super Bowl 43 Ad Watch: Audi A6: The Getaway

Audi was in prime form at this years Super Bowl with the highly anticipated Getaway commercial. The ad features everything you could want from a car ad. Chases, cool cars, baddies, and of course premier wheelman Jason Statham.

We start off in the mid 70s trying to get away in a plenty powerful Mercedes 6.3, only to end up blasted by a dumpester and a Lincoln Towncar. Jump to Miami Vice style 1980s with a bright red BMW 5 series and a black Bandit Trans Am, and a Mouse is loose billboard. Thankfully Audi left the 90s well enough alone with a Lexus ES parked outside a theater playing Tommy Boy. You have to love Staham's disgusted face when he sees the Lexus. Next we jump to 2009 in all Statham's Driver glory in his trademark black suit. Swipe the keys from the valet played by Joaquin Garay III(Paco from Herbie Goes Bananas for you car guys). And off we go with baddies on motorcycles. Finally able to get away thanks to the new supercharged Audi A6. Hollywood at its best.



As an added bonus, we're throwing in the Audi R8 Godfather commercial from the 2008 Superbowl.

Formula One News: Ferrari & Mercedes 2008 cars, Hamilton resigns with McLaren

It has been a busy week in Formula One news. The teams are beginning to show off their cars for the 2008 season, and just about all the drivers have been signed. To help celebrate Lewis Hamilton's 23rd birthday and contract signing with McLaren. Mercedes Benz has given Hamilton his 2008 ride. Behold the MP4-23. The Mercedes - McLaren racer will continue to carry Vodafone as their sponsor for 2008, along with that uber cool paint job.

Mercedes unveiled the MP4-23 at the new Mercedes Benz museum in Stuttgart Germany to over 1000 invited guests. Seven hundred of which were from the nearby Stuttgart-Untertürkheim manufacturing facility.

"The Vodafone McLaren Mercedes MP4-23 is the coolest birthday present you can get, well it is for me anyway! To see the car for the first time at such a great place as the Mercedes-Benz museum makes it an even more memorable day." Said Hamilton about his new toy.

The MP4-23 is now on it's way from Germany to the Circuito de Jerez in Southern Spain , where Hamilton and his new teammate, Heikki Kovalainen, will be giving the car proper testing. 14,000 man hours went into the engineering of the MP4-23 so far. With another 3,000 hours of wind tunnel testing. Development began in 2006, and development for the 2009 season car is already underway.

MP4-23 TECHNICAL SPECIFICATION

ENGINE

Type: Mercedes-Benz FO 108V
Capacity: 2.4 litre
No. of cylinders: 8
Max. rpm: 19,000 (FIA regulatory limit since 2007)
Bank angle: 90O
Piston bore maximum: 98 mm (FIA regulation)
Bore spacing: 106.5 mm
Number of valves: 32
Fuel: Mobil 1 Unleaded (5.75% bio fuel)
Lubricants: Mobil 1, newly developed 2008 formula for lower friction and better wear resistance
Engine: 95kg (minimum FIA regulation weight) TRANSMISSION

Gearbox

Speeds: Seven forward and one reverse
Semi-auto: Yes
Driveshafts: McLaren
Clutch: Hand-operated

Chassis: McLaren moulded carbon fibre/aluminium honeycomb composite incorporating front and side impact structures. Contains integral safety fuel cell
Front Suspension: Inboard torsion bar/damper system operated by pushrod and bell crank with a double wishbone arrangement
Rear Suspension: Inboard torsion bar/damper system operated by pushrod and bell crank with a double wishbone arrangement
Suspension Dampers: Koni
Electronics: McLaren Electronic Systems control units incorporating electronics for chassis, engine and data acquisition. McLaren Electronic Systems also supplies the electronic dash board, alternator voltage control, sensors, data analysis and telemetry systems
Bodywork Construction: One-piece engine cover; separate sidepod covers; separate floor section, structural nose with integral front wing.
Tyres: Bridgestone Potenza
Radios: Kenwood
Race Wheels: Enkei
Batteries: GS Yuasa Corporation
Steering: McLaren power-assisted
Instruments: McLaren Electronic Systems

Ferrari F2008:

Ferrari has also launched their F2008 Formula One car. Ferrari's contender this year has been designed with all of the changes to the 2008 Formula One season. This includes the standard electronic control unit from McLaren, upgraded gearbox and safety changes to better protect the drivers head on the sides. The body for the F2008 has also be redesigned to allow for maximum safety, with updated aerodynamics.

