Prestigious Car: October 2009

Fiat 695 Abarth Tributo Ferrari (2009)

The Fiat 695 Abarth Tributo Ferrari makes its world debut at the 2009 Frankfurt Motor Show. This new performance version of the Fiat 500 Abarth confirms the link between Abarth and Ferrari based on shared values that include a passion for performance, a racing soul, attention to detail and Italian style.

Abarth and Ferrari are two great names that have contributed, with conviction and dedication, to the legend of Italian racing that is known around the world. The legendary men behind both marques followed very similar careers: first drivers, then tuners and finally heads of companies that command genuine respect in the world of motor racing. These extraordinary men were associated in the past: in 1953, for example, a unique Ferrari-Abarth was born, the Ferrari 166/250 MM Abarth. The car raced in various international trophies including the legendary Mille Miglia. The tie between the two companies has been reinforced above all by the exhaust systems designed by Abarth specifically for the cars built at Maranello: numerous exhaust systems have been made for various Ferrari models, some of which have won World Championship titles.

The two brands have recently renewed their collaboration. The first result of this was the supply of a limited and numbered series of Fiat 500 Abarth's to Ferrari's European dealers in recent months for use as "courtesy cars".

Now, attention turns to the Fiat 695 Abarth Tributo Ferrari, an exclusive vehicle that not only enables Abarth to extend its range by entering into the luxury sports car market, but also offers Ferrari customers a small but exciting small car for all their mobility needs, including practical urban mobility.

The Fiat 695 Abarth Tributo Ferrari is distinguished by a number of stylistic changes, but more importantly by substantial modifications developed by Abarth and Ferrari engineers. The engine, for a start, is a 1.4 Turbo T-Jet 16v, tuned to develop over 180 HP. This is combined with an MTA (Manual Transmission Automated) electromechanical gearbox with race-inspired paddle gearshift that makes full use of the engine's performance by reducing gearshift times.

To improve acceleration, the car is fitted with performance tyres on 17" alloy wheels featuring a design inspired by Ferrari wheels. The suspension and braking systems have also been strengthened to cope with the extra power: 284 mm multi-section discs with fixed four-piston calipers, both by Brembo, and special shock absorbers let you enjoy performance in total safety.

And of course there is a "Record Monza" variable back-pressure "dual mode" exhaust, designed to improve engine performance and deliver an inspiring sound over 3,000 rpm.

On the outside, the car is finished in Scuderia Red, with carbon fibre door mirrors and with details like the wheels and rear air intakes in Racing Grey. This new Abarth is equipped with Xenon headlights with dipped and main beam functions for improved light emission and excellent efficiency under all weather conditions. Made by Magneti Marelli Automotive Lighting, these elements deliver three times the light intensity and duration of standard halogen lamp headlights.

The interiors are also personalised and demonstrate the attention to detail and the sporting style that are common to both brands. "Abarth Corsa by Sabelt" seats are fitted and finished in black leather with a shell and seat base in carbon fibre. These seats offer a perfect blend of racing characteristics - light weight (10 kg less than the standard seat) and the ability hold the body steady against lateral and longitudinal forces, thanks to body support elements filled with crush-resistant foam - with the ergonomics and comfort of road seats.

The black leather steering wheel is characterised by red leather inserts and a tricolour hub on which the MTA gearshift paddles are mounted, while the instrument panel is specially made by Jaeger, and inspired by typical Ferrari instrumentation. Attention to detail has gone into the floor too: the foot wells are covered entirely in non-slip aluminium and the racing pedals are personalised with the Scorpion logo. The interior is embellished with other details too, like special kick plates and a plate bearing the vehicle series number.

Technical specifications
Engine
4 cylinders in line, 4 valves per cylinder, 1368 cc.
Power output: over 180 HP at 5,750 rpm.
Peak torque 230 Nm at 3,300 rpm.
Turbocharged with fixed geometry Garrett 1446 turbocharger.
Transmission
5-speed C510 gearbox.
Suspension
Front: MacPherson struts with anti-roll bar.
Rear: wheels interconnected through a torsion beam with anti-roll bar.
Lowered sports setup with special shock absorbers.
Steering system
Electric power steering with SPORT setting.
Brakes
Brembo fixed front calipers with 4 x ø 36/40 mm pistons.
Self-ventilated, multi-section front discs, diameter 285 x 28 mm.
Floating rear calipers with single ø 34 mm pistons.
240 mm diameter x 11 mm rear discs.
HP 1000 high performance front brake pads.
Wheels
Special Abarth Style 7"x17" ET 35 wheels
205/40 ZR17 tyres.
Ecology
Complies with Euro 5 EEC-F5 standard.
CO2 emissions 155 g/km
Performance
Top speed - 225 km/h.
Acceleration 0-100 km/h in under 7 seconds.

