Archive for Mercedes
VATH V58 based on Mercedes-Benz SLK 55 AMG
Posted by: | CommentsVATH has released the VATH V58 based on Mercedes-Benz SLK 55 AMG program which offers more power and new looks.
Understatement cannot be qualified as one of the advantageous features of VÄTH V58. This is considered to be the same as with SLK AMG R171. Not only the outside appearance of VÄTH V58 cannot be ignored, but also the SLK performance cannot be recognized under the motor hood. A high-performance 565 hp and 770 Nm engine is running in the motor compartment. The increase in performance and thus engine upgrading is achieved by cylinder capacity improvement by 5.8 liters combined with a compressor.
These upgrades include sports pistons, sports distribution shafts, exhaust manifolds, catalysts of high-grade steel, sports exhaust silencers, polished cylinder heads, a sports air filter and a long-stroke crankshaft. Together with fine adjustment of electronics, this is enough to launch the cabriolet with a speed of 310 km/h. The cost of such performance improvement amounts to 30,785 Euro including installation works and technical inspection fees.
Optionally, the VÄTH tuning company supplies a locking differential for 5,224 Euro and its home-produced and patented fuel cooler for 2,070 Euro.
19-incher wheels guarantee an impressive appearance with mirror polished rim wells of high-grade steel. They are available off-the-shelf in silver, black or the car colour at your choice. High durability tyres with the front size of 235/35 and 275/30 at the back axle ensure excellent contact with the road.
Custom-made threaded sports chassis (3,677 Euro including installation works and wheel alignment) draws the car nearer to the road surface – from 20 to 65 mm (user adjustable).
To improve stoppage characteristics, VÄTH provides high-performance brake system (6,009 Euro including installation works and technical inspection fees). Six-piston saddles with 378-millimeter brake disks are provided at the front.
What is more, VÄTH has made SLK more streamlined thanks to carbon components. The aerodynamic package includes carbon front spoiler lips (1,404 Euro), varnished in black here, and a rear diffuser (1,952 Euro) with visible carbon Finns and prolongation of the underside.
Interior package (2,975 Euro) consists of climate control system, ashtray protective coating, gear shift gate, gear knob, light-reflecting door coatings and left/right seat position control coverings. To be in harmony with the car’s interior climate, VÄTH offers sports steering wheel, if desired, with leather, carbon or fine wood trimming for 1,416 Euro.
2010 Mercedes E-Class Coupe by Kicherer
Posted by: | CommentsKicherer released the 2010 Kicherer E 50 Coupe based on 2010 Mercedes E-Class Coupe.
The new ex-works 500 E-class coupé is in itself not underpowered. With 388 PS and 530 Nm torque it’s the currently most powerful production model coupé that the company can offer its customers. However, those who like it a touch more dynamic can find what they want with the traditional refiner Kicherer in Stockach. Engineers, technicians and designers have taken on the E-Class derivative and accentuated it in all things sporty, technically and optically. By means of an software update and a sports exhaust system the performance of the V8 was increased by 42 PS and 20 Newtonmetres. So taht the 430 horsepower can freely run the V/max block was raised from 250 km/h to xxx km/h. In addition after the alteration the speedometer can reach speeds of up to 330 km/h.
In order to give the aerodynamics the final polish with regards to performance and looks a “Kicherer Performance Series Package” was employed. This set comprises a front lip, side skirts, a rear diffusor and special mirror casings. All components are made of top quality and ultra-light carbon. The same can also be said of the optionally available three-bladed sports grill.
At the rear both eye and ear can delight in every sense in a lovely exhaust system. On the one hand it is convincing with ist modern, almost rectangular tail pipe design and on the other hand it produces an exciting but not obtrusive sound.
The elegant side view of the coupé is perfected by the sportily filigree Kicherer RS-1 20 inch wheels, behind which you get hints of the braking power of the 6 and 6 piston high performance brake system. With its composite discs and modified flexible steel tubes this ensures a suitable negative acceleration.
The noble interior with its interior elements and entry strips in epoxy resin laqueur complements the outer appearance of the Kicherer E50 Coupé. Thus Kicherer has been able to create an almost perfect balance between dynamism and elegance.
MANSORY G Couture based on 2010 Mercedes G55 AMG
Posted by: | CommentsMANSORY released the MANSORY G Couture Mercedes G55 AMG. The MANSORY G-Couture Mercedes G55 AMG was designed by Philipp Plein.
