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Motor Authority - blog Category: Spyder

  • Porsche bringing collection of legendary 917 race cars to Goodwood

    Porsche bringing collection of legendary 917 race cars to Goodwood July 2nd, 2009 ByAlex Kaufmann Alex Kaufmann, Author, July 2nd, 2009 Alex Kaufmann 0 Comments

    Porsche bringing collection of legendary 917 race cars to Goodwood The Porsche 917 is one of the most stark raving mad automotive creations ever dreamt up by humanity, offering a performance level that remains as impressive today as it was during the 1970s. That historic car and its success at Le Mans will be playing a central role in Porsche's activities at the Goodwood Festival of Speed this weekend.

    Many variations of the 917 were produced, and in some iterations the car's turbocharged flat-12-cylinder engine generated up to 1,580hp (1,180kW) - enough to rocket the car to 60mph in 2.7 seconds and on to a top speed of more than 240mph (390km/h).

    Alongside the winning cars on display will also be some... The Porsche 917 is one of the most stark raving mad automotive creations ever dreamt up by humanity, offering a performance level that remains as impressive today as it was during the 1970s. That historic car and its success at Le Mans will be playing a central role in Porsche's activities at the Goodwood Festival of Speed this weekend. Many variations of the 917 were produced, and in some iterations the car's turbocharged flat-12-cylinder engine generated up to 1,580hp (1,180kW) - enough to rocket the car to 60mph in 2.7 seconds and on to a top speed of more than 240mph (390km/h). Alongside the winning cars on display will also be some of the drivers that took them to victory, including Richard Attwood, former F1 driver and 1970 Le Mans winner for Porsche, driving a 917; sports car racing legend Brian Redman will be behind the wheel of the 917/30 CanAm racer; David Piper, who bought a 917 new from the factory in 1969, will be driving his own car; and Jackie Oliver, who won Le Mans in 1969, will be reunited with an evocative Gulf-liveried 917. Perhaps the most evocative design on a 917 on display at Goodwood this year is a 917/20 Coupe affectionately known as the 'Pink Pig'. It features a pink livery with the German names for various cuts of meat and their outlines all across the bodywork, and was designed largely as an aerodynamic exercise to decrease drag, explaining its somewhat odd-ball looks. The 2009 Goodwood Festival of Speed kicks of July 3 and runs through the weekend.Porsche 917s on display at 2009 Goodwood Festival of Speed Read More

  • Lamborghini releases mega gallery for Gallardo LP560-4 Spyder

    Lamborghini releases mega gallery for Gallardo LP560-4 Spyder July 1st, 2009 By Viknesh Vijayenthiran Viknesh Vijayenthiran, Author, July 1st, 2009 Viknesh Vijayenthiran 5 Comments

    Lamborghini releases mega gallery for Gallardo LP560-4 Spyder Lamborghini used the Los Angeles Auto Show to debut a brand new convertible version of its Gallardo LP560-4 supercar, but until today only a limited selection of high-res official pictures were available. That's now remedied, so read on for the mega-gallery.

    Picking up the ‘Spyder’ name, the new open-top model faithfully copies the profile of the coupe despite feature an automatic folding soft-top.

    The roof mechanism uses a hydraulic pump and six-cylinders as well as an electric motor to lift or lower the roof, which takes about 20 seconds. With the roof closed, Lamborghini claims the new Gallardo LP560-4 Spyder will be able... Lamborghini used the Los Angeles Auto Show to debut a brand new convertible version of its Gallardo LP560-4 supercar, but until today only a limited selection of high-res official pictures were available. That's now remedied, so read on for the mega-gallery. Picking up the ‘Spyder’ name, the new open-top model faithfully copies the profile of the coupe despite feature an automatic folding soft-top. The roof mechanism uses a hydraulic pump and six-cylinders as well as an electric motor to lift or lower the roof, which takes about 20 seconds. With the roof closed, Lamborghini claims the new Gallardo LP560-4 Spyder will be able to safely reach a top speed of 324km/h. To further differentiate the Spyder from the standard coupe, designers have added slightly revised headlights with LED detailing and daytime running lights. Also new is a reverse camera located in the rear spoiler. The car measures in at 4.34m in length, 1.9m across, and 1.18m high, and weighs 1,550kg. When combined with the 552hp (411kW) and 398lb-ft (540Nm) of torque output of the LP560-4 5.2L V10 engine, the new Spyder will accelerate from 0-100km/h in about four seconds – 0.3 seconds slower than the hard-top. The Gallardo LP560-4 Spyder comes standard with the six-speed e-gear sequential transmission, which like the coupe has been revised to send more power and torque to a lighter and more efficient 4WD Viscous Traction system. Chassis stiffness and brake components have also been improved.Lamborghini Gallardo LP560-4Lamborghini Gallardo LP560-4 Spyder Mega Gallery Read More

  • Report: Audi nixes V8-powered R8 Spyder, delays A8 Sedan

    Report: Audi nixes V8-powered R8 Spyder, delays A8 Sedan June 17th, 2009 By Nelson Ireson Nelson Ireson, Author, June 17th, 2009 Nelson Ireson 0 Comments

    Report: Audi nixes V8-powered R8 Spyder, delays A8 Sedan While many carmakers adjust their product lineups and launch schedules to accommodate the worst global economy in recent memory, Audi is adjusting too - but to take competitive advantage rather than just to play catch-up.