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS

Chassis
Carbon-fibre and honeycombcomposite structure
Ferrari longitudinal gearboxLimited-slip differential
Semiautomatic sequentialelectronically controlled gearbox quick-shift
Number of gears: 7 + Reverse
Ventiled carbon-fibredisc brakes

Independent suspension, push-rod activated torsion springs front and rear
Weight (with water, lubricant and driver): 605 kg
BBS Wheels (front and rear): 13''

Engine
Type: 056
Number of cylinders: 8
Cylinder block in castaluminium: V 90°
Number of valves: 32
Pneumatic distribution
Total displacement: 2398 cm3
Piston bore: 98 mm
Weight: <95>


Lewis Hamilton:

All of this brings us back to Lewis Hamilton. He has renewed his contract with Mercedes-McLaren for a reported $138 million dollars. This is for a 5 year contract, earning the 23 year old Driver's Champion $27 million per year.

Things are shaping up for an exciting season in Formula One this year. Sadly of course there will be no U.S. venues this year. But we will still follow each race and report all the news this season.

Source: Ferrari, Mercedes Benz, Motor Authority.

Spied: Facelift Mercedes Benz CLS

These shots are fresh from someone inside Mercedes. They were able to snap these two pictures of the upcoming facelift for the ultra sexy Mercedes Benz CLS 4 door coupe. And to make this eye candy even better. The pictures are of the top of the line CLS 63 AMG.

No word yet as to the performance or mechanical upgrades to the new car. Though the bodywork is still just as stunning. Even more so. Noticeable changes include a new grille. New 19 inch wheels. Carbon fiber rear spoiler and bumper diffuser. And lastly LED tail lights.

Source: Motor Authority.

Only in the USA. Mercedes SLR McLaren 722 GT

As if the SLR McLaren couldn't get any cooler. Mercedes goes and makes the 722. Then they top that with the 722 GT. What we originally thought would be a home market car all changed today. Mercedes tuner RENNtech will make the uber cool 722 GT available in the U.S.

21 of the 722 horsepowered super cars will be made available direct from the factory in Germany. That is of course you have the $1.2 million dollar entry fee.

Now as if this wasn't enough. RENNtech is taking a page from Ferrari and their FXX program. RENNtech is setting up a full track-day program for the SLR 722 GT owners, including set-up and maintenance by specialized technicians, opportunity to learn the track behind the wheel of its special SLR shifter karts and instruction from professional drivers. The karts are even styled to match the SLR.....to an extent.

Sounds like a pretty awesome deal to us. Unfortunately we don't have the $1.2 Million. But we are open to contributions.

Source: RENNtech

Press Release:

Lake Park, FL - 18 DEC, 2007 - Officially official: Mercedes-Benz' SLR McLaren 722 GT, available exclusively at RENNtech.

While Mercedes' ultra-exclusive SLR McLaren 722 GT track car has been making rounds in the motoring press for several weeks now, a few key questions remained unanswered - including "How much?" and "Where can I get one?"We can answer the "How much?" question rather easily (795,000 €, or about 1.2 million USD), it's the "Where can I get one?" question that's more interesting.

As of Monday, Dec. 17, 2007, the Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren 722 GT will be made available to the North American market exclusively through RENNtech, the Florida-based MB tuning house owned and operated by super-tuner Hartmut Feyhl, who also lists "technical director, AMG North America" on his resume. "It's been a very exciting project to be involved in," explains Feyhl.

Similar in concept to Ferrari's Enzo FXX program, the 722 GT is built specifically for track use by renowned British motorsports specialists at the RML Group to be the fastest possible on a track. The SLR 722 GT offers impressive power and cornering and delivers exactly the kind of motorsports experience one would expect from a competition car - and, with only 21 examples of the hyper-exclusive track cars being offered for sale, driving one is sure be a special occasion.

RENNtech will be organizing several on-track events (to be announced) throughout the US, beginning in 2008.

The SLR 722 GT trackcars will be set-up and maintained by RENNtech, which will have specially trained technicians and engineers on hand at each of the planned on-track events, which will follow a format similar to the SLR.Club SAFETY & SPEED ACADEMY track weekends in Europe. Participating customers will receive a mix of on and off- track instruction by trained instructors and professional drivers (including Jochen Mass, David Coulthard, and others), as well as some track time in RENNtech's Aixro SLR. Karts - to get a good feel for each track before going out in their SLRs.

Feyhl explained that the concept is to deliver to SLR McLaren customers a true and authentic motorsports experience in a competitive and reasonably safe environment.

If it is RENNtech and Mercedes' goal to deliver "an authentic experience", the SLR McLaren 722 GT is a great place to start - compared to the road-going SLR, the 722 GT gets the full FIA GT treatment from RML: more than 400 redesigned components, FIA spec.