An off-road designer piece MANSORY and PHILIPP PLEIN present the G-Couture
Kourosh Mansory puts a designer piece on wheels. Together with celebrity fashion designer Philipp Plein, the automobile refiner MANSORY turns the Mercedes-Benz G-class into a luxury vehicle class of its own in a limited edition of only seven cars. Only very few people will be able to enjoy this unique automobile. The edition is strictly limited to only seven cars.
So far, Philipp Plein is renowned around the world for his fashion and furniture.
Now, he tailors a new robe for the Mercedes-Benz G 55 AMG together with the top-class refiner MANSORY. In co-operation with the engineers in Brand close to Bayreuth / Bavaria, the famous designer has developed an exterior that embodies the typically self-confident character of all MANSORY automobiles.
The new tailored suit of the G-model impresses both visually and also technically. The entire exterior up to the lower window edge and the roof of the SUV are made of carbon. But the ultra-light and high-strength material is not enough for MANSORY and its aspired exclusiveness. By using the autoclave-prepreg-method, the carbon is compressed so strongly in a special pressure chamber that no more air inclusions remain in the material. Normally, this processing method is only used in aviation and aerospace, as it is very cost-intensive. But MANSORY does not accept any compromise when it comes to quality.
The refiner also puts the same emphasis into the engine modification. MANSORY replaces the majority of the components with high-performance components from the Mercedes-Benz SLR. This extensive modification leads to impressive 700 hp (515 kW) with the MANSORY G-Couture instead of the serial 507 hp (373 kW) of the G 55 AMG. The maximum torque rises from 700 to 880 Newton metres.
In order to transmit this enormous power to the road, the luxury refiner equips the G-Couture with four high-performance tyres Pirelli Scorpion in the dimension 305/35 R 23. They are carried by new, one-part SUV-rims in 23 inches which MANSORY presents at their world premiere.
And of course the interior is nothing short of the exclusive exterior. Thereby it is obvious that MANSORY has replaced the back bench with four single seats whose lateral support has grown with the performance of the car. A further application is the continuous central console which now reaches from the back seat to the cock-pit and offers the passengers at the back seat integrated monitors which are connected to the DVD entertainment system.
The MANSORY upholstery department only allows flawless leather for the interior. The perfectly processed skins do not only stand out for their endurance but also for their especially pleasant surface quality. The exquisite overall impression is enhanced by the airbag sports steering wheel and the aluminium pedals. The entire refinement of the passenger cabin is emphasised by applications made of real python skin in silver and crowned with G-Couture logos in the head rests.
As revolutionary as Philipp Plein influences the world of fashion, as successful Kourosh Mansory turns luxury automobiles into exclusive unique specimen. With their co-operation, the two artists created a unique SUV which combines luxury, extravagant design and top driving performance. For more information about the exclusive programme for the G-Couture, please visit the web site www.mansory.com
Brabus E V12 Coupe based on 2010 Mercedes E Class
Posted by: | CommentsThe sedan is followed by the two-door model: At the Geneva Motor Show 2010 the BRABUS E V12 Coupe celebrates its world debut as the world’s fastest Gran Tourismo.
Based on the new Mercedes E-Class coupes, BRABUS builds a luxurious 2+2- seater in small-series production. It is powered by a BRABUS SV12 R Biturbo 800 twelve-cylinder displacement engine that produces 800 hp (788 bhp) / 588 kW of power and a peak torque of 1,420 Nm (1,047 lb-ft). BRABUS (Brabus-Allee, D-46240 Bottrop, phone + 49 / (0) 2041 / 777-0, fax + 49 / (0) 2041 / 777 111, Internet www.brabus.com), accepted by the German Federal Vehicle Registration Agency (Kraftfahrtbundesamt) as an automobile manufacturer, offers this high-performance automobile capable of reaching speeds in excess of 370 km/h (230 mph) starting at 478,000 Euros MSRP.
Like the fourth-generation BRABUS E V12 sedan the new E V12 Coupe is powered by a BRABUS SV12 R Biturbo 800 displacement engine. Drawing upon decades of experience in developing and building high-performance vehicles the twelve-cylinder engine was fitted into the engine bay of the two-door E-Class.
The basis for this engine is the twelve-cylinder twin-turbo engine from the latest Mercedes 600 models. Displacement of the engine is increased from 5.5 to 6.3 liters (336 to 384 cu. in.) with the help of a special crankshaft, larger cylinder bore and correspondingly larger pistons. Both three-valve cylinder heads are optimized for mixture flow, and fitted with sport camshafts
Underneath the custom-made hood with integrated carbon-fiber RAM airbox is space for a completely newly developed air intake system. This twin-turbo system was designed from the ground up for the new E V12 generation. It includes two custom high-performance headers with integrated turbochargers and four water-to-air intercoolers. The stainless-steel highperformance exhaust system with free-flow metal catalysts was also custom-tailored for the confined space under the E-Class Coupe.