Porsche 911 Sport Classic Air Intake

As requested by a Saad in comment section.

A particular highlight is the new, variable resonance intake system featuring six vacuum-controlled flaps switching between a more power- and a more torque-oriented geometry. Opening or closing simultaneously as a function of engine speed and the position of the throttle pedal, these flaps optimize the oscillation of air in the intake manifold for a better cylinder charge. The result is an optimum supply of fresh air into the combustion chambers under all conditions, maintaining maximum torque and optimizing the torque curve - together with an increase in engine output.

The exhaust system specially developed for this unique model provides exactly the right exhaust gas counter-pressure, the high-gloss tailpipes with their classic grid inserts likewise purpose-built for the 911 Sport Classic. Beneath the rear lid, on top of the engine, lays a carbon fiber air filter housing to add a particularly powerful look.

Brabus SV12 R (2010)

With the business version of the Brabus SV12 R Brabus presents the world's fastest and most powerful luxury sedan. The high-performance automobile reaches a top speed of 340 km/h (211 mph). It is built based on the latest Mercedes-Benz S600 facelift model and is powered by a Brabus SV12 R Biturbo 750 twelve-cylinder engine with 750 hp (740 bhp) / 552 kW and a peak torque of 1,350 Nm (995 lb-ft).

The Brabus SV12 R Biturbo 750 engine is a prime example for the old adage that nothing can replace displacement except more displacement. A special crankshaft with longer stroke, forged pistons with a larger diameter and an increased cylinder bore result in a displacement increase from standard 5.5 to now 6.3 liters (336 to 385 cu. in.). In addition the inlet and outlet ports of both cylinder heads are optimized for improved mixture flow. Four special camshafts also contribute to that same effect.

The Brabus engine specialists further equip the engine with larger turbochargers, a more efficient intercooling system and a stainless-steel high-performance exhaust system with four tailpipes and metal catalysts with low back pressure. Newly programmed engine electronics ensure that all new components work together flawlessly. They also contribute to maximum power yield and to meeting current exhaust emission limits.

The rated power output of 750 hp (740 bhp) / 552 kW at 5,500 rpm produced by the Brabus SV12 R Biturbo 750 engine is as superlative as the peak torque of 1,350 Nm (995 lb-ft) at 2,100 rpm. In the car peak torque is electronically limited to 1,100 Nm (811 lb-ft).

This extraordinary performance makes the Brabus SV12 R not just the most powerful but also the fastest luxury sedan in the world: 0 - 100 km/h (62 mph) in 4.0 seconds, 200 km/h (124 mph) after just 11.9 seconds and an electronically limited top speed of 340 km/h (211 mph).

Power is transferred to the rear wheels via a modified five-speed automatic transmission. An optional Brabus locking differential optimizes traction. All Brabus powertrain components are operated exclusively with ARAL high-performance lubricants.

Brabus also offers performance tuning for the S600 and S65 AMG models. The list ranges from the T12 performance kit for 580 hp (572 bhp) / 419 kW to the T 65 S performance tuning that boosts power output of the Mercedes-Benz S65 AMG model to 715 hp (705 bhp) / 526 kW.

This enormous performance potential of the Brabus SV12 R places the highest demands on the car's aerodynamic properties. The aerodynamic-enhancement components for the facelift generation of the Mercedes-Benz S-Class were designed from scratch. The Brabus designers went into the wind tunnel to develop a striking front apron whose sophisticated shape reduces lift on the front axle. The large centrally located air duct optimizes the cooling of engine and front brakes. Integrated auxiliary headlights and LED daytime running lights further improve active safety.

