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AMG GT R Roadster is the “Top Model”

For the 2020 model year, Mercedes-AMG is bringing the GT R Roadster to the market. With a limit of only 750 units, the 2020 Mercedes-AMG GT R Roadster will be quite rare. This version of the AMG GT has a soft-top convertible with the Mercedes-Benz Airscarf. At the peak of the AMG models, Mercedes calls this car the “top model”. This vehicle boasts the most power of the AMG GT line-up. Furthermore, simply letting the top down will allow the driver to listen to the mean roar of the V8. This car is basically the crème of the crop of the AMG GTs.

4.0-Liter Twin-Turbo V8 Engine

The 2020 Mercedes-AMG GT R Roadster sports a 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 engine. This motor boasts 577 horsepower and 516 lb.-ft. of torque. Furthermore, the engine works in combo with a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission. As per performance, this car has 27 more horsepower than the GT C and GT C Roadster. Moreover, there is a gain of 62 horsepower over the GT S and GT S Roadster. Finally, there is a 108 horsepower gain over the base GT and GT Roadster. That is quite a lead of power in the lineup. To top it off, this car has active aerodynamics, active rear steering, adjustable dampers, and a coilover suspension. Phew!

The Crème of the Crop AMG

Check Out the New AMG GT R ROADSTER! | FIRST LOOK – Shmee150 – YouTube
Overall, the 2020 Mercedes-AMG GT R Roadster is truly the crème of the crop as per AMG models. Even Mercedes thinks so. And, on top of the amazing engine and performance features, there’s more! As per aesthetics, this car starts with an AMG Night Cosmetic Package. Secondly, it includes an AMG Performance Flat-Bottom Steering Wheel. Furthermore, the top layer of the frame includes a triple layer of aluminum, magnesium, and steel. These features on this car make it stand out among its siblings. In conclusion, the AMG GT R Roadster is one of the company’s peak vehicles.

BMW Keeps Rolls-Royce Afloat in Auto Industry

According to the Rolls-Royce CEO, Torsten Mueller-Oetvoes, Rolls-Royce avoided bankruptcy thanks to BMW. Back in 2003, BMW bought Rolls-Royce and kept it as a subsidiary. Without BMW, there’s a chance Rolls-Royce wouldn’t exist today. The CEO believes the company would’ve gone out of business, probably during the last decade. Whether this is 100% true, there’s no way to tell. Time travel would be necessary to see the outcome if BMW didn’t buy the company. Check out what the CEO said to GoAuto Australia:

”I’m glad to be a part of the BMW Group, and I would even say that Rolls-Royce would be dead without the BMW Group – we would never exist anymore.” – Torsten Mueller-Oetvoes, CEO of Rolls-Royce

Even Today, Rolls-Royce Needs BMW

Even today, Mueller-Oetvoes believes Rolls-Royce needs BMW. Otherwise, the company would dwindle and cease to exist. This is in partial to the current grind forward to the new technology of the next era. More precisely, EVs and modern auto tech.

“This brand, I mean, these small little precious brands, would all die if they don’t have an OEM who invests early enough into long-term, very expensive technology, be it electric driving, be it autonomous, be it that you comply with all legal regulations worldwide.” – Torsten Mueller-Oetvoes, CEO of Rolls-Royce

“In the meantime, we are facing as a manufacturer so many different legal requirements, regulations, that it’s extremely costly to develop cars and this starts even with the MMI system in a car which is basically the whole brain and electronics in the car that is super-expensive and without having somebody in the back who is able to provide that in a very refined, proper way. No, no chance.” – Torsten Mueller-Oetvoes, CEO of Rolls-Royce

Obviously, Torsten feels strongly about the fate of Rolls without BMW.

Rolls-Royce is an Autonomous “Follower”

ROLLS ROYCE – Everything You Need to Know | Up to Speed – Donut Media – YouTube
According to Mueller-Oetvoes, Rolls-Royce is an autonomous “follower”. The company itself is not actively pursuing autonomous driving, but people can ensure BMW is doing so. Autonomous electric vehicles are the way of the future, and BMW is one of the companies attempting to be at the top of the curve.

