2010 Chevrolet Camaro Sports Car Pictures

General Motors started manufacturing Chevrolet Camaro sports car in 1967 until 2002. After a hiatus for several years, General Motors began production of the fifth-generation Chevrolet Camaro on March 16, 2009. 2010 Chevrolet Camaro sales started in April 2009.




In the 2007 Transformers movie, one of the robots character named Bumblebee is portrayed as a yellow 1976 Chevrolet Camaro that, midway through the movie, becomes a fifth-generation Chevrolet Camaro. The movie prop cars were built by Saleen using molds of the actual concept car provided by General Motors. The movie prop cars are heavily modified Pontiac GTOs with the Camaro Concept's exterior and interior. A modified fifth-generation Camaro reprises the role of Bumblebee in the sequel, Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen.

AmericanMuscle & Friends Raise $9,000+ for Charity

From the beginning the American Muscle Car Show was set to be more than just a show. Company founders, backed by enthusiastic employees, pushed to give something back to the men and women who have sacrificed so much for our freedom. The initial goal was to raise $5,000 to Homes for Our Troops, a charity that buys or builds homes for disabled veterans. After two previous donations, the team at AM decided to recruit its customers, vendors, families and friends to join the cause and give to this noble charity at the show.

With American Muscle pledging to donate 100 percent of all show proceeds, the effort was fueled by the AM Girls selling raffle tickets for some seriously sweet parts donated by many top Mustang performance brands like SCT, Roush, Eibach, dba, Hawk, Pypes Exhaust, BBK, Maximum Motorsports, aFe, MagnaFlow, Motive, Edelbrock, PA Performance, H&R Springs and more. Also adding to that total were t-Shirt and food sales, plus personal contributions from AM employees.

At the end of the day, with all donations counted, American Muscle wrote a check for $8015 to Homes for our Troops. Joining American Muscle in supporting this great cause, the members of the Garden State Region Mustang Club voted unanimously to give a generous donation of $850 to the charity. Another donation of $500 was received from an anonymous American Muscle supplier bringing the total joint donation to $9,365.

Accepting on behalf of the charity were Frank and Karen McKee of Springfield, PA. After receiving the very large check, Mr. McKee expressed sincere appreciation saying he was humbled by the donation. Personally, I think we’re more humbled by our troops.

2009 Mazda MX-5 Specifications

Drivetrain
Layout	Front-Engine, RWD
Transmission	6 Speed Manual, Synchros 1-4 Carbon-Coated
Engine
Displacement	2.0 Liters
Engine Type	Naturally-Aspirated Inline 4
Redline	7500 rpm
Horsepower	166 hp @ 7000 rpm
Torque	140 lb-ft. @ 5000 rpm
Exterior
Body Type	2 Door, 2 Seat Folding Hardtop or Softtop Roadster
Wheelbase	91.7 in
Length	157.3 in
Width	67.7 in
Performance
Fuel Economy	22/27 City/Highway EPA Estimated
Full Performance Specs TBA @ Detroit Motor Show

Base Price - 2009 Mazda MX-5 - Not yet announced. 2008 MX-5: $20,635

2009 Mazda MX-5 Gets Higher Redline, Fresh Face

Short of the Porsche 911, the Mazda MX-5 Miata line is perhaps the most recognizable and design-constant sports car on the market today. The 2009 Mazda MX-5 (they don't want us to call it a "Miata" these days...) marks the 20th Anniversary of the little roadster that could. While it has grown ever so slightly over the years, the MX-5 still carries the instantly-recognizable mug and perfectly balanced handling it is famous for.

2009 MX-5 Performance - A Complete Performance Car, Though No Dragster...

Great handling aside, the MX-5 Miata has been criticized by some enthusiasts for its lack of straight-line power. While the 2009 MX-5 still carries a modest horsepower figure at 166 bhp, redline has been raised by 500 rpm to a phenomenal 7500 rpm. Peak horsepower burns some MX-5 rubber at 300 revs per minute higher, too, at 7000 rpm. Holding onto gears longer will allow those who wish to push the MX-5 to its limits slightly greater performance times and a more versatile car on the track, and on the road.

Since the first generation debuted in 1989, the Miata line has always been praised for its butter 5 and 6-speed manual transmissions. With larger-diameter gear synchros, the 6 speed should be even easier to shift properly. This is a fun car to drive hard, to be sure.

With a perfect 50-50 front/rear weight distribution and a curb weight of only 2467 lbs., there are few cars as easy to toss around the corners as the MX-5.

Refreshed MX-5 Styling - Mazda Does it Again

Like the aforementioned 911, the design team at Mazda believe that their most successful car to date does not need drastic changes from year to year. The 3rd generation MX-5 added overall crisper lines and flared fenders like those found on the Mazda RX-8, and not much else. For 2009, Mazda brings significant MX-5 front end changes, with sterner headlights and a wide-mouth grill.

The resulting car begins to look more and more like the RX-8's more-attractive little brother, without giving up much of what makes a classic MX-5 Miata.

Mazda's motto for the MX-5 is "Jinba-Ittai," which the Japanese automaker translates as "oneness between driver and car." Short of the crisper, faster and more expensive Honda S2000, no roadster manages this idea better. You won't find all the power and annoying electronic poor-driver assistance systems here. Just a light, attractive and supremely fun roadster. Why change a good thing?

The 2009 MX-5 will be able in European and Japanese showrooms early next year, with a North American release soon to follow. Read on for complete details in a long and deliciously pretentious press release, direct from the people at Mazda...

The Freshened Mazda MX-5

Official Mazda Press Release

Evolution focused on pure Jinba Ittai Enjoyment

The facelift MX-5 embodies the purest form of Zoom-Zoom. With evolved sensory qualities, it continues to deliver the unchanging value of "Jinba-Ittai" (oneness between driver and car) despite the changing world. Marking its 20th anniversary next year, the new MX-5 offers a "lots of fun" driving experience underpinned by the untiring passion of Mazda's engineers since 1989.

