It’s no secret that Porsche’s Boxster was inspired by the German sports-car maker’s classic 550 Spyder racing model. And it’s also no secret that Porsche loves to run limited-editions of its popular roadster. The first generation Boxster (that’s 986 for those in the know) saw a special 550 Spyder commemorative edition made in limited numbers, while the current (987) Boxster has a North American-only special edition on the market now, of which only 500 examples were produced – all in Porsche’s GT3 RS Orange paint.

Now, yet another special edition has been produced that once again harks to the Boxster’s heritage. Based on the current Boxster S, the Boxster RS 60 draws its inspiration from the 550 Spyder’s successor, the Type 718 RS 60 Spyder. Produced for the 1960 racing season in which numerous class wins were achieved, the 718 RS 60 Spyder became known as a dragon-slayer after it scored its first overall victory at the 1960 12 Hours of Sebring, dominating over rival cars possessing significantly more power. And that’s kind of the point with the Boxster RS 60 Spyder as well.

Porsche won’t be coming to the Bologna Motor Show in Italy empty handed. Instead, the souls from Stuttgart will be unveiling a limited edition Boxster S that draws inspiration the automaker’s 1960 win at the 12 Hours of Sebring in the Type 718 RS.

The Boxster RS 60 Spyder comes swathed in GT Silver Metallic paint with a Carrera Red interior to match the #42 car it’s attempting to channel, along with a serialized silver plaque on the dash proclaiming its limited numbers and a new front spoiler. But it’s not just a bit of extra glitz heaped atop the already competent Boxster S. The stock rollers are swapped in favor of a set of 19-inch Porsche SportDesign alloys, the suspension benefits from Porsche’s Active Suspension Management system (PASM) and the flat-six is uncorked with a sports exhaust that bumps output to 303 HP.

Appropriately, only 1960 units will be available worldwide, with a base price of 53,000 euro abroad.

PRESS RELEASE

Porsche Boxster RS 60 Spyder Echoes Sporting Heritage

Porsche is presenting a new version of the mid-engined Boxster roadster at the Bologna Motor Show in Italy on December 5 – 16. In its distinctive design, features and philosophy, the Boxster RS 60 Spyder echoes the classic motorsport era of the 1960s, and in particular the success of Porsche sports cars during that period.

After countless class wins around the circuits of Europe and America, in 1960 the Porsche Type 718 RS 60 Spyder beat competitors with much larger engines to score its first overall victory in the 12 Hours of Sebring in Florida, USA, one of the most prestigious long-distance sports car races, courtesy of Hans Herrmann and Olivier Gendebien.

The new Boxster RS 60 Spyder reflects the sporting character and design purism of that successful mid-engined two-seater sports racing car. The RS 60 Spyder is based on the acclaimed Boxster S model, but differs significantly in terms of its performance and features.

Externally, the RS 60 Spyder is distinguished by a unique front spoiler and 19-inch diameter Porsche SportDesign alloy wheels, which spacer plates have moved outwards purposefully in the wheel arches. A modified sports exhaust system combined with dual tailpipes increases engine output to 303 bhp as well as adding further definition to the car’s appearance. Completing the sporting orientation to the driving experience is Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM) which adds further dynamism to the Boxster chassis.

Distinctive GT Silver Metallic paintwork is accentuated by the contrasting natural leather interior in Carrera Red. The roof is also finished in red. As an alternative, there is also the choice of Dark Grey natural leather in conjunction with a Black roof. The tail light clusters are also finished in red.

Inside, door trim strips made of stainless steel proudly bear the “RS 60 Spyder” model designation. The leather interior trim is further distinguished by a textured surface on the centre sections of the sports seats and the centre door linings, and this also extends to the steering wheel rim and handbrake lever. Completing the sporting ambience is a bespoke gear lever.

Complementing the exterior appearance, the faces of the instrument dials have a GT Silver Metallic finish and with this model not having the usual hood over the instrument cluster, the large central rev counter and the two circular dials on either side bring something of the flair of a racing car to the cockpit.

