FT86 Mods, Pt III – Option’s May Feature

And rounding out our weekend of FT86 news, here are scans from Option Magazine’s May 2012 feature on preliminary 86 tuning.  Above is an overview of parts in development by Ings, Varis, Chargespeed, and more.

 Here are parts from the forthcoming HKS FA20 engine.

The Godzilla's

Classic NSX

 

Nissan GTR That’s Far From the Norm

Every once in a while, a car comes along that seems to be perfect in every way: amazing looks, spectacular performance, and of course an awesome price. The Nissan GTR was that car, and continues to be that car. When the most recent R35 body style came out, I remember Nissan making claims that it was “untuneable”, even to the extent of cutting off aftermarket suppliers from making parts for the car until it was available worldwide. As we can all see now, it takes a lot more than that to stop the tuning world. In a few short years we’ve come to accept them yet again as amazing tuning platforms, capable of attacking road courses as well as the strip with spectacular results.

2012 Toyota FT-86: New Photos Surface Online

When we brought you the first brochure images of the production version of the JDM Toyota FT-86 coupe on Thursday, we rightfully assumed that we should see more pictures of the rear-wheel drive model in the coming weeks before the official presentation at the 2011 Tokyo Motor Show on November 30.

Better make that a little over 24 hours as we just discovered yet another collection of scanned images on a Japanese forum, providing us with an even better look at the exterior design of Toyota's mainstream sports car.

While the previous photos showed us a Modellista-prepped version, this time we have the standard FT-86 with or without some optional accessories such as the front panel air vent trims and rear diffuser accents.

We can't say that we understand what's written in the brochure (any help from our Japanese readers would be appreciated), but in one page it is evident that Toyota says that the styling of the FT-86's window line is inspired by the classic 2000GT from the late 1960's.

As we've previously reported, the FT-86 will go on sale worldwide next year with a single engine option, a Subaru-sourced 2.0-liter boxer engine hooked up to either a standard six-speed manual gearbox or an optional 6sp automatic transmission.

Head down to check out the latest pictures plus a couple of videos we found on the FT-86 by Gazoo Racing from this month's VLN endurance racing championship at the Nürburgring circuit.

Honda CEO Confirms New NSX and “Hot” 2012 Civic Type R

Last April, we told you about Honda CEO Takanobu Ito's plans for a successor to the much-missed NSX supercar. Ito had then hinted that the “new NSX” would be more environmentally friendly, possibly using a hybrid powertrain like the Japanese firm's new small coupe, the CR-Z.

On the sidelines of this year's Frankfurt Motor Show, Ito-San reaffirmed the company's commitment to build an NSX successor.

“I spent part of my early career at Honda developing the NSX, and specifically the aluminium body," Ito told reporters from UK's Autocar. "I really enjoyed the experience and learned much, so my wish is that Honda engineers have the experience of developing a sportscar like the NSX in the future. Within Honda, our engineers are already looking at developing such a car,” he added.

Ito was not willing to give away any information other than that the new model would be quite different compared to the old NSX.

“The original NSX was about high power but also about good driving experience. Today power-to-weight is what we have to focus on. The NSX was known for its aluminium body, so when we develop our new sportcar we don’t want to copy Ferrari for power, but to also chase efficiency as well," Ito said.

This is the second coming of the NSX successor: in 2003, Honda displayed the HSC concept pictured here at the Tokyo Motor Show, hinting at a production model. Indeed the company was scheduling a 2010 launch, but the plan was cancelled by then-Honda CEO Takeo Fukui in the middle of the economic crisis.

The high-tech supercar isn’t the only performance model that Honda is developing at the moment. The 2012 Civic's chief engineer, Mitsuru Kariya said that a hot version is also under development.

It seems like Honda’s management changed its mind because it initially denied planning such a version as it didn’t fit in its new, “green” image.

“The performance version is already under discussion”, said Kariya. “We know the Type R was a big success, and we are looking for a car developed in that direction. Whether it will be called Type R is not certain though.”

It’s OK, Mr. Kariya, as long as you stay true to the hardcore character of the original. After all, a rose by any other name would still smell as sweet.

