2005 - 2011 Porsche 911 RS1 Street by LOMA

LOMA is best known for its work on the C6 Corvettes, but recently the German company has decided to turn its sights on Porsche. Because of the company’s location, all of the parts in the kit are made in Germany using carbon fiber, which is something a Porsche owner will prefer.

The 911 GT3 RSR is one of the most awesome Porsches ever built, but it’s not built to handle daily driving nor is it priced for the average Porsche buyer. To help satisfy your urge to own one, LOMA decided to make a kit to allow for you to turn your 997 into an RSR.

The 911 retains the stock engine that produces at least 325 horsepower, but LOMA offers a sports exhaust system to give the car more of a racecar soundtrack. The suspension and brakes also stay the same as the stock car, so the car doesn’t ride any lower than stock unless you decide to lower the car yourself.

Read More

Why are they taking Porsche's into 4 wheel drive territory?

photos from http://www.sportscardigest.com/east-african-safari-classic-rally-2011-report-and-photos/?nggpage=3 via http://swissstash.tumblr.com/

Read More

Celebrities and their cars

 Sir Stirling Moss and his 1961 Ferrari 250 SWB

 Charleton Heston in an E-type Jaguar

 Sean Connery and a 356 Porsche

 Clint Eastwood and a Healey

Hugh Hefner and a Cadillac

 Jack Palance and an Alfa Romeo 2600 Spider

 Peter Sellers 1965 275 GTB Ferrari

 Roy Orbison and Tony Curtis both with E-Type Jaguars

All found on a glamour, fashion, expensive luxury type website from someone who used to work at Details magazine, http://driven.urbandaddy.com/

Read More

Merry Christmas from a car guy. I hope you'll give, and get great gifts, if anyone needs car guy gift ideas, let me know

 I saw the above at the Von Hot Rod pinstripers area in the Grand National Roadster Show

 The above is from the Kaiser-Frazer national club monthly newsletter

the above is a photo from 1948 of Ray Brown's duece, notice the show chains on the back tires, and I've had it for about a year waiting for this christmas to post it, I think I found it on the HAMB.

I've been considering making a post of birthday and Christmas gift ideas for car guys, if you think it would be a good idea, let me know jbohjkl@yahoo.com or use the comment function of this blog

Read More

by all means compensate (and I did not photoshop this ad)

found on http://swissstash.tumblr.com/ page 28

Read More

College and racetrack Porsche 911

Read More

Highest auction prices ever paid for cars (at Pebble Beach auction by Gooding & Company), for any car ever (1957 Ferrari Testa Rossa factory racer), for an American car (Duesenburg Model J), for a Porsche 911 (Steve McQueen's)

the most ever spent that I've learned about was 35 million US dollars for a Bugatti Atlantique, but the 1957 Ferrari 250 Testa Rosa designed by Sergio Scaglietti, chassis number 0666, just sold for $16.4 million USD. It began life as a test bed for the rest of the Testa Rossa race-car line, and it's auction started with a bid for 10 million, then grew at million dollar bids.

Gooding recorded 37 world record prices paid for cars at the Pebble Beach auction... it's the venue, and the selection of the best cars to be auctioned at this particular venue (Pebble Beach Concours De Elegance) that combine the power of one of the worlds finest car shows with the richest car enthusiasts.
photo by http://www.vancouversun.com/cars/Classic+prices+keep+climbing+market+falls/5652534/story.html

The previous high dollar auction sale was also a 1957 250 Testa Rossa. That one sold for $12.4 million in May 2009 at RM Auctions

This one has a couple other reasons for such a high price, it won two best-in-class titles at the Pebble Beach concours, a Platinum Award and the TR Cup at Cavallino, and it is one of only two factory Classiche-certified TRs in existence.

It's only had two owners in 40 years, have piloted this Ferrari, including Dan Gurney and Phil Hill, who had the car up to fifth place at the '58 Le Mans and tested the car in prototype form when he was a factory driver for the Scuderia in the late '50s respectively.
info from http://www.autoweek.com/article/20110821/CARNEWS/110829976

The Steve McQueen Porsche

The 911 wasn't just owned by McQueen; it also featured prominently at the beginning of the film Le Mans as the lead character, played by McQueen, drives through France reflecting on the realities of racing, and was used as McQueen's personal transport during the movie's production, later joining his own stable of extraordinary cars in California.