To make the S-Class sedan even more extravagant the Brabus designers have developed custom-tailored front aluminum sport fenders that replace their production counterparts. The exclusive appearance is characterized by an air vent made from clear-coated carbon and a horizontal brace that spans the outlet with embossed Brabus signet and integrated LED lights. The latter are activated just like the ones in the Brabus rocker panels via the keyless remote or by pulling on a door handle.

For optimizing the airflow around the sides of the vehicle the designers shaped Brabus rocker panels that feature integrated entrance lights for added utility. They are activated by the keyless remote or by pulling on a door handle as are the blue-illuminated Brabus logos integrated into the scuff plates on both sides of the vehicle.

The Brabus aerodynamic-enhancement concept is rounded out by the Brabus rear spoiler lip and the new rear apron for the facelift-generation of the S-Class. The latter features a centrally located reflector and custom cutouts for the Brabus quad sport exhaust system. The underside of the rear apron also features integrated LED lights which illuminate the ground behind the vehicle. They help avoid any unfortunate missteps into puddles of potholes lurking in the dark.

The enormous performance of the Brabus SV12 R is kept safely under control with custom-tailored solutions for tires, brakes and suspension. They include Brabus Monoblock light-alloy wheels with diameters ranging from 17 to 21 inches.

The largest version features size 9Jx21 wheels on the front axle and size 10.5Jx21 in back. Customers can choose from three different designs: Three-piece forged and high-gloss polished Brabus Monoblock VI wheels with six double spokes, Monoblock E multi-spoke wheels and the especially exclusive Monoblock F PLATINUM EDITION forged wheels with cross-spoke design. All versions are fitted with Pirelli or YOKOHAMA tires in size 265/30 ZR 21 in front and in size 295/30 ZR 21 on the rear axle.

For all S350, S500 and S350 CDI models with short wheelbase Brabus also certified Monoblock VI, E, G, Q and S wheels in size 10Jx22 with high-performance tires in size 275/25 ZR 22 in front combined with size 295/25 ZR 22 tires on the rear axle. Thanks to a tire design specifically calibrated for luxury sedans and high-performance coupes the new Brabus tire/wheel combination offers sporty and agile handling combined with excellent ride comfort.

The large wheels also create the necessary space for installing the Brabus high-performance brake system with 12-piston aluminum fixed calipers and 380 x 36-mm (15.0 x 1.42 inches) vented and cross-drilled discs in front, and 355 x 28-mm (14.0 x 1.1 inches) discs and six-piston aluminum fixed calipers on the rear axle.

The finest entertainment and communication technologies on board a luxury sedan capable of reaching 340 km/h (211 mph): Brabus has developed a business concept for the Mercedes S-Class that combines exclusivity, state-of-the-art technology and meticulous craftsmanship at the highest level of perfection.

At the heart of the system is an ultra-slim 3-GHz notebook computer housed safely in a docking station inside an electrically deployed drawer in the trunk, underneath the rear shelf. The tablet PC notebook can be easily removed for use outside the vehicle.

The entire Brabus business concept equipment is operated via a second COMAND controller conveniently placed in a special console integrated into the rear compartment. This ensures that the user of the PC system has no problems operating the system if and when he or she moves from the driver's seat to the power rear seats or vice versa. The console in the rear also houses a color printer.

A 15.2-inch 16:9 TFT screen serves as computer monitor. It is integrated into the supple leather of the headliner and deploys and retracts at the push of a button. The Brabus computer is connected to the internet via UMTS. Two USB 2.0 ports integrated into the rear compartment allow connecting various peripherals such as a webcam for video conferencing or a digital camera. The printer is housed in a custom-developed console located between the rear seats.

To display the images from digital TV, DVD, Blu-Ray disc or game console the Brabus interior specialists have developed an interface that transmits the signals to the extendable screen in the roof and to the standard screens in the back of the front headrests. Also available for the S-Class are special Brabus seat consoles with integrated tables that deploy at the push of a button. The table tops are bordered by elegant aluminum frames and are available in the same wood grains as the factory trim options of the S-Class or in custom Brabus veneers or even covered with leather. The angle of the table top is infinitely adjustable and the tables offer ample space for perusing documents or for the wireless keyboard of the Brabus computer system.

The computer's integrated MP3 player can store more than 5,000 songs. The sound is carried by Sennheiser Noise Gard headphones that filter out unwanted noises for unparalleled listening enjoyment.