BMW M3 E92

Design :
A softened design compared to the sedan version, and, as always, the work of Chris Bangle. Some like it, others don't, but it's up to each and every individual to decide. Our opinion is pretty critical when compared to the previous model (E46) that we found closer to perfection. No matter what, the E92 M3 has got a package designed to impress thanks to a deeper front bumper with three large air ports, a domed bonnet, widened fenders, and an extended lower rear bumper with four chrome pipes. If you want more there's the optional carbon fiber roof just waiting for you.

Interior :
The main disappointment of the whole car. Yes, a couple M logos are to be seen here and

there, but all in all, the interior is too similar to other 3 Series BMWs and we were left wishing for a little something more. The regular BMW 3 Series has an interior quality slightly below other premium German manufacturers, and this problem is also true with the M3. Thumbs down for the Mdrive System, even though it's said to have been re-worked, it still is a pain to use.

On the road :
A couple more cylinders and you enter a new world. Accelerations are strong and impressive, the car is literally ready to take off. Just push a little on the right pedal and you'll be amazed at how powerful this car is. Each acceleration will stick you to your seat, and as far as we are concerned... Lord...! We love it!!
On the downside engine sound is disappointing, it whines like it's supercharged, far from what usual German and American V8s sound like. TCS is your friend in the M3, even though it can be manually adjusted, it's always safer to put on some gas on the straight lines unless you want to find yourself going in the wrong direction... That said, driving in rough conditions like rain or snow will require a lot of attention from the driver. Braking also failed to impress us as its power rapidly fades... Again it seems that BMW put more into acceleration than braking power.
Final words :
The BMW M3 is an exceptional car and its new V8 engine has got enough to keep you ahead of 95% of what's legally cruising the road... But at this price many may go for the Audi RS4, safer and easier to drive, or the C63 AMG from Mercedes, or... the even cheaper new Godzilla Nissan GT-R which, despite a relative lack of image, offers the performance of a supercar.

Identity :
A couple of lucky E46 GTR owners already had the chance of testing what a V8 engine can do in an M3, and now there's no turning back. The M3 definitely goes V8 and leaves the iconic straight 6 in charge of less powerful (yet excellent) vehicles in BMW's range, such as the 330i.

Despite the 6 cylinder motor's excellent performance, it was about time for BMW to move to a V8 for the 3 Series as Audi (S/RS) and Mercedes-Benz (AMG) made that move a while ago.

Headlines :
420HP V8, rear wheel drive.
4.61m long and a weight of 1655 kg.
Six speed gearbox, SMG III with a twin clutch in a near future.
0 to 100 km/h : 4’’8,
Top speed : 250 km/h ( electronically limited ).

Nissan - The New 2011 GTR R35

Nissan today announced the launch of the 11MY Nissan GT-R, which goes on sale November 17th at Nissan dealers nationwide in Japan.

For 11MY, GT-R features improved engine output and torque, greater fuel efficiency, revised handling, a refreshed exterior with improved aerodynamics, revised interior treatment and new wheels and tires. The large number of enhancements for the new model year is part of the continuous advancement of the GT-R design, technology and performance since its debut in December 2007. Nissan has also enhanced the level of after-sales support for GT-R owners, providing even greater value for customers.

The "World of GT-R" expands again this year with the addition of a racing circuit use-only "Club Track" edition and an ultra-exclusive "EGOIST" version that can be custom-ordered according to the precise desires of each individual customer. The complete 11MY Nissan GT-R model lineup now includes six versions - the "Pure edition," "Black edition," "Premium edition," "SpecV," "Club Track" and "EGOIST" - allowing customers to choose the exact level of dynamic performance and style to meet their various needs.

The 11MY Nissan GT-R will also be released in North America, Europe and other regions after February 2011. Nissan is considering introducing EGOIST in Europe and the Middle East, and the Club Track edition in Europe as well.

11MY Nissan GT-R Overview
Developed under the theme of offering the "world's best multi-performance and responsive driving pleasure," every area of the GT-R has been carefully rethought or retuned for 11MY. The changes range from greater body stability and strength and improved aerodynamics performance to a sportier interior and enhanced performance. Following are the key enhancements of the creative GT-R design.