He didn't keep it long, as it's 41 yrs old, and spent 34 years with the second owner who used it as a daily driver for 20 years, plus 2 owners after that and prior to this auction... so it seems it's flipped at auction twice in the last 5 years or so. Steve sold it with an ad in the LA Times

It was built to the highest specifications offered by Porsche to non-racing customers in 1970, and came loaded with options including the rare factory air conditioning and leather interior.

It was bought by an un-named person in Germany, and it only has 116000 miles, and sold by a New Jersey Porsche aficionado... Jesse Rodrigues owned it in 2008, and let the Octane magazine writer drive it while he wrote this article on it: http://www.classicandperformancecar.com/features/octane_features/214746/mcqueens_911.html

The sale of the 911S at RM's annual sale at Monterey marked the company's 200th million-dollar-plus automobile sold at auction.

photo and info from http://www.autoweek.com/article/20110820/CARNEWS/110829999

and http://www.classicandperformancecar.com/features/octane_features/214746/mcqueens_911.html


The 1931 Duesenburg Model J bodied by Murphy has less miles than most one year old cars, and for a 80 year old luxury car that has likely never lost value when resold, but been pampered... how it only has 12,500 miles is a crime. Why own a car you don't enjoy driving? 5 owners just left it stored long term

It sold for $10,340,000 at Gooding. Largest auction price for an American car ever. Even Carroll Shelby's personal dual supercharged 427 AC Cobra only went for 5 million.

Ordered new by one of history's rare Bon Vivants, Captain George Whitell... he was the only living son of a San Francisco Nob Hill family wealthy from the gold rush, and amassed a fortune of over 50 million at the time of the great depression, but was brilliant in cashing out his stock holdings before the stock market crash. He was a pilot, a lion tamer, an honorary fire marshal, and a decorated war hero.

He bought 2 Deusenburgs new in 1929, and owned a total of 6.

Born into great wealth, Whittell barreled through life at full-throttle, collecting exotic animals, elegant automobiles and boats, beautiful women, contentious lawsuits and 27 miles of Lake Tahoe's Nevada shoreline along the way. He was one of the more notorious playboys of California and Nevada, indulging in a succession of marriages and liaisons that fueled the region's gossip mills. A recluse in his later years, Whittell shunned publicity, and, in doing so, inspired speculation about his every move. By the time of his death in 1969, he had become the stuff of legend.

One grandfather invested in the gold rush claims, the other opened a merchants bank. Both made an incredible amount of money and passed it along to their heirs. When his mother inherited she received 9 million. That was a hundred years ago money.

George graduated high school and joined the Barnum and Bailey Circus, met Frank Buck, and bankrolled the both of them with his allowance. Yes, his allowance. This was more than enough to get these new partners into the African Safari business, sideline of animal capture for American circus supply.

Just before the 1906 San Fran earthquake, George was back in town, and with great automobiles... and a friend that later went on to own Seabiscuit, Charles Howard, became heros by saving friends and family and possessions duringhte subsequent fires that destroyed San Francisco

Just before WW1, George was in Europe, learning 7 launguages fluently and enjoying Paris and universities.. .his parents purchased him a captaincy in the Italian Army. He served as an ambulance driver on the front, transferring later to the French Army and to the U.S. Army when the United States entered the war in 1917. Distinguishing himself for "valor under fire", George was decorated by the Allied governments.

His father left him a 30 million dollar inheritance, in 1926 money.

The stock market crash, which his 50 million dollar withdrawal may have influenced, left many selling property, and George took advantage of the sale of Carson & Tahoe Lumber and Fluming Company and other landholders who had not fared well in the stock market crash. Eventually acquiring from them over 40,000 acres of land on the Nevada side of Lake Tahoe, including 27 miles of the shoreline. He had the Thunderbird Lodge built, and the 55 foot speedboat Thunderbird commisioned (Only getting 83 hours of enjoyment of it in a half dozen years before storing it for 25 years, and then selling to to Harrah), and a small guest house was built for card games with his friends like Howard Hughes, and Ty Cobb

Among his collection of vehicles of note were a DC-2, outfitted for his private use, a Grumman Duck seaplane, six of the most uncommon Duesenberg motorcars, a 145' pleasure yacht and the legendary 55' speedboat, Thunderbird. The latter is certainly one of the most unique and elegant wooden vessels crafted in the Twentieth century and, like his Duesenbergs, is as much a work of art as a means of transportation

duesenburg photo from http://money.cnn.com/galleries/2011/autos/1108/gallery.pebble_beach_auctions/2.html
Biographical info from http://thunderbirdlodge.org/theman

One of his Duesenburgs

Whittell's 1933 Duesenberg, a Weymann Fishtail Speedster, was amazing, but because he was told it looked like a Holstein cow, George drove it only once in 30 years. Yup, just one ride in the car. The 2nd owner must have been esctatic

Read More

Hybrid Car Brands

Just who is making hybrid cars these days and what brands are considering making hybrid cars in the future?