Updates at a Glance

Newly evolved look that's functional and instantly recognizable, as Mazda, and as MX-5

• Exterior styling with greater dynamism & athleticism, which contributes to superior aerodynamics
• Strongly emphasized a premium identity in the look and feel of the Roadster Coupe

Enhanced engineering to enable the driver to enjoy the full potential of the engine performance

• 500 rpm higher rev limit and the raised engine speed at max power
• Introduced a forged crankshaft, fully floating pistons and newly designed valve springs

Sportier engine sound that responds more crisply to accelerator inputs

• Surge tank rigidity optimization, new forged crankshaft and ISE , Induction Sound Enhancer (for 6MT)
Smoother shifting feel with brisk and high-quality steering feel
• With 6MT, the meshing surfaces of the 1st-4th triple-cone synchronizers are now carbon coated, and the 3rd-4th synchronizer diameter has been increased.
• Linear & sporty 6AT that's newly available for Europe incorporates two new control technologies, Direct Activematic (DAM) and Active Adaptive Shift (AAS).
• A lower front roll centre and retuned suspension make the car's response to steering inputs more linear and enable the driver to precisely trace desired lines. The yaw and roll also feel more natural, producing a higher-quality ride

Improved quietness

• Roadster Coupe cockpit road noise with the roof closed is 2.1dB lower than before. Improvements include urethane filling in the front suspension member and damping material in the front roof section.
• Quietness is further promoted in the Roadster Coupe and soft-top version by stiffer door modules and by newly added reinforcements on the No. 2 crossmember.
Environmental, safety and conformability
• More convenient features, ie., improved Bose®sound system, 5 step adjustable seat heater, etc.
• Average fuel consumption display and outside air temperature is equipped
• More models featuring DSC as standard equipment

All information in this press copy is based on the specifications of the freshened Mazda MX-5 at the time of writing. Mazda's product development is ongoing, so certain details of the vehicle may change. For confirmation, please contact the nearest Mazda public relations representative.

At the 2008 Paris Motor Show, Mazda is unveiling the freshened Mazda MX-5 and Mazda MX-5 Roadster Coupe.* Both versions of the facelifted MX-5 been reined for an even purer experience of Jinba Ittai - the unique feeling of oneness between driver and car that has distinguished the MX-5 since its inception.

Since launching the first-generation MX-5 in 1989, Mazda has stuck to the concept that driving enjoyment is the key value offered by the MX-5. Through two full redesigns and countless improvements, we've continued to heighten and improve the MX-5's Jinba Ittai- focused "lots of fun" character. We expanded the MX-5's appeal to an even broader audience in 2006 with the launch of the MX-5 Roadster Coupe. As demands for safety and environmental compatibility have grown amid major changes in the automotive environment, we've continued to incorporate new technologies and innovations without compromising the MX-5's inherent lightness.

*The version with a retractable hard top has various names according to market. In Europe, it's called the Mazda MX-5 Roadster Coupe. In North America, it's called the Mazda MX-5 Power Retractable Hard Top. And in Japan, it's called the Mazda Roadster Power Retractable Hard Top.

With the latest MX-5 facelift, Mazda engineers set out to combine an enhanced Jinba Ittai feeling with revisions that would further cement the MX-5's reputation as the most enjoyable lightweight two-seat sports car in the world. The designers retained the well- known friendly facial expression while incorporating elements of Mazda's latest design themes for a dynamic, athletic look that embodies the MX-5's function and purpose as a sports car. With the Roadster Coupe, they strongly emphasized a premium identity in the look and feel of the body and cabin.

With regard to dynamic performance, the engineers enhanced characteristics that appeal to the emotions yet cannot be expressed in terms of catalogue specifications. For example, they optimized the engine potential for greater enjoyment, created a sportier engine sound that responds more crisply to accelerator inputs, and realized a brisk, high-quality steering feel that gives a more linear response to movements of the steering wheel. And at the same time, they enhanced the MX-5 in terms of comfort, convenience, fuel economy, and safety.

MX-5 Programme Manager Takao Kijima says: "Although the kind of driving experience that people find enjoyable in a lightweight sports car never really changes, maintaining it in a vehicle that must also meet the continually changing demands of society is a daily challenge for Mazda engineers, and a particularly vital mission with the MX-5. Speaking as the engineer in charge of MX-5 development, I'm convinced that the MX-5 is-and will remain-more enjoyable than any competing car. I'm delighted that the new MX-5 and the newly evolved Jinba Ittai fun that it offers will soon be thrilling customers who already embrace the MX-5 philosophy, and those who are about to encounter the MX-5 for the first time."

Heritage : Worldwide Acclaim and More than 850,000 Units of Production

The MX-5 has enjoyed worldwide popularity since its first-generation debut in 1989. Indeed, it is recognized by Guinness World Records as the world's highest-selling two-seat convertible sports car in history. Since the launch of the third-generation model, the MX-5 has won more than 175 accolades including the 2005-2006 Japan Car of the Year award; Wheels magazine's 2005 Car of the Year award; Top Gear magazine's Roadster of the Year 2005 award; a place in Car and Driver magazine's 2006 Ten Best Cars list; and selection by Consumer Reports as the best 2008 car in the "fun to drive" category. Aggregate MX-5 production stood at 852,682 units at the end of July 2008, which looks set to be recognized again by Guinness World Records as the highest-ever production volume for a two-seat convertible sports car.

MX-5's "Lots of Fun" Character

The "lots of fun" character conceived by Mazda for the MX-5 encompasses several kinds of fun: the fun of driving it, the fun of seeing its great styling, the fun of personalizing it, the fun of using it to get together with friends, and the fun of owning and using the MX-5 on a day-to-day basis. And underpinning this "lots of fun" character is the feeling that Mazda calls Jinba Ittai. In developing the third-generation MX-5, Mazda engineers clearly defined Jinba Ittai by creating a fishbone chart with six categories (styling, touching, listening, driving, cornering, and braking) which were then broken down into individual attributes. With reference to the fishbone chart, they then used techniques based on Mazda's unique philosophy of Kansei engineering to conduct development with a focus on enjoyment, beauty, and emotional attachment (values that can't be measured in numerical terms). With the latest facelift, all members of the development team used the fishbone chart again as a way to keep their goals consistent while evolving the MX-5 to meet new social demands and customer expectations.

