Wednesday, August 31, 2011
Porsche is Planning a Ferrari Fighter
In an interview with a German newspaper, Mueller said, “It always irritated me that the [most expensive] 911 tops out at 250,000 euros ($360,000) and then the 918 continues starting at 750,000 euros ($1,090,000)…In between, Ferrari moseys around relatively comfortably and without any competition.”
Mueller continued, saying, “That is where we need to be. There is still space for a larger sports car, one like the 959 that we built in the 1980s.” If such a model were produced, Mueller says it could cost between 250,000 and 400,000 euros ($581,000). Automobile, our sister publication, recently went inside Porsche to discover more about the company’s Ferrari fighter, codenamed the 960.
Rather than being a derivative of Porsche’s upcoming halo car, the 918, the 960 will lead development of the German automaker’s new platform, known internally as MSB-M, or modular sports car matrix, mid-engine. This platform will underpin several cars from the Volkswagen Group, including the VW Blue Sport, the next Lamborghini Gallardo and Murcielago, and even the 2018 Porsche 911, through a special version of the platform configured for rear-engine layout. As the platform will be widely used throughout VW’s brands, it will be able to accommodate many engine types, from in-line to boxer layouts, and V-6s to V-12s.
Porsche may opt for a twin-turbo flat-six engine for the 960, as opposed to a V-8 or V-12 found in more conventional supercars. This would save space, lower the car’s center of gravity, and also allow Porsche to pull from its existing parts bin. A twin-turbo six-cylinder could also be more efficient than a V-8 or V-12, while still offering ample power – as much as 600 hp and 555 lb-ft of torque.
Reuters says Porsche has planned three new models for the coming years, including the small Cajun SUV, an entry-level, mid-engine roadster expected to channel the spirits of the 550 Spyder and 356 Speedster, and a smaller version of the Panamera four-door GT. The 960 is still awaiting the green light, but such determination from Porsche’s CEO could mean the company’s future lineup could soon increase to eight models. Porsche’s mid-engine Ferrari competitor could go into production as early as 2015.
Tuesday, August 30, 2011
2012 Porsche 911 GT3 RS 4.0 - Official Photos and Info
For the GT3 RS 4.0, Porsche uses the crankshaft of the 911 GT3 RSR race car; the connecting rods are made from titanium. We are happy to report that the only transmission available is a six-speed manual—no PDK dual-clutch transmission here. Porsche swapped the hood, fenders, and seats for carbon-fiber bits, and used lighter carpeting—some markets also will get a plastic rear window—cutting weight to 2998 pounds, 160 fewer than the RS we had at our last Lightning Lap. The RS 4.0 also gets a unique rear wing and air deflectors on the front fascia.
Wait. Where’s the Gain?
The 193-mph top speed is no improvement over the other GT3 models, and neither does Porsche claim the 4.0 will be any quicker than the, um, “basic” GT3 RS. The company quotes the same 3.8 seconds to 60 as it does for the RS. But we already clocked a GT3 at 3.8 seconds in that sprint. Figure on the RS 4.0 doing the deed in around 3.6—a rear-drive 911 can only be so quick.
This isn’t simply a last-minute update to the GT3 RS. It is a limited-production run of just 600 copies globally. The standard color is Carrara White, accentuated with silver and red striping on the front fascia, sides, hood, and roof—and huge "Porsche" lettering on the rear spoiler. The multifarious gimmicks and luxuries of many other 911s are markedly absent—there is no stop watch on the top of the dashboard, no cupholder, no navigation system, and, as mentioned before, no PDK.
This, of course, means the GT3 RS 4.0 will be even more expensive than the non-numbered RS. The 4.0 should set you back at least $185,000 when it hits U.S. showrooms later this year, about $70,000 more than a regular 911 GT3 and still $50,000 more than the GT3 RS. You'll probably still be lucky to get one.
Click here for more pics: http://www.caranddriver.com/news/car/11q2/2012_porsche_911_gt3_rs_4.0-official_photos_and_info/gallery
Sunday, August 28, 2011
New Hard Carry Travel Suitcase From MUJI Is Ideal For Frequent Fliers
Frequent travelers have a hard enough time fitting their clothes, shoes, accessories and toiletries into their regular carryall bags. A new travel suitcase promises to eliminate at least some of your packing woes. The new Hard Carry Travel Suitcase 56l from MUJI could prove to be a good investment for frequent fliers who regularly travel for more than just a couple of days.
The only problem with this cool travel suitcase is that it is too large to be considered a carry-on. Its dimensions of 26.8 inches x 17.7 inches x 9.1 inches indicate that users will have to check in this otherwise convenient piece of luggage.
The Hard Carry Travel Suitcase comes with TSA-approved lockable zippers and has sufficient compartments to make packing easier. This high-end travel suitcase from MUJI is priced just shy of $200 at $197.50. Moreover, they are available in three colors: Black, Grey and Khaki.
Saturday, August 27, 2011
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