Further features include the windscreen surround finished in black, as well as the centre console, the seat backrests and the roll hoops all finished in GT Silver Metallic and thus harmonising with the seat belts also finished in Silver.

Reflecting its model designation, the Boxster RS 60 Spyder is limited to 1,960 examples, each one proudly bearing a silver-coloured plaque on the lid of the glove compartment.

The Porsche Boxster RS 60 Spyder will be priced from £45,400 including VAT, and deliveries in the UK and Ireland begin from March 2008.

In the New York International Auto Show, Chrysler uncover and announced its entire 2009 Dodge Challenger Model Lineup. The all-new 2009 Dodge Challenger merges the best American muscle-car characteristics — unmistakable design, world-class handling, powerful engines and technology — to delight driving enthusiasts across several generations.

The car’s pricing will start a little over $20,000. 35 years after the original Challenger, Dodge tried to create the modern American muscle-car and will offer three models of the 2009 Dodge Challenger in North America: Dodge Challenger SRT8, Dodge Challenger R/T and Dodge Challenger SE.

The Dodge Challenger is the first five-passenger, two-door coupe produced from Chrysler’s proven rear-wheel-drive platform that delivers the Chrysler 300 and Dodge Charger. Three models will be offered in North America: Dodge Challenger SRT8®, Dodge Challenger R/T and Dodge Challenger SE.

The Dodge Challenger R/T will be powered by a new 370 hp 5.7-liter HEMI V8 engine mated to a five-speed automatic transmission that produces 398 lb-ft of torque (540 Nm). For the Challenger R/T, Dodge also offers a precision-shift six-speed manual transmission that produces 375 hp (280 kW) and 404 lb-ft of torque (548 Nm) when running on premium fuel and takes the car from 0 to 60 mph in less than 6 seconds.

The 2009 Dodge Challenger SRT8 features an SRT-exclusive 425 hp 6.1-liter HEMI V-8 engine mated with a new six-speed manual transmission or a five-speed automatic transmission with Auto Stick that generates 420 lb-ft of torque (569 Nm) and accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in less than 5 seconds.

The Dodge Challenger SE will be powered by the 3.5-liter High Output V-6 with a four-speed automatic transmission which produces 250 hp (186 kW) and 250 lb-ft of torque (339 Nm).

Dodge has also fitted the new Challenger with a lot of safety features such as Supplemental Side-curtain Air Bags, ABS, Electronic Stability Program (ESP), Brake Assist, Traction Control, Hill Start Assist (HSA) for Manual Transmission, Automatic Headlamps and Tire Pressure Monitoring (TPM).

Also, being a modern muscle car, the Dodge Challenger is offered with plenty of new technologies, including MyGIG multimedia system with built-in navigation, UConnect Hands-free Communication System, SIRIUS Digital Satellite Radio, Keyless Go or Remote Start.

The all-new 2009 Dodge Challenger will be built at the Brampton Assembly plant in Brampton, Ontario, Canada, on the same assembly line as the Chrysler 300 and Dodge Charger.

Essential Technology
The all-new 2009 Dodge Challenger offers customers a full range of innovative technologies including:

• MyGIG™ provides a cutting-edge multimedia audio and entertainment system, with built-in navigation
• UConnect® Hands-free Communication System provides convenient, voice-activated communication with Bluetooth® cellular phones
• SIRIUS® Digital Satellite Radio offers a variety of commercial-free radio programs and music
• Keyless Go allows the driver to start the vehicle with the simple push of a button
• Remote Start starts a secured vehicle with the key fob

More than 25 Safety and Security Features
Dodge Challenger offers more than 25 safety and security features including:

