At the 2019 Geneva Motor Show, Pagani celebrated the 20th anniversary of the Zonda. It was first at the 1999 Geneva Auto Show that Pagani revealed the first Zonda, the C12. Ever since, the Zonda has been a legendary sports car known for its prowess, price tag, and racing abilities. After the C12, there was the Zonda S, Zonda F, Zonda Cinque, and more. Now, the successor is on the market – the Pagani Huayra. But, that doesn’t mean the Zonda is dead. It is no less an amazing vehicle today than in 1999.
Specs of the Original Pagani Zonda C12
The Pagani Zonda C12 sports a 6.0-liter Mercedes-Benz M120 V12 engine. This motor produces 444 horsepower and 572 lb.-ft. of torque. This works in combo with a 5-speed manual transmission. Not surprisingly, this car could reach 60 mph in 4.0 seconds and 100 mph in 9.2 seconds. In total, only 5 Zonda models were built with the 6.0-liter engine. From there, the Zonda upgraded to a 7.0-liter V12 in the S model. And, obviously, each model further receives more power as well as more capabilities.
The Pagani Zonda is a Legendary Car
Celebrating The Zonda 20th Anniversary – PaganiAutomobili – YouTube
Ever since its debut in 1999, the Pagani Zonda has become a legendary car. Whether viewed in real life at an auto show, in the streets, or via a video game, this car has obtained the respect of car lovers worldwide. Owning a Zonda is a rare opportunity that many people would love to enjoy. Unfortunately, not everyone can afford a Zonda. But everyone can appreciate the engineering feat that this car is in the auto market. Overall, the Zonda is an amazing sports car – congrats to Pagani Automobili!
Note: The featured image is by Alexander Migl of Wikimedia.
After many, many years of the S-Class sporting a V12 option, it is time to say farewell. To close out the S-Class V12 era, Daimler is introducing the Mercedes-AMG S 65 Final Edition. This vehicle has a limit of 130 units that include a number badge. Furthermore, the car arrives with a styling Obsidian Black Metallic paintjob and a mix of carbon fiber and copper accents. The Final Edition made its debut at the Geneva Auto Show in 2019. Although this car is a tribute to the era of V12 S-Class vehicles, it signals the next design that is coming soon. The next-gen S-Class will probably boast similar power with a smaller, more efficient engine. Honestly, don’t be surprised to see a fully electric or hybrid version… but who knows?
6.5-Liter Twin-Turbo V12 with 621 Horsepower
Mercedes-AMG S 65 Final Edition – Interior – Manufacturer Picture – EuroDrift
The Mercedes-AMG S 65 Final Edition sports a 6.5-liter twin-turbo V12 engine. This motor boasts 612 horsepower and 738 lb.-ft. of torque. From 0 to 60 mph, this large luxury vehicle takes only 3.9 seconds. While this much power and speed sounds great, the 6.3-Liter V8 in the S63 sedan is actually faster. While the wild roar of the V12 will be missed by many, the power will not be gone. Actually, there will probably be more power, and more efficiency. So, that means the power will be more responsive and capable of performing with the crème of the crop.
Mercedes-AMG S 65 Final Edition – Rear Interior – Manufacturer Picture – EuroDrift
Who Knew the Day of No V12 S-Class Would Come to Exist!?
2019 Mercedes S65 AMG – FINAL V12 S Class NEW Review Sound Exhaust Interior Exterior Infotainment – MercBenzKing – YouTube
Sadly, it is time for the 6.5-liter twin-turbo V12 to part ways from the S-Class. After so many years of such a beastly engine, it may take a moment for this to stick to the AMG V12 fans. But, don’t be afraid of the future! The future may not have gas guzzling V12s, but it has more speed, efficiency, and technology. So, while the roar may be gone, the car will be better… and faster! Between the special paint, the matte bronze accents, the 20” bronze wheels, and the AMG crest on the rear roof pillar, this car is stunning. Owning one of these cars would be amazing as it is truly a collectible masterpiece. Let’s finish this article off with a final statement. Thank you Mercedes-AMG for the V12 era and the hype surrounding this monster of engineering defeat.