Maximum individuality and comfort in the interior is another specialty of the Brabus interior designers. That includes electric curtains that provide the rear passengers with privacy. But that's not all: The list of options ranges from scuff plates with illuminated Brabus logo to ergonomically shaped sport steering wheels to stainless-steel pedals.

Especially exclusive is the newly created Brabus Yachting precious-wood combination of maple and tropical Wenge wood, which lends the luxury sedan a maritime ambiance. In traditional craftsmanship hundreds of individual pieces are used to recreate every piece of wood trim in the S-Class in the style of a miniature ship veneer. The combination of maple and Wenge woods features traditional open pores but is sealed according to the latest automotive guidelines.

As a stylish and perfectly crafted complement the company upholstery shop created an elegant fully leather interior in a combination of light-beige and dark-brown leather that is especially soft, breathable and extremely durable.

Porsche 911 Sport Classic (2010)

At the 2009 Frankfurt Motor Show, Porsche is proudly presenting the Porsche 911 Sport Classic. In creating this unique model Porsche is bringing back the tradition of exclusive series built in very small numbers, for the Porsche 911 Sport Classic will be offered in a production run limited to just 250 cars worldwide.

The bespoke character of the Porsche 911 Sport Classic has been developed over a period of three years by Porsche Exclusive, the company's Specialist Department which creates the most outstanding personalised versions of Porsche cars.

Fans of the Porsche 911 will recognize immediately the charismatic styling cues incorporated in this exciting addition to the range, principally the 'ducktail' rear spoiler reminiscent of that made famous by the 1973 Carrera RS 2.7 and iconic 'Fuchs-style' design of the special custom-made alloy wheels. The Sport Classic is further distinguished by its more powerful engine, unique exterior with new front and rear styling, a new centre section in the roof, new side sills, and new design of front and rear lights which illustrate the high technical standard of this very special project.

Every car in this limited series comes in the exclusive new paintwork colour of Sport Classic Grey, with discreet dark trim strips accentuating the unique character of the car. The very sophisticated and elegant interior in Espresso Nature sets new standards, going beyond even the well-known customisation of the Porsche 911 interior already offered by Porsche Exclusive.

The most essential specifications of the Porsche 911 Sport Classic highlight the supreme class and quality of the car right from the start: a 3.8-litre six-cylinder horizontally-opposed power unit developing 408 hp (300 kW); six-speed manual gearbox; rear-wheel drive; acceleration from 0-62mph (100 km/h) in 4.6 seconds; top speed 187 mph (302 km/h); fuel consumption in the New European Driving Cycle of 26.6 mpg (10.6 l/100 km).

The looks of this very special 911 are convincing right from the start, the SportDesign front panel with its purpose-built spoiler lip providing an aerodynamic balance with the rear spoiler and strongly emphasising the unique face of the Porsche 911 Sport Classic. The bi-xenon headlights with dynamic cornering lights come as standard with black surrounds, taking up a special feature with a long tradition at Porsche already to be admired on famous racing cars in the history of the company, such as the Porsche 911 Turbo RSR from 1974.

Distinctive design
On the Porsche 911 Sport Classic these headlights supplement other features finished in black such as the air intake grilles, the mirror triangles and the lower sections on the mirror base. The double-dome roof stands out clearly at very first sight from the front, and again bears reference to a long tradition already to be admired on the Porsche 911 Panamericana show car and in the roofline of the Carrera GT.

Through their unique shape, the side-sills emphasise the substantial width of the car at the rear. While the limited edition Porsche 911 Sport Classic is based on the 911 Carrera S, it features the rear bodywork of the all-wheel drive models, and is thus 44 mm (1.73") wider. This translates into the rear track also being wider by 34 mm (1.34") for even more dynamic performance with substantial lateral grip.

An important feature not visible from the outside but highly relevant in practice is the use of aluminium in the doors which, together with other technologies, helps to off-set the extra weight of the wide range of standard equipment.

Making clear reference to role models from the past, the 'ducktail' rear spoiler fixed in position forms part of the Aerodynamic Package of the Porsche 911 Sport Classic, and makes a significant contribution to the sporting driving characteristics of the car. A likewise unique rear panel, inspired by the particularly sporting design of the GT cars, rounds off the special look of the Porsche 911 Sport Classic together with the rear light clusters in clear glass.

