Sunday, December 15, 2019

Koenigsegg Agera R

It is common knowledge that Koenigsegg makes some of the fastest supercars around. And the latest import from Sweden, the 2011 Koenigsegg Agera R is no exception.

Just how fast is this exotic two-door hyper-machine? Well, suffice it to say that the Agera R is hot on the Bugatti Veyron Super Sport’s tail clocking in at a blisteringly fast 0-168 mph in just 14.53 seconds. Although not yet completely verified, this performance proves that it won’t be long before Koenigsegg overtakes Bugatti and claim for itself the title of being the world’s fastest supercar.

This new car which only debuted at the Geneva Motor Show is so hot that the Royal Family of Oman snatched one up even before it was revealed at the said show. If this is any indication of the kind of future the Agera R will have in the world of supercars, then surely the renowned Bugatti Veyron Super Sport may soon relinquish its throne in favor of the Agera R.
So what makes the Koenigsegg Agera R sizzle?

Performance
Powering the Agera R is a Koenigsegg-developed 5.0L V8 Twin Turbo engine. This robust behemoth generates a mind-blowing 1,115hp at 6,900 rpm all the way to 7,250 rpm. All this power is coupled with an impressive 885lb-ft of torque at 4100rpm. All this impeccable figures translates to a demonic 0-60mph acceleration of just 2.9 seconds!

And the wonders of this car do not stop at the engine specifications alone.

For instance, the Agera R can run on multiple fuel types such as E85 and E100 bio-fuels, as well as regular 95 octane gas. The bio-fuels gives the car maximum horsepower as power output is reduced by about 100hp and 100lb-ft torque when regular fuel is used. Still, that feature is quite surprising by any standards.

Another note-worthy feature of the car is its suspension system. Koenigsegg names it the Triplex rear suspension. This ingenious suspension set up connects a shock absorber and coil spring to each rear wheel. This configuration enables the car to be raised or lowered on demand because each wheel can affect the other as the extra spring partners in series with the normal suspension and dampers to achieve the desired height.

The Agera R is such a unique and powerful supercar that Koenigsegg had to design the wheels and tires specifically for it. The geniuses at Koenigsegg made wheels that act as air-turbines to keep the brakes cool. The tires were made by Michelin specifically for the Agera R to slay the Veyron SS as each tire is capable of reaching 260 mph.

Exterior & Interior
If the beast that powers the Agera R is not enough to make your heart goes racing, then surely its interior and jaw-dropping exterior surely will. Let’s start with the car’s over-all look. The Agera R as shown at the Geneva show reminds one of a cross between the Lotus driven by James Bond as he cruised the Swiss Alps and another movie icon, Speed Racer.

The Agera R is equipped with an intelligently designed and dynamic rear wing. Unlike other wings that lift automatically at high speeds, the Agera R’s wing uses the wind pressure created at high speed to force the wing downward to create wind resistance. Through this, Koenigsegg was able to come up with a smarter and lighter wing that instantly compensates for headwind or tailwind.

Luxury is paramount at the Agera R’s interiors. Satnav, MP3/USB compatibility, climate control, plush leather etc. and more come standard on the Agera R. Quite notable though is its “Top Speed” mode accessible via the infotainment system. Although not a separate key as what is found in the Bugatti, it still provides the driver direct access to unlock the true potential of the Agera R.
You like the Agera R, don’t you? If you have $1.6M to spare, you can have one of the best rides of your life.

Specifications

General Info
Vehicle Type: Super Sport CoupeBase Price: $1,600,000.00
Dimensions
Length: 169 in. (429 cm)Width: 78.6 in. (199 cm)
Height: 44.1 in. (112 cm)Wheel Base: 104.8 in. (266 cm)
Curb Weight: 3163 lbs (1435 kg)Ground Clearance: 3.94 in. (10 cm)
Luggage Capacity: NA cu ftMaximum Seating: 2 people
Performance
Engine: 5.0 liter Twin Turbo V8Compression Ratio: 9.0: 1
Horsepower: 1115 HPMax RPM: 6900 RPM
Torque: 885 lb-ft @ 4100 rpmTransmission: 7-Speed Dual clutch
0-60 mph: 2.9 secondsTop Speed: 260 mph

Thursday, November 28, 2019

Koenigsegg CCR

Introduction

Koenigsegg's design seeks to give an interpretation of strength and flowing motion. The body of a Koenigsegg is formed for one ultimate purpose; speed. Its beauty is the beauty of speed itself. The surfaces are shaped to perfectly aerodynamic, an appearance that does not deceive. All aspects of this machine serve its one fundamental objective. Both the body and chassis of a Koenigsegg are made of extremely lightweight carbon fibre composite, reinforced with Kevlar and aluminium honeycomb. Its race-bred suspension system brings the driver in control of all movement, even under the toughest racing conditions.