Mercedes-AMG S 65 Final Edition – Rear – Manufacturer Picture – EuroDrift
Audi R8 V10 Decennium – Front Corner Driver Side – Manufacturer Picture – EuroDrift
Recently, Audi made a major debut of the R8 V10 Decennium at the 2019 Geneva Motor Show. This car is a celebration of 10 years with the 5.2 FSI V10 engine. The initial reveal of this motor was back on December 8 of 2008. Furthermore, the official debut was during the Detroit Auto Show, or North American International Auto Show, in January of 2009. Since then, the motor is seen in R8 models as well as even in Lamborghinis. Obviously, the R8 V10 Decennium is a collector vehicle. To back this up, this model has a limit of 222 units. If buying a Decennium is a goal, expect to pay over $250,000.
Audi R8 V10 Decennium – Engine Bay – Manufacturer Picture – EuroDrift
Under the rear hood, the R8 V10 Decennium sports a 5.2-liter FSI V10 engine. This motor boats 620 horsepower and 428 lb.-ft. of torque. This allows the R8 Decennium to reach 62 mph in only 3.1 seconds. Furthermore, as per the top end, this car can reach 206 mph. And, for those that don’t know, FSI stands for “Fuel Stratified Injection”. As with most modern vehicles, this car will have the dual-clutch transmission. In combo, the engine and transmission perform phenomenally. This car is truly a dedication to an amazing Audi engine.
Audi R8 V10 Decennium – Door Design – Manufacturer Picture – EuroDrift
Amazing Design & Styling!
2020 Audi R8 Decennium – Interior And Exterior Walkaround – 2019 Geneva Motor Show
While the manufacturer pictures show the Daytona Gray paintjob, the Audi R8 Decennium has many color options. These include: Ascari Blue, Floret Silver, Kemora Gray, Mythos Black, and Suzuka Gray. To complement the exterior, the car sports a bronze intake manifold as well as bronze 20” alloy wheels. Moreover, the car has many gloss black accents including the front spoiler, rear diffuser, and side sills. All of these design elements create an amazing look for this car. As these cars reach the buyers, pictures of different color combos will debut. Then, a decision can be made on the best color scheme for this car! Overall, the Decennium is another amazing V10 vehicle by Audi.
Audi R8 V10 Decennium – Rear Corner Driver Side – Manufacturer Picture – EuroDrift
Koenigsegg Jesko – Front – Manufacturer Picture – EuroDrift
At the 2019 Geneva Motor Show, quite a few phenomenal feats of engineering made their debut. Koenigsegg absolutely did not sit out on the sidelines. During the event, the Jesko was a shining star of the show. The Jesko is the successor to the Agera as the new ultimate performance vehicle. Koenigsegg declares this to be a “megacar”, taking auto engineering to the next level. As a megacar, this vehicle is capable of reaching around 300 mph. Obviously, this is dependent on the car’s abilities to handle these forces.
Koenigsegg Jesko – Top – Manufacturer Picture – EuroDrift
Traveling over 200 mph puts a ton of strain on the vehicle and its components. So, taking that a step further, will require even stronger parts. Hopefully, Koenigsegg will release a video of the Jesko accomplishing this goal. Furthermore, the Jesko was not the most powerful vehicle at the show. The Ferrari Pininfarina Battista boats a whopping 1,900 horsepower via an electrical motor setup. So, in the end, the Battista will most likely not be capable of reaching similar top speed. But, it does show where the future of automobiles are heading into the 2020s.
To no surprise, the Koenigsegg Jesko sports a 5.0-liter twin-turbo V8 engine. This motor produces 1,280 horsepower on standard fuel. Furthermore, it can reach 1,600 horsepower on E85 biofuel. Wow! Working in combo with a 9-speed Koenigsegg Light Speed Transmission (LST), this car is fast as lightning. The 0 to 60 mph time with this much power should be under 3 seconds. From there, the car should steadily climb up to the 200 mph range. On the final stretch, if the parts allow, it could most likely reach 300 mph. Unfortunately, tires with these capabilities are yet to be seen – but will be available one day. Obviously, with time, engineering only improves – so reaching 300 mph may be a dream today, but a norm tomorrow.