In addition, the BRABUS engine specialists have developed a precision engine management system that controls injection, ignition and driving dynamics systems. The result is an optimal combination of impressive power yield and eco-friendly emissions that meet strict EURO IV exhaust limits.
The BRABUS SV12 R Biturbo 800 engine is lubricated with high-tech motor oil from technology partner ARAL. It produces a rated power output of 800 hp (788 bhp) / 588 kW at 5,500 rpm. The even more impressive peak torque of 1,420 Nm (1,047 lb-ft), available already at a low 2,100 rpm, is limited electronically to 1,100 Nm (811 lb-ft).
Power is transferred to the rear wheels via a reinforced five-speed automatic transmission and a BRABUS high-performance limited-slip differential. The BRABUS E V12 comes standard with state-of-the-art driving stability programs that can be deactivated at the push of a button.
Performance of the coupe is as exceptional as that of the four-door model: The BRABUS E V12 Coupe sprints from 0 –100 km/h (62 mph) in just 3.7 seconds, to 200 km/h (124 mph) in 9.9 seconds, and reaches 300 km/h (186 mph) after a mere 23.9 seconds. For street-legal use the top speed of the Gran Tourismo is limited electronically to 350 km/h (217 mph).
Without the limiter the two-door twelve-cylinder car is capable of speeds in excess of 370 km/h (230 mph).
This extreme performance also places highest demands on the vehicle’s aerodynamic properties. The BRABUS designers went into the wind tunnel to develop a body conversion kit made from high-strength yet especially lightweight carbon fiber. The kit combines sporty design and aerodynamic efficiency to perfection.
The BRABUS front was designed to reduce lift on the front axle and to provide all radiators of the V12 with an optimal supply of cooling air. Air outlets in the sides route the air quickly away from the heat exchangers. Another important design feature was to provide the front brakes with cooling air. Integrated LED daytime running lights further increase active safety. A wider track means better directional stability at high speeds. Because of that BRABUS has developed special carbon-fiber sport fenders with integrated air vents for the front axle. Special carbon-fiber rear fenders add 60 millimeters (2.4 in.) to the width of the coupe on the rear axle. The BRABUS E V12 Coupe runs on especially wide wheels fitted with high performance tires from Pirelli or YOKOHAMA. The 19-inch combination is perfect for the enormous top speed the car is capable of. The wheels are 9.5 inches and 10 inches wide and customers can choose from BRABUS Monoblock designs VI, E, Q and S. Tires in size 265/30 ZR 19 are mounted on the front axle. Size 285/30 ZR 19 tires on the rear axle provide optimal traction.
Rocker panels with integrated illuminated BRABUS logo and LED entrance lights route the air stream along the sides with minimum turbulence. They also lend the two-door car a longer, sleeker appearance.
The BRABUS rear apron with carbon-fiber diffuser features a centrally mounted reflector and custom-tailored cutouts on either side for the BRABUS quad sport exhaust system. The BRABUS rear spoiler is essential for well-balanced aerodynamics at high speed. To make the BRABUS E V12 Coupe not only a superior road warrior but upon request also an extremely sporty racer on the track the suspension was completely redesigned. The redesign includes special suspension components on front and rear axle that offer a wider range of individual suspension settings.
These measures are complemented by a BRABUS coil-over suspension that features a multitude of selectable settings for bound and rebound. The shock absorbers on the front and rear axle feature ten selectable settings for bound and rebound. The ride height has an adjustment range of 35 millimeters (1.4 inches). Sport sway bars can further minimize body roll during fast cornering.
The BRABUS high-performance brake system meets the toughest demands, on the road or on the track. The front axle features 12-piston aluminum fixed calipers and vented and grooved steel brake discs measuring 380 x 37 millimeters (15.0 x 1.5 inches). The rear axle stops on six-piston aluminum fixed calipers gripping discs measuring 360 x 28 millimeters (14.2 x 1.1 inches). The BRABUS high-performance brake system incorporates all functions of the standard Brake Assist system of the Mercedes E-Class. The interior combines sporty character with luxurious ambiance. An ergonomically shaped sport steering wheel is part of the equipment list of the BRABUS E V12 Coupe as are sport seats upholstered with the finest leather. The seats provide excellent seating comfort and lateral support.