1. Mechanism
Engine and Transmission Enhancements

* By modifying the boost pressure of the turbocharger, valve timing and air mixture ratio, reducing intake air resistance by enlarging the inlet pipe diameter, and reducing exhaust air resistance through use of an enlarged section of exhaust pipe, fuel economy is improved to 8.5km/L (10-15 mode) or 8.6km/L (JC08 mode).
* At the same time, the engine output is significantly improved to 390kW(530ps)/6,400rpm with maximum torque of 612N・m(62.5kgf・m) from 3,200 to 6,000 rpm. A new red color engine cover is used to demonstrate its greater performance.
* Cleaner emissions are realized through adopting an ultra-low precious metal catalyst and ECM with high-capacity microprocessor - achieving SU-LEV certification levels (emitting 75% fewer emissions than Japan's 2005 exhaust emission standards).
* A new SAVE mode is adopted, which optimizes driving torque and modifies the shift schedule to improve actual fuel economy when driving highways or open roads. This mode also helps reduce ankle fatigue.
* Starting performance while selecting "R mode" for the transmission and VDC-R is improved.
* To control tight corner braking phenomenon, which can occur when starting the vehicle while turning the steering wheel, 2WD mode is added to temporarily shift to 2WD driving.
* When the vehicle speed is below 10km/h and the steering wheel is turned more than halfway.

Body Strengthening

* A highly rigid, lightweight strut supporting bar, made of carbon composite with aluminum honeycomb material, is installed in the partition wall of the engine compartment. By linking the right and left struts to quickly receive suspension input, the vehicle body's responsiveness to driving operation is enhanced.
* An additional support member is installed in the passenger side of the instrument panel. Responsiveness of the vehicle body is further improved by enhanced rigidity for connection with the engine compartment.
* For further production accuracy, the fitting precision of the body panels is enhanced and a higher-precision G sensor is utilized in checking the instrument panel during the vibration testing of each vehicle body.

Suspension and Braking Modifications

* For the front suspension, the lever ratio of the springs, shock absorbers and stabilizer bar is modified to improve the vertical load response of the tires. Front caster angle is increased from 5°35 to 6°00 to improve tire road holding ability when turning and stability while driving straight.
* For the rear suspension, toe performance is modified by changing the roll center height to a lower position in order to improve tire grip while making turns and to better communicate driving feel.
* An aluminum free-piston shock absorber design is newly developed which generates more precise damping force to constantly provide stable road holding and a load shift that quickly responds to driver's intention. Reduced friction in the shock absorbers provides high quality, smooth ride comfort.
* A thin, large-diameter rotor (Φ390) developed uniquely by Nissan is adopted to improve braking force, fade resistance, pedal control ability and extend brake rotor life for sporty driving.

Wheels and Tires

* The 11MY GT-R also features newly designed, lighter weight and more rigid forged aluminum-alloy wheels. Made by Rays, the wheels help improve tire responsiveness to vertical load. Knurling inside the wheel is modified to avoid deviation of tire rotation direction caused by the higher engine output. On the wheel surface, a new Hyper Blue Black Chrome color is adopted, which expresses high quality and high-performance feel. The wheels' deep gloss is created by utilization of a five-layer coating process.
* The Dunlop SP SPORT MAXX GT 600 DSST CTT tires have a new compound to improve tire grip. With renewed structure and improved tread and sidewall rigidity, straight-line stability in rutted roads is enhanced.