Major Hybrid Car Brands
Hybrid cars are currently being built and sold by General Motors, Ford, Honda, Toyota and Nissan. General Motors builds hybrid cars under several divisions including Saturn, Chevrolet, and GMC.  Ford has the Mercury and Ford divisions.  Toyota sells hybrids under the brand name of Lexus .  While Honda and Nissan just sell hybrids under their own name plates.

Toyota
Under the Toyota brand name, there are three models currently on sale. The iconic Prius is almost synonymous with hybrid and is the first car most people think of when they think of hybrids. Toyota also sells the Camry Hybrid and Highlander Hybrid under the moniker of Toyota.

Toyota also has their luxury division, the Lexus hybrids. Under the Lexus brand name, Toyota sells the HS, LS, RX, and GS Hybrids. They keep adding models under the Lexus nameplate, so expect and IS hybrid to arrive soon. The HS hybrid is a dedicated model like the Prius. The others are subtypes under the model. In other words, you can buy gas-only models, or you can opt for the hybrid engine.

Honda
Honda sells the Civic Hybrid under their brand name. They also currently sell the only other dedicated hybrid on the road, the Insight. They used to sell a Hybrid Accord, and the two-seater hybrid Insight, but have retired both models.

Expect to see Acura Hybrids in the future.

Nissan
Nissan has only one hybrid model for sale, the Nissan Altima Hybrid. It is built using hybrid technology from Toyota and is sold in only eight US states. Nissan has plans to bring an Infiniti M35 Hybrid to market in the coming year.

General Motors (Cadillac, Chevy, Saturn, GMC)
They build several models (currently) using the Chevrolet brand. There is the Chevy Malibu and Chevy Silverado. The Chevy Volt, the Extended Range Electric Vehicle (E-REV), will be out soon and while GM considers the Volt to be a subtype of electric vehicle, it still falls under the hybrid type.

GM also builds the GMC Yukon and Sierra. And the Cadillac Escalade Hybrid also falls under the GM brand.

The Saturn brand was at one point, the cornerstone for hybrids under the GM umbrella. But Saturn is no more. You can still see the hybrid Vue and Aura on the road today.

Ford
Ford sells four different models under two different brand names. The Mercury Division sells the Milan and Mariner Hybrid. While Ford retains the Fusion and Escape Hybrid. The Lincoln division will have its own hybrid soon, but it's not here yet. The Mercury hybrids are the upgraded version of the Ford Hybrids, so expect them to be very similar if you take a look at both of them.

Chrysler
Chrysler sold the Aspen and Durango Hybrids for a total of two months before pulling the plug on both models. The Dodge Durango is very similar to the Chrysler Aspen, and both were built using the dual hybrid technology developed in partnership with BMW and GM.

Chrysler at one point had plans to bring a Dodge Ram Hybrid to market, but that seems to be on hold.

Hyundai
Hyundai is jumping in with both feet in the next year, with the Sonata Hybrid. Distinguishing itself from the other hybrids listed above, it's going to be one of the first hybrids to use lithium polymer battery packs, giving it an advantage over some of the more established hybrid models and brands listed above.

Mazda
Mazda has sold the Tribute hybrid in very limited numbers.  The Tribute was built using Ford Hybrid technology, when Mazda and Ford were a lot tighter than they are today.  Now Mazda is looking to partner with Toyota for the technology used in the Prius for their future hybrid model in 2013.

Fisker and Tesla
Fisker and Tesla are both bringing hybrid cars to market (they probably don't appreciate being lumped together given the lawsuits over the past few years). These startups are working hard to go straight to electric or hybrid and are emphasizing performance, rather than fuel efficiency right from the get go.