Koenigsegg Jesko – Debuts at Geneva Motor Show 2019 – Koenigsegg – YouTube
During the next 5-10 years, hypercar manufacturers are going to move into the megacar realm. Just as beforehand, the supercar led to the megacar, and the sports car led to the supercar. And, before life knows it, megacars will be an expectation at auto shows worldwide. The Koenigsegg Jesko is one of the biggest leaps in design since the reveal of hypercars. Reaching 300 mph is no joke, nor something that shall be seen lightly. Obviously, trying to do this on the road is a terrible idea. But, under the right conditions, this car can “shine bright like a diamond”. Overall, the Jesko is a powerhouse ready to set auto records for the beginning of the megacar era.
In the 1980s, Lamborghini produced the Jalpa in the city of Bolognese in Italy. At a limitation of 410 units, this car is quite rare today. The Lamborghini Jalpa is a 2-door Targa with a transverse mid-engine and RWD. Under Automobili Lamborghini S.p.A, this car had its debut at the 1981 Geneva Motor Show. Before the Jalpa, there is the Lamborghini Silhouette. Afterwards, the company began production of its successor – the Gallardo. Either way, the Jalpa is quite a unique entry sports car.
Most noteworthy, the Lamborghini Jalpa sports a 3.5-liter Lambo V8. This motor produces 255 horsepower and 225 lb.-ft. of torque. In combo with a 5-speed synchromesh manual, it reaches 60 mph in 6.0 seconds. From 0 to 100 mph, it takes 19.1 seconds. Furthermore, on the quarter mile, this car reaches the end in 15.4 seconds at 92 mph. For the time, this car is comparable with the entry level Ferrari 328.
1980s Lamborghini Jalpa – Interior – 2010 Concorso Italiano – Craig Howell of Wikimedia Commons – EuroDrift
Although, magazines observed different numbers under their tests. Classic & Sports Car magazine stated a 60-mph time of 6.8 seconds and a 100-mph time of 16 seconds. But, on the other hand, Car & Driver witnessed a 0 to 60 mph time of only 5.8 seconds. Maybe conditions and driver played a big role in this outcome… for better, or worse. Either way, the car is not too far off from 6 seconds.
Lamborghini had many great vehicles in the past, now classics. The Lamborghini Jalpa is no exception. The car has a unique design with a Lamborghini V8 engine. The interior fits the period and the engine is a Lambo masterpiece. Although not fast in today’s standards, this car was a beast in its time period. Either way, who wouldn’t want to drive this car on a mountainside cruise? Most people know the Countach, but there are other awesome classic Lamborghinis out there too! In conclusion, the Jalpa is a Lambo classic that’ll probably become more collectible with time.
With the 2019 Geneva Motor Show approaching, Bentley is ready to go. The manufacturer will debut the new 2020 Bentley Bentayga Speed. Without diving into too much detail just yet, this car has a slightly higher top speed than the Lamborghini Urus! But, be sure to read below as it isn’t much of a gap. Visually, the exterior has some minor changes and enhancements. Firstly, the front and rear lights have a dark tint, with darkening certain components such as the splitter. Furthermore, there is a new tailgate spoiler, 22” wheels, and badging.
The 2020 Bentley Bentayga Speed surely doesn’t slack on providing a powerhouse. Under the hood, the Speed sports a 6.0-liter W12 engine. This motor produces 626 horsepower and 664 lb.-ft. of torque. In combo with a 8-speed auto transmission, this engine propels the Speed to 62 mph in only 3.9 seconds. Wow! Now, let’s discuss the top speed. The Bentayga Speed SUV can reach a whopping 190 mph. This is faster than a Urus, but only by 0.5 mph… so, technically, the Urus can possibly defeat this given the opportunity. It’s time for the Urus to hit the salt flats! The Urus has 641-HP, so anything is possible… or not!