2. Design
Exterior and aerodynamics

* Even with GT-R's already intense and stable form, its world-leading aerodynamics performance is further improved through a number of significant enhancements. Downforce is increased by about 10%, while the coefficient of drag is further reduced from 0.27 to 0.26.
* Stability is improved by enlarged bumper and grille openings
* The front bumper is newly designed with double rectifier fins and Hyper Daylight with a large-diameter reflecting surface and high intensity white-color LED lights. The design increases front downforce by about 10%, while also reducing air resistance inside the engine compartment. The volume of air that passes through the radiator and cools down the front brakes is also increased.
* Additional plated parts are used for headlight inner panels, enhancing the car's strong presence.
* The redesigned rear bumper features a lower center of gravity than the previous design, created by a sculptured lower portion and extended length. Underfloor cooling performance is enhanced with air resistance reduced by extending a rear diffuser.
* Cooling performance for the muffler is improved and rear downforce is increased by about 10% through use of a new rear bumper air outlet, which helps remove air in the rear wheelhouses.
* A newly designed tailpipe finisher with enlarged diameter is adopted. Rear high-intensity LED fog lamps are provided as standard equipment to help improve visibility from vehicles behind in rainy or snowy conditions.
* Six exterior colors are available, including two new colors: Meteo Flake Black Pearl (2P) and Aurora Flare Blue Pearl (2P). (Both are special colors.)

Interior

* A newly shaped instrument panel pad and navigation system display finisher are adopted, with stitch lines changed to express an enhanced quality feel.
* Real carbon center cluster finisher is used, along with matte black finished switches.
* The GT-R emblem at the center of the steering wheel has a new velour-like coating, expressing a glossy texture. For the paddle shift, a coating exposing the magnesium base material is applied.
* Chrome-plated rings in the console and air-conditioner outlets are finished with a new black smoky coating, expressing greater sportiness.

Seat

* Seats for Pure edition and Premium edition provide an improved level of comfort and safety while cornering. In addition, fatigue levels are reduced for the thighs and lower back by changing the shape, extending the length of seating surface and refurbishing the cushion stroke. A new seatback design seatback is adopted to improve fit.
* The Black edition has leather-appointed bucket seats using a Recaro design based on the structure of Pure edition and Premium edition seats.

SpecV
Modifications applicable only to the SpecV are as follows:

* Engine modifications are the same as the base model with improved maximum power output and torque, as well as enhanced fuel economy, except maximum torque is improved to 612N・m(62.5kgf・m)/ 3,200～6,000rpm (632N・m(64.5kgf・m)/ 3,600～5,600rpm). (Figures in parenthesis are when high geared boost is used.)
* To improve abrasion resistance and stability in racing circuit driving, rear brake pad material is changed and VDC (Vehicle Dynamic Control) balance under braking is modified.
* Dunlop SP SPORT MAXX GT 600 DSST CTT tire is adopted as a standard feature.
* Special Rays lightweight aluminum forging wheels for the SpecV are adopted from the previous model with the color changed to Metallic Black.

Club Track edition
The Club Track edition, developed exclusively for racing circuit use, allows drivers to experience the full performance potential of the Nissan GT-R. Special parts for racing circuit driving are installed by the Authorised Servicefactory Association, which is also in charge of the distribution. A wide range of events and activities for Club Track edition owners will be held as well, including one-on-one competition training sessions given by professional drivers and special races organized mainly by the Nissan GT-R Authorised Servicefactory Association.

EGOIST
EGOIST is the first and only Nissan GT-R in the world exclusively created by Takumi, or "master with greatest skills." Each customer can choose a combination of interior colors among 20 choices. In addition, the Bose® sound system is exclusively tuned according to the driving position of each driver to meet every customer's needs. This is the ultimate expression of the Nissan GT-R.

Interior
Customers can choose a combination of interior colors among 20 choices, four upper area interior colors and 10 lower area interior colors. Interior parts are sent to Seton Company, Inc. Muelheim an der Ruhr in Germany and leather master craftsmen sew and stick carefully selected leather by hand.

Seats
Seats are an exclusive quilted design with single and double stitching combined in a reticular pattern. Enhanced body grip performance (suitable for racing circuit driving), smoothness and fit are all provided.

Wajima Lacquer (Maki-e) Emblem
Wajima Maki-e with deep coloring and glaze created by Mr. Sakae Kubota, an accredited traditional craftsman for Japanese lacquer, is used for the GT-R emblem at the center of the steering wheel. The beautiful coloring of Maki-e changes as time goes by.