Genuine carbon-fiber trim on dashboard, center console and doors adds further sporty highlights.
BRABUS E V12 Coupe –Technical Data
Body
2-door coupe based on the Mercedes-Benz E-Class coupe, model series C 207.
Unibody, with BRABUS aluminum front sport fender flares and carbon-fiber rear fender flares steel body widened by 60 millimeters (1.4 inches) on the rear axle. BRABUS E V12 Coupe carbon-fiber aerodynamic-enhancement kit with front apron, rocker panels, rear spoiler and rear diffuser. BRABUS hood with integrated RAM airbox.
Dimensions:
Length 4.698 mm –184.9 in.
Width 1.846 mm –72.7 in.
Height 1.358 mm –53.5 in.
Curb weight 1.850 kg –4,078 lbs.
Gross vehicle weight 2.290 kg –5,049 lbs.
Fuel capacity/reserve 66 l / 8 l –17.4 gal. / 2.1 gal.
Engine
BRABUS SV12 R Biturbo 800 displacement engine based on Mercedes 600.
V12-cylinder 3-valvel light-alloy engine with two turbochargers
Displacement 6,233 cm³
Compression ratio 9.0 : 1
Rated power output 800 hp (788 bhp) / 588 kW at 5,500 rpm
Torque 1,420 Nm (1,047 lb-ft) from 2,100 rpm (electronically limited to 1,100 Nm / 811 lb-ft)
Fuel Super plus (98 ROZ) / Premium gasoline 98 octane
Motor oil: ARAL
BRABUS SV12 R Biturbo 800 engine conversion consists of:
Displacement increase to 6.3 liters with special crankshaft with longer stroke and larger cylinder bore and corresponding pistons. Inlet and outlet ports of both cylinder heads optimized for mixture flow including installation of special camshafts. BRABUS SV12 R Biturbo 800 system with two high-performance turbochargers and special exhaust manifolds with integrated turbine housings, four water-to-air intercoolers and special air intake tract. BRABUS stainless-steel high-performance exhaust system with free-flow metal catalysts. Newly programmed mapping for engine electronics and on-board diagnostics.
Powertrain
RWD, ESP
Reinforced five-speed automatic transmission
Gear ratios
1st gear 3.59
2nd gear 2.19
3rd gear 1.41
4th gear 1.00
5th gear 0.83
Reverse gear 3.16
BRABUS limited-slip differential with locking rate of 40 percent
Final drive ratio either 2.65 : 1 (V/max 315 km/h / 196 mph) or 2.24 : 1 (V/max more than 370 km/h / 230 mph), electronically limited for use on public roads to 350 km/h / 217 mph).
Suspension
Independent suspension front and back with height-adjustable BRABUS coil-over sport suspension.
Front axle:
Three-link axle with custom lower A-arms for individual adjustment of toe-in, camber and caster, anti-dive geometry. Height-adjustable BRABUS struts with coil springs and gaspressure shocks with ten selectable settings for compression and rebound, BRABUS sport sway bar.
Rear axle:
Multi-link suspension with custom upper A-arms for individual adjustment of toe-in, camber and caster, anti-squat and anti-dive geometry. Height-adjustable BRABUS struts with coil springs and gas-pressure shocks with ten selectable settings for compression and rebound, BRABUS sport sway bar.
. Wheels:
BRABUS Monoblock S alloy wheels with YOKOHAMA ADVAN high-performance tires.
Front: 9.5J x 19 H2 with 265/30 ZR 19
Rear: 10J x 19 H2 with 285/30 ZR 19
Brake system
Dual-circuit brake system with Brake Assist and BRABUS high-performance brakes Front: BRABUS 12-piston aluminum fixed calipers and vented and grooved steel discs measuring 380 x 37 mm (15.0 x 1.5 inches)
Rear: BRABUS six-piston aluminum fixed calipers with vented and grooved steel discs measuring 360 x 28 mm (14.2 x 1.1 inches)
Performance
0 - 100 km/h (62 mph): 3.7 sec.
0 - 200 km/h (124 mph): 9.9 sec.
0 - 300 km/h (186 mph): 23.9 sec.
Top speed: More than 370 km/h / 230 mph (for tire safety reasons limited electronically for use on public roads to 350 km/h / 217 mph
2010 Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG by Vorsteiner
Posted by: | CommentsVorsteiner released the new Vorsteiner Mercedes C63 AMG aerodynamics package.