The car was styled by Christian von Koenigsegg himself but its shape is largely dictated by aerodynamics. It is not as striking as Pagani or Enzo. At some angles it even looks bulky, like a big whale. But the whale delivers a sense of power that you can't find in its rivals either. Because of the targeted top speed, the body is designed to be so smooth that it has a very low drag coefficient of 0.30. This is much lower than Enzo (0.36), SLR (0.37) and Carrera GT (0.39). Unsurprisingly, the downside is a rather low downforce, just 50kg at the front and 70kg at the back. For comparison, an Enzo generates 775kg while Pagani achieves 500kg.


The chassis is constructed like other supercars. Central to it is a carbon-fiber tub (Koenigsegg called it "semi-monocoque") attached with steel subframe up front and aluminum subframe at the rear for mounting engine, gearbox and suspensions. Chassis rigidity is 28,100Nm per degree despite of the targa roof. The whole bodyshell is also carbon-fiber. Koenigsegg claims a dry weight of 1175kg, which translates to 1275kg when fluid and fuel are loaded, i.e., what we usually refer to "kerb weight". In other words, CC8S is about as light as Pagani and Saleen S7, while being around 100 kilograms lighter than Enzo and Carrera GT.

Koenigsegg CCR Data

Base Price 595000USD
Power 806 hp
Zero to 60 mph 3.2 s
Zero to 100 mph N/A
Top speed 395+ km/h (242+ mph)

History


Koenigsegg, a small Swedish supercar maker, was founded by Christian von Koenigsegg in 1994. He was very young, just 22 years old then, but he succeeded to raise the required money to develop and polish the supercar in the following 8 years until the first CC8S delivered to client in March 2002. That's amazing. His biggest success was to get the Swedish public excited (it's the country's first supercar) and many Swedish component suppliers involved the project.

In 2005 was an unbelievable day: Koenigsegg CCR broke the 7-year-old top speed record held by McLaren F1. The swedish supercar lapped Fiat's Nardo test track at 241.0 mph (387.9 kph), edging out the McLaren's 240.1 mph which was set in 1998.

Technology

The Koenigsegg CC interior seems merged with the exterior; the dynamic flow of lines and surfaces continue into the cabin and naturally bind them together. The layout is strictly symmetrical, with its elements mirrored on the centreline. All details are refined and the surfaces are cleaned of unnecessary obstructions. The focal point is the circular main control panel with its zodiac of multicolour lights and stainless steel buttons. In the very midpoint of the car is the turned gear lever; a flagpole topped by a gemstone carved with the Swedish colours. The main instrument cluster is mounted conveniently around the steering rod so that it always faces the driver. It is designed to be fully visible through the upper spokes of the steering wheel, giving the driver a complete overview.

It includes tachometer, indicators and an LCD unit giving full feed-back to the driver. The metal parts are of machined and anodized aluminium, giving them a frostlike sheen that makes them stand out against the leather background. Suede covers the dashboard and the muscle-like lower sections of the doors, serving to reduce sun glare and provide contrast to the composition. Ergonomics-engineers designed the carbon fibre chairs, which are fitted with Tempur for utmost comfort and flexibility. Their compactness leaves space for tall drivers, and they can be adjusted to offer a perfect driving position. This design fulfills the basic objective; to combine wild racing performance and comfortable everyday driving. Designer Joachim Nordwall came up with the original design concept of this interior

Monday, November 18, 2019

Barabus TKR


Barabus Sportscars, a specialty engine and vehicle manufacturer has created the most powerful supercar. with the launch of the Barabus TKR. The TKR is designed to compete with the worlds fastest, quickest, best handling, most luxurious grand touring cars in the world, whilst providing a distinctly European driving experience for the fortunate few who will own one.

A true supercar, the TKR is capable of over 200 miles per hour. Zero-to-60 time is under two seconds. When designing the TKR, Barabus put drivability on a wide variety of road conditions high on the list of on the list of objectives. And, while the TKR would be at home on any racetrack, it is also a car that can be driven with pleasure on motorways, autobahns and back roads.

The car is to be made in Italy and the power plant is built in the United Kingdom. While the TKR is a true Italian supercar, the vehicle itself reflects a "best-in-practice" philosophy, where Barabus has incorporated superior components from around the globe in order to manufacture the best vehicle possible. The TKR utilizes ceramic brakes as well as numerous high technology pieces from companies located in Italy.

The Barabus TKR architecture begins with a full carbon fibre body and chassis. Suspension is fully independent unequal length "A" arms. The TKR chassis and suspension are straight from the race track; Adonis Alanagan was enlisted to assist with the design and building of the supercar and packaging of the TKR.