An Uncompromising Focus on Lightness

In the third-generation MX-5's development, Mazda engineers pursued the 'gram' strategy (a programme of weight minimizationon a component-by-component basis), used cutting-edge technologies to make the body light and rigid, and adopted materials that were stronger and lighter than those used in the second-generation MX-5. As a result, they were able to limit the overall weight increase to just 10 kg (22 lb) and enhance performance at the same time. With the latest facelift, the development team adopted new mechanicals and equipment throughout the MX-5 but again kept the overall weight increase to an absolute minimum. The MX-5's ideal 50:50 front/rear weight distribution and the reduced yaw-inertia moment achieved by Mazda with the third-generation MX-5 are totally uncompromised.

Design

A Newly Evolved Look that's Functional and Instantly Recognizable

Design and craftsmanship, which are encompassed, respectively, by the "styling" and "touching" categories in the fishbone chart, are particularly crucial to a sports car since they're the main source of the car's "fun to own" and "fun to use" characteristics. They must complement and underpin the car's functionality. With the latest MX-5 facelift, the development team incorporated elements of Mazda's newest design themes while carefully carrying forward the simple and instantly recognizable personality that Mazda established with the first-generation MX-5. The updated exterior styling reflects an evolution toward greater dynamism and athleticism, and it contributes to superior aerodynamic performance. The updated interior design realizes significantly enhanced quality and a more functional, driver-friendly sports-car cockpit.

Exterior Design: A Fusion of New Mazda Elements and an Unmistakable MX-5 Look

The front grille has been enlarged and changed from an oval shape to the five-point grille that forms part of the well-known Mazda family face. Combined with tautly styled headlights and lowing fog- lamp bezels, the new grille creates a reined and athletic expression. To preserve the character that has always been a hallmark of the MX-5, the five points of the grille are slightly rounded. Also, the new shape of the front bumper, with corners that extend downwards, enhances the dynamic look and improves the aerodynamics.

Viewed from the side, newly designed side sills form a character line that lows to the rear bumper in a way that emphasizes speed and stability. The reshaped side sills deflect air away from the rear wheels, and thereby contribute to superior aerodynamic performance.

The rear bumper has a new design that makes the rear look wider, sportier, and more integrated into the body. The rear combination lamps inherit the traditional MX-5 elliptical motif, and protrude further outboard for greater aerodynamic efficiency.

The Roadster Coupe's more Upscale Identity

The MX-5 Roadster Coupe, which features a groundbreaking powered roof system, also incorporates several design changes that further emphasize its more upscale identity and distinguish it from the soft-top version.

• Front grille: Whereas the soft-top version has a in-type grille, the Roadster Coupe has a mesh grille that is framed by a chrome ring.
• Headlamp inner bezels: The headlamp inner bezels are painted silver on the soft-top version, but have a chrome finish on the Roadster Coupe. * Fog-lamp inner bezels: The fog lamp inner bezels are black on the soft-top version, but are painted silver on the Roadster Coupe.
• Outer door handles: The outer door handles are body-coloured on the soft-top version, but have a chrome finish on the Roadster Coupe.
• High-mounted stop lamp: The high-mounted stop lamp has a red lens on the soft-top version, but a clear lens on the Roadster Coupe.

New Wheel Designs

The MX-5 is available with 16-inch and 17-inch aluminium wheels. The 16-inch wheels have five sets of twin spokes for a lightweight look. The 17-inch wheels have 10 twisted spokes for a stronger impression of power and dynamism.

Interior Design: Higher Than Ever Quality and Driver- Friendliness

The interior design delivers the MX-5's traditional combination of comfortable snugness below shoulder level and openness above shoulder level. It also reflects customer feedback in the form of enhanced quality and driver-friendly features.

The decorative surfaces on the instrument panel have been changed from glossy piano black to dark silver, which has a subtler, higher- quality look befitting a sports car. The meters have new graphics for higher legibility. The climate-control dials on the centre stack have each been given a silver-coloured ring for a higher-quality look. A protrusion has been eliminated from the outer surface of each door pocket to create more leg space. And the door and centre-console armrests have each been given a soft pad for a better feel.

Recaro seats designed exclusively for the MX-5 are available in certain regions. They are upholstered in leather and perforated Alcantara® for a sporty look, and they combine excellent support with easy ingress and egress.

Colour Variations

The MX-5 for Europe has a lineup of seven body colours including two new choices: Aluminium Metallic (a mix of sportiness and refinement) and Metropolitan Grey Mica. The soft top is black. Non- Recaro seats in the MX-5 for Europe are upholstered with black fabric or with black or Dune Beige (not available in Europe) leather depending on grade. The leather and perforated Alcantara* on the Recaro seats have a black-based two-tone colour scheme. The full lineup of body colours is as follows:

• Aluminium Metallic (new)
• Metropolitan Grey Mica (new)
• Sunflower Yellow (new; not available in Europe)
• Copper Red Mica
• Stormy Blue Mica
• True Red
• Brilliant Black
• Marble White (soft-top version only)

Dynamic Performance

Evolved Jinba Ittai for Enhanced Fun-To-Drive

The Jinba Ittai feeling on which Mazda has always focused with the MX-5 defines the kind of spontaneous car-and-driver interaction that anyone can experience whether they're driving the MX-5 in town, on twisty roads, or on an open highway. With the latest facelift, Mazda engineers evolved the attributes in the "driving", "cornering", "braking", and "listening" categories in the fishbone chart to realize performance that lets drivers enjoy the feeling of oneness with the car to an even greater degree.