Vorsteiner debuts the Mercedes Benz C63 AMG Aero Package
Pressing onward with the latest in our Mercedes Benz lineage, Vorsteiner is proud to announce the advent of the Mercedes Benz C63 AMG Aero Package. Respectfully following the CLK Black’s heritage, the Mercedes C63 AMG Aero Package has been meticulously designed and tested to meet Vorsteiner standards of quality, both in style and performance.
Every component in the Mercedes C63 AMG package is created using a state-of-the-art aerospace autoclave system which utilizes a resin pre-impregnated, vacuum-formed carbon fiber. This results in an up to 30% stiffer and stronger structure when compared to an equivalent wet-lay product.
The Mercedes C63 AMG Front Spoiler borrows accents from the CLK Black Series while maintaining a genuine Mercedes C63 feel, graciously contouring the front AMG factory bumper. In its design, the form follows function while considerably increasing downforce to the front of the vehicle using lightweight carbon fiber.
The Mercedes C63 AMG Rear Diffuser provides an aggressive appearance to the rear of the vehicle, sporting a dual-fin diffuser system. The diffuser is further enhanced by a central vent, cooling the exhaust while accentuating the bumper in a subtle, yet bold manner.
The final component in the Mercedes C63 AMG Package, the Carbon Fiber Rear Spoiler, arms the Mercedes C63 with bold distinction as an homage to the sportiness of the CLK Black. The carbon fiber spoiler imparts its statement through the addition of downforce, flawlessly complementing the front spoiler, both in elegance and purpose.
Our Mercedes C63 AMG features the Vorsteiner V-101 Monoblock Forged wheel. The V-101 design features an 8 twin spoke mesh, extending out to the edge of the wheel, enhancing the overall appearance and form. The tire of choice is nothing less than best with the Michelin Pilot Sport PS2 that aid in gripping the road for optimal acceleration and handling. Front and rear wheel dimensions are available in 20×8.5 inch and 20×9.5 inch or 19×8.5 inch and 19×9.5, respectively, providing an aggressive powerful stance.
The V-101 is available in the following finishes:
· Brushed Aluminum
· Chrome
· Gunmetal
· Black
· Silver
· Textured Black
· Texture Gunmetal
Custom finishes are available on request.
The V-101 includes Vorsteiner anodized aluminum carbon fiber center caps.
2010 MercedesSport E-Class Official Revealed
Posted by: | CommentsMercedes-Benz is presenting its new label MercedesSport, under which title the famous luxury car manufacturer will showcase a brand-new range of elegant and sporty individualization products at the 2010 Geneva Motor Show in Switzerland.
As the label’s name suggests, the new line of products will be aimed at underlining even further the sporty and elegant character of the stellar Mercedes-Benz vehicles. Among the MercedesSport specially designed elements will be newly styled light-alloy wheels, sports suspensions, aerodynamic and styling components. All MercedesSport labeled elements are designed and produced by Mercedes-Benz Accessories GmbH in cooperation with the in-house designers and engineers responsible for the standard production models.
The first class that benefits from the new MercedesSport components is the E-Class with its Saloon, Estate, Coupe and Cabriolet versions.
The MercedesSport product range for E-Class features:
-Intelligently designed front aprons, spoiler edges and side skirts ensure an elegant and sporty appearance. Unlike conventional products on the market, the sophisticated “add-on principle” makes it unnecessary to replace the original components.
-Optional rear and roof spoilers, a diffuser-look rear apron insert and fog lamp louvres round off this finely coordinated package of visual and aerodynamic features for the exterior.
-Striking eighteen-inch light-alloy wheels in a trendy bicolor version. These have sections painted in high-sheen black and bear the MercedesSport logo. They are enhanced and protected by a clear varnish coat.
-A sporty suspension, with noticeably stiffer damping, transverse stabilisers and shorter springs to lower the suspension by up to 15 millimetres. This sports suspension kit makes for more direct and sporty handling without compromising the high level of comfort.
-A sports braking system with perforated brake discs and grey brake calipers bearing the Mercedes-Benz logo, for outstanding deceleration and a sporty look.
-A grippy four-spoke sports steering wheel with perforated leather and a silver contrasting seam, optionally available with shift paddles and heating. For a sporty touch in the cockpit, right at your fingertips.
-A stainless steel pedal cluster, stainless steel door entry panels illuminated in white and bearing the MercedesSport logo and black velours floor mats with an edge border and silver contrasting seam, likewise bearing the MercedesSport logo, are further eyecatching features in the interior.It is with these retrofitted features that Mercedes-Benz meets the wishes of customers who wish to enhance and individualise their cars even further.
