2017 Automation Geneva International Motor Show

#Daily Round-Up - Day 6 & 7
Welcome back to Geneva and the coverage of the show courtesy of S.A.M., where the beautiful city has been basking in March sunshine, making for some very pleasant test drives. We’re covering Tuesday and Wednesday in this round-up.

And with that, on with the coverage!

Today’s musical accompaniment is Pick Up The Pieces by Average White Band

Cornaldie revealed a new luxury sedan called the Echelon. Sharing many looks with the recently revealed Solatia, this four door mini land yacht is a 489 hp AWD car made for wafting around the streets of Paris in superb comfort. However, like the Solatia, we aren’t quite sold on the looks. Driving the thing though is much more rewarding; soft and pliable, but very comfortable. Perfect for cruising at high speed, though hard coerning should not be attempted.

Engine response is nice, and the V8 makes a very pleasing rumble as it gurgles up to 8000 rpm. Pricing is a little unusual at $52k - it costs almost as much as the average limousine, but has a regular executive sedan wheelbase, meaning it’s fitting into the budget luxury niche. Whether it’s exclusive enough to be right for this market, we can’t tell, but it’s still a solid car nonetheless.

Oddball company Ray Cars launched a new premium coupe for Japanese and British markets today. Called the Shibatron, this 4 seat fastback sports lightweight construction, good efficiency and nice performance. The looks aren’t quite there if we’re honest - from some angles, the front is unusual to say the least, though the rear is much more pleasing. Two trims are on offer, the CJ for Japan and the GTB for Britain (no, not that GTB), with the British trim being noticeably faster.

On the road, the Shibatron CJ is a little underwhelming. Certainly drives well, but it’s not particularly exciting. Then again, I’m not sure if it should be, as it seems to be more focused on being comfortable. Yet, it’s not the best at doing that either, falling into a normal/premium centre-ground. The GTB trim is certainly a lot nicer, with much more power courtesy of the 3.4l i6 and sequential gearbox. It’s certainly the one we’d recommend, perhaps just for the brilliant comfort and great performance.

Monolith unleashed some fury today in the form of the M161 Turbo 30 Dakar. Quite a mouthful, but just saying it and you know it’s something special. Displayed alongside a film documenting their history in the Paris-Dakar rally, Monolith explained how this special edition of the M161 is powered by a tribute act to the incredible 8l+ V12’s they ran with back in the 80s, in the form of an 8.0l Turbodiesel V12. Producing 1400Nm of torque, we’re fairly convinced it could tow a cruise liner. Better still, it’s coupled to a manual gearbox.

At $250k, it’s really a very exclusive vehicle, but for anyone lucky enough to afford it, we’d certainly consider it over some of the current high-end supercars. You aren’t going to experience that kind of torque anywhere else unless you start looking into decommissioned military vehicles.

This morning, OAM launched the Traveller II. Now powered by some more reasonable engines, this smart four-door, fast back-esque compact is a great combination of muscle-inspired design with everyday practicality. Both US and EU specs come with a manual gearbox, the latter being powering by a 510hp V8 and the former 265hp i6 - at just under £26k for that EU model, it’s a serious bargain.

Don’t think they’ve skimped however - on the road, it’s well mannered and good to drive. Perhaps on the heavy side, but that’s due to its plush interior, which is packed with a great range of features. Economy is a little on the weak side, which will deter the commuter buyers found in this area of the market, but as a bit of fun practiaclity, it’s great. It should certainly give the many hot-hatches in this price range a run for their money too.

Znopresk showed us their latest venture into WRC with the ZRP version of the Zap! supermini. More aggressive and more powerful than other variants, this Homologation special will be limited to 250 examples, and comes with a V6 engine, redesigned suspension and all-wheel drive. The result is lots of fun. A nippy, chuckable and lightweight car that handles sublimely and goes like no tomorrow.