Bose® Precision Sound System
Specially developed carbon composite-based woofers, which can cancel vibrations through their high rigidity and damping, are installed. In addition, sound quality is adjusted by Bose® exclusively for each owner, depending on individual driving position.

Carbon Rear Spoiler
EGOIST adopts a dry carbon rear spoiler (also used in the SpecV). Providing stable aerodynamic performance, even when driving at more than 300km/h, the rear spoiler gives an intense look in the rear with its black carbon color.

RAYS Forged Aluminum-Alloy Wheels
Lightweight and highly rigid forged aluminum-alloy wheels, also used in the SpecV, reduce unsprung weight and help provide a supple ride feel. Newly developed five-layer Blue Sword Chrome Color Coating is adopted.

Titanium Exhaust System
EGOIST uses a Titanium exhaust system, also used in the SpecV, providing agile accelerator response and a clear, exhilarating exhaust sound.

Mugen introduces a new Kit for the all New Honda Fit

Just released in Japan, the Honda fit is also now available in a new sportier styling package with Mugen latest “kit”. Like usual, the Japanese tuner added to our little fit the indispensable rear wing spoiler the essence of any Japanese tuned car.

Honda introduced three Fit in Japan with the 1.3G, the Hybrid and the sportier FIT RS, giving the opportunity to Mugen to offer a dedicated kit for each models.
Each kit includes a rework grill front spoiler, side skirt, rear spoiler, a set of wheels and the rear wing spoiler. Giving a sportier look the Stock Fit and Hybrid Fit, the Kit for the Fit RS is by far the most aggressive with a nicely design “Mecha” like front spoiler.

Definitively a must have if you want to give your new Fit a unique look designed by a true master in this field.

The New Mazda "RX-9"

JAPO Motorsport GmbH, Skyline R34 GT-R "JAPO spec", Legends never die

The factory has shown the way: on the occasion of the 20th anniversary of the company's own sports department NISMO (Nissan MOtorsports International), in 2004, the Japanese presented a special edition limited to exactly 20 vehicles of the legendary Skyline R34 GT-R, the "Z-tune". Since the production of the R34 had been stopped three years before, naturally, there were no brand-new cars of this series available at that time. NISMO 20 therefore purchased 20 used cars with low mileage which they dismantled down to their individual components and then re-assembled completely. Up to today the extremely rare Z-tune is known as the spearhead of the R34 GT-R family and was referred to as "the world's best sports car" for a long time - there are many who still do.

"New cars" built in 1999
It is no wonder that JAPO Motorsport GmbH selected this vehicle as the demo object to start a new field of activity: with the specialised restoration of Japanese super sports cars the performance specialists from Essen are opening up new markets - with used vehicles in good condition which, after extensive restoration, almost have the feel of new cars. The individual concept of each project enables the construction of absolute rarities.
Let's get back the vehicle: JAPO Motorsport bought a used Nissan R34 GT-R (constructed in 1999, chassis no. BNR34000500), took it apart down to its basic structure, followed by an extremely complex rebuilding - closely based on the legendary Z-tune model in terms of technology and appearance. The 100 percent restoration of the high performance coupés took 3.5 months, the result being truly breathtaking.

Original Z-tune
Without laying it on thick, original NISMO Z-tune components (front aprons, front mudguards and rear wheel housing) provide the skyline with impressive racing optics. NISMO also offers red rear lights. The expression "Technology made visible" could not be more fitting for anything but the ARC rear diffuser which purists are especially thrilled about due to its edges and naked metal.
Apropos naked metal: the bodywork was completely stripped of paint in the immersion bath, subsequently sealed and painted in the original silver "KY0", formerly reserved for the Z-tune.

HKS-Bi-Turbo-Power
Without exception, JAPO Motorsport refined the legendary RB26DETT straight six cylinder engine bi-turbo motor with a cylinder capacity of 2.5 litres cylinder capacity using the finest HKS components. To name but a few, two GT RS turbo chargers are now blowing into the cylinders with powerful 1.5 bar boost, sparking off a true hell fire. The intercooler, elbows, half pipe, racing suction and chamber kit, injectors, ignition plugs and cylinder head gaskets are also made by HKS. An HKS Fcon Pro standalone engine management system is responsible for the combustion process. Due to its ARC-4 inch titanium exhaust system, you will already hear the JAPO-Skyline from far. Performance measurement resulted in powerful 523 PS and 597 Nm - on the wheel!