”I would call ourselves, when it comes to autonomous driving, followers. And the reason for being a follower is that we would only bring technology into our products when the technology is at a level that customers would tell us, ‘That’s great, that’s effortless, it really helps me, it’s truly autonomous.’” – Torsten Mueller-Oetvoes, CEO of Rolls-Royce

Imagine the world without Rolls-Royce luxury. Without champagne refrigerators and curtain windows. It’s…it’s not possible! Overall, Rolls-Royce is an amazing car manufacturer and deserves to stay afloat in the industry.

Twenty Years Since the Pagani Zonda C12 Debut

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.

Volvo is Ready for the EV Market!

During the 4th quarter of 2019, Volvo is expected to announce a major electric vehicle. The Volvo XC40 fully electric SUV will most likely be the star of this unveil. With the manufacturer’s goal to reach 50% of sales in the EV market by the mid-2020s, this will be a grand start for the company. Volvo is aiming to sell the Polestar 2 beginning in 2020. So, this car may go alongside it, or slightly after it… only time will tell. Currently, a plug-in hybrid version of the XC40 is already in production. But, to take it to the next level, a fully electric version is in the works.

Specs of the Plug-In Hybrid Version

So, before diving into the fully electric version, let’s take a look at the Volvo XC40 Plug-In Hybrid model. This version sports a 1.5-liter 3-cylinder engine with 180 horsepower. Furthermore, there is an electric motor boasting 82 horsepower. In combo, the hybrid sports 262 horsepower. But the electric motors are known for torque, leading to 313 lb.-ft.! Wow! For the torque to touch the ground, there is a 7-speed auto transmission. To back up this setup, there is a 9.7-kWh lithium-ion battery to store power. This version of the car can reach 60 mph in only 7.3 seconds. Lastly, on battery alone, this car can cover around 34 miles.

50% of Volvo Sales in EV Market by 2025

The 2019 Volvo XC40 Is the Coolest Volvo in Decades – Doug DeMuro – YouTube
By 2025, Volvo is hoping to have 50% of its sales in the EV Market. That is quite a goal, and a smart goal at that. The Volvo XC40 fully electric SUV will have zero emissions and be purely electric. It will use the same Compact Modular Architecture (CMA) as the Polestar 2. For those that don’t know, Volvo’s parent company is Geely. Geely also owns Lotus and Lynk & Co. Hence, some of these subsidiary companies share architecture and parts. With the XC40 being the 2019 European Car of the Year, this car has a great opportunity to allow Volvo to enter the EV market smoothly.

Renault Seeks to Condense Auto Market

In 2019, Renault is currently seeking to obtain a merger with Nissan. This would allow Renault and Nissan to pursue Fiat Chrysler Automobiles (FCA) via bidding. Multiple manufacturers show interest in purchasing FCA amid its current decline to rebuild the brand under new leadership. The other companies include manufacturers such as Peugeot. Currently, Renault is involved in the Renault-Nissan-Mitsubishi Alliance. This alliance is a Franco-Japanese strategic partnership. In combination, these manufacturers sell 1 of every 9 vehicles worldwide. Wow! That’s over 10% of the market! This alliance was found by Louis Schweitzer on March 27, 1999. Now, Renault seeks more than a simple alliance – but a full merger.

A Short Background of Renault

For those that don’t know, Renault is an automobile manufacturer from France. This French company builds cars and vans with a primary market in Europe. The company’s HQ is currently in Boulogne-Billancourt, France led by CEO Thierry Bolloré for the last 2 months. The currently production output for Renault is over 3 million vehicles last recorded by Google in 2016. With this many sales, this company seeks to grow substantially. By merging with other companies, capital and investing opportunities increase. This would allow Renault to be competitive moving into the future. Moreover, this would allow Renault to build a basis of operations in the U.S..