• Supplemental Side-curtain Air Bags extend protection to all outboard front- and rear-seat passengers
• Anti-lock Brakes (ABS) modulate the brakes for the driver to provide steering control while braking
• Electronic Stability Program (ESP) applies selective braking or throttle reduction to control oversteer and understeer
• Brake Assist ensures maximum braking action during panic stops
• Traction Control reduces the throttle and/or applies selective braking to optimize traction during acceleration
• Hill Start Assist (HSA) for Manual Transmission application assists the driver in launching the vehicle on an incline
• Automatic Headlamps turn headlamps on at dusk and off in the daylight without driver intervention
• Tire Pressure Monitoring (TPM) alerts driver about low tire pressure(s) in order to facilitate safe handling

Supercar maker Saleen unviels the S5S Raptor in the New York International Auto Show. This S5S Raptor is a Ferrari F430-killer that is designed to compete with the high-performance offerings from Ferrari and Lamborghini, the Raptor delivers 650 horsepower at 6300 rpm and 630 pound-feet of torque at 4400 rpm. The Saleen S5S Raptor looks like one serious supercar and if manufacturers like Ferrari don’t look out, they might fall prey to the Raptor. At the same time, I know that there is some major appeal to having a German or Italian supercar, and certain consumers will never blow that kind of money on a car that has such a strong connection to Ford.

Even so, the all-new Saleen S5S Raptor — which was unveiled at the New York Auto Show yesterday — is quite the sight to behold. It has much more aggressive lines than the Ford GT, offering a wide stance not unlike the Lamborghini Murcielago or the Ferrari F430. And it’s got plenty of grunt to back up that menacing look, generating a formidable 650 horsepower (at 6300rpm) and 630 lbs-ft of torque (at 4400rpm).

The Raptor — which was inspired by the bird of prey — is designed to digest cellulosic ethanol fuel, which should help it score points with environmentalists and advocates of oil independence. The higher octane rating of E85 gas also results in more power, Saleen says. The supercharged S5S is reportedly capable of hitting 60 mph in 3.2 seconds.

The Raptor can be equipped with a close-ratio 6-speed manual, or optional paddle shifting sequential gearbox. Either gearbox can send the rigid aluminum chassis and composite material body screaming to a top speed of over 200 mph.

The double wishbone suspension and rack-and-pinion steering of the S5S is augmented by ABS traction control and stability control systems. The brake system features 15-inch (381 mm) front rotors with 6-piston calipers, and 13-inch (308 mm) rear rotors with dual piston calipers. Traction is provided by 275/35 ZR20 front and 315/35/ZR20 rear Pirelli Rosso tires that wrap the 20 inch forged aluminum wheels. Of note, the Raptor’s wheels are coat with a special chemical formula that prevents brake dust from collecting.

The aesthetics for the Raptor were developed by ASC Creative Services, America’s largest independent automotive design firm. The primary designer on this program was Dave Byron, a member of ASC’s Design team.

According to Saleen executives, the S5S Raptor could enter the market in as little as two years, and should it go forward, it would carry a base price of approximately $185,000 — roughly that of the Ferrari F430.

Hyundai revealed and premiered its 2010 Genesis Coupe at New York International Auto Show. The 2010 Hyundai Genesis Coupe is highly anticipated at NYIAS. There ar e two stunt drivers performing burnouts and controlled skids in front of gathered journalists. The official unveiling confirmed much of the rumored information already known about the car.

Hyundai already has released some advance information on the car, with additional material leaked from an early marketing clinic last year. According to various Web sites, the Genesis Coupe will offer a choice of at least two power plants: a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder and a normally aspirated 3.8-liter V6 that is said to make more than 300 horsepower.

In case you haven’t figured it out from the name, the Coupe will share its rear-wheel-drive underpinnings with the recently unveiled Genesis sedan.

But now in the New York International Auto Show, Hyundai confirmed that the stylish Genesis Coupe will offer two engines – a turbocharged four cylinder and an upgraded version of the 3.8 liter Lambda V6. The four cylinder will put out an estimated 212 horsepower using regular grade gasoline and 223 on premium. The V6 will put out 306 on regular and 310 on premium, which Hyundai says will make it the least expensive 300 horsepower coupe in the world.