    Or at least that's how Audi is explaining its decision to launch the R8 Spyder with only the 5.2L V10 engine found in the R8 V10, skipping right over the 4.2L V8 found in the base R8. The smaller engine could be added later, according to the reports, but so far the V10 is expected to ride out the rest of the current R8's product cycle as the only option for the Spyder.

    Another move to push product cycles to a more... While many carmakers adjust their product lineups and launch schedules to accommodate the worst global economy in recent memory, Audi is adjusting too - but to take competitive advantage rather than just to play catch-up. Or at least that's how Audi is explaining its decision to launch the R8 Spyder with only the 5.2L V10 engine found in the R8 V10, skipping right over the 4.2L V8 found in the base R8. The smaller engine could be added later, according to the reports, but so far the V10 is expected to ride out the rest of the current R8's product cycle as the only option for the Spyder. Another move to push product cycles to a more advantageous position is the delay of the A8. Both changes in product were dug up by Car and Driver, and while the specifics aren't official, the reasoning makes sense. Pushing the launch of the A8 back to after the Frankfurt Motor Show, where it was previously scheduled to debut, puts the car in prime time for the Detroit Auto Show where it will be able to take advantage of minimal competition for the spotlight due to decreased manufacturer attendance. The delay also lets the current A8 get the remaining sales it can, since the rate of purchase has slowed across the market. Check out our spy shots and details on the 2011 Audi R8 V10 Spyder or read about the upcoming A7 Sportback to learn more about Audi's future plans.Audi R8 Spider at the NurburgringAudi R8 Spider spy shots Read More

  • Spy shots: V10-powered Audi R8 Spyder takes to the ‘Ring

    Spy shots: V10-powered Audi R8 Spyder takes to the ‘Ring June 16th, 2009 ByAlex Kaufmann Alex Kaufmann, Author, June 16th, 2009 Alex Kaufmann 0 Comments

    Spy shots: V10-powered Audi R8 Spyder takes to the ‘Ring Audi currently sells two versions of its R8 supercar, the original 4.2L V8 model and the recently revealed 5.2L V10 version, but there are two more versions in the works, one of which will be unveiled at September’s Frankfurt Motor Show. The two new versions are the R8 Spyder convertible and high-performance RS variant.

    As for the R8 Spyder, a spokesman for Audi previously confirmed that it has been delayed to allow time for sales of the V10 hard-top to eventually die down. The Audi rep also confirmed that the Spyder will feature a full convertible soft-top roof instead of a smaller targa set-up, which was the preferred choice of... Audi currently sells two versions of its R8 supercar, the original 4.2L V8 model and the recently revealed 5.2L V10 version, but there are two more versions in the works, one of which will be unveiled at September’s Frankfurt Motor Show. The two new versions are the R8 Spyder convertible and high-performance RS variant. As for the R8 Spyder, a spokesman for Audi previously confirmed that it has been delayed to allow time for sales of the V10 hard-top to eventually die down. The Audi rep also confirmed that the Spyder will feature a full convertible soft-top roof instead of a smaller targa set-up, which was the preferred choice of engineers back in Germany. Other major changes for the car that are expected to make it to production will be additional air intakes located behind the seats, as well as a pair of safety roll-over bars. Sadly, the R8’s trademark aluminum side blades have been removed. The placement of the fuel filler cap will also be changed due to the missing rear pillars, while changes under the sheet metal will likely include extra chassis strengthening. While the base model will likely stick with the hard-top’s 420hp (313kW) 4.2L V8 engine, there’s talk that Audi may shoehorn the 5.2L V10 into a mid-level model and reserve the 5.0L twin-turbo V10 from the RS6 for a high-performance RS-variant. The version spotted testing at the Nurburgring in these latest spy shots is thought to be the V10 model. The differences between the RS-variant and the standard V8 and V10 model will extend beyond just horsepower outputs. The chassis has reportedly been modified to accommodate the extra power, gaining upgraded suspension, steering and braking systems. Its arrival isn't pegged until late 2010 or early 2011. This year’s Frankfurt Motor Show will be very busy for Audi as the event is also expected to see the debut of the new A5 Sportback model, which you can read about by clicking here.Audi R8 Spider spy shotsAudi R8 Spider rendering Read More

  • R8 Spyder convertible rumored for Frankfurt, electric R8 ruled out

    R8 Spyder convertible rumored for Frankfurt, electric R8 ruled out May 29th, 2009 ByAlex Kaufmann Alex Kaufmann, Author, May 29th, 2009 Alex Kaufmann 1 Comment

    R8 Spyder convertible rumored for Frankfurt, electric R8 ruled out Audi currently sells two versions of its R8 supercar, the original 4.2L V8 model and the recently revealed 5.2L V10 version, but there are two more versions in the works, one of which will be unveiled at September’s Frankfurt Motor Show. The two new versions are the R8 Spyder convertible and high-performance RS variant. Rumors of a possible electric R8 concept have been shot down by Audi, however.