The Fate of FCA, Nissan, & Renault

Renault looking to merge with Nissan and Fiat Chrysler, report says – WXYZ-TV Detroit | Channel 7 – YouTube
So, this year, the outcome of the fate of FCA, Nissan, and Renault will most likely happen. Whether Renault and Nissan attempt to takeover FCA, or Peugeot wins the bet, time will only tell. Renault is a popular manufacturer in Europe. But it is not as well known in the states. By growing, this company can start to command more of the market. It could also offer some higher end vehicles to possibly compete with Audi and other companies. Overall, Renault’s merger is currently up in the air. Feel free to call the customer service line for more information… JUST KIDDING!

AMG A-Class is Coming to the U.S.

For the 2020 model year, Mercedes will bring the A35 sedan to the United States. The 2020 Mercedes-AMG A35 is an entry-level sedan. This vehicle is Mercedes’ cheapest and least powerful model. But, that doesn’t mean it’s a bad car. Furthermore, this car is being considered the ultimate small performance car. So, it may be quite perfect for people in this price range. Expectations are that the A35 will be in the 40k price range. Obviously, this is without all whistles and buttons.

302 Horsepower Inline Four Engine

The 2020 Mercedes-AMG A35 entry-level sedan sports a 302-horsepower turbo inline 4-cylinder engine. On the torque side, this car isn’t shy with 295 lb.-ft. Furthermore, backing up the engine is a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission. Now, to top it off, this car sports a variable version of AWD. This car has a 0-60 time of around 4.7 seconds. If this isn’t fast enough, there will be a more powerful A-class to be announced in later 2019. This will probably sport a six-cylinder engine, but that is only a guess.

Mercedes Sets Eyes on Entry Market

New Mercedes-AMG A35 Saloon (Sedan) 2020 – see why it’s the ultimate small posh performance car – carwow – YouTube
With the 2020 Mercedes-AMG A35 saloon, the company aims at profiting in the entry-level auto market. Many manufacturers are expanding their model availability to reach more customers. This includes the Audi A-Class, BMW 1-Series, and more. So, there’s a possibility that the A35 will be a top contender for a top entry-level sports vehicle. Who knows? Maybe the A35 will become the most respected vehicle of its class. Or, it’ll simply sit alongside its competitors with its own pros and cons… only time will tell!

“…Winning is Winning.”

“Ask any racer, and real racer, it doesn’t matter how much you win by, winning is winning.” – Dominic Toretto (Vin Diesel’s Character in The Fast and the Furious series)

Recently, Porsche set the production car record at Michelin Raceway Road Atlanta. To accomplish this, the manufacturer brought a stock Porsche 911 GT2 RS with driver Randy Pobst. Behind the wheel, this driver stole the record by multiple seconds. The initial record, 1:26.45, was set by a Chevrolet Corvette ZR1. This shows that the Corvette is no match for the high tier Porsche models. If price is a concern, the Vette is definitely cheaper than a GT2 or GT3 models… by a lot. But, the quality of a Porsche is very worth it.

Furthermore, the Porsche GT3 RS was also brought to the track. It also beat the record. The GT3 RS is a bit faster than the Vette at a time of 1:26.29. But that still is a victory by 0.16 seconds! So, the GT2 RS and GT3 RS are the top two production cars of Road Atlanta. Congratulations to Porsche!

Porsche Road Atlanta Record of 1:24.88

Porsche 911 GT2 RS sets production car lap record at Michelin Raceway Road Atlanta
The Porsche 911 GT2 RS is a beastly feat of engineering. Starting at a MSRP of $293,200 USD, this car boasts 700 horsepower. This is possible via a 3.8-liter twin-turbo six-cylinder engine. From 0 to 60 mph, it takes only 2.7 seconds. Furthermore, with a top speed of 211 mph, this car is built for the track. Hence, beating the record at Michelin Raceway Road Atlanta wasn’t too difficult. Especially with Randy Pobst behind the wheel ready to tear up the track.

This car sports the optional Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 R wheels. Furthermore, the car was fit with a Racelogic VBOX Data Recorder to capture the race. So, this is one heck of a 911 GT2 RS. This car is a track driver’s dream. From the stunning exterior to the roaring motor, this car is phenomenal. Porsche knows what they’re doing, and this shows in the GT2 RS!