Hyundai claims that the V6 model will hit 60 miles per hour in under six seconds. The top-line SE model will include Brembo four-piston brakes (14″ in front, 13.4″ in rear – both ventilated) and a Torsen limited-slip differential. It will also come with 19″ wheels, whereas other models will come with 18″ wheels.

The Genesis Coupe is based on the same rear wheel drive architecture as the Genesis sedan, although as of yet there is no news of V8 availability in the Coupe.

Hyundai said that three transmissions will be offered, though only a six speed manual and a ZF six-speed automatic were mentioned. An Infinity audio system with iPod connectivity, XM Satellite Radio and Bluetooth will be standard.

On the safety front, six airbags and ESP will be standard. Enthusiasts – the target market for the Genesis Coupe – will no doubt be pleased to learn that the ESP will be entirely defeatable.

The Genesis Coupe is one of seven vehicles Hyundai plans to introduce over the next 24 months. It’ll be on sale early next year and though pricing was not announced, Hyundai repeatedly stressed that it will be the least expensive 300 horsepower coupe on the planet.

“Genesis Coupe is the most thrilling, most emotional Hyundai yet,” said John Krafcik, vice president, product development and strategic planning, Hyundai Motor America when the concept was first shown. “When it hits the market in early 2009, we aim to deliver a driving experience that challenges cars like Infiniti G37, at prices more like Mitsubishi Eclipse.”

The 2009 Pontiac Solstice Coupe steals the spotlight at the New York International Auto Show. GM revealed the 2009 Pontiac Solstice Coupe glory. From the moment the original Pontiac Solstice Roadster Concept made its debut at the Detroit Auto Show until today, GM Vice Chairman Bob Lutz has personally steered it through every obstacle in its path.

The Solstice Roadster has proven one of the few real success stories in the Pontiac line-up, in recent years. And with the demise of the largely forgettable GTO remake, the little two-seater is about the only product to justify that old tagline, “We build excitement.”

There was certainly a lot of excitement when the hardtop show car made its debut, and now, at the 2009 New York Auto Show, its finally making it into production. The Solstice Coupe will arrive in dealerships in early 2009 and will offer buyers that aren’t looking for a convertible but want to have fun in the sun, another option.

The roof is easily removed from the passenger compartment and an optional soft roof cover is also available. Powertrain lineup is the same as the convertible including a base 2.4L Ecotec 4-cylinder engine producing 173hp and a GXP version powered by a 2.0L turbocharged Ecotec that produces 260hp.

With its removable roof panels, the 2009 Pontiac Solstice Coupe will offer much of the fresh air fun of the roadster, but it can also button down for cold weather driving, perhaps even a full Winter in Detroit , should a buyer be willing to pop for the right tires.

The overall look retains the striking, cab rearward look of the roadster, but the Solstice Coupe gets an aggressive new side profile, that makes it look a little more muscular, at least in our eyes, and less of a weekend boy toy.

The GXP is the new range-topping variant of the Pontiac G8 lineup. Like the company’s other GXP models, this high-performance G8 delivers more power and better handling than the base models. The G8 GXP delivers a zero to 60 mph time of about 4.7 seconds, and a quarter-mile time of 13.0 seconds at 108 mph.

Power comes from a 6.2-liter LS3 small-block V8 engine delivering 402 horsepower and 402 pound-feet of torque. This engine is the newest member of GM’s small-block V-8 family. It features a revised, larger-bore cylinder block, high-flow, L92-style cylinder heads; larger-diameter pistons; unique camshaft and camshaft timing; revised valvetrain with offset intake rocker arms; high-flow intake manifold; and high-flow fuel injectors.

The LS3 engine has an aluminum cylinder block with cast-in-place iron cylinder liners. Larger bores help create a 376-cubic-inch displacement. The block casting also features revisions and machining in the bulkheads to enhance its strength and improve bay-to-bay breathing. New pistons were designed for high-rpm performance.