Audi, Subaru, BMW, Mercedes-Benz, Daimler, Ferrari, Lotus, Kia, Maserati, Porsche, Suzuki, Volkswagen and Volvo
Each of the brands mentioned above are attempting their own hybrid models, and several have brought some noteworthy test models to auto shows. Several are on their way to bringing those cars to market right now, but are still a few years away from seeing them on the road in more than just 'test fleets'. Some are closer than others, while some probably have no intention of ever going hybrid unless they are forced to do so by the tighter restrictions being enforced in Europe, Asia and the US in the coming years.

Looking for more information on one of the brands above?
Either search for the brand name here on this site or use the categories below or on the sidebars.  Each of the major brands listed will have more information that I've accumulated over the years.

Read More

2011 Porsche Cayenne S Hybrid MSRP

Porsche Cayenne

The price has been set on the 2011 Porsche Cayenne S Hybrid. At $67,700, the Cayenne Hybrid is not going to be the most expensive hybrid on the road, but it certainly puts it in the upper reaches.

It also puts it in the mid-range of the Porsche Cayenne line-up. The Cayenne base price is $46,700, the Cayenne S is $63,700, while the Turbo comes in at a paltry $104,800.

The all wheel drive Hybrid SUV comes with a 3-liter V-6 eight speed automatic transmission.  Together with the 47 hp electric motor the engine has a combined 380 hp capable of 150 mph.


Porsche says the EPA numbers are not available yet, but the Porsche Hybrid will be 23 percent more fuel efficient than the old Cayenne. You can also 'sail' at up to 97 mph (the gas engine will shut off if you're cruising along).

The Hybrid S will be on sale in the fall.

Read More

Porsche Cayenne S Hybrid at the NYIAS

Porsche Cayenne

Porsche is bringing their new Cayenne Hybrid to the New York International Automobile Show.  The Cayenne S Hybrid will go on sale in the fall.

The parallel system works to maximize each of the engines strengths.  At low speeds, the high torque produced by the electric motor does the heavy lifting, while the gas engine can kick in, with an assist from the electric motor to give it an extra 'boost.'  Combined, the V-6 mated to the The 47-horsepower (34 kW) electric motor produces 380 hp.  Together, they produce the power output expected of a V-8.

The two motors are connected via a decoupling clutch which allows either engine to work. The hybrid controller coordinates the interaction, allowing the electric motor to run for short distances by itself up to 40 mph.

Read more about the new Cayenne and the new Cayenne S Hybrid at the NYIAS.

Porsche will introduce the next-generation Cayenne sport utility vehicle, including a hybrid gas-electric version, to the North American market on March 31 during a press conference at the New York International Automobile Show.

Led by a highly advanced hybrid model, the new Porsche Cayenne sport-utility vehicle delivers improved performance while using less fuel and producing fewer emissions throughout the entire model lineup.

The North American Cayenne model range will include four models: the 2011 Cayenne, Cayenne S, Cayenne Turbo and the Cayenne S Hybrid. The S and Turbo models go on sale in July, with the Cayenne and Cayenne S Hybrid in dealer showrooms this fall.

All the new Cayenne models embody the Porsche Intelligent Performance philosophy, the evolution of vehicles sportier than their predecessors, yet more fuel and emissions efficient.

"Porsche Intelligent Performance philosophy is more than a slogan. It is nothing less than Porsche keeping pace with the modern automotive landscape by dramatically lowering emissions, becoming greener and saving fuel," explained Detlev von Platen, Porsche Cars North America President and CEO. "We will we accomplish this through technology and innovative ideas, just as we have throughout our history, and show that Porsche's high performance and efficiency are not contradictory terms."

Cayenne's dynamic new design offers less weight and more room

The Cayenne's new exterior leaves no doubt it is part of the Porsche family. Its sporting character is evident from all angles, and its Porsche shape and highlights are more distinct than before. From a dimensions standpoint, it is 1.9 inches longer than its predecessor, and its wheelbase adds 1.6 inches, ensuring extra interior space and greater versatility. Still, despite its larger exterior, this next-generation Cayenne looks even more compact and dynamic.

Thanks to a special combination of materials as well as changes in the overall vehicle concept, such as a new all-wheel drive system, weight has been reduced on all models. Despite a higher standard of safety features, the Cayenne S, for example, is almost 400 lbs lighter, which not only improves fuel consumption and lowers emissions, but also boosts performance, agility, and handling.