*Alcantara® is a Registered Trademark owned by Alcantara S.p.A

A 500 rpm Higher Rev Limit Maximizes Engine Potential for Greater Enjoyment

The powertrain has been enhanced to enable the driver to enjoy the full potential of the engine's performance (a key "fun to drive" aspect of the MX-5). Specifically, the speed at which the engine delivers maximum power has been raised from 6,700 rpm to 7,000 rpm (2.0-litre M/T version) and the rev limit has been raised from 7,000 rpm to 7,500 rpm (all 2.0-litre versions). Without these enhancements, the engine feels smooth and linear right up to the rev limit, even with the throttle wide open. With them, however, the driver can really experience the sensation of extracting every single horsepower out of the engine (the enhancements described here apply to the 2.0-litre grades with a manual transmission). The crucial 500 rpm increase in the rev limit is enabled by greater precision in the engine, namely: a forged crankshaft (this ensures the required rigidity at high engine speeds), fully floating pistons and newly designed valve springs.

A Sportier Engine Sound that Responds More Crisply to Accelerator Inputs

The engine sound (a key element in the "listening" category of the MX-5 fishbone chart) is a big part of the sports car experience. With the latest facelift, Mazda engineers made the MX-5 engine sound even better without causing aural discomfort for people outside the car. Notably, they increased the rigidity of the plastic surge tank in the intake manifold. The optimized surge tank combines with the new forged crankshaft to realize a clearer engine sound throughout the rev range. In vehicles with the six-speed manual transmission, the engineers also adopted a newly developed device called an Induction Sound Enhancer (ISE). This amplifies the pulses that occur when an accelerator input opens the throttle valve to increase air low into the engine, thereby delivering a more exciting sound to the cockpit. The intake sound created by the ISE feels synchronized with the driver's accelerator inputs, so the driver enjoys a crisp, thrilling engine sound even when using the accelerator pedal gently to adjust the revs for a downshift.

Newly Evolved and Reined Transmissions

With the six-speed manual transmission, the meshing surfaces of the 1st-4th triple-cone synchronizers are now carbon coated, and the 3rd-4th synchronizer diameter has been increased. These improvements enable smoother shifts up to the engine's heightened rev limit of 7,500 rpm.

A six-speed Activematic automatic transmission that's newly available with the MX-5 for Europe incorporates two new control technologies. One is Direct Activematic (DAM), which allows the driver to quickly change gears using paddles on the steering wheel while still driving in the "D" range. It was developed to enable quick downshifts for three common situations: decelerating using engine braking on a downhill road; accelerating after decelerating into a corner; and overtaking another vehicle. (The driver does not need to select the "M" range before shifting down.) Since Direct Activematic enables engine braking and acceleration more quickly and easily, it makes driving easier and more fun. The other new technology is Active Adaptive Shift (AAS), by means of which the transmission control system evaluates the driving situation from factors such as the road's gradient and twistiness and the accelerator and brake inputs. When the system recognizes enthusiastic driving, it actively promotes upshifts and downshifts to realize a linear and sporty response that matches the driver's intentions.

Handling that Further Heightens the Jinba Ittai Feeling

The MX-5 development team also heightened the Jinba Ittai feeling by comprehensively reining attributes in the category that's called "cornering" on the fishbone chart. A key refinement was made to the front suspension knuckles. The ball joints' vertical pivot position was changed to reduce the height of the front roll centre by 26 mm. This decreased fluctuations in the vertical loading on the outer wheel during cornering manoeuvres. Consequently, roll movements caused by steering inputs feel more natural and the car's response to steering inputs is more linear. In combination with newly tuned suspension components, the revision improves the Jinba Ittai steering feel whereby the driver can precisely trace desired lines. It also realizes a higher-quality ride by making the yaw and roll feel more natural.

An Athletic Design that Heightens Aerodynamic Performance

To improve handling stability, quietness, and high-speed fuel economy, the MX-5 development team drew on Mazda's expertise in incorporating aerodynamic improvements into styling that's faithful to a design theme. The main aerodynamic improvements are as follows:

• air guides that protrude downward from the left and right corners of the front bumper
• specification vehicles, except some specific markets)
• protruding rear combination lamps
• wider front tyre deflectors

As a result of these improvements, both the soft-top version and Roadster Coupe have top class aerodynamics for their class.

Comfort and Utility

A Quieter Ride in the Roadster Coupe

Given the Roadster Coupe's more upscale positioning, the development team produced a quieter ride by reducing wheel resonance and adding damping and sound-insulating materials, such as urethane filling in the front suspension crossmember and damping material in the front part of the roof. Thanks to these improvements, road noise in the cockpit on a coarse road surface with the roof closed is 2.1dB lower than before. Quietness is further promoted in the Roadster Coupe and soft-top version by stiffer door modules and by newly added reinforcements on the No. 2 crossmember.

New Equipment for Comfort and Convenience

• Bose® sound system (optional): New features such as a six channel equalizer (with separate channels for the woofers and the door-mounted mid-to-high frequency speakers) achieve clearer, more dynamic sound reproduction.
• AUX jack: Third-party audio devices can be connected to the car's audio system. There is also a 12V power socket.
• Bluetooth telephone system (optional): Hands-free communication is possible without even having to physically plug in Bluetooth-capable mobile telephones. The driver can make and accept calls using voice commands or controls mounted on the steering wheel.
• Improved seat heaters (optional): Shorter warmup times are complemented by five levels of adjustability (as opposed to the previous on/off control) for greater comfort.
• Storage for small items: The divider that forms cupholders in the centre-console can be removed to create a handy box for small items. There is also a net pocket on each door.

Ecology and Safety

Enhanced Environmental Performance for Greater Enjoyment

Mazda regards efforts to reduce fuel economy and exhaust emissions not only as a vital way to protect the environment but also as a way to make sports cars more fun to drive.

With the latest MX-5 facelift, Mazda engineers addressed fuel economy by reducing the rolling resistance of the tyres, reducing engine friction, and revising the transmission gear ratios. Lower exhaust emissions were achieved through upgraded precious metals in the catalytic converter. The MX-5's improved emission performance complies with Japan's SU-LEV standard, the European Union's Stage 4 standard, and the United States' ULEV2 standard.

To promote eco-driving, the digital display on the instrument panel can show the average fuel consumption (The display can be toggled between average fuel consumption, a double tripmeter, and the outside air temperature.)