2010 Mercedes E500 Coupe by VATH
Posted by: | CommentsPerformance and ultimate comfort are fundamental principles in more than 21-year history of a famous tuning company VÄTH Automobiltechnik from Hösbach. By exposing its 435 hp strong Coupé, VÄTH offers a super sports car which impresses not only by its excellent road performance, but also by its discreet appearance.
With its automotive efficiency package V50S (8,211 Euro) the overall performance of the E 500 Series-Engine (388 hp) rises up to 435 hp. This made it possible to increase the maximum torque up to 575 Nm. Here comes naturally the convincing measuring data: the maximum speed limit lies within approx. 280 km/h. By means of modern computer engineering, VÄTH succeeded in increasing the performance of serial production vehicles by 47 hp by optimizing the software, including raising the maximum speed limit, sport air filter and complete sport exhaust device with sport catalysts.
The dynamical appearance was perfected with the help of the superlative gear box mechanism: in fenders VÄTH accommodated 20 in. 3-part Smiths Wheels with high-efficiency pneumatics, sized 245/30-20 and 285/25-20. The complete suite will cost you 8,211 Euro including montage.
For street sport cars VÄTH offers a complete running gear, with a built-in adjustable hardness control. Thanks to the adjustable shock-absorber, the car’s body can be lowered by 20 to 65 mm. The sport vehicle costs 2,963 Euro.
Additionally, for high performance VÄTH provided a brake mechanism (5,355 Euro incl. racing brake fluid Castrol SRF and flexible tubes of a brake drive) with 6-position brake calipers and 378 mm large brake disks.
Plant-produced and completely carbon-made: front facing (1,416 Euro) in carbon self-confidently and powerfully underlines the technical manner of the Coupés. The luggage carrier-spoiler (1,761 Euro) and back diffuser (1,773 Euro), also produced from layer carbon, complete/perfect or similarly contribute to a sportier look.
VÄTH offers nearly boundless possibilities for individual interior equipment. Thus, when requested, the inside of the car can be entirely trimmed with colored skin. In addition, we offer Carbon-Interior-Packet (2,737 Euro) for high-quality interior possibilities in all variations.
Further accessories like velour foot mats (226 Euro) and speedometer (1,297 Euro) with a scale up to 330 km/h accomplish a wide range of options for interior space.
Five high-performance luxury sedan battle! Porsche Panamera Turbo / Panamera S, Mercedes-Benz E63 AMG, Audi S8, Porsche 911 Carrera 4S gathered at the Tsukuba circuit (Tsukuba Circuit) for five laps duel, who will be the winner? Don’t miss it! check out the video.
Porsche Panamera Turbo
4.8L V8 bi-turbo / 7 PDK / 4WD / 500ps @ 6,000 rpm / 700Nm @ 2,250 ~ 4,500 rpm
Porsche Panamera S
4.8L V8 naturally aspirated / 7 PDK / FR / 400ps @ 6,500 rpm / 500Nm @ 3,500 ~ 5,000 rpm
Mercedes-Benz E63 AMG ‘2010
6.2L V8 naturally aspirated / 7AT / FR / 525ps @ 6,800 rpm / 630Nm @ 5,200 rpm
Audi S8
5.2L V10 naturally aspirated / 6 Tiptronic / 4WD / 450ps @ 7,000 rpm / 540Nm @ 3,000 ~ 4,000 rpm
Porsche 911 Carrera 4S
3.8L F6 naturally aspirated / 7 PDK / 4WD / 385ps @ 6,500 rpm / 420Nm @ 4,400 rpm
2010 Mercedes GP MGP W01 Unveiled
Posted by: | CommentsAlthough their 2010 car is still firmly under wraps, Mercedes GP have unveiled the new silver and green colour scheme with which they will contest the 2010 FIA Formula One World Championship. The team’s management and drivers Michael Schumacher and Nico Rosberg all attended the event, which was held at the Mercedes-Benz Museum in the German city of Stuttgart on Monday.
The new livery blends the German carmaker’s legendary ‘Silver Arrows’ heritage with the colours of the team’s title partner Petronas. As an additional reference to the Mercedes W25 of 1934, when the car’s white paint was scraped off to expose the shining alloy underneath, traces of black carbon fibre will be visible on the nose of the MGP W01.
“Finally the 2010 Formula One season is firing up!” said Schumacher, who returns to Formula One racing for the first time since 2006 with the former Brawn team. “I have to say that I am totally committed to this new challenge. This season feels like a re-start for me and I am so motivated. We have a very exciting combination at Mercedes GP Petronas.