Traction with the gearbox is enabled due to a considerably resilient HKS clutch. JAPO Motorsport treated the switch box as well as the rear axle differential with additional coolers by ARC for optimised stability.

There is no doubt about the HKS Hipermax thread chassis - it has absolute cult status among experts. It is supplemented by an ARC strut mounted between the two front strut pillars, which makes the handling of the coupé even more reliable.

Semi slicks and classy interior
Real NISMO Z-tune 9.5x18 inch five spoke wheels are rotating in the GT-R wheel housing. Once they are heated, the Toyo Proxes R888 semi slicks in 265/35R18 offer an extremely high level of grip which should however not be tested to the limits by inexperienced drivers. The serial braking system of the R34 GT-R is often scolded. However, after the installation of a stoptech brake with 355/35 millimetre discs and four-piston callipers in front as well as 355/32 millimetre discs and two-piston callipers on the rear axle, JAPOS's "new vehicle" now offers deceleration values to make the passengers' eyeballs bulge.

The interior is sporty, classy and not purist at all. JAPO Motorsport installed leather/alcantara fittings for the front and back seats, the dashboard, the centre console, door and side panels, the columns, the roof liner as well as the rim of the Sparco steering wheel. The NISMO tachometer unit is scaled up to 320 km/h, the large multifunctional display above the centre console was extensively updated and now even includes a lap timer.

By the way: the vehicle shown, the no. 1 of an edition limited to 20 pieces (just like the grand original) is for sale. For EUR 89,900, which is quite appropriate given the elaborate, new construction, the exclusive Skyline could be yours.

Holden Special Vehicles to celebrate 20 years with limited edition model

Australia’s high performance car manufacturer, Holden Special Vehicles, has launched a limited edition model to help celebrate 20 years of its most successful and enduring nameplate – the ClubSport.

The ClubSport brand first appeared as a permanent fixture within the HSV range back in June of 1990 as a VN HSV ClubSport. Featuring a 5.0 litre engine boasting 180kW and 400Nm only 410 VN series ClubSports were built. The model has evolved today to become the highest selling vehicle in the HSV line-up.

General Manager of Marketing and Communications, Tim Jackson, said this milestone was worthy of celebration for the company.

”If we step back 20 years to 1990, this really was a watershed year for the HSV brand. Not only did we introduce our first ClubSport model in June but 1990 also represented our first Bathurst victory with the Holden Racing Team, who are also celebrating 20 years of success this year.

”The ClubSport has such great history and meaning within our business, and it has always been our purists vehicle - bringing track focused performance and handling to a road vehicle,” Tim Jackson said.

For that reason HSV has taken a ‘back-to-basics’ approach with the 20 years of Clubsport model producing a feature packed high performance vehicle for the true HSV collector.

The 20 Years of ClubSport model will receive as standard HSV’s performance suspension, 20 inch Pentagon wheels in Millennium silver and leather seats for no additional cost.

It will be identifiable by a unique decal on the rear window, which the HSV enthusiast will recognise as a modern iteration of the original VN “CS ClubSport” badge, to commemorate the anniversary of the model.

General Manager of Sales, Darren Bowler, said he expected the car to be well received within the HSV Dealer network and amongst HSV’s strong customer base.

“With this level of value add at no additional cost we anticipate the 100 vehicles will move very quickly and good luck to the person who manages to grab No.1 in the model build.

“City Motors HSV in Perth recorded the highest HSV vehicle sales in 2009 and have been rewarded with the privilege of retailing the No. 1 vehicle to the lucky HSV buyer,” Darren Bowler said.

The 100 limited edition 20 Years of ClubSport models will start appearing in HSV Dealers show rooms across Australia from late June. The vehicle will come with an RRP of AUD$66,690 for manual and AUD$68,690 for automatic.

HSV ClubSport Fast Facts:

• The ClubSport model has been exported to both the UK and the Middle East markets.