Inside, the luxurious interior features a high center console that, like the Panamera, rises up at an incline to meet the dashboard center stack and a touch-screen infotainment interface. Porsche's traditional set of five round instruments in the driver's gauge cluster includes a high-resolution circular TFT screen to the right of the tachometer. It can be used to change radio stations, vehicle settings, access the navigation system or view the map. Rear-seat comfort is improved, as well. The bench slides fore-and-aft by 6.3 inches, while the backrest can be adjusted.

The advanced Cayenne S Hybrid

The high-tech Cayenne S Hybrid that is debuting at the New York show next week features a highly sophisticated parallel full hybrid system. With a combined power output of 380 horsepower from the supercharged V6 combustion engine and an electric motor, the Cayenne S Hybrid combines the performance of a V8 with the economy of a V6.

Through continuous interaction between the 3.0-liter supercharged V6 and electric motor, the Cayenne S Hybrid focuses on maximum efficiency. Depending on driving conditions, either drive unit can operate independently or together. The 47-horsepower (34 kW) electric motor is the ideal partner for the 333-horsepower engine, which produces high torque at low engine speeds. With peak torque at 428 lb-ft at just 1,000 rpm, the Cayenne S Hybrid's performance is on par with a V8-powered Cayenne S.

The Cayenne S Hybrid's two drive units are connected by a decoupling clutch. A hybrid controller constantly coordinates their complex interaction, and intelligent management of the clutch makes the transition among various driving modes seamless. Like many hybrids, the Cayenne S Hybrid can cover short distances on electric power alone, free of emissions and noise up to 60 km/h or almost 40 mph. For aggressive acceleration, the motor provides an extra 'boost' to the gasoline engine.

Like many hybrids, the Cayenne S Hybrid can cover short distances on electric power alone, free of emissions and noise up to 60 km/h or almost 40 mph. For aggressive acceleration, the motor provides an extra 'boost' to the gasoline engine.

A new standard for Sport Utility Vehicles

All new-generation Cayenne SUVs set high standards for efficiency and performance. Compared with the former models, fuel consumption is down by up to 23 percent in the New European Driving Cycle and CO2 emissions are reduced. Actual EPA-certified fuel economy figures will be available when the cars go on sale in North America in July.

A new eight-speed Tiptronic S automatic transmission with a wide range of gear ratios and the Automatic Start Stop function (first introduced on the Panamera) contribute to these improvements. So does efficient thermal management of the engine and transmission cooling circuits, on-board electrical network recuperation, variable deceleration fuel cut-off and the Cayenne's intelligent lightweight construction.

The entry-level Cayenne with its 300-horsepower 3.6-liter V6 engine and mated to the new eight-speed Tiptronic S automatic transmission consumes 20 percent less fuel than its predecessor.
Fuel consumption is also down significantly on the high-torque Cayenne S. Its 4.8-liter V8 produces 400 horsepower, 15 more than the previous model.

The Cayenne Turbo, with its 500-horsepower, 4.8-liter twin-turbocharged V8 also consumes less fuel than its predecessor despite its improved performance and acceleration.

Three other new Porsche models are making their New York debuts next week. Most prominent is the agile, light and dynamic 2011 Boxster Spyder roadster, a purer Porsche roadster weighing in at just 2,811 lbs. This sleek version of Porsche's popular mid-engine sports car is the lightest Porsche available is on sale now with an MSRP of $61,200. Also on display will be the 2011 911 Turbo Cabriolet featuring a 500-horsepower 3.8-liter engine, the first entirely new engine in 911 Turbo's storied 35-year- history. Finally, the new Porsche Panamera, the company's first four-door Gran Turismo, will grace the Porsche display in New York.

Read More

Porsche 918 Spyder into Production?

Porsche is seriously considering taking the 918 Spyder, a plug-in hybrid that is more powerful than the Carrera GT. The electric motor helps the 500 hp V8 go from 0-60 in 3.2 seconds with a top speed of 198 mph, all while 78 mpg. 

It took them five months (started last August, finished the day before it was revealed).  But now it looks like Porsche is looking to move the Spyder into production.

Porsche 'will build 918' - Autocar.co.uk

Porsche has yet to commit to producing the car - but speaking to Autocar, Macht admitted that the positive reaction to the 918 had already swayed opinion within the firm.

"There is no one inside Porsche who doesn't want to build the 918," he said. "The response has been marvellous; we will ask buyers to sign letters of intent.

"The 918 Spyder provides the answer to whether there can be high-performance cars in the future," he added. "Many have said they are finished. This car shows they are not."