And a V6 soundtrack, in a Znopresk! It’s really quite something. We cannot wait for the proper WRC version later this year, where ZRP are hoping to make a grand re-entry into the discipline. I wonder what EADC will have to say about that…

Cornaldie made a surprise announcement today and introduced a new car called the RU-1 Rally Support Vehicle. A 632 hp off roader, this performance SUV looks fantastic, and is designed to travel along side rally teams in the WRC. While we’re a little concerned that the intercooler is very exposed at the front, it is a lot of fun to drive. Quite hard to handle, and far happier off-road that on road, but all that power in such a monster of a vehicle is quite something. It’s incredible light for what it is too thanks to partial-carbon fibre construction.

Then came something we’d all be looking forward to, a proper DSD show. Unveiling the new Puissant to the sound of the estatic Babymetal, it was quite the spectacle, but even more shocking was the price. An entry level model of this sports coupe will cost $9990! Retro-chrome styling packed into a tiny, ultra-light weight packed make this thing a blast to drive, especially the entry level Osaka trim. 65 hp isn’t much, but in a car that weighs 889 kg, it feels like a lot, with some extra boost coming from its electric motor hybrid system.

The Monaco and Aubagne trims add minimal weight and a lot more power, hitting 228 hp with the latter. That means its good for 0-60 in 5.6 seconds, which for $17500, is brilliant. All of the trims handle very well, with the Aubagne feeling like a bit of go-kart with all that power. Truth be told, our favorite was the Osaka. Sure, it’s fairly barren in the interior, but the way this thing goes is just so much fun. The Puissant is pure joy. That is all.

[EADC] closed the day with the unveiling of the Sjourner Concept. This new sports-off roader is well equipped yet light weight, still somehow managing to cram in the 3.5l i6 from the Corsair which should make it nice and powerful. We’ll see a full release in the summer hopefully. A special version called the Dakar Special was unveiled, powered by a remnant of the Group B 2.8l V8 of the Vole Mk III. It’s good for 0-60 in 3.2 seconds and is packed with racing parts, though few details have been given about how it’ll compete. We’d certainly love to see an EADC/Monolith battle at this year’s rally though, just saying…

And with that, day 7 is done! I’ve extended the deadline for any cars for the photoshoot until tomorrow, so if you have a sports car or supermini/city car being displayed at the show, send it in for some hopefully sexy photos alongside the Genevan water front.

Bye for now!

- Gavin Anderson

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Yea…it is a bit heavy. lol

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The Sprinter 200 R by Cornaldie Automotive

Cornaldie Automotive Company Ltd is proud to introduce this year’s entry into the Sport Hatchback Segment: The 2017 Sprinter 200 R. This inline 4, multi-point injected beast produces 300 hp and accelerates to 100 kmh in 4.5 seconds, 0.1 second faster than the A250 AMG Mercedes. It has AWD with an electric 60/40 split differential that sends most of the power to the rear wheels, so you can still enjoy those powerslides. Top speed is limited to 260 kph and completes the quarter miles in around 13 seconds. But don’t for a second think this car is all about straight line performance, it’s all aluminum construction makes it stiff, and double wishbone front and rear suspension, couples with 18" 200+ series tyres gives you enough confidence to tackle any corner. See our brochure below. MSRP: $36,100


Performance Data:

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Now THAT is somewhat interesting… I might have to finally revise my Luna, especially the Sportivo variant :imp:

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Bring it on man :smiling_imp:

AL Autos Booth

AL Autos is proud to present the AL Autos Luxury Division

(From Left to Right: AL Flusso XLE, AL Ampio XLE, AL Classe XLE


Disclaimer: All models shown on this display are fully loaded with every option.

The AL Flusso XLE

Experience The AL Flusso XLE featuring business like styling, luxurious accommodations, flying performance, and high tech safety features.

At the front, we have bi-xenon head lamps which follow the road as the driver goes accompanied by LED DRLs, a clever front collision warning/parking system which will prevent drivers from running into any obstructions in the road such as other vehicles, pedestrians, cyclists, etc, radar guided cruise control, and road abnormality detection which will adjust the suspension to suit preventing discomfort while driving and accelerated tire wear and misalignment.

On the sides of the Flusso, we have 19" executive rims, blind spot monitoring, power folding mirrors, keyless door entry, and a system that, when parked, detects hazards that may endanger you and/or the car when opening the door and alerts you.

At the rear, we have a sleek rear light design with sequential turn signals, an electric hands free boot lid, and a rear collision warning/parking system complete with a rear facing camera.