• The best build year for ClubSport was 2003 with over 2200 being built.

• When the first ClubSport went on sale (VN), its RRP was AUD$33,320 (man) and AUD$34,140 (auto), and a total of 410 were built. Its engine was a 4987cc V8 producing 180kw ' 400Nm.

• The ClubSport model has had four different engine variants over its lifespan including the original 5.0 litre then the 5.7 litre LS1, 6.0 litre LS2 and the current 6.2 litre LS3.

Subaru announce improved Impreza WRX STI Sedan and Hatchback in Japan

If unfortunately Subaru did not touched to our almighty Impreza WRX STI engine, the Japanese manufacturer comes however with a long liste of modification and offer a nice little facelift.

Our new Impreza, whether we are talking about the sedan or hatchback version comes now with wider body giving a more "powerful" touch to our car, a gorgeously redesigned front bumper and front grill as well as a new colors added to the catalog with the "Plasma Blue Silica".

The interior of our cars has also been slightly retouch with a selection of better materials including a brown leather option covering seats, the steering wheel, and door trims and the central armrest. Subaru also propose a simple, yet sporty black leather and black nylon STI seats if full leather seats are not your cup of tea.
Finally, Subaru revised and tweaked entirely its STI suspension, better stabilizer and bring now our car even closer to the road by reducint the height of our STI of just about 5mm.

In Pursuit of the Perfect Pitch, the Diva LF-A.

It’s a dramatic moment. In an ultra-modern audio studio, a Pearl White Lexus LFA supercar faces its challenger: a lone crystal champagne flute on a pedestal alongside a sleek amplifier. The vehicle’s keyless ignition is engaged, and its rear wheels start spinning on a dynamometer. The engine roars louder and louder, the speedometer clicks past 150, 160, 170 mph. That’s when the glass quivers and shimmies until – kshhh! – the flute shatters in gorgeous slow motion.

In this latest commercial from Lexus, which begins airing today, the LFA’s signature engine sound achieves a feat reserved for virtuoso performers. The unique sound of 552-horsepower engine, which helps the vehicle reach top speeds in excess of 200 mph, shatters the glass without the use of CGI or camera tricks.

“The glass is actually broken by the precision sound of the vehicle,” said Dave Nordstrom, vice president of marketing for Lexus. “We wanted to show just how deep our pursuit of perfection and commitment to innovation goes. The LFA was designed to deliver its own unique exhaust note, and this illustrates that beautifully.”

The Signature Sound
Lexus worked with a team of engineers to enhance the acoustics of the LFA’s 4.8L engine by meticulously tuning its multi-stage exhaust system. From the elegant, yet understated idle rumble to the goosebump-worthy wail of the high-revving V10 engine, the LFA was deliberately engineered to deliver a sound unlike that of any other road car.

After studying the unmistakable soundtrack generated by Formula 1 cars at maximum revs, the team created the signature LFA sound beginning by emphasizing the secondary combustion frequency of the engine and then introducing primary, secondary and tertiary firing harmonics.

The Glass Test
For the commercial titled “Pitch,” Lexus employed a renowned physicist from a leading university to help determine which type of champagne glasses have the same frequency as the LFA’s revving engine. (The pitch of the glass needed to precisely match the pitch of the engine in order for the flute to shatter.) Lexus racecar driver Scott Pruett then “drove” on the dynamometer until the engine revved to 7,000-9,000 rpm—creating just the right frequency of vibration to break the glass. And, yes, the entire crew wore earplugs during filming.

It’s not the first time Lexus has used champagne glasses in an ad. Now an almost iconic expression of the brand’s pursuit of perfection and pioneering innovation, they were originally used in the brand’s launch commercial in 1989. In one of the most memorable TV spots in history, the new LS sedan revved to high RPMs as a pyramid of champagne glasses was carefully stacked on the car’s hood. As the speedometer approached top speeds, champagne was poured into the top glass and elegantly flowed into the glasses below—without spilling a drop or razing the pyramid.