According to the NYTimes blog Porsche has never built a show car they didn't move into production.
Porsche’s Stealth Debut - Wheels Blog - NYTimes.com

Believe it or not, the 918 Spyder is Porsche’s first concept car since the Boxster, which was initially shown in Detroit in 1993 and went into production as a 1997 model. Porsche has never built a show car it didn’t eventually put on the market, and the 918 is a possibility down the road.

Porsche 918 Spyder

But don't start holding your breath. It could take five years, even if they do decide to go ahead with it.

Read More

Porsche 918 Spyder Plug-in Hybrid

Porsche 918 Spyder

Porsche unveiled the 918 Spyder Plug-in Hybrid at the Geneva Auto Show, stunning journalists attending the event.

The Spyder plug-in is faster than the Porsche Carrera GT, while getting 78 mpg (emissions of 70g CO2/km).

The 500 hp V-8 is mated to two electric motors located on the front and rear axle, which can create another 160 kW of power (218 hp). Combined, the Spyder plug-in can produce 718 hp.

Which means the mid-engined two seater car can go from 0 to 60 in 3.2 seconds with a top speed of 198 miles per hour.

The V-8 was described as high-revving with seven speed transmission. The electric motors are powered by liquid-cooled lithium-ion battery.

There are four modes, controllable by the driver which allow it to run in:

• E-Drive mode (all electric) for a 16 mile range
• Hybrid mode (more fuel efficient)
• Sport hybrid (aggressive performance)
• Race Hybrid (All about Pure Performance)

"Porsche is not saying whether the 918 Spyder concept will go into production, but don’t bet against it. The technology is just too promising, the styling too delectable." - NY Times Blog

"the specifications out of this car seem too good to be true." - USA Today

"stealthy-looking ride is a parallel hybrid just like the Prius – well, except much, much sexier." - Inhabit

"One thing there's no debating is the 918's style, a magnificent two-seater with clear Porsche DNA that's low, lean and mean without being over-the-top outrageous. It has the supercar looks, we'll see if Porsche can deliver on its eye-popping future propulsion numbers." - WOT Motortrend

Read More

Porsche Cayenne Hybrid

Porsche Cayenne

Look like its finally going to happen. Despite many fits and starts, there's been a lot of interest in a hybrid Porsche. The new Porsche Cayenne S and Turbo will be offered up in July, with hybrid version coming sometime in the fall.

The 3.0-liter supercharged V6 is mated to an electric motor to drive independently or together as needed. Combined, the performance is 'on par' with the V8 Cayenne S, while fuel efficiency is up by 23%.

Porsche Cayenne Hybrid

Unlike other full hybrids the electric motor is capable of driving the car at up to 97 mph while cruising. This 'sailing' mode will disengage and switch off the gasoline completely.

Despite an additional 1.9 inches in length and 1.6 inches in width, Porsche has dropped 400 lbs from the Cayenne S. Porsche relied on a 'special combination of materials, plus a redesign with an new all-wheel drive system.


Press Release follows:

Next-Generation Porsche Cayenne Led by Intelligent, Powerful Hybrid

All-new SUV debuts in Geneva with more room, technology, performance, and significantly less weight and fuel consumption

ATLANTA – February 25, 2010 – Led by a technologically advanced full hybrid model, the all-new, next-generation Porsche Cayenne sport-utility vehicle will debut at the Geneva motor show in early March. In line with the Porsche Intelligent Performance philosophy, the entire range, from the entry level Cayenne with a V6 engine to the 500-horsepower Cayenne Turbo, all deliver improved performance while using less fuel and producing fewer emissions than ever before.

The New Porsche Cayenne will make its North American debut at the New York International Auto Show (press days: March 31 and April 1, public days: April 2-11). The Cayenne S and Cayenne Turbo go on sale in July as a 2011 model, and U.S. pricing will be announced soon. Porsche dealerships will offer the Cayenne and Cayenne S Hybrid in the fall.

The performance of a V8 with the fuel efficiency of a V6

The highlight is the new Cayenne S Hybrid featuring a highly sophisticated parallel full hybrid drive system. With a combined power output of 380 horsepower from the supercharged V6 combustion engine and an electric motor, the Cayenne S Hybrid combines the performance of a V8 with the economy of a V6.