It’s not just the aesthetics that make this car as comfortable and safe as it is. All the components that lie underneath the exquisite body of the Flusso have been tuned to make a more comfortable experience. For starters, the 3.8 L Twin Pro Turbo V6 produces 530 HP smoothly through AL’s 9 speed auto transmission which transfers the power to AL’s AWD system. Couple that with double wishbone suspension at the front, a cleverly engineered rear multi link suspension, 6 and 4 piston front and rear vented disc brakes, and a cleverly designed monocoque aluminum chassis and you’ve got a smooth cruiser for the road.

Prices for the AL Flusso XLE go from $100,000 to $150,000 depending on equipment levels. Please visit one of our dealerships if you are interested in test driving/buying/reviewing this car.


The AL Classe XLE

The AL Classe XLE. Bold, sleek design, cloud 9 accommodations, empowering performance, and high tech features to keep you safe and comfortable.

At the front, we have xenon head lamps which follow the road as the driver goes, a clever front collision warning/parking system which will prevent drivers from running into any obstructions in the road such as other vehicles, pedestrians, cyclists, etc, radar guided cruise control, and road abnormality detection which will adjust the suspension to suit preventing discomfort while driving and accelerated tire wear and misalignment.

On the sides of the Classe, we have 19" classic inspired rims, blind spot monitoring, power folding mirrors, keyless door entry, and a system that, when parked, detects hazards that may endanger you and/or the car when opening the door and alerts you.

At the rear, we have a sleek rear light design, and a rear collision warning/parking system accompanied by a rear facing camera.


The 4.1 L Twin Pro Turbo Flatplane V8 produces 580 HP smoothly through AL’s 9 speed auto transmission which delivers the power to AL’s AWD system. Couple that with double wishbone suspension at the front, a unique cleverly engineered rear multi link suspension, 6 and 4 piston front and rear vented disc brakes, and a cleverly designed monocoque aluminum chassis and you’ve got another smooth cruiser for the road.

Prices for the AL Classe XLE go from $90,000 to $130,000 depending on equipment levels. Please visit one of our dealerships if you are interested in test driving/buying/reviewing this car.


The AL Ampio XLE (AL’s First SUV)

Family road trips will never be the same with the AL Ampio XLE, AL’s first ever luxury SUV.

At the front, we have LED headlamps and DRLs that provide a modern art like design to the fascia, a clever front collision warning/parking system which will prevent drivers from running into any obstructions in the road such as other vehicles, pedestrians, cyclists, etc, radar guided cruise control, front facing cameras which can record in 1920p (one on each corner and one in the middle) that can be viewed from the infotainment system, and road abnormality detection which will adjust the suspension to suit preventing discomfort while driving and accelerated tire wear and misalignment.

On the sides of the Ampio, we have 23" executive rims, blind spot monitoring, power folding mirrors, keyless door entry, a wide angle camera that can record in 1920p (one in the middle) that can be viewed from the infotainment system, and power opening/closing doors which detect any obstructions or hazards and appropriately act.

At the rear, we have a sleek rear light design, a powered hands free boot lid, and a rear collision warning/parking system accompanied by 2 rear facing cameras (one on top and one in the middle) that can record in 1920p and can be viewed from the infotainment system.


The 5.0 L Twin Eco Turbo V8 produces 611 HP smoothly through AL’s 9 speed auto transmission which delivers the power to AL’s AWD system. Couple that with double wishbone suspension at the front, a unique cleverly engineered rear multi link suspension, 6 and 4 piston front and rear vented disc brakes, and a cleverly designed monocoque aluminum chassis and you’ve got another smooth cruiser for the road.

Prices for the AL Ampio XLE go from $195,000 to $250,000 depending on equipment levels. Please visit one of our dealerships if you are interested in test driving/buying/reviewing this car.

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AL Ampio looks like Saminda’s lost cousin.

# Presents: the facelifted Berlose

_The definitive premium British saloon._

Launched back in 2014, the Mk 5 Berlose is perhaps the version of the car yet. Now, it’s been refined and improved to meet ever stronger competition in the executive sedan market.