“We have a world champion team in every sense of the word and I cannot wait to get into the car for the first time in Valencia. I am convinced that Mercedes GP Petronas will be in a very good position to fight for the championships this season and I will definitely give it a go. Driving for Mercedes-Benz again is like the closing of a circle for me as I started my racing driver career with the three-pointed star on my helmet. This is another reason why I cannot wait for the competition to get underway.”
Schumacher’s team mate for 2010, Nico Rosberg, was equally enthusiastic, saying: “You can really feel the successful motorsport history of Mercedes-Benz here at the Museum in Stuttgart and to be part of the new Silver Arrows team and that racing heritage makes me feel extremely proud and motivated.
“Since joining the team in November, I have spent a lot of time at the factory in Brackley, at Mercedes-Benz High Performance Engines in Brixworth and here in Stuttgart, which has given me the opportunity to settle in and get to know everyone. I am looking forward to working with everyone and will give it my all to reward their fantastic efforts with good on-track results this season.”
Over 600 guests, including 200 Mercedes-Benz employees, were present at the launch, which was opened with a welcome speech by Dr. Dieter Zetsche, CEO of Daimler AG and head of Mercedes-Benz Cars. The newly-rebadged Mercedes GP team, however, will continue to be led by Ross Brawn, who took Brawn GP to victory in both the drivers’ and constructors’ championships last season.
“It is a privilege to be here at the Mercedes-Benz Museum in Stuttgart today for the official presentation of the Mercedes GP Petronas Formula One team,” said Brawn. “With your first look around the Museum, you realise the fantastic racing heritage of Mercedes-Benz and we hope to be able to contribute to those successes going forward.
“Our team have been working extremely hard throughout last year and over the winter on the development of the MGP W01 and everyone at the team is looking forward to the start of testing in Valencia next week. We have two excellent drivers in Nico and Michael, who will form one of the most exciting and one of the best partnerships on the grid, and with the support of Mercedes-Benz, Aabar, our new title partner Petronas and all of our team partners, everyone is looking forward to the 2010 Formula One season with anticipation.”
Norbert Haug, Mercedes-Benz Motorsport’s vice president, added: “With today’s presentation of our new team, a new and certainly the most important chapter of over 100 years of Mercedes-Benz motorsport history begins. The new Formula One season will offer challenges which will be bigger than ever before in over sixty years of the sport’s history.
“We look forward to the cooperation with our drivers Nico Rosberg who has enormous capabilities and perspectives, and with seven-time world champion Michael Schumacher. I warmly welcome all our colleagues from last year’s world championship team Brawn GP headed by Ross Brawn and Nick Fry to the Mercedes family. There are challenging tasks ahead of us and we will tackle them with power, consistency and full motivation.”
The team’s 2010 car will make its track debut next week when the first official Formula One test of the season gets underway in Valencia, Spain on February 1.
2010 Mercedes-Benz E-Class Estate Pricing Announced
Posted by: | CommentsWith class-leading load capacity, enhanced practicality, greater fuel efficiency and low emissions from just 150 g/km the new Mercedes-Benz E-Class Estate, on sale from 21 January 2010, has set a new benchmark for the premium estate sector.
New innovations are designed to make life easy - even from across a busy car park. The Easy-Pack electronic tailgate can be activated at the press of a button on the key, opening the tailgate and automatically raising the load compartment cover making up to 695 liters available [with the rear seats in place]. The rear seats can be folded down using just one finger thanks to the innovative Easy-Pack Quickfold system opening the cavernous load capacity up to a maximum of 1,950 litres. In addition to this a further 112 litres of load space can be found in the Easy-Pack folding load compartment under the load space floor.
Easy-Pack Quickfold offers maximum convenience when loading large items as it enables the rear seats to be folded down from the load compartment, using operating levers on the D-Pillar, without the need to adjust headrest or move the driver or front passenger seat.
The largest cuboid that can fit in the car is now an impressive 172.5 cm x 100 cm x 62 cm and items up to 320 cm long can be accommodated as well. These class-leading dimensions mean that a customer could easily load an office desk, a large gas barbecue, a fridge freezer, a 50” plasma television or a 5ft sideboard in with out any need to dismantle.
With the potential for large items of significant weight being loaded into the rear of the car the E-Class Estate is fitted with rear self levelling air suspension as standard to ensure that ride and handling are not compromised.
From launch there will be a choice of seven engines: three diesel and four petrol; and as with the E-Class Saloon, 98 per cent of the E-Class Estate range will boast BlueEFFICIENCY measures. Weight reduction, efficient energy management systems as well as improved aerodynamics are standard – all of which have a positive effect on the fuel economy and emissions of the new car.