Next-Generation Porsche Cayenne Led by Intelligent, Powerful Hybrid

Through continuous interaction between the 3.0-liter supercharged V6 and electric motor, the Cayenne S Hybrid focuses on maximum efficiency. Depending on driving conditions, either drive unit can operate independently or together. The 47-horsepower (34 kW) electric motor is the ideal partner for the 333-horsepower engine, which produces high torque at low engine speeds. With peak torque at 427 lb-ft at just 1,000 rpm, the Cayenne S Hybrid's performance is on par with a V8-powered Cayenne S.

The Cayenne S Hybrid's two drive units are connected by a decoupling clutch. A hybrid controller constantly coordinates their complex interaction, and intelligent management of the clutch makes the transition among various driving modes seamless. Like many hybrids, the Cayenne S Hybrid can cover short distances on electric power alone, free of emissions and noise up to 60 km/h or almost 40 mph. For aggressive acceleration, the motor provides an extra 'boost' to the gasoline engine.

What makes the Cayenne S Hybrid unique is its ability to cruise at high speeds on electric power alone. The gasoline engine can be completely switched off and disengaged from the drivetrain at speeds of up to 97 mph. Christened by the Weissach engineers as 'sailing' – or cruising -- mode, the drag forces exerted by the combustion engine and their braking effect are eliminated in the interest of lower resistance and fuel consumption.

Next-Generation Porsche Cayenne Led by Intelligent, Powerful Hybrid

All new-generation Cayenne SUVs set high standards for efficiency and performance. Compared with the former models, fuel consumption is down by up to 23 percent in the New European Driving Cycle and CO2 emissions are significantly reduced, despite the increased performance. Actual EPA-certified fuel economy figures will be available when the cars go on sale in North America in July.

A new eight-speed Tiptronic S automatic transmission with a wide range of gear ratios and the Automatic Start Stop function (first introduced on the Panamera) contribute to these improvements. So does efficient thermal management of the engine and transmission cooling circuits, on-board electrical network recuperation, variable deceleration fuel cut-off and the Cayenne's intelligent lightweight construction.

New Cayenne sheds weight, gains space, yet looks more sleek and compact

Thanks to a special combination of materials as well as changes in the overall vehicle concept, such as a new all-wheel drive system, weight has been significantly reduced on all models. Despite an even higher standard of safety, the Cayenne S is 400 lbs lighter, which not only improves fuel consumption and lowers emissions, but also boosts performance, agility, and handling.

The completely new Cayenne design leaves no doubt that it is part of the Porsche family. Its sporting character is evident from all angles, and its Porsche shape and design highlights are more distinct than ever before.

The new Cayenne is 1.9 inches longer than its predecessor, and an added 1.6 inches in wheelbase ensures extra space and greater versatility. But despite larger exterior dimensions, the new Cayenne looks far more compact and dynamic.

Inside, the luxurious interior features a high center console that, like the Panamera, rises up at an incline to meet the dashboard center stack with high-quality fittings and a touch-screen infotainment interface. Porsche's traditional set of five round instruments in the drivers gauge cluster includes a high-resolution circular TFT screen to the right of the tachometer. It can be used to change radio stations, vehicle settings, or access the navigation system or view the map. Rear-seat comfort is much improved, as well. The bench slides fore-and-aft by 6.3 inches, while the backrest can be adjusted to three different angles.

The Cayenne V6 and V8 engines are more powerful and more fuel efficient

The entry-level Cayenne with its 300-horsepwer 3.6-liter V6 engine and mated to the new eight-speed Tiptronic S automatic transmission consumes 20 percent less fuel in the New European Driving Cycle than its predecessor.

Fuel consumption is also down significantly on the high-torque Cayenne S. Its 4.8-liter V8 produces 400 horsepower, 15 more than the previous model. When combined with the overall weight savings, performance is markedly increased, yet fuel consumption is down by 23 percent in the New European Driving Cycle.

The Cayenne Turbo, with its 500-horsepower, 4.8-liter twin-turbocharged V8 also consumes 23 percent less fuel than its predecessor despite its improved performance and acceleration.

Together with the Cayenne S Hybrid, three of the new Cayenne models produce less than 200 grams of CO2 per kilometer. At 193 g/km, the Cayenne S Hybrid is not only the cleanest Cayenne model, but also the cleanest vehicle in Porsche's entire portfolio.