How It Works 101

Driving a turbo car is a fun experience. The acceleration boost from the turbo is quite thrilling. Anyone who’s driven or owns a turbo car will understand. But, did you ever wonder why a turbo makes an air release sound when releasing the gas? That sound is usually a blow-off or diverter valve. Per this article, the focus will be solely on the diverter valve concept. So, how does a diverter valve work with a turbo?

Breakdown of Diverter Valve Functionality

A diverter valve is a manifold vacuum-actuated valve that releases pressure into the intake system on turbo engines. This valve is also known as a compressor bypass valve (CBV) or a pressure relief valve. Furthermore, the valve release occurs during the lifting or closing of the throttle. Hence, while accelerating and then releasing the throttle, the car makes an air sound. This sound is the air pressure releasing into the intake. Many turbo enthusiasts love this sound, just as a supercharger fans enjoys the high-rev whining. By sending the air back into the intake, it overall benefits the performance of the vehicle. Even if it is only a slight boost in power, every bit counts.

Vroom! Hiss! Vroom! Hiss!

Euro Diverter Valves and DV+ Explained [GO FAST BRETT] – MCM TV2 – YouTube
Well, hopefully this article helps the reader understand the purpose of a diverter valve. Any vehicle with a turbo has some form of a blow-off valve. And, each one functions differently. Manufacturers such as Audi and VW use diverter valves in their vehicles. Furthermore, Aftermarket diverter valves are a great addition to a turbo vehicle. But, first, always ensure the valve fits the specific model. Buying the wrong valve may lead to lost time and longer wait periods. In conclusion, the diverter valve is a piece of technology that offers a way to be energy efficient.

How Could This Happen!?

On March 12, 2019, the Italian cargo ship “Grande America” was carrying a shipment of over 2,000 European cars across the Atlantic. Unfortunately, the ship sank off of the French Atlantic coast. All of the 27 crew members are thankfully all ok. But the vehicles are lost at the bottom of the ocean. Furthermore, this shipment’s load includes four Porsche 911 GT2 RS models. With a value of $293,200.00 USD MSRP, that’s over 1 million worth of RS models! How could this happen!? Well, there was a fire that broke out on the ship, damaging the ship enough to sink it. So, even if the ship were to not have sunk, the vehicles were most likely a lost cause either way. In all honesty, as even Audi and Porsche would probably agree, the lives of the people outweigh saving any of the 2k cars. But the story doesn’t stop there!

Porsche Restarts Production of 911 GT2 RS

Due to the circumstances, Porsche will restart production of the 911 GT2 RS models to deliver the four units. Now, that’s how a top-notch company takes care of its customers. A Customer of Porsche Brazil sent a letter to Carscoops showing this information. As per the other Porsche vehicles on the ship, there are quite a few on the list. This includes the Boxter, Cayenne, and Cayman. But, the ship didn’t only have Porsche models. Audi was using the ship as well to deliver many vehicles. The non-confirmed list includes the Audi A3, A5, RS4, RS5, and Q7.

Now, to make it worse, the ship loss includes RS4 and RS5 models. Hopefully, the ship and the manufacturers were using insurance on this shipment. Imagine the disappointment after waiting 3 months for a vehicle order. Then, finding out its sitting at the bottom of the ocean. Wow. Hopefully, everyone receives the right car at some point within the next few months. It seems Porsche is hustling along with their orders, so Audi will probably do the same.

A Rare Occurrence on the Ocean Blue

HERE’S HOW THE $293,200 PORSCHE GT2RS IS SO FAST – Vehicle Virgins – YouTube
On the ocean blue, ships sinking are a rare occurrence. Especially, cargo ships and cruise liners that travel the world every day. Right now, there are ships arriving and departing mostly every continent. Maybe not as often from Antarctica, but people still live there at research facilities and so forth. So, deliveries are necessary for survival. Either way, this happening is definitely a shock to the manufacturers and customers alike. From experience, ordering a car from the manufacturer with a delivery date is an amazing adventure. So, it’s great news that the Porsche 911 GT2 RS will go back into production. In conclusion, Porsche deserves a tip of the hat for their willingness to satisfy customers.

Celebrating 10 Years of the 5.2 FSI V10

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.

5.2-Liter V10 Engine with 620 Horsepower

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.

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.