Safety equipment, fully adjustable suspension, full-on competition brake hardware, a no-nonsense interior, and a track-only exhaust system that bumps the 722 GT's output to well over 670 hp. The real game-changers, however, are the 722 GT's towering rear wing and drastically reduced weight. At 1390 kg, the 722 GT weighs some six- hundred pounds less (!) than the stock 722, and the rear wing (in conjunction with the car's front splitter) provide more than enough aerodynamic downforce to tackle the fastest turns with confidence.The 722 GT also benefits from years of wind-tunnel and CFD (Computational Fluid Dynamics) experience at RML and McLaren, making the wings and body mods much more than an aesthetic package. Everything on the car, every vent and louvre, is fully functional - a terrific enhancement to on-track performance.

With more power, less weight, and dramatically improved handling, the limited-edition Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren 722 GT, one thing is certain: if you love cars, love racing, and have the money (but not the time) to campaign a full-on race series, the 722 GT is your ticket.

Contact RENNtech for more info.

Final Chrysler Crossfire Leaves Factory

With the close of 2007 upon us, we come also to the production of the final Chrysler Crossfire.

During its five year lifespan, the American coupe/roadster built in Germany sold 80,000 units. 2006 US sales accounted for only 8,216. Down over 50% from 14,665 units in 2005. The Crossfire was offspring of the now ended partnership between Chrysler and Mercedes, and shared its platform with the original Mercedes Benz SLK roadster.

The Crossfire is the first of four models that Chrysler is giving the axe under its new ownership, and since production of the car and many of its components are so closely tied to Mercedes, it's only natural that it's the first to go. Next to be cut are the Dodge Magnum, Chrysler Pacifica and Chrysler PT Cruiser Convertible.





Source: Motor Authority.

To the Popemobile! Pope receives a new G Class

Fresh from Vatican City, Pope Benedict XVI is taking some time to enjoy that wonderful new Mercedes smell. Mercedes Benz presented the Holy Father with a brand new G 500 convertible.

The Vatican worked closely with Mercedes to develop the latest Popemobile. A process which took two years. From the Vatican mystic white paint, to the custom white interior and red access steps. This G 500 is fit for a king or in this case Pope.

The new G 500 is one of a long line of custom tailored Mercedes Benzes to drive and protect the Pope in his visits around the Vatican City and around the world. The first was for Pope Pius Xi in 1930.

Source: Daimler

Press Release:

New Mercedes-Benz for the Pope

Stuttgart/Rome – In future, Pope Benedict XVI will present himself to the 40,000 or so pilgrims in St. Peter's Square in a shining white, open-top Mercedes-Benz G-Class during his public audiences on Wednesdays. The new "Popemobile" was created over a two-year development period in close consultation with the Vatican, and has now been personally handed over to the Holy Father.

This open official car, which the Head of the Catholic Church requested for use during fine weather, was developed by Mercedes-Benz on the basis of the G 500. It is equipped with a folding windscreen and hand-rails, and like its predecessors it is painted in the Vatican mystic white finish. The interior is likewise white, and is accessed via steps lined in red at the rear. The Pope holds his audiences in a standing position, so that he is easily visible to all his flock.

The Holy Father is continuing a long tradition with the new Popemobile from Mercedes-Benz. Pope Pius XI was the first to receive a Mercedes-Benz as an official car in 1930 - a Nürburg 460 Pullman limousine. Over the following decades Mercedes-Benz regularly provided the Vatican with automobiles which had been specially converted for the use of the Holy Father.

Today the Pope has several Mercedes-Benz cars at his disposal. In addition to the new G 500 Cabriolet, the fleet currently includes M and S-Class models with special protection.

Essen 2007: Brabus Mercedes Benz McLaren SLR roadster

The Mercedes Benz McLaren SLR is one of those rare cars that it is hard to improve upon. But Brabus found a way to do it. With the announcement that the SLR would be going topless, it was just a matter of time before the German tunder got one to play with.

So what exactly did they do? Well under the hood there are new cams, a new exhaust system, and a new system to cool the fuel(very interesting). This gives the supercharged 5.5 liter V8 an additional 24hp, bumping the total to 650hp. This cuts the 0-60 sprint to just 3.6 seconds with a top speed of 209 mph.

20 inch Brabus Monoblock VI wheels are utilized, with a choice of Yokohama or Pirelli tires. Custom designed carbon fiber front and rear diffusers enhance the areodynamics outside.

Inside you will find more carbon fiber taking up residence on the dashboard. Also found inside is Barabus' special waffle pattern leaather carpeting in the foot wells(make sure you take your shoes off). All of this is topped off with an ergonomic steering wheel with paddle shifters for the SLR's automatic transmission.