    News earlier this week from Auto Motor und Sport claimed Audi would also present an electric concept version of the R8 at the upcoming Frankfurt event, though it wasn't clear whether it would have been some kind of hybrid or an all-electric... Audi currently sells two versions of its R8 supercar, the original 4.2L V8 model and the recently revealed 5.2L V10 version, but there are two more versions in the works, one of which will be unveiled at September’s Frankfurt Motor Show. The two new versions are the R8 Spyder convertible and high-performance RS variant. Rumors of a possible electric R8 concept have been shot down by Audi, however. News earlier this week from Auto Motor und Sport claimed Audi would also present an electric concept version of the R8 at the upcoming Frankfurt event, though it wasn't clear whether it would have been some kind of hybrid or an all-electric version, but it's a moot point now as an Audi spokesman told Edmunds that the rumors are "not true." As for the R8 Spyder, a spokesman for Audi previously confirmed that it has been delayed to allow time for sales of the V10 hard-top to eventually die down. The Audi rep also confirmed that the Spyder will feature a full convertible soft-top roof instead of a smaller targa set-up, which was the preferred choice of engineers back in Germany. Other major changes for the car that are expected to make it to production will be additional air intakes located behind the seats, as well as a pair of safety roll-over bars. Sadly, the R8’s trademark aluminum side blades have been removed. The placement of the fuel filler cap will also be changed due to the missing rear pillars, while changes under the sheet metal will likely include extra chassis strengthening. While the base model will likely stick with the hard-top’s 420hp (313kW) 4.2L V8 engine, there’s talk that Audi may shoehorn the 5.2L V10 into a mid-level model and reserve the 5.0L twin-turbo V10 from the RS6 for a high-performance RS-variant. The differences between the RS-variant and the standard V8 and V10 model will extend beyond just horsepower outputs. The chassis has reportedly been modified to accommodate the extra power, gaining upgraded suspension, steering and braking systems. Its arrival isn't pegged until late 2010 or early 2011. This year’s Frankfurt Motor Show will be very busy for Audi as the event is also expected to see the debut of the new A5 Sportback model, which you can read about by clicking here.Audi R8 Spider at the NurburgringAudi R8 Spider spy shotsAudi R8 Spider rendering Read More

  • Preview: RS Spyder-based Porsche Carrera GT successor

    Preview: RS Spyder-based Porsche Carrera GT successor May 29th, 2009 ByRalph Hanson Ralph Hanson, Author, May 29th, 2009 Ralph Hanson 4 Comments

    Preview: RS Spyder-based Porsche Carrera GT successor Even five years after its final production, the Porsche Carerra GT lives on in the hearts and minds - and often garages - of Porsche loyalists, supercar enthusiasts and plain old gearheads. Recently rumors broke that Porsche is working on a successor to the GT based around the RS Spyder American Le Mans Series (ALMS) race car, and now we can bring you a preview of what the car could look like.

    With 485-503hp (362-375kW) from its 3.4L V8 and just 1,705lb (775kg), the LMP2-class RS Spyder has taken class or overall victories at the 12 Hours of Sebring and 24 Hours of Le Mans, in addition to numerous other races and the 2006-2008 LMP2 ALMS... Even five years after its final production, the Porsche Carerra GT lives on in the hearts and minds - and often garages - of Porsche loyalists, supercar enthusiasts and plain old gearheads. Recently rumors broke that Porsche is working on a successor to the GT based around the RS Spyder American Le Mans Series (ALMS) race car, and now we can bring you a preview of what the car could look like. With 485-503hp (362-375kW) from its 3.4L V8 and just 1,705lb (775kg), the LMP2-class RS Spyder has taken class or overall victories at the 12 Hours of Sebring and 24 Hours of Le Mans, in addition to numerous other races and the 2006-2008 LMP2 ALMS manufacturer's championships. That kind of track cred is a solid foundation on which to build, but so far we can't confirm any plans to take the RS Spyder to the street. The rumors, which come by way of Italy's Autoblog.it, hint that a slight downgrade in power and rise in weight for street-trim will be in order. If the RS Spyder does go road-legal, it will probably be in the neighborhood of 400hp (298kW) and 2,200lb (1,000kg) - right on par with the outgoing Carerra GT in power-to-weight ratio, but ultimately higher-performing due to its lighter weight. A production engine from Porsche's existing lineup will also likely be sourced to replace the race-spec model. The carbon fiber tub chassis and running gear are expected to carry over from the race car, though the suspension will be detuned for bumpy city streets and the body and cockpit will be similarly relaxed to allow for more creature comforts. The two-seat roadster layout would be retained, however, and molded into a more street-able and onlooker-friendly form, as the sleek and flowing lines of the preview rendering demonstrate.Porsche RS Spyder race carPreview: Road-going Porsche RS Spyder Read More

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