Rigorous Attention to Safety

Improved active safety on the European MX-5 is realized by expanded availability of a tyre pressure monitoring system and by more models featuring Dynamic Stability Control as standard equipment. The MX-5 facelift will be introduced on the European market in early spring 2009.

2009 Mazda 6 Specifications

Engine
Type	2.5-liter inline-4
Engine	top-of-the-line V6
Horsepower	170 hp
Torque lb-ft (Nm) at RPM	67 lb.-ft
Displacement cu in (cc)	151.9
Compression Ratio	9.7: 1
Exterior
Width	72.4 in
Length	193.7 in
Wheelbase	109.8-in
Performance
Fuel Economy EPA city/highway mpg (l/100 km)	21 mpg city/29 mpg highway

Base Price: 2009 Mazda 6: $18,550

The 2009 Mazda 6 Gets Full Redesign, New Engines

Mazda Reveals the All-New Mazda6 for the North American Market

[Courtesy Mazda Press Release]

- Designed and engineered specifically for North American customers -

HIROSHIMA, Japan-Mazda North American Operations (MNAO) today revealed the all-new Mazda6 and confirmed that sales will start in late summer 2008.

Specifically developed for North America, the all-new Mazda6 inherits and evolves the sporty styling and superb driving performance of the first generation Mazda6. The North American model features a larger body and greater engine displacement to meet the particular demands of the North American market. Handling and comfort were also optimized for North American road conditions.

"Following the CX-7 and the CX-9, the 2009 North American Mazda6 is the third model that was designed and engineered specifically to meet the needs of our North American customers," said Daniel T. Morris, Mazda's senior managing executive officer in charge of marketing and overseas sales. "The midsize sedan segment is extremely competitive and the Mazda6 will be up against some of the best vehicles in the industry.

"The all-new Mazda6 offers plenty of Mazda's characteristic Zoom-Zoom vitality and we believe it will succeed in the challenging North American market. We will continue to deliver products that reflect our customers' needs and build Mazda's brand image in order to achieve the goals set out in our mid-term Mazda Advancement Plan."

The all-new North American Mazda6 will be powered by Mazda's newly developed 2.5-liter inline four-cylinder (I4) engine and its 3.7-liter V6 engine. The I4 engine is already available in the European and Japanese Mazda6 models and the V6 promises an exhilarating ride, coming straight from the 2008 North American Truck of the Year, the Mazda CX-9. A six-speed manual and a five-speed automatic transmission with manual-shift mode will be available for the I4 engine. The V6 will be coupled to a six-speed automatic transmission with manual-shift mode. The North American Mazda6 will be available only as a four-door sedan.

The all-new North American Mazda6 will be produced at AutoAlliance International in Flat Rock, Michigan, a joint venture with partner Ford Motor Company, as it has been since the first Mazda6 launched in 2002.

Headquartered in Irvine, Calif., Mazda North American Operations oversees the sales, marketing, parts and customer service support of Mazda vehicles in the United States, Canada and Mexico. Operations in Canada are managed by Mazda Canada, Inc., located in Ontario, Canada, and in Mexico by Mazda Motor de Mexico in Mexico City.

Acura Advanced Sports Car Concept

Acura Advanced Sports Car Concept

Acura Advanced Super Exotic Sports Cars

Acura Advanced Image

Dodge Demon Concept Cars

Dodge Demon Concept Cars

Dodge Demon Cars of the future

Dodge Demon Part in the cars

2008 Ferrari 430 Scuderia Specifications

Chassis
Brakes F/R:	ABS, vented disc/vented disc
Tires F-R:	n.a.
Driveline:	Rear Wheel Drive
Engine
Type:	V8
Displacement cu in (cc):	263 (4308)
Power bhp (kW) at RPM:	510(380) / 8500
Torque lb-ft (Nm) at RPM:	n.a.
Redline at RPM:	n.a.
Exterior
Length × Width × Height in:	n.a.
Weight lb (kg):	2755 (1250)
Performance
Acceleration 0-60 mph s:	n.a.
Top Speed mph (km/h):	n.a.
Fuel Economy EPA city/highway mpg (l/100 km):	n.a.

The Ferrari 430 Scuderia will be Unveiled by Michael Schumacher

The new Ferrari 430 Scuderia will join the road-going V8 line-up alongside the F430 coupe and the F430 Spider. The 430 Scuderia is a truly high-performance 2-seater berlinetta which demonstrates how Ferrari's Formula 1 know-how is carried across to its production cars.

The new model is a special series based on the F430 and is aimed specifically at Ferrari's most passionate and sports-driving oriented clients. Development focused on light weight, minimum trimmings and innovative technology. All this to exalt the car's extremely high-performance and ability to thrill the driver.

The new car can count on an extremely low weight-to-power ratio of just 2.45 kg per bhp thanks to a low dry weight of just 2755 lb - 220 lb less than the F430 - and to the naturally-aspirated 4308cc V8's 510 bhp at 8500 rpm.

Superb performance both on and off the track is assured by a series of cutting-edge solutions. There is the latest software - F1 Superfast - which reduces gearchange times to just 60 milliseconds, and new traction control which, for the first time, combines the E-Diff electronic differential and the F1-Trac traction and stability control in a single integrated system.

Vehicle dynamics, control and performance thus represent the zenith of Ferrari's achievements in terms of developing road-certified sports cars.

The 430 Scuderia will be officially unveiled by Michael Schumacher at the IAA Motor Show in Frankfurt in September 2007.

2007 Ferrari F430 Spider Specifications

Chassis
Brakes F/R:	ABS, vented disc/vented disc
Tires F-R:	225/35 ZR19 - 285/35 ZR19
Driveline:	Rear Wheel Drive
Engine
Type:	V8
Displacement cu in (cc):	263 (4308)
Power bhp (kW) at RPM:	490(360) / 8500
Torque lb-ft (Nm) at RPM:	343(465) / 5250
Redline at RPM:	n.a.
Exterior
Length × Width × Height in:	177.6 × 75.7 × 48.6
Weight lb (kg):	3351 (1520)
Performance
Acceleration 0-62 mph s:	4.1
Top Speed mph (km/h):	>193 (>310)
Fuel Economy EPA city/highway mpg (l/100 km):	n.a.