The rear lid proudly bears a chrome-plated "911 Sport Classic" model designation and an "Exclusive" motif on the front right wing confirms the outstanding exclusivity of this small and very special model series. A bespoke car cover delivered in a matching bag comes as standard with each car, offering an indispensable detail for the collector.

Increased horsepower from 3.8-litre engine
The engine of the Porsche 911 Sport Classic features a newly-developed resonance intake system with six switching butterflies. The 3.8-litre flat-six power unit with Direct Fuel Injection is based on the engine already featured in the Porsche 911 Carrera S. However, working carefully on various details in the intake manifold has allowed Porsche engineers to increase engine output and torque, particularly in the medium speed range. Combined with modified cylinder heads, a new intake system and new engine management, the upgrades serve to raise engine output by 23 hp to 408 horsepower.

A particular highlight is the new, variable resonance intake system featuring six vacuum-controlled flaps switching between a more power- and a more torque-oriented geometry. Opening or closing simultaneously as a function of engine speed and the position of the throttle pedal, these flaps optimise the oscillation of air in the intake manifold for a better cylinder charge. The result is an optimum supply of fresh air into the combustion chambers under all conditions, maintaining maximum torque and optimising the torque curve - together with an increase in engine output.

The exhaust system specially developed for this unique model provides exactly the right exhaust gas counter-pressure, the high-gloss tailpipes with their classic grid inserts likewise purpose-built for the Porsche 911 Sport Classic. Beneath the rear lid, on top of the engine, lays a carbon fibre air filter housing to add a particularly powerful look.

As is typical of Porsche, the increase in engine power is achieved with maximum efficiency, and the Porsche 911 Sport Classic maintains the full fuel economy and CO2 emission ratings of the Porsche 911 Carrera S.

Sports-oriented chassis
Clearly reflecting its name, this limited edition model is consistently sporting in every respect, with appropriate equipment and exactly the right dynamic set-up. The Sport Chrono Package Plus, for example, comes as standard and the Porsche 911 Sport Classic is available only with a manual gearbox. Furthermore, the gearshift travel has been reduced, and offers a perfect match for the car.

In addition to its Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM) sports suspension and ride height lowered by 20 mm (0.79"), the Porsche 911 Sport Classic also comes with a rear limited slip differential for very dynamic performance on the road.

Yet another standard feature in the Porsche 911 Sport Classic is Porsche Ceramic Composite Brakes (PCCB). Cross-drilled and inner-vented, these composite ceramic brake discs measuring 350 mm (13.8") in diameter weigh approximately 50 per cent less than comparable brake discs made of grey-cast iron, providing a reduction of unsprung masses beneficial above all to the car's driving dynamics. In conjunction with the likewise purpose-built brake linings, the ceramic brake discs immediately build up a very high and in particular consistent frictional coefficient whenever required. In comparison with conventional brake discs, surface abrasion is limited to a minimum thanks to the extremely hard surface of the ceramic discs. The service life of the PCCB brake system, as a result, is very long indeed.

Iconic wheel design
One of the most striking features on the Porsche 911 Sport Classic is the new 19-inch Sport Classic wheels with their rim centre finished in high-gloss black paint. Bearing a clear resemblance to what must be the most classic Porsche wheel of all times - the world-famous Fuchs rims designed by Porsche in the Sixties and subsequently produced by Fuchs - the new wheels are nevertheless simply perfect for today's world, adding to the striking look of this small, exclusive series.

The 19-inch Sport Classic wheels come with the largest wheel dimensions on all 911 models (with the exception of the GT cars) and run on 305/30 ZR 19 tyres at the rear. A wheel set for retrofitting these special wheels on selected, regular versions of the 911 is in preparation and the tyre pressure control system, again featured as standard, rounds off the suspension of the Porsche 911 Sport Classic.

Exclusive materials and features within the interior
The specially-designed, top-quality interior of the Porsche 911 Sport Classic sets new standards in its quality of finish, flair and appearance. Two new materials never before used by Porsche accentuate this particular touch of class and quality - woven leather and a special carpet material in new design. The former is a special material woven out of smooth strips of leather and yarn strengthened by a lining at the bottom. It is used on the centre-pieces of the newly-designed adaptive sports seats with light-grey piping and in the door linings.