PRESS RELEASE

Is it possible to make a Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren Roadster even more exclusive and individual? BRABUS proves that the topless Mercedes supercar can be made even sportier and more exciting with its sophisticated customization program.

To give the two-seater even more striking looks while at the same time minimizing lift on the front axle, the BRABUS designers have developed a front spoiler that attaches to the production bumper. The spoiler is made from exposed carbon fiber and its shape was fine-tuned in the wind tunnel. It is especially lightweight and extremely tough. A corresponding BRABUS rear diffuser made from exposed carbon fiber can replace its production counterpart.

The sporty BRABUS outfit for the SLR Roadster is dominated by BRABUS Monoblock VI 20-inch wheels that fill the wheel houses perfectly. The fully polished multi-piece wheels feature six double spokes and are mounted on the sports car in size 9.5Jx20 in front and size 11.5Jx20 on the rear axle. High-performance tires in sizes 255/30 ZR 20 and 305/25 ZR 20 are supplied by BRABUS technology partners Pirelli and YOKOMAMA. This low-profile tire/wheel combination is custom-tailored for the SLR coupe and roadster and benefits not only the car's appearance but also its handling.

Thus equipped the topless SLR is ready for some additional power provided by BRABUS engine tuning. The power tuning for the supercharged 5.5-liter (335.5 cu. in.) engine consists of special camshafts, a fuel cooling system and a high-performance exhaust. With BRABUS tuning, power output of the V8 compressor engine increases by 24 hp (23 hp SAE net) / 18 kW to 650 hp (641 hp SAE net) / 478 kW at 6,500 rpm.

BRABUS also offers a special clutch-type limited-slip differential with a locking rate of 40 percent. It further optimizes traction and improves acceleration performance of the super sports car. The tuned roadster sprints to 100 km/h (62 mph) in just 3.6 seconds and reaches a top speed of 337 km/h (209 mph).

Precision handwork down to the last detail characterizes the exclusive BRABUS interior design for the two-seater. The company-own upholstery shop specializes in fulfilling just about any request from discriminating SLR owners when it comes to customizing the interior. That includes a multitude of leather types and colors as well as custom upholstery designs.

An unusual BRABUS specialty is the waffle-patterned leather carpeting in the SLR's footwells. Some 7,800 meters (25,600 feet) of the finest thread are sewn with utmost precision for it alone.

A sporty and functional BRABUS option is the ergonomically shaped sport steering wheel that is flattened on the bottom for markedly easier entering and exiting of the vehicle. The steering wheel features integrated buttons for manual shifting of the SLR's automatic transmission.

Sporty BRABUS carbon-fiber applications for dashboard, center console and door trim transfer the racing look of the BRABUS body components into the interior. The exposed carbon-fiber trim can be color-coordinated with the leather color of the interior.

LA 2007: 2008 Mercedes Benz C63 AMG

Holy cow! We had a chance to spend some seat time in a regular C Class a few weeks back and were very impressed in the new Baby Benz. But the newest offering from the AMG headquarters is going to be out of this world for any car in its class. Los Angeles was the debut for the C63. Pricing or a release date were not made available at the unveiling.

From every angle the C63 is stunning. With its aggressive front fascia and power bulge hood to the rear air diffuser bumper and trunk spoiler. The car certainly demands presence on the road. But where the the power really lays it on the line is under the hood. The 6.3 liter V8 is the first engine to be developed entirely in house at AMG. Horsepower is set at an astounding 451Hp with 443 lb. ft. of torque. 0-60MPH is a respectable 4.3 seconds.

Also new is the 7 speed. Yes 7 speed automatic transmission. Manual shifting can be done via the shift lever or by Formula One style paddles on the steering wheel. When in manual mode, AMG programed the trans not to up shift or down shift automatically. All while performing 35% faster shifts.

The C63 is also the first AMG model to offer a 3 stage ESP program. ESP Off, ESP Sport, & ESP Off. Sport mode allows for more aggressive driving and higher drift angles. Excellent for race track use. The rest of the suspension has been given the AMG treatment as well. Stiffer shocks and springs are used in all four corners. A limited slip differential is used in the rear end. 18 inch wheels, and AMG designed composite disc brakes. 14.2 inches in the front, 13 in the rear. With 6 piston and 4 piston calipers round out the package.

The interior is dressed out in full napa leather. AMG designed a new steering wheel and instrument cluster specifically for the C63. It includes specially designed analog gauges with red needles and a lap timer.

The C63 is certainly going to give the BMW M3 and Audi RS4 a run for the money. And certainly has the looks and performance to back it up.

Source: Mercedes Benz