Base Price: 2007 Ferrari F430 Spider - $192,484

Ferrari F430 Spider Debuts at Geneva Motor Show

Ferrari's range of V8-engined sports cars has been joined by the new F430 Spider when it was unveiled at the Geneva Motor Show (March 3-13 2005).

Ferrari's new drop-top includes a number of important technical features which give hints of the car's F1 pedigree, starting with the innovative electronic differential (E-diff) - first developed by the racing division for the Scuderia's all-conquering F1 cars - which improves traction and roadholding under all conditions. The Spider also features the steering wheel-mounted rotary switch, known to the Scuderia's drivers as the 'manettino', which allows the car's set-up to be adjusted easily and quickly.

Formula 1 is again the inspiration for the development of the company's road cars. Designed by Pininfarina, the F430 Spider's sinuous lines, in fact, were fine-tuned using state-of-the-art computer aerodynamics simulation programmes usually employed exclusively by the F1 team.

The F430 Spider's shape is the result of lengthy testing and features a pronounced rear lip spoiler which is integrated into the end of the engine cover, new bigger rear air intakes that emphasize the car's muscular stance, and a new rear valance that incorporates a diffuser of competition derivation. The engine itself is attractively set below a glass cover.

Just like the berlinetta, the new Spider incorporates two elliptical air intakes that feed the front radiators. The shape of the intakes is inspired by Ferrari's racing cars from the 1961 season, especially the 156 F1 which Phil Hill drove to that year's F1 Championship title. The spoiler that joins the two intakes at their bottom edge is highly effective in directing the central air flow towards the flat underbody.

The F430 Spider boasts a compact, fully automatic electric hood that allows the engine to be seen in all its glory at all times and which, once lowered, takes up relatively little space, despite the uncompromising central-rear engine layout.

The F430 Spider is powered by Ferrari's new 490 bhp, 4,308 cc 90° V8 which is capable of pushing the car to a top speed of over 193 mph and covering the 0-62 mph sprint in just 4.1 seconds. This lightweight and highly compact power unit produces a specific output of 114 bhp per litre with a weight-to-power ratio of 6.4 lbs (2.9 kg) per horsepower (dry weight).

2007 Ferrari F430 Specifications

Chassis
Brakes F/R:	ABS, vented disc/vented disc
Tires F-R:	225/35 ZR19 - 285/35 ZR19
Driveline:	Rear Wheel Drive
Engine
Type:	V8
Displacement cu in (cc):	263 (4308)
Power bhp (kW) at RPM:	490(360) / 8500
Torque lb-ft (Nm) at RPM:	343(465) / 5250
Redline at RPM:	n.a.
Exterior
Length × Width × Height in:	176.6 × 75.7 × 47.8
Weight lb (kg):	3196 (1450)
Performance
Acceleration 0-62 mph s:	4.0
Top Speed mph (km/h):	>196 (>315)
Fuel Economy EPA city/highway mpg (l/100 km):	11/16 (n.a.)

The 360 Modena Successor: Ferrari F430

Transmission and F1 Gearbox

The F430 features a new cast-aluminum transmission casing that houses the gearbox in unit with the electronic differential and bevel type final drive, as well as the engine oil tank. The 6-speed gearbox incorporates multicone synchronizers, while both the 6th gear and the final drive have been lengthened to make the most of the greater power and torque of the new engine. The F430 is available with either the classic Ferrari open-gate manual gearbox or with the F1 paddle shift that Ferrari has continuously developed and refined over recent years for its road-going berlinettas. Thanks to that ongoing development, Ferrari's F1 gearbox for the F430 is state of the art, introducing a number of important modifications: thanks to inputs from the engineers on the Gestione Sportiva racing side, the F1 gearbox management incorporates a new control strategy which further perfects gearchange speed and smoothness under hard use. Changing gear takes just 150 milliseconds, as measured by the 'hole' in acceleration during the change (intended as the overall time from declutching, changing gear to releasing the clutch).

Interior

The F430's interior has been re-designed for improved driver ergonomics. The instruments are housed in a new binnacle, and this design together with the layout of the dashboard underlines the care that has gone into grouping all the major controls in front of the driver within easy reach. In the driver's direct line of sight are the rev counter, which features new graphics with a choice of either a red or yellow background and a new metal surround, the digital readout of the gear ratio selected (F1 version) and a multi-function display. The same uncompromising approach to driver control was the inspiration behind mounting the starter button and manettino on the steering wheel. The wheel itself is new with the upper rim flattened to improve visibility in the straight ahead position, and the horn pushes are integrated into the inner rim where they can be easily actioned. The interior reflects the advanced technology and materials employed in the car's construction, and can be personalized with carbon-fiber or aluminum inserts. The cockpit is noticeably bigger and the already excellent passenger comfort is subsequently increased thanks to a slimmer central tunnel which houses the gear lever turret on the manual version and the F1 console on the paddle-shift version. There is plenty of space behind the rear seats, with a new electrically operated compartment for oddments storage and catch netting to the rear fire wall. The seats have been redesigned for greater lateral containment and the standard electric seats can be substituted by more sporting items with four-point harnesses to order (depending on markets).

Lumeneo Smera

Lumeneo Smera was introduced at the 2008 Geneva Motor Show. With 144 volt lithium ion battery Lumeneo Smera can go from 0-60mph in eight seconds. The lithium ion battery is supplying the power to the dual rear wheel motors. This concept car is able to transport two passenger up to 93 miles and with 80 mph of top speed. In 2009 Lumeneo plan to produce 250 units of this cool car. The price range is starting at 24,500 euros ($33,000 US).