The dashboard, together with all inserts and additional components, is finished in natural leather in a special Espresso Nature colour. This refinement then continues to the very last detail, with even the air vent louvres finished elaborately by hand in ultra-thin leather reflecting that particular style characteristic of Porsche Exclusive. The instrument cluster specially designed for the new model is integrated perfectly into the dashboard, together with its surrounds in aluminium-look. The instrument dials themselves come in black and boast the design of the exterior trim strips together with a '911 Sport Classic' model designation.

The lower section of the instrument panel is likewise finished in leather and comes with a special motif near the glove compartment cover bearing the number of each individual model within the series limited to just 250 cars. The same number is then repeated on the chrome-plated, illuminated door sill trim covers. Great attention to detail is also borne out by the leather around the ignition key barrel, the matching folder for the car keys and the natural leather folder for the owner's manual.

The three-spoke steering wheel with its hand-sewn criss-cross seams in contrasting colour is yet another highly individual feature on the Porsche 911 Sport Classic, as are the gearshift and handbrake levers made of aluminium with the gearshift pattern shown in a special colour matching the interior and the name 'Porsche' presented in ceramic.

Additional colour highlights are provided by the silver-grey seat belts which, like the roof lining finished in light-grey alcantara, are matched perfectly to the exterior colour of the car. The wide range of interior features all provided as standard is underlined in terms of acoustics by the BOSE® Surround Sound System, developed especially for Porsche and perfectly tailored to the acoustic conditions within the 911. A total of 13 loudspeakers including an active subwoofer and centre speaker - as well as a seven-channel digital amplifier - ensure a truly impressive experience in sound. When playing music from audio or video DVDs, this 385 W system offers the full sound spectrum of digital 5.1 recordings.

The Porsche 911 Sport Classic will go on sale in the UK and Ireland from January 2010, priced from £140,049. Fitted to every 911 Sport Classic is a Porsche Vehicle Tracking System (VTS), a sophisticated vehicle security package approved to Thatcham Category 5 standard, and customers will also be able to explore the potential of their new car by participating in a complimentary course at the new Porsche Driving Experience Centre, Silverstone.

Porsche 911 Sport Classic Specifications
Body: Two-plus-two coupé; monocoque, fully hot-galvanised lightweight steel body with aluminium doors; driver and front passenger airbags operating in two stages; side and head airbags for driver and front passenger.
Aerodynamics: Cd = 0.32
Power Unit: Water-cooled horizontally-opposed six-cylinder; engine block and cylinder heads made of aluminium; four overhead camshafts, four valves per cylinder, variable valve timing on intake side and valve lift switchover (VarioCam Plus); hydraulic valve play compensation; Direct Fuel Injection; two three-way catalytic converters on each row of cylinders, each with two oxygen sensors; 10.0 ltr (2.2 imp gals) engine oil; electronic ignition with solidstate distributor (six ignition coils).
Bore: 102 mm (4.02")
Stroke: 77.5 mm (3.05")
Capacity: 3800 cc
Compression ratio: 12.5:1
Engine output: 408 bhp (300 kW) at 7300 rpm
Max torque: 420 Nm/310 lb-ft at 4200-5600 rpm
Output per litre: 107.4 bhp (78.9 kW)
Max engine speed: 7500 rpm
Transmission: Engine and gearbox bolted to form one drive unit; six-speed manual gearbox.
Chassis and Suspension
Front: Spring strut axle in McPherson design optimised by Porsche with independent wheel suspension on track control arms, longitudinal arms and spring struts; conical stump springs with inner-mounted vibration dampers.
Rear: Multi-arm axle with independent suspension on five arms; cylindrical coil springs with co-axial inner-mounted vibration dampers.
PASM Porsche Active Suspension Management with electronically controlled vibration dampers and two manually selectable control maps; mechanical rear axle differential.
Brakes: PCCB brakes with brake discs made of carbon-fibre-reinforced ceramics; twin-circuit brake system split front-to-rear.
Front: Six-piston aluminium monobloc brake callipers; crossdrilled and inner-vented brake discs measuring 350 mm/13.78" in diameter and 34 mm/1.34" across.
Rear: Four-piston aluminium monobloc brake callipers; crossdrilled and inner-vented brake discs measuring 350 mm/13.78" in diameter and 28 mm/1.10" across. PSM Porsche Stability Management; vacuum brake servo; Brake Assistant.
Wheels and Tyres
Front 8.5 J x 19 on 235/35 ZR 19
Rear 11 J x 19 on 305/30 ZR 19
Weight
Unladen: 1425 kg (DIN)
Max permissible: 1830 kg
Dimensions
Length: 4440 mm (174.8")
Width: 1852 mm (72.9")
Height: 1290 mm (50.8")
Wheelbase: 2350 mm (92.5")
Track: front: 1492 mm (58.7") / rear: 1550 mm (61.0")
Luggage capacity
front 135 ltr (4.7 cu ft)
rear 205 ltr (7.2 cu ft)
Tank capacity: 64 ltr (14.1 imp gals)
Performance
Top speed: 302 km/h (187 mph)
Acceleration
0-100 km/h: 4.6 sec
0-200 km/h: 14.8 sec
Fuel Consumption
Urban: 15.9 l/100 km
Extra-urban: 7.6 l/100 km
Combined: 10.6 l/100 km
CO2 Emissions: 250 g/km (EU5)