The TKR engine is designed and built by Barabus and incorporates modern racing motor technology and engineering. Based on a V8 all aluminium block re-engineered by Barabus, the twin turbo dual intercooler motor generates 1005 horsepower at 6800 rpm; redlining at 7500 rpm. Space age materials and engineering are used throughout:
  • A Barabus Electromech control system computer handles engine management.
  • The ignition system is integrated coil-on-plug.
  • A longitudinally mounted transaxle, with unique Barabus bell housing, transfers power to the wheels.
The gill-like ducting is fully functional, venting air into the engine. The autoclave carbon fibre body panels beautifully incorporate the advanced aerodynamics and including full underside air management, advanced front tray and side skirt designs.
Interior
Upholstery is covered with finest leathers and suedes. Accents are brushed aluminium or carbon fibre and painted body-colour highlights. Air conditioning, adjustable pedals.
The Barabus has a unique interior feature: the rear view "mirror". There is a small video camera mounted in the rear of the car, with the display is shown normally where the rear mirror is situated.
The Barabus TKR is for sale worldwide. Built in Colonella, Italy, the TKR will be sold through select Barabus certified dealers specializing in exotic automobiles. Worldwide volume is projected to be 300-400 cars over the estimated three-year production run.
The Barabus TKR is on sale at its introduction at the famed British Motorshow, with the first vehicles to be delivered to customers in four months. The Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) is £360,000 (668000$).

Thursday, October 10, 2019

Lamborghini Murcielago LP640

Introduction

The new Lamborghini Murcielago LP640 features considerable innovations in terms of body design and mechanics. And also with a new name: Murcielago LP640, which refers to its engine position - longitudinale posteriore - and to its power 640 bhp. Designers and engineers have not only focused on reworking the engine, suspensions, gearbox, exhaust system, brakes and electronics, but also the interior and exterior design; improvements that make the Murcielago LP 640 the most extreme and fastest sports car in its class, placing it at the very top.
Lamborghini Murcielago LP640 Data
Base Price 350,000 USD
Power 631 hp
Zero to 60 mph 3.4 s
Zero to 100 mph 7.8 s
Top speed 205 mph (330 km/h)
Unmistakable Lamborghini Design

In their reinterpretation of the Lamborghini Murcielago LP640, the designers at the Lamborghini Style Centre have remained true to the traditional Lamborghini principles of purism, sport and function. The Murcielago LP640 now appears even more aggressive, with the new front and rear bumpers contributing significantly to its appearance. The exhaust system terminal has been incorporated in the diffuser on the rear bumper. Other innovations include the rear lights, which enhance the distinguishing features of the Murcielago LP640, making it unmistakable even at night. The design of the sides is also worth mentioning: while the area behind the air intake on the right side is practically closed, the left side features a vast aperture for cooling the oil radiator. Together with the aerodynamically defined front and rear, this proves yet again that the shape of a Lamborghini is dictated by function.
More Powerful Engine
The engine of the new Murcielago LP640 has undergone outstanding and radical modification. The increased bore and longer stroke have boosted the displacement of the classic 60° V-engine from 6.2 liters to 6.5 liters. Thus the already extraordinary 580 bhp engine power has now been elevated to an impressive peak of 640 bhp at 8,000 rpm. The 12-cylinder engine reaches a maximum torque of 487 lb-ft at 6,000 rpm.
The new Murcielago LP640 features a modified sixratio gearbox as well as a tougher rear differential and new axle shafts. On request, the e-gear automatic gearbox is also available equipped with the new dedicated “Thrust” (acceleration programme) mode.

Frame and Chassis: Perfect Harmony

The body of the Murcielago LP640 with its characteristic scissor doors is created from the prized union of sheet steel and honeycombed carbon fiber, glued and riveted together.

Driving, handling and stability at high speed are enhanced by new springs and stabilizers, as well as by a redesigned electronically controlled damper. The "antidive" and "anti-squat" features on the axles, which efficiently prevent so-called "brake diving" and "squatting", have not been changed. The two springs on every rear wheel, the single spring on every front wheel and the damper are placed coaxially.

Optional Ceramic Carbon Brakes

The dual hydraulic circuit brake system equipped with a vacuum brake booster ensures considerable deceleration values. The self-ventilating front and rear brake disks measure 380 mm x 34 mm and 355 mm x 32 mm respectively. The control circuit of the four-channel anti-blocking system (ABS) with electronic brake control (DRP) and traction control (TCS) features a new characteristic curve. The system consists in an electro-hydraulic control unit and four speed sensors.

When particularly high braking performance is required, it is possible to equip the vehicle with 380 mm x 36 mm ceramic carbon brakes featuring six-piston brake calipers.