Most recently, in a 2006 commercial, the ground-breaking park assist feature on the LS 460 was engaged to dramatically and precisely parallel park the vehicle between two giant pyramids of champagne glasses—without touching a glass.

Nissan Celebrates the 40th Anniversary of the Z's First National Championship with a BRE 370Z

Forty years ago, the Datsun 240Z arrived in North America and changed the sports car landscape forever. That same year Peter Brock's Southern California-based Brock Racing Enterprises (BRE) racing team claimed the first of its two SCCA (Sports Car Club of America) National Championships at Road Atlanta with that first iteration of the now iconic Z®-car. It was the first time in racing history that a Japanese production racer had defeated the long-established champions from Germany and England in head-to-head competition. That championship win, with driver John Morton at the wheel, firmly established the performance and engineering credibility of the popular Z®.

The #46 championship car carried the now famous red, white and blue BRE paint scheme designed by Peter Brock. In recognition of BRE's multiple championships and the Z®'s first championship, Nissan North America has again teamed with Brock to create an updated rendition of the famous BRE livery, a specially modified 2010 Nissan NISMO 370Z Coupe.

The BRE 370Z will be unveiled at a special BRE Reunion dinner at the Classic Motorsports Mitty at Road Atlanta on Thursday, April 29 and will be displayed throughout the weekend along with a 40th Anniversary Edition 370Z and a large collection of the famous BRE racecars. Brock, Morton and many of the original BRE team members will be in attendance, as the BRE team is being recognized this year as The Mitty's honored historic racing team.

"To be able to gather with many of my old BRE crew members at Road Atlanta this year is a truly special occasion," said Brock. "There will be so many race fans of that era who will join us to celebrate, as well as modern vintage teams which will be bringing their own tribute BRE racers to compete on this fabulous circuit."

The powerful, sculpted shape of the Nissan 370Z gave Brock a dynamic canvas to exercise his design skills and update the BRE livery. He worked closely with the painters to finalize the details and make sure it met his exacting standards. "Because the 370Z has strong, sculpted shapes, I was able to make the livery even bolder and more aggressive," said Brock. "It was good to be in the paint booth working out the details of the design. I look forward to seeing it in a race track setting at The Mitty."

The new BRE 370Z is not just a show car, however, it's built for the track as well. As is appropriate to commemorate the championship car, it was built to current SCCA T2 racecar regulations and will see track duty later this year. It will also be on display at multiple Z® Club events around the country, including ZCon 2010, the annual Z convention, from July 28 to August 1 in Nashville.

About the Nissan 370Z 40th Anniversary Edition

The 370Z 40th Anniversary Edition starts out as a 370Z Coupe Touring model equipped with manual transmission and Sport Package (including SynchroRev Match™, front chin spoiler, rear spoiler, Nissan Sport Brakes, 19-inch Rays forged aluminum-alloy wheels and viscous limited-slip differential) and adds a premium "40th Graphite" exterior color and red leather-appointed interior.

Additional exclusive equipment includes a high-luster smoke wheel finish, red brake calipers and 40th Anniversary badges on the rear hatch and front strut tower brace. Inside, along with the red leather-appointed seats are red door panel inserts, 40th Anniversary seatback and floor mat embroidery, red stitching on the center stack, shift boot and kneepads, smooth leather steering wheel with red stitching and a plaque of authenticity. Only 1000 examples of the 40th Anniversary 370Z will be available in the U.S.

Honda to Complete Production of 4-Door Civic Type R

Honda Motor Co., Ltd. announced it will discontinue production of the 4-door FD2 Civic Type R at the end of August, 2010. A purist's sports car featuring precisely tuned vehicle dynamics, the Civic Type R creates a unity between car and driver for exceptional driving pleasure. The first-generation model launched in 1997 and was produced at Suzuka Factory. The second-generation model following in 2001, was produced at Honda of the U.K. Manufacturing Ltd.* For the current, third-generation Civic Type R that was released in 2007, the production has returned to Suzuka Factory.

Type R models are specially tuned to take full advantage of the potential of the base model and provide a racing car-like driving feel. First offered on the NSX in 1992, the Type R range was added to the Integra in 1995 and to the Civic in 1997.