Bentley Bentayga Speed revealed – meet the world’s fastest SUV – Auto Express – YouTube
The 2020 Bentley Bentayga Speed is quite an amazing SUV. From the power to the design, this SUV is surely able to compete with the crème of the crop. Taking it even further, the Speed withholds the company’s most powerful brake system to date. This vehicle will have the largest and strongest ceramic brakes by Bentley, period. With a max braking torque of 4,425 lb.-ft., these will surely do the job. This system also weighs 44 lbs. less than a typical setup and can handle temps up to 1,832 degrees Fahrenheit. Overall, the Bentayga Speed is an attempt by Bentley to rule the SUV market.
2017 Ferrari LaFerrari Aperta – Front – RM Sotheby’s Auction Picture – EuroDrift
On January 17, 2019, a 2017 Ferrari LaFerrari Aperta will auction in Arizona at a RM Sotheby’s event. This open-top hypercar is one of only 210 total units. Firstly, there is a Nero Daytona paintjob with red accents on the exterior. Secondly, as per the interior, it reigns in high quality Italian materials. This car has maintenance records from Ferrari of Beverly Hills. On top of this, this Aperta has only 1,500 miles. Obviously, this is a major bonus as dealers maintain well-kept records. This is especially important for cars such as the LaFerrari Aperta. Furthermore, at auction, this car is expected to reach 6.5 to 8.5 million USD.
2017 Ferrari LaFerrari Aperta – Front Corner with Roof – RM Sotheby’s Auction Picture – EuroDrift
Brief History & Specs Breakdown
2017 Ferrari LaFerrari Aperta – Side – RM Sotheby’s Auction Picture – EuroDrift
The 2017 Ferrari LaFerrari Aperta was first unveiled at the 2013 Geneva International Motor Show. The debut was at the 2016 Paris Auto Show. Prior to this, all 210 units were pre-sold to pre-selected owners. Yes, Ferrari had to select you to get one of these cars, not the other way around. Under the hood, the Aperta has a 6.2-liter V12. This engine works in combo with a 120-kW electric motor to produce 950 horsepower. Finally, this allows the Aperta to compete with the crème of the crop of hypercars.
2017 Ferrari LaFerrari Aperta – Engine Bay – RM Sotheby’s Auction Picture – EuroDrift
Ferrari LaFerrari Aperta launch video | Paris 2017 | PistonHeads – YouTube
So, at the 2019 RM Sotheby’s auction in Arizona, who’s willing to spend $8.5 million USD? Because, that person is likely to drive the 2017 Ferrari LaFerrari Aperta home. And, this person will not have to be pre-selected by Ferrari. So, this will be the first person outside of that loop. The Aperta is an absolutely stunning car that draws attention. Furthermore, it wouldn’t be surprising to pass $8.5 million USD. Overall, the LaFerrari Aperta is a collector’s dream with limited owners.
In modern times, most people have driven or ridden in a vehicle. With automobiles, the debates of pollution and sound become alive. But, sometimes both of these can be down to the car itself. In this article, the goal is to help with a common question: “How Does an Exhaust System Work?”. Well, the exhaust begins with four main functions. These functions are:
Direct Fumes Away from Cabin & Passengers
Improve Fuel Consumption (MPG)
Improve Performance (HP/TQ)
Noise Amplification or Reduction (Usually Reduction)
With the exhaust handling these functions, its purpose is quite diverse. While it keeps passengers from breathing harmful gases, it also can add power and improve fuel consumption. Furthermore, all exhausts have a tone… hence noise is amplified or reduced via the muffler or silencer design. Finally, the layout of an exhaust system can depend on engine size, manufacturer, and/or model.
Control of Toxic Gases
Porsche Exhaust – Rear Undercarriage – Max Pixel – EuroDrift
When asking “How Does an Exhaust System Work?”, the concept of exhaust emissions comes into play. When an engine runs, it produces a total of 6 gases as emissions. Unfortunately, 3 of these gases are toxic: carbon monoxide, nitrogen monoxide, and nitrogen oxide. So, an entire design arrives around this to attempt to minimize the release of these gases into the atmosphere. Also, it obviously works to keep these gases away from the driver or passengers of the car. These gases are dangerous and can be harmful to animals, the environment, people, and plants.