New, high-flow cylinder heads aid engine breathing and are based on the large port and valve design found on the LS7 engine and other GM L76 engines. The larger-capacity, straighter intake port-design optimizes intake flow to the combustion chamber, an effect augmented by large valves, measuring 2.16 inches (55.0 mm) on the intake side and 1.59 inches (40.4 mm) on the exhaust side.

“More than just raw power, the GXP delivers the sophisticated yet exciting driving experience that enthusiasts expect in a car costing far more than the GXP,” said Jim Bunnell, Buick-Pontiac-GMC general manager.

The standard Hydra-Matic six-speed 6L80 automatic can be substituted for a a new six-speed Tremec TR6060 manual transmission. The manual gearbox features: a shorter throw; premium gear synchronizers; stronger gears, housing, and bell housing; a single-piece counter shaft; and machined gear teeth. The automatic has a generous 6.04:1 overall ratio that enables a “steep” first-gear. The result is strong launch acceleration along with “tall” overdrive ratios that lower engine rpms for better fuel economy and reduced noise. A limited-slip differential is standard.

GM claims the GXP’s handling was developed and validated on racetracks and highways around the world, including the famed Nürburgring racing circuit. The suspension employs a MacPherson strut design in the front and a four-link, coil-over-shock design in the rear. A direct-acting front stabilizer bar, decoupled rear stabilizer bar and lateral ball joints on the rear suspension deliver increased lateral stiffness for more responsive handling. The front suspension features fully adjustable caster, camber and toe; the rear suspension has fully adjustable camber and toe, for more precise tuning.

The Brembo braking system includes 14-inch (355 mm) vented front and 12.76-inch (324 mm) rear disc rotors, with quad-piston alloy calipers in front. The alloy calipers on the rear brakes have single-piston actuation.

The GXP rides on 19-inch aluminum wheels with performance-oriented summer P245/40R19 tires as standard.

Standard comfort and convenience amenities include: bolstered two-tone sport seats, a leather steering wheel, fog lamps, alloy pedals, a 230-watt Blaupunkt audio system, XM Satellite Radio, and OnStar.

Now that the Pontiac G8 has ushered in a new era of affordable rear-wheel-drive performance at General Motors, the car-based pickup truck, or Ute as they are called Down Under, is coming back. ust like its G8 sedan sibling, the Sport Truck is based on the corresponding Holden Commodore model, which bears the “Ute” nametag in Australia.

Based on the G8 sedan, the Sport Truck has a longer wheelbase and a cargo bed (with an available soft tonneau cover). Additionally, there’s 8.5 cubic feet (245 liters) interior cargo area behind the seats. Compared to the sedan, the 118.5-inch (3,009 mm) wheelbase is approximately four inches longer and the overall length is six inches longer. The cargo bed measures at 73.9-inch (1878 mm) in length and has 42.7 cubic feet (1208 L) of space while it can carry a payload of more than 1,074 pounds (488 kg) and tow a 3,500-pound (1,600 kg) trailer.

Power comes from the same 6.0L V-8 engine used in the G8 GT that delivers 361 Hp and 385 lb.-ft. (522 Nm) of torque. The V8 is matted to a 6-speed automatic transmission and according to Pontiac; it has a 0-to-60 time of 5.4 sec. The G8 sport truck rides on 18-inch aluminum wheels with a P245/45R18 summer performance tire. An optional Sports Package includes 19-inch alloys with P245/40R19 summer performance tires.