The E 220 CDI Estate returns 49.6 mpg, an improvement of 9.8 mpg and emits just 150 g/km, 38 g/km less than the previous generation. These improvements also have a positive impact for company car users. The P11D value for a company car driver using an E 220 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY Avantgarde is £30,935. With the car now in the 21 per cent tax band for 2009/10, a seven band fall from 28 per cent, the benefit in kind would be £6,496.35. Therefore those paying 40 per cent tax would be charged £2,598.54 a year, £216.55 a month, equating to an impressive 33 per cent reduction over the previous E-Class Estate. The E 250 CDI and the V6 E 350 CDI Estate complete the diesel line-up.
June 2010 sees the arrival of a fourth diesel engine, the E 350 BlueTEC – the world’s cleanest diesel engine, which already meets EU-6 standards that come in to effect in 2014. BlueTEC technology has been developed by Mercedes-Benz to improve diesel emissions, especially nitrogen oxides, the only exhaust gas constituent that is inherently higher in diesel engines than petrol engines. Water based urea solution, AdBlueâ, is injected into the exhaust flow reducing 80 per cent of nitrogen oxides to harmless nitrogen and water.
The petrol line-up starts with the E 200 CGI which returns 35.8 mpg and emits 184 g/km. The E 250 CGI, E 350 CGI and E 500 complete the range at launch and in March the E 63 AMG Estate will arrive as well to complete the petrol line-up.
Model lines for the E-Class Estate will be SE, Avantgarde and Sport and all feature much higher levels of standard equipment than the out going model. The SE model line is understated yet elegant and features Aluminium trim, Artico upholstery along with 16” alloy wheels, with low rolling resistant tyres, Advanced Parking Guidance and Parktronic. The eye-catching Avantgarde is a £2,495 premium over the SE and includes leather upholstery, black ash wood trim, ambient lighting, Bi-Xenon headlamps with Adaptive Highbeam assist and the Intelligent Light System, as well as lower suspension, LED daytime running lights and 17” alloy wheels.
For those want a more dynamic look and feel the Sport model line offers AMG body styling, sports tuned suspension, sports seats in Artico/Microfibre, an AMG 3-spoke steering wheel, AMG floormats, brushed aluminium trim and 18” AMG alloy wheels for £1,500 over the Avantgarde trim.
The E-Class Estate features all the standard safety features that we have already seen on the E-Class Saloon, including: Attention Assist, the drowsiness detection system; the Active Bonnet pedestrian protection system; nine airbags; PRE-SAFEâ anticipatory protection system and, for Avantgarde and Sport models; Adaptive Highbeam Assist, which always selects the optimum headlamp range, unlike other systems which merely switch between low beam and high beam. This allows better visibility of the road ahead, pedestrians on the road and danger spots.
The Mercedes-Benz E-Class Estate is just a £1,750 premium over the competitively priced E-Class Saloon and features enhanced levels of standard equipment over the previous Estate. The introduction of the Easy-Pack tailgate, Easy-Pack Quickfold and the Easy-Pack folding floor also enhance practicality and ease of use for the customer. Pricing for the new E-Class Estate is four per cent lower than the outgoing model resulting in the range starting from £29,785 OTR for the E 200 CGI BlueEFFICIENCY SE through to £73,855 OTR for the range topping E 63 AMG Estate. As with every Mercedes-Benz, all E-Class Estates come with Mercedes-Benz’s three year unlimited mileage warranty.
Prices for the New E-Class Estate OTR (£) E 200 CGI BlueEFFICIENCY SE £29,785.00
E 250 CGI BlueEFFICIENCY SE £32,380.00
E 220 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY SE £30,395.00
E 250 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY SE £31,980.00
E 200 CGI BlueEFFICIENCY Avantgarde £32,320.00
E 250 CGI BlueEFFICIENCY Avantgarde £34,915.00
E 350 CGI BlueEFFICIENCY Avantgarde £39,475.00
E 500 Avantgarde £48,460.00
E 220 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY Avantgarde £32,915.00
E 250 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY Avantgarde £34,500.00
E350 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY Avantgarde £37,585.00
E 200 CGI BlueEFFICIENCY Sport £33,820.00
E 250 CGI BlueEFFICIENCY Sport £36,415.00
E 350 CGI BlueEFFICIENCY Sport £40,975.00
E 500 Sport £49,960.00
E 250 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY Sport £36,000.00
E350 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY Sport £39,085.00
E 63 AMG £73,855.00