How Do Emissions Exit the Car?
Car Exhaust – Rear of Automobile – Pixabay – EuroDrift
Again, when asking “How Does an Exhaust System Work?”, the gas must be filtered in some manner, correct? Right! First, the exhaust manifold collects gas from the cylinder head acting as a funnel. Next, the gas travels to the catalytic converter, where applicable. For instance, electric vehicles (EVs) do not have catalytic converters when there are no gasoline engines. Well, on the other hand, hybrids do for the engine portion of power. At the catalytic converter, the harmful gases are removed prior to moving on. Finally, the final gases pass through downpipes to the exhaust’s muffler or silencer. The purpose of this part of the exhaust is to filter sound, or amplify it. Manufacturers tend to remove sound while aftermarket companies amplify it.
Hopefully, That Helps!
How Car Exhaust System Works – Automotive Basics – YouTube
So, hopefully this article helps with the question: “How Does an Exhaust System Work?”. Covering the basics of gases to release via the exhaust tips, this article covers a decent portion of the process. The goal of this is to provide readers with a simple understanding of the system. Obviously, there is more that can be for discussion such as details on specific designs or layouts, temperature effects, and more. But, that is something for another time. Overall, the exhaust system plays a vital role on all gasoline vehicles.
Recently, in the auto news industry, rumors are spreading about the successor of the Agera. The name is believed to be from a “reliable source close to Koenigsegg”, according to The Supercar Blog. This name is the Koenigsegg Ragnarok. Unrelating, this may strike a reminder to the Thor: Ragnarok film that hit theatres in 2017 with slightly over $850 million in worldwide revenue. Just a quick reminder, this is the film where Chris Hemsworth plays Thor in protecting against the destruction of the gods and world. Furthermore, the word “Ragnarok” translates to “the Doom of the Gods” in old Norse. During this event, the mythical cycle ends, and the cosmos is destroyed, then recreation takes place. So, with a name like this, the Koenigsegg Ragnarok should rattle the hypercar realm.
An Expectation of Performance Figures
“We’re talking 0 to 250 mph in 14 seconds or something like this. It’s like, black marks all the way up to 250 mph.” – Christian von Koenigsegg, Founder & CEO of Koenigsegg (During Interview with Top Gear)
Under the hood, the Koenigsegg Ragnarok will most likely sport the twin-turbo V8 seen in the Agera RS, but even better. The horsepower range will be around 1,400, at least 40 over the Agera RS that could reach almost 278 mph at top speed. Now, prepare yourself to be taken back by the expected performance. Koenigsegg wants the Ragnarok to reach 250 mph in only 14 seconds, leaving rubber the entire way behind. With the combination of a V8, 23 psi boost from the turbo, and a ratio of 8.8:1 instead of 9.5:1, this car could feed 32 psi for an instant 600 horsepower boost. Phew! That’s one hell of a performance. Honestly, hopefully it will happen as it is true insanity for a production vehicle of any type. With this car, Koenigsegg hopes to hold back the Tesla Roadster’s advantages.
Targets Set on the Tesla Roadster
Tesla Roadster – Front Corner in Motion – Manufacturer Picture – EuroDrift
“We kind of had our future mapped out, and then we heard about the new Tesla Roadster and its insane acceleration numbers, and we thought ‘damn, that’s put the gauntlet down. We thought, ‘this is not okay’”. – Christian von Koenigsegg, Founder & CEO of Koenigsegg (During Interview with Top Gear)
Recently, Christian von Koenigsegg, the CEO and founder of Koenigsegg, spoke to Top Gear about the Tesla Roadster. Initially, Koenigsegg didn’t truly believe the performance expectations for the Tesla. But, unfortunately, Elon Musk wasn’t lying when we spoke of the insane acceleration in the Roadster. Now, the Koenigsegg Ragnarok will most likely be Koenigsegg’s attempt to strike back.