Porsche 911 GT3 Cup (2010)

Stronger, wider, faster - the new Porsche 911 GT3 Cup car is the latest-edition of the world's best-selling and most successful production-based race car of more than 1,400 units. It will be introduced at the Frankfurt Motor Show September 17-27, 2009, along side the previously-announced 2010 Porsche 911 Turbo and 911 GT3 RS.

For the first time, the race car is based on the street-legal 2010 GT3 RS version. However, in keeping with tradition, it continues to be assembled on the same production line as all road-going Porsche 911 vehicles in Stuttgart-Zuffenhausen.

Like the flat-six "Boxer" engine in the new GT3 RS, displacement is increased by 0.2 liters over the former model to 3.8 liters and produces 30 more horsepower - 450 hp with a maximum RPM of 8,500. Additionally, it comes with a standard, sequential six-speed manual gearbox and weighs 2,646 lbs (1,200 kg).

Also like the 911 GT3 RS, the Porsche 911 GT3 Cup car features the 1.73-inch wider body of the current 911 Carrera 4S, providing sufficient space for larger wheels. Wider front wheel arches allow for three-piece light-alloy rims measuring 9.5 J x 18 (previously 9 J x 18) utilizing 24/64-18 Michelin racing tires. The three-piece light-alloy wheels on the rear axle are up by one inch in width, now measuring 12 J x 18 with 27/68-18 tires.

The Porsche 911 GT3 Cup is clearly recognizable at first sight through the special design of the front end. The striking daytime driving lights come straight from the current generation 911. Another carryover from the road-going 911 GT3 RS are the front body panels - as they prove aerodynamically-efficient for racing duty. The front spoiler lip is more than 0.5-inches lower to provide significantly more downforce on the front axle.

Downforce on the rear axle is also increased by the by virtue of a rear wing that is over 9-inches wider than the street version, 66.9 inches vs. 57.5 inches respectively. The rear air dam, with its air vent openings as well as the rear LED lights, also come straight from the road model.

Additional Unibal joints are featured on the track control arms and the front and rear anti-roll bars are now adjustable to seven different positions, allowing for an even more precise set-up of the car to best match each prospective race track.

The cockpit of the new Porsche 911 GT3 Cup caters even more to the specific needs of the driver. An additional vent in the upper part of the front lid, for example, provides the driver with a better supply of fresh air. The controls for the Info Display are now positioned directly on the steering wheel housing. And in addition to fore-and-aft adjustment, the steering wheel may now also be adjusted for height as on the regular production car.

Since the current era of sports car racing in the U.S started in 1999, Porsche 911 race cars have over 130 class victories, more than any other manufacturer. In addition, Porsche has won seven of ten GT2 manufacturers' championships and eight of ten drivers' championships in the American Le Mans Series. In addition, 911 race cars have won seven of nine GT championships in the Grand-Am Road Racing series, including an overall victory at the Rolex 24 at Daytona.