Tasteful, elegant styling meets great performance and superb luxury; the Berlose is comfortable, poised and commanding, and remains an excellent long distance cruising machine.

Berlose Lex in Faded Silver

Understated yet still emitting presence, the new styling of the Berlose builds on the previous version to incorporate sharper features and lighter detailing, creating a graceful yet bold saloon that is well suited to both the streets of Mayfair and the open road.

Inside, a light and airy interior can be found, decked with excellent technology including a 10" touch screen display, similar to that found in the Tauga, and Gecko™ voice control. As standard, a specially made Harman International 8 monitor sound system is available on all trims for astounding in-car audio, complemented by the option for rear-screen displays.

Berlose S in Erin Racing Turquoise

Erin’s incorporation of aluminium panels along with standard steel ones* helps to reduce weight without compromising on safety or chassis stiffness. Benefitting the excellent chassis is our ADRAC (Adaptive-Reaction) Suspension system, a limited active system that comes as standard on all trims, allowing for uncomplicated adjustment of the ride to suit your needs.

A complete range of Pureon Inline 6 engines plus one V8 are found on the Berlose, providing smooth and efficient power across the range. Delivering this is your choice of an 8 Speed Erin PureShift Auto or exclusive 6 Speed Single Clutch Sequential connected to a limited slip diff at the rear, with both options for rear wheel drive and AllDrive AWD.

*Yeah, this is a shift from current company lore. All will be fully explained after UE4!

Berlose Touring Vox in Painted Sapphire - new for 2017

The Berlose is built on a passion for delivering class-defining luxury, performance and refinement, combining classic British elegance with the latest in cutting-edge engineering. Easy to use everyday, fully customisable to meet your needs and and all-round brilliant car; this is the definitive premium British saloon.

Top: Berlose Lex in Chelsea Cream // Bottom: Berlose Vox in Royal Blue

Plus, as part of the Eco-V8 development programme, a new 3.0l V8 is being added to the range. A competent and torque-y power unit, it marks the first time a V8 has been used on a non-performance version of the Berlose since 1992. Availible in UK and US markets.


##Specs

All cars come as standard with the 8 Speed PureShift Auto transmission, except for the Vox trim, which comes with the 6 Speed Sequential as standard. Touring versions come as standard with AWD.

Economy ratings are for the respective engines in the trim title. Average economies vary between engines and gearbox combinations.

S Trim - 2.5l i6 or 3.0l i6 - From £29100 for Sedan, £30440 for Touring
The Berlose-lite; all the best features in a well-priced and efficient package // ~37 to ~41 mpg

Lex Trim - 2.5l i6, 3.0l i6 or 3.0l V8 - From £33450 for Sedan, £34990 for Touring
Mid-range at its best; great engine choice, great standard features and more customization. // ~35 to ~40 mpg

Vox Trim - 3.0l i6, 3.5l i6 or 3.0l V8 - From £37800 for Sedan, £39450 for Touring
For those who just need luxury; no expenses spared for sublime comfort and performance. // ~36 to ~40 mpg

##Engines
Pureron 2.5l i6 TDi TwinC
Power: 237hp @ 6300 rpm - Torque: 218 ft-lb @ 5200 rpm - Reliability: 76.7 - Smoothness: 81.7 -
Efficiency: 31.55%

Pureron 3.0l i6 Di TwinC
Power: 229hp @ 7200 rpm - Torque: 218 ft-lb @ 3900 rpm - Reliability: 80.6 - Smoothness: 81.7 -
Efficiency: 30.02%

Pureron 3.5l i6 TDi TwinC
Power: 265hp @ 6200 rpm - Torque: 282 ft-lb @ 3800 rpm - Reliability: 77.0 - Smoothness: 79.9 -
Efficiency: 33.24%

PureonPower 3.0l V8 TDi TwinC
Power: 246hp @ 7000 rpm - Torque: 245 ft-lb @ 2600 rpm - Reliability: 76.4 - Smoothness: 72.0 -
Efficiency: 32.10%

##Optional Extras
AllDrive AWD - £1299

6 Speed Sequential Gearbox - £999
Exclusive to the Berlose

RoadSmart Safety Pack - £749
Includes viewing cameras, radar guidance, autobraking, adaptive lighting and other assistance & warning features to ensure the safest drive possible

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Unrelated: do you know how jealous i am of your font collection?