“We wondered whether it was possible, and yeah, it’s possible. Then we thought, ‘okay how do we deal with it? This is embarrassing.’ In two days we’d thought of a few things. The simplest way of putting it is like this: it’s combining direct drive with the hybridization we have in a different format with Freevalve engine technology, in a peculiar layout.” – Christian von Koenigsegg, Founder & CEO of Koenigsegg (During Interview with Top Gear)
After refocusing energy from the already planned future, to a new future, Koenigsegg believes to have found a way to do it. Koenigsegg plans to use a combustion engine, versus an electric setup, to compete with the Roadster. This doesn’t make it direct competition, but it is close enough being in the same hypercar class. Their goal is to use direct drive with hybridization. Next, it’ll include Freevalve engine tech in a specific layout. Not being extremely detailed, Koenigsegg teased at this during the interview as seen above. Now, it is somewhat an expectation that the Koenigsegg Ragnarok will be the new frontier.
Koenigsegg is “Just Scratching the Surface”
IN DEPTH: Koenigsegg Factory Tour with Christian von Koenigsegg – Shmee150 – YouTube
“What we see with our engines, we’ve noticed that we’re just scratching the surface of what we can achieve.” – Christian von Koenigsegg, Founder & CEO of Koenigsegg (During Interview with Top Gear)
According to Christian von Koenigsegg, the company is “just scratching the surface”. With the Koenigsegg Ragnarok, the auto industry will rattle from the wrath of power. Although nothing is truly known, the car will display at the 2019 Geneva Motor Show in March of 2019. At this show, the world will see the future of the hypercar realm. If the power figures are true, this is an Earth car fit for Thor, maybe somewhat of what he’d expect in Asgard. In conclusion, the Koenigsegg Ragnarok’s name may, or may not, be correct, but the car will be a beast.
Note: There are no pictures of the “Ragnarok” currently available. The main picture for the post is of the Koenigsegg Regera. Thanks for understanding!
For the 2020 model year, Aston Martin plans to bring a 4-door crossover SUV to the market, the DBX. The 2020 Aston Martin DBX will be Aston’s attempt to join the luxury SUV market. Recently, many luxury brands have built their own style of SUVs. This includes manufacturers such as Aston Martin, Lamborghini, and even Rolls-Royce. With this vehicle, Aston hopes to increase its sales above 4,000 globally per year. But, this will heavily depend on the market reaction upon an official debut. By impressing everyone, Aston may be able to stand out in the luxury SUV market.
Features & Specifications
Initially, the Aston Martin DBX was on display as a 2-door concept at the 2015 Geneva Motor Show. From exterior to interior, this car should please most auto enthusiasts. Firstly, there will be a reworked component set of the DB11 coupe, mostly of aluminum. Secondly, the production version in 2020 should feature a Mercedes V8 engine. But, Aston does intend to release a fully electric SUV within a few years later. Thirdly, as per production, this vehicle is on track to be built in Wales. Unfortunately, for 2-door SUV enthusiasts, Aston doesn’t plan to build an AMC Spirit.
“To Be, Or Not To Be? That is the Question.”
FIRST LOOK: Aston Martin DBX Concept – Geneva 2015 – Shmee150 – YouTube
This famous quote by William Shakespeare in Hamlet, Act III, Scene I relates to this vehicle. But, with every new luxury SUV, this question falls present. Aston Martin does not want to embarrass itself with another failure such as the Lagonda SUV (not saloon). The Aston Martin Lagonda SUV was on display at the 2009 Geneva Motor Show. As per the 2020 Aston Martin DBX, this vehicle will have decent competition. These vehicles include the Bentley Bentayga, Lamborghini Urus, Rolls-Royce Cullinan, and the Tesla Model X. As per price point, the DBX is expected to cost around $225,000. This is decently more than the Model X but definitely cheaper than a Cullinan. In conclusion, time will only tell if the DBX will be successful… or not.
Aston Martin DBX 2-Door Concept – Rear Corner – Manufacturer Picture – EuroDrift
Note: The pictures for this article are of the 2-door concept DBX. The release DBX will be a 4-door variant. Aston Martin has not released official pictures yet for the rendition.
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