Interior

The seats in the cockpit have undergone the most radical changes; more spacious and equipped with redesigned head restraints, the seats now ensure better comfort. The leather upholstery features lozenge-shaped stitching called "Q-citura". The same design is recaptured on the upholstery on the door panels, the panel between the seats and the engine compartment, and on the roof panel.

A new instrument panel has been developed with lights featuring a new graphic design, flanked by a new Kenwood car radio with a 6.5” widescreen monitor and DVD, MP3 and WMA player. An optional navigation system is also available (standard in Japan).

Friday, September 27, 2019

Ferrari 599 GTB Fiorano

Introduction
With the release of the 599 GTB Fiorano Ferrari is presenting its most powerful V12-engined production car of all time. Amedeo Felisa, Ferrari's Vice General Manager will announce today at the Detroit Motor Show the birth of the latest model developed in Maranello. The new car is a concentration of Ferrari's most innovative and technologically advanced engineering solutions applied to a mid-front engined two-seater coupé. The result is a new benchmark for performance, driver involvement and design. The Ferrari 599 GTB Fiorano boasts class-leading power thanks to its 5,999cc V12 - derived directly from the Enzo Ferrari supercar – which produces no less than 620hp at 7,600 rpm for a weight/power ratio of just 2.6 kg per horsepower. The new car is a concentration of Ferrari's most innovative and technologically advanced engineering solutions applied to a mid-front engined two-seater coupe. The result is a new benchmark for performance, driver involvement and design. The unmistakable Pininfarina design gives the Ferrari 559 GTB aggressive yet elegant lines which are perfectly integrated with the advanced aerodynamic solutions adopted to reach the performance figures attainable. This new model is the symbol of Ferrari's production - the V12 berlinetta - and represents the latest interpretation of a theme that has seen such classics as the 250 GT, the 275 GTB, and the 365 GTB4. The Ferrari 599 GTB Fiorano replaces the last in that great line of berlinettas, the 575M Maranello, of which - together with the 550 Maranello introduced in 1996 - no fewer than 5,700 have been produced, a record for this type of model for the Prancing Horse.
This new model is the symbol of Ferrari's production - the V12 berlinetta - and represents the latest interpretation of a theme that has seen such classics as the 250 GT, the 275 GTB, and the 365 GTB4. The Ferrari 599 GTB replaces the last in that great line of berlinettas, the 575M Maranello, of which - together with the 550 Maranello introduced in 1996 - no fewer than 5,700 have been produced, a record for this type of model for the Prancing Horse.


The Ferrari 599 GTB boasts class-leading power thanks to its 5,999cc V12 - derived directly from the Enzo Ferrari supercar - which produces no less than 620hp at 7,600 rpm for a weight/power ratio of just 2.6 kg per horsepower. Ferrari has adopted the latest evolution in its tried and tested all-aluminium construction technology for the body and chassis.

Ferrari 599 GTB Fiorano Data

Base Price 257,000 USD
Power 620 hp
Zero to 60 mph 3.7 s
Zero to 100 mph N/A
Top speed 205 mph (329.8 km/h)


Technology

The 599 GTB Fiorano is the succesor of the Ferrari575M Maranello launched in 2002 - an updated Ferrari 550 featuring minor styling changes from Pininfarina. Updates from the 550 include a renewed interior, but with substantial improvements inside, including bigger brake discs, a larger and more powerful engine, a different weight distribution, refined aerodynamics and fluid-dynamics and an adaptive suspension set-up (the four independent suspensions are also controlled by the gearbox, to minimize pitch throughout the 200-milliseconds gear shift). Two six-speed transmissions are available, a conventional manual gearbox and, for the first time on a Ferrari V12, Magneti Marelli's semi-automatic (sequential) 'F1' gearbox. The model number refers to the engine's capacity in litres, whilst the 'M' is an abbreviation of 'modificato' or 'modified'. The technical specification of the engine speaks for itself: 366 cu in displacement, a specific power output of 103 bhp/liter (a first for a naturally aspirated production engine of this displacement). A balance has been struck in the interior between the car's sporty vocation and the feeling of intimacy and safety that only skilled hand-crafting and detailed personalization can achieve. The passenger areas of the car are trimmed in sumptuous leather while the driver area and controls boast more high-tech detailing in carbon-fiber and aluminum.

Twin overhead camshafts per cylinder bank boast continuously variable timing on both inlet and exhaust cams to optimize torque delivery and drivability at both low and high revs. A twin-plate, low inertia clutch in unit with the engine also helps lower the centre of gravity. Chain driven distribution reduces noise and is maintenance-free. The Fiorano's V12 engine delivers a maximum torque of 446 lb-ft at 5,600 rpm and means that the car pulls well at all engine speeds. The new model's breathtaking sportiness is due in part to record maximum revs for an engine of this displacement .