2010 Pontiac G8 Sport Truck Overview, Features and Specifications

Overview

Model: -2010 Pontiac G8 sport truck
Body style / driveline: -two-passenger, front engine, rear-wheel drive coupe-based sport truck
Construction: -unitized body frame, 2-side galvanized steel body with high-strength steel in chassis
EPA vehicle class: -truck
Manufacturing location: -Adelaide , Australia

Engine

Type: -6.0L V-8 w / Active Fuel Management (AFM)
Displacement (cu in / cc): -364 / 5967
Bore & stroke (in / mm): -3.99 x 3.62 / 101.3 x 92
Block material: -cast aluminum w/ cast-in-place iron bore liners
Cylinder head material: -aluminum
Valvetrain: -valve-in-head; 2 valves per cylinder; roller lifters
Ignition system: -high-energy distributorless ignition; solid state direct-fire ignition w/ coil near plug and integrated ignition
Fuel delivery: -returnless, multi-port fuel injection
Compression ratio: -10.4:1
Horsepower (hp / kW @ rpm): -361 / 270 @ 5300*
Torque (lb-ft / Nm @ rpm): -385 / 522 @ 4400*
Recommended fuel: -premium unleaded
Maximum engine speed (rpm): -6000
Emissions controls: -evaporative system, dual exhaust with close-coupled catalytic converters, equal-length exhaust, positive crankcase ventilation, electronic throttle control

Transmission

Type: -Hydra-Matic 6L80 six-speed automatic
Gear ratios (:1): -
First: -4.03
Second: -2.36
Third: -1.53
Fourth: -1.15
Fifth: -0.85
Sixth: -0.67
Reverse: -3.06
Final drive ratio: -2.92

Chassis/Suspension

Front: -multi-link MacPherson strut; direct-acting stabilizer bar (24-mm dia.); progressive-rate coil springs; fully adjustable camber, caster and toe
Rear: -four-link independent; progressive-rate coil springs over shocks; decoupled stabilizer bar (12-mm dia.); higher lateral stiffness for handling through two lateral ball joints per side; fully adjustable camber and toe
Steering type: -variable-ratio rack-and-pinion; rack forward of front axle centerline
Steering ratio: -46-53 mm per revolution
Steering wheel turns, lock-to-lock: -2.8
Turning circle, curb-to-curb (ft / m): -38.4 / 11.7

Brakes

Type: -four-wheel disc w/ ABS; ventilated front and rear rotors; twin-piston front calipers; single piston alloy rear calipers
Rotor diameter (in / mm): -front: 12.64 / 321
rear: 12.76 / 324

Wheels/Tires

Wheel size / type: -18 x 8-inch machine-faced aluminum (std); 19 x 8-inch machine-faced aluminum (w / optional Sports Package)
Tires: -P245/45R18 summer tire (std); all-season tire optional; optional Sports Package includes P245/40R/19 summer tire

Dimensions

Exterior -

Wheelbase (in / mm): -118.5 / 3009
Overall length (in / mm): -201.8 / 5127.8
Overall width (in / mm): -74.8 / 1899
Overall height (in / mm): -58.3 / 1480
Track (in / mm): -front: 62.7 / 1592
rear: 63.3 / 1608
Curb weight (lb / kg): -3995 / 1812
Weight distribution (front / rear) -TBD

Cargo box -

Length at floor (in / mm): -73.9 / 1878
Width at floor (in / mm): -TBD
Width between wheelhousings (in / mm): -47.4 / 1206
Tailgate width (in / mm): -TBD
Inside height (in / mm): -TBD

Interior -

Seating capacity: -2
Headroom (in / mm): -38.8 / 985
Legroom (in / mm): -42.2 / 1071
Shoulder room (in / mm): -59.0 / 1501
Hip room (in / mm): -56.7 / 1439

Capacities

EPA passenger volume (cu ft / L): -TBD
EPA interior volume (cu ft / L): -TBD
Cargo volume (cu ft / L): -42.7 / 1208
Trailer towing maximum (lb / kg): -3500 / 1600
Payload (lb / kg): -1316 / 597
Fuel tank (gal / L): -19.2 / 73
Engine oil (qt / L): -8.9 / 8.5 (dry) 8.8 / 8.3 (w / filter change)
Cooling system (qt / L): -11.4 / 10.8