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Oh well. Sooo different than the Espada :smile: But great as usually Erins are :slight_smile:

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@ramthecowy I am aware now! :smiley: I only use free fonts though, all available from DaFont (no, this is not a promotion)

@szafirowy01 I really cannot wait for the Espada! Gimmeh!

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#EADC Corsair | Standard V12, i6 and V12 Cabriolet

As we revealed the Corsair CRX, it would only be right to show off the standard models of the EADC Corsair.




The Standard model V12 Corsair is EADC’s top of the line Luxury Sports Coupe/GT. The Corsair has a 7.1 NA V12 producing 565hp. The lack of a turbo provides a consistent and tame power curve, while still producing enough power to reach 200mph. Inside, the interior is filled with gadgets, SONY surround sound audio, Luxury Heated Leather bucket seats and a 6 speed manual gearbox.
The Corsair is also equipped with an electronic diff and ActiveSport Air suspension, letting the car slip and slide to the comfort of the driver. Prices will start from £46,340, an absolute bargain for what you’re getting. Expect to see this in EADC Showrooms by May in Europe, America and Asia!



The Standard i6 Corsair is the more budget trim of the car. This however doesnt mean we’ve skimped out on quality though. Under the bonnet is a 3.5L i6 derived from the V12 also found in the Corsair. This i6 produces 277 hp, and keeps the smooth power curve found in the V12 as both engines are naturally aspirated. Inside, the interior is toned down compared with the V12 Spec, but still impressive. This i6 spec is also equipped with an electronic diff, 6 speed manual and the ActiveSport Air suspension. Prices start at £31,640 and the car will be sold in the US, Europe and Asia.



The V12 Cabriolet is the ultimate luxury trim of the Corsair. With luxury interior, a 9 speed automatic, hydro-pneumatic active suspension, and an electronic diff with the same 565hp engine from the standard V12, this truly is the ultimate luxury coupe. And along with the V12, comes 200mph and a 0-60 of 4.7s. Sure the mileage is a bit poor, but who cares when you’ll feel like the world is moving around you! Prices start at £48,580 and will be available in the US, Europe and Asia.

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Here it is… the latest incarnation of the ultimate premium automobile:

#Zavir Espada 2017

The thoroughly refreshed sixth generation of the Espada, here, in Geneva, showing it’s two faces:

The car has been deeply updated not only from the outside, but also from the inside with over 1200 technical modifications* to keep delivering our customers the best possible quality, and thus comfort, performance and safety. The new Espada handles better, rides more comfortably, and is faster, safer and more economical than the current model**. But getting back to the outside…

The front got updated with the latest form of Zavir’s Flowing Light design (with the support of Luceat Studio - thanks @titleguy1), taking styling cues from the recent Zavir Squalo, and technology debuted in the last year Luna - laser headlights, which greatly improve night visibility, thus raising the ride safety.
The side of the Espada got new, sleek handles known from Squalo and Z Volante and a redesigned chrome trim, resembling that from the Squalo, yet still having it’s unique, distinguishable look, including the side trim level badging.


The rear of the car is the most recognisable part of the Espada - probably also making it the most recognisable Zavir model. Although it keeps a high level of similarity with all other Zavir cars utilising the Flowing Light design, it’s taillight shape is completely unique, and made possible thanks to the lights being full LED units.

Effect? While you might find as good looking limousine, we are convinced that the Turismo is the most elegant estate on the market.

And for the end, some example data sheets for the new Espada (the two variants being on display):

The new Espada will be available in the european markets from April, starting from 35 999 € for the base Berlina 2.0 TIDe Stilo, with the same choice of engines as the current model (rounded horsepower figures):

  • 1.9 diesel I4 (150)
  • 3.2 diesel V6 (250)
  • 2.0 petrol I4 (190; TIDe)
  • 2.7 petrol V6 (250)
  • 3.3 petrol V6 (300)
  • 3.8 petrol V6 (350)
  • 4.6 petrol V8 (420)
  • Sportivo variant - 4.3 V8 (530)

Z Sportivo variant will follow soon. Test drives are available for the automotive press.