Read More

2009 Porsche GT3 RSR Unleashed

The 2009 Porsche GT3 RSR

Porsche unleashed its latest model of its GT2-class race car, the 2009 Porsche GT3 RSR. With a new louvered hood as it's visual difference. The car's radiator ductwork has been redesigned for the racer's preferred air conditioning system. They also included a developed supply system for a consistently adaptable blink rate of its front lights. Which makes it easy to identify when car pits during night time. The GT3 is also equipped with a new air jack and a much easier accessed oil filler which has been relocated.

Now that comprises the visual part of the GT3. Lets go to a much better topic, the POWER. The 2009 Porsche GT3 RSR is equipped with a 450 horsepower at 7,800 RPM (compared to last year producing 465 horsepower at 8,000 RPM) with a displacement for the rear-mounted 6-cylinder from 3.8 up to 4.0 liters. Same with last year's GT, GT3 is also powered by a 317 lb-ft of torque at 7,250 RPM. Porsche said that the new GT3's torque curve is well-optimized than the past model for better driving. The 2009 Porsche GT3 RSR will cost you at around $493,392.

Technical Description Porsche GT3 RSR (2009)

Engine:
Water-cooled, six-cylinder boxer engine; four valves
per cylinder; dry sump lubrication; individual throttle
butterflies; fuel injection; air restrictors 2 x 29.5 mm.

Bore:
102.7 mm

Stroke:
80.4 mm

Capacity:
3,996 cc

Power output:
331 kW (450 bhp) at 7,800 rpm

Max. Torque:
430 Nm at 7,250 rpm

Max. revs:
9,400 rpm

Transmission:
Six-speed gearbox with sequential jaw-type shift;
oil/water heat exchanger; single-mass flywheel;
hydraulic disengagement lever; three-plate carbon-fibre
clutch; rear wheel drive; limited-slip differential 45/65%.

Body:
Monocoque body (basis GT3 RS) of hot-galvanised steel;
aerodynamically optimised front end with front spoiler;
aerodynamically optimised front underfloor; adjustable
rear wing; 90-litre safety fuel tank with fast filling function;
air jack; welded-in safety cage; bucket-type racing seat
(on driver's side only) with flame-resistant seat cover;
six-point seat belt adapted for use of the HANS
Head and Neck Support; electric fire-extinguishing system.

Suspension:

Front:
McPherson spring strut axle; Sachs four-way gas
pressure dampers; double coil springs (main and ancillary
spring); front axle arms adjustable for camber; adjustable
sword-type anti-roll bar on both sides; power steering.

Rear:
Multi-arm axle with rigidly mounted axle sub-frame;
Sachs four-way gas pressure dampers; double coil springs
(main and auxiliary spring); rear axle tie-bar reinforced
and infinitely adjustable; adjustable sword-type anti-roll
bar on both sides.

Complete suspension infinitely adjustable (height,
camber, track).

Brakes:
Brake system with balance bar control.

Front:
Single-piece six-piston aluminium fixed callipers;
inner-vented, 380 mm in diameter; racing brake pads.

Rear: Single-piece four-piston aluminium fixed callipers;
inner-vented, 355 mm in diameter; racing brake pads.

Wheels:

Front:
Three-piece BBS light-alloy wheels (11J x 18-34);
central bolt;

Rear:
Three-piece BBS light-alloy wheels (13J x 18-12.5);
central bolt.

Electrical System:
Motec display with integrated data recording; multi-function
display with integrated gearshift indicator; adjustable
traction control; battery: 12 volt, 50 Ah, 140 Ah alternator.

Weight:
Approx. 1,220 kg complying with A.C.O. regulations,
1,245 kg complying with FIA regulations.

Read More

2010 Porsche Panamera Picture Updates

Two months ago, 2010 Porsche Panamera Teaser pics was posted and revealed here. To get you all updated with this new Porsche creation, here are some of the updated pictures of the Porsche Panamera.

Official production of the Porsche Panemera will start April next year and will make a world debut at Geneva Motor Show one month earlier. The Panemera will be a huge car that will have a size of almost 16.3 feet or 5 meters long, 6.3 feet or 2 meters wide and will weight for about 1,800 kilogram. Three engine choices will be available at launch – the base Panamera has a 3.6 liters V6 and 300 horsepower engine, the Panamera S has a 4.8 liters V8 and 405 horsepower engine, and lastly, the Panamera Turbo that has a 4.8 liters turbo model with about 500 horsepower.

Read More