General Specifications :

First Introduced at : 2008 Geneva Motor Show

Country of origin : France

Dimensions :

Length / width / height : 2380 / 800 / 1450 mm

Doors / Seats : 2 / 1+1

Wheelbase : 1700 mm

Track : 655 mm

Steering diameter : 7 m

Maximum tilting angle : 25 °

Weight (with batteries) : 350kg / 770 lbs

Pneumatic dimensions : 145/70 R14

Engine :

Boot volume : 70 / 150 liters

Motorization Technology : Brushless electric motors with permanent magnets

Max Power : 30 / 40 kW / Hp

Max Torque on wheels : 1 000 Nm

Max Voltage : 144 V

Technology : Lithium

Capacity : 10 kWh

Battery weight : 80 kg / 180 lbs

Speed :

Performances Max speed : 130 kph / 80 mph

0-100 kph / 0 – 60 mph : 8.0 s

Range : 150 km / 90 miles

2008 Saleen Sterling Edition S302E Specifications

Chassis
Springs	Sport-Tuned Coil Springs (F/R)
Shocks and Struts	Front Struts (N2), Rear Shocks (N2)
Sway Bars	1.38" with HD Bushings (F), 0.79" (R)
Wheels (F)	20 in x 9 in
Wheels (R)	20 in x 10 in
Tires	Pirelli P-Zero
Drivetrain
Layout	Front Engine, RWD
Transmission	Close-Ratio 6-Speed Manual Transmission
Differential	3.73:1 MaxGrip™ Speed-Sensitive LSD
Engine
Engine Type	Modular 3-Value SOHC V8
Displacement	5.0 Liters
Horsepower	620 hp @ 6300 RPM
Torque	600 lb-ft. @ 4400 RPM
Bore X Stroke	3.554 in x 3.800 in
Supercharger	Port Matched Series VI Integrated Twin-Screw Supercharger
Exterior
Curb Weight	3645 lbs.
Length	189.1 in
Width	74.0 in
Height	56.0 in
Wheelbase	107.10 in
Performance
Weight Distribution	53/47 (F/R)
0-60 mph	Less than 4 sec

Base Price: 2008 Saleen Sterling Edition - Approx. $100,000

Saleen Sterling S302E: It Doesn't Like to be Called 'Mustang'

No Ford tuner can come close to the pedigree of Saleen Automotive. To celebrate its 25th anniversary as partners with Ford in making the Mustang faster, more stylish and generally actually worth driving, Saleen has released the chromed out Sterling Edition S302E. The uber-Mustang is, in a word, breathtaking.

The Saleen Sterling Edition S302E begins with what amounts to a Mustang GT in an official partnership with Ford Motor Company. But Saleen automobiles are no ordinary Mustangs. They come as highly-polished, fully realized sports cars with the technical knowhow of the recently retired Steve Saleen, responsible for designing the legendary Saleen S7 supercar.

The Saleen Sterling Edition S302E will destroy even a brand new Ford Shelby GT500 from a red light standing start, and is composed enough to be effective at the track as well. Saleen Automotive pulled out all the stops in putting together the Sterling Edition, and just to look at it is to want one, even for those who wouldn't usually touch a Ford Mustang with a ten-foot pole.

SALEEN KICKS OFF THE YEAR IN STYLE WITH THE REVEAL OF THE 25TH ANNIVERSARY "STERLING EDITION"

[Press Release]

The phrase "Saving the best for last" just got an exclamation point. Just when it appeared all the North American International Auto Show reveals were complete, Saleen Automotive unveiled its 25th Anniversary Sterling Edition Ford Mustang.

"At Saleen, automotive passion is more than a catch phrase, it is a lifestyle," said Saleen General Manager, Marques McCammon. "Showcasing our Sterling Edition Ford Mustang at today's Sterling VIP Preview is a demonstration of the things that reflect the way our buyers live. They have a high sense of style, a love for all things performance and an affinity for the exclusive. That is the very theme of the VIP Preview event."

The Sterling VIP Preview was a night full of announcements from Saleen. Among the more significant was the announced move of the Saleen World Headquarters from Irvine, California to Troy, Michigan. "This is a strategic move for the company," said Saleen CEO, Paul Wilbur. "Our Troy facility has one of the most sophisticated low volume paint facilities in North America. When you combine that with the phenomenal automotive talent pool that is available in Michigan, it is a natural step." The executive stated that Saleen will maintain an advanced engineering and administrative staff in the "Golden State" to support ongoing operations, but vision would be driven from Detroit.

No night with Saleen is complete without product and the Sterling VIP Preview was no exception. To commemorate 25 years of producing high performance specialty vehicles, Saleen unveiled the Sterling Edition S302E. This 25 unit limited edition version of the Saleen flagship car will deliver the patented blend of Saleen style, performance and exclusivity that can only be rivaled by Saleen's own S7.

"The Sterling Edition S302E is the cream of the crop," said Saleen General Manger, Marques McCammon. "Saleen is about details and we left none to

chance when we created this car. From the hand painted graphics, to the 16 oz genuine sterling silver serialized dash plaque, this car has it all. This is the very definition of a 100-point car."

Exterior

Each badge is brushed billet, milled with the 25th Anniversary wreath. The car rides on unique 20 inch forged aluminum alloy wheels with a state of the art DurabrightTM corrosion resistant coating. The hand painted gunsight exterior accent aims your attention from the rear of the car to the 25th Anniversary wreath that adorns the hood. The Saleen engineered front carbon wind splitter and rear air diffuser were designed to enhance the aerodynamics of the vehicle. The vehicles sub 4 second 0-60 performance is arrested by massive 15 inch cross- drilled vented rotors that are also unique to the "Sterling Edition".

Interior

The interior of the car is wrapped in luxurious black Alcantara and leather, with silver accent stitching on the door inserts, dash and center console. To commemorate the 25th anniversary, a genuine sterling silver serialized medallion adorns the instrument panel. To insure that the driver can always stay connected, it includes a navigation system and iPod connector.

The car's 620 horses are called into action at the simple push of a button by virtue of the console mounted push button starter, offered for the first time on an E car in this special edition model.

Lifestyle delivery

The "Sterling Edition" is packed with luxury and style that does not stop with the vehicle. In fact, the customer will be welcomed to the brand in a way that is genuine Saleen. "Every Sterling Edition S302E buyer will get the VIP Treatment," says Saleen VP of Sales, Mitchell Gadd.