Zavir. Il vantaggio della tecnologia.

######Yes, these pictures are Paint-made nothing-special-ness. GIMP didn’t want to cooperate.
######*marketing blabbering
######**which doesn’t exist

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I like it! An Erin and Zavir Showdown!

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Now that the whole Corsair range has been shown, I feel that it is one of the best front-engined sports car lineups in existence. However, there is a huge gap from the i6 to the V12 models. Can it be filled by a turbocharged version of the i6, and if not, by what?

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By a V8! :grin:

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@abg7 @szafirowy01 Clearly the best option is a turbo V8

But yeah, I am thinking that there is a bit of a gap between the V12 and i6. I just havent really figured out what engine to use for it. As much as a turbo would be nice, I kinda wanted the Corsair to stay away from turbos since one of their main selling points is the smooth drive due to lack of turbo lag

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Hmm… A 60 degree crossplane V8 might be smooth enough. And such engine, of 4.7 litre displacement, could be derived from that V12, as the I6 is. With a power of just above 400 hp it would fit perfectly in the middle and wouldn’t need to use a turbocharger :slight_smile:

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Well i guess ill wait til UE4 for that :smiley:

##HIMMEL GENEVA 2017 INTERNATIONAL MOTOR SHOW SHOWCASE - 2017 E.O FACELIFT

Long time German sports car maker Himmel revealed it’s facelifted version of the 2017 EO sports car and it’s twin turbocharged flagship.

The familiar rear engined sports car returns with a power upgrade to the 3.6 Flat 6 unit. The car now boasts just under 400 horsepower in Turismo guise, and a monstrous 580 horsepower in twin turbo form.


##2017 Himmel E.O 3.6 Turismo


##Specifications

Engine and Transmission

Engine: 3.6 liter Flat 6 DOHC 4 valves per cylinder with direct injection
Bore x Stroke: 91.4mm x 91.4mm
Weight: 150 kg
Redline: 8500 RPM
Power: 394 HP @ 8100 RPM
Torque: 384 NM @ 7600 RPM
Transmission: Himmel 7 Speed Manual with rev match assist and mechanical LSD
Drivetrain: Rear Engine Rear Wheel Drive

Chassis

Length: 4090mm
Curb Weight: 1328 KG
Tires: F 195mm R 275mm Michellin Pilot Sport AS/3
Brakes: F 2 piston 250mm R 2 piston 290mm
Material: Aluminum unibody with aluminum bodywork

Performance Statistics

Power to Weight: 296 HP Per Tonne
0-60: 3.8
Top Speed: 180 MPH
1/4 mile: 11.82 @ 121 MPH
250m cornering: 1.11 G @ 116.5 MPH
60-0: 95 ft
Automation TT: 2:08.37


2017 Himmel E.O 580 Twin Turbo


##Specifications

Engine and Transmission

Engine: 3.6 liter Flat 6 DOHC 4 valves per cylinder with direct injection
Bore x Stroke: 91.4mm x 88.9mm
Weight: 185 kg
Redline: 9000 RPM
Power: 585 HP @ 8100 RPM
Torque: 560 NM @ 7600 RPM
Transmission: Himmel 7 Speed Manual with rev match assist and mechanical LSD
Drivetrain: Rear Engine Rear Wheel Drive

Chassis

Length: 4090mm
Curb Weight: 1440 KG
Tires: F 235mm R 325mm Michellin Pilot Sport AS/3
Brakes: F 2 piston 275mm R 2 piston 315mm
Material: Aluminum unibody with aluminum bodywork

Performance Statistics

Power to Weight: 406 HP Per Tonne
0-60: 3.0
Top Speed: 195 MPH
1/4 mile: 11.82 @ 121 MPH
250m cornering: 1.21 G @ 121.8 MPH
60-0: 90 ft
Automation TT: 2:02.16
Nordeschleife: 7:31.02

Pricing Details

Turismo: $44,000 (100% mark up)
Twin Turbo: $ 65,000 (150% mark up)

(I did my best Porsche… Hard to do a modern one with the stuff we have available, when UE4 hits Himmel will be a full fledged company alongside my current 2.)

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