In an extreme lifestyle statement, Saleen announced that every buyer of the Sterling Edition will receive a first class round trip visit to the plant for a guided tour, dinner with Saleen executives, a photo album and portfolio of the car, letter of authenticity, a serialized car cover, and Saleen apparel. "Saleen is an experience and the Sterling Edition is a highlight of that experience," said McCammon.

"We are anticipating a momentous year, beginning with our "Sterling Edition". We are working on some very exciting projects and are prepared to deliver exceptional, innovative vehicles to the market," said Chris Theodore, Saleen's Vice Chairman and Chief Technical Officer.

ABOUT SALEEN

Since the company's inception in 1984, Saleen has produced over 12,000 complete and EPA certified vehicles, more than any other specialty automobile manufacturer. In addition, Saleen has equipped more than 600,000 vehicles worldwide, further emphasizing their capabilities and commitment to excellence.

A nine-time Manufacturers' Champion in GT sports car racing, Saleen manufactured the American super car , the Saleen S7, as well as the S281 Mustang, S331 Sport Truck and the Saleen/Parnelli Jones Limited Edition Mustang. Saleen's manufacturing facilities are located in Troy, Michigan. The Michigan facility has just completed all paint and assembly of the Ford GT as a special project for Ford Motor Company and currently is providing paint and subassembly for the Dodge Viper SRT-10.

2007 Saleen Mustang Parnelli Jones LE Specifications

Chassis
Brakes F/R:	ABS, vented disc/vented disc
Tires F-R:	275/40 R19 - 285/40 R19
Driveline:	Rear Wheel Drive
Engine
Type:	V8
Displacement cu in (cc):	302 (4947)
Power bhp (kW) at RPM:	370(276) / 6000
Torque lb-ft (Nm) at RPM:	370(502) / 4000
Redline at RPM:	n.a.
Exterior
Length × Width × Height in:	188.0 × 73.9 × n.a.
Weight lb (kg):	n.a.
Performance
Acceleration 0-60 mph s:	n.a.
Top Speed mph (km/h):	n.a.
Fuel Economy EPA city/highway mpg (l/100 km):	n.a.

Base Price: 2007 Saleen Mustang Parnelli Jones LE - Approx. $50,000 (last update: 3/27/2007)

The 2007 Saleen Mustang Parnelli Jones Limited Edition

Specialty automobile manufacturer, Saleen, expands its product lineup and celebrates legendary racecar driver, Parnelli Jones, by announcing the Saleen Mustang Parnelli Jones Limited Edition.

Steve Saleen, President & CEO of Saleen, said, "Parnelli Jones is an American racing icon. In the fifties, sixties, and seventies Parnelli won just about every race that he appeared in, including the Indy 500. 1970 was the year that the SCCA Trans Am Series boasted the most competitive field ever, and Parnelli Jones and his Boss 302 Mustang competed against the likes of Mark Donahue and Dan Gurney, and there he captured the championship. Our relationship began in 1987 when Parnelli raced for me on the Saleen team, and helped us win our first SCCA Manufacturer's Championship at Sebring, Florida. I can't think of any other individual that brings with him the unique connection between championship winning Mustangs and Saleen."

Parnelli Jones commented, "It's a true honor to have a special edition Saleen wearing my name. This impressive car takes me back in time - it makes me want to take it for a run around the track. I'm sure that this car will be an adrenaline-pumping experience for anyone who has the chance to own or drive one. I think that this car is going to evoke nostalgia not only for Steve Saleen and myself, but for everyone that lays their eyes on it."

The Engine

In 1970, spectators wore bell bottom pants and mood rings and watched Parnelli in his Grabber Orange Boss 302 Mustang with black striped hood, cross the finish line to take numerous checkered flags and overall championship.

Today's Saleen Mustang Parnelli Jones Limited Edition reflects the same authentic vintage attitude but comes complete with a new Saleen 302 cid V-8, 3-valve engine. This engine produces a whopping 370 horsepower at 6000 RPM, and with 370 ft-lb of torque at 4000 RPM.

The high compression engine transforms a normal drive into an exciting thrill ride. Awakening the senses, the new Saleen engine is equipped with a high compression, high revving valve train, utilizing forged pistons, rods, and crankshaft and a lightweight, aluminum flywheel. Top performance calibrations are thanks to Saleen's PowerFlash technology.

Also included in this Limited Edition are new Saleen 302 valve covers. Completing the authenticity and providing additional high performance capabilities is the new exhaust system that provides a low- resonating sound that is a legacy of Saleen.

Exterior Design

The new Saleen / Parnelli Jones Limited Edition comes in one color, Grabber Orange. Period correct details include a black striped "shaker" hood, race-style hood pins, black trunk deck, and 302 side stripes.

Completing the overall effect, the new Limited Edition comes with Saleen performance styling including front fascia with racing-style air dam, side skirts, rear fascia, rear 1970 replica wing, trunk insert license plate panel with chrome trim, rear window quarter panels, and a racing-style billet gas cap. Demonstrating further the authenticity of this retro-beauty, Parnelli's racing number, 15, removable and reusable static cling race decals, and the Ford blue oval are displayed - just like the one that appeared on Parnelli's 1970 Boss 302 Mustang.

Only 500 Examples Will be Produced

"Parnelli Jones is an extraordinary example of a legend maker. Even after nearly four decades, his abilities and visions for the sport has very few equals. I anticipate that Parnelli's racing spirit will come alive in every Saleen / Parnelli Jones Limited Edition that we manufacture. Capping on our motto, 'Power in the Hands of a Few,' we will produce a limited number - up to only 500 - in honor of Parnelli winning the Indy 500 in 1963," said Steve Saleen.

Availability and Pricing

Certified Saleen Ford dealers throughout the United States are now taking orders for the Saleen Parnelli Jones Limited Edition that will be distributed this Fall as a 2007 model. MSRP is estimated to be in the mid-to-high $50,000 for this limited production vehicle. Taxes, designation charges, and other fees may apply.