Tuesday, April 10, 2012

Wiesmann GT, 2006

 
 
 Wiesmann GT, 2006

The success of the Roadster concept is based on a successful synthesis of classic design and state-of-the-art engineering. This encouraged Friedhelm and Martin Wiesmann to develop a new, similarly fascinating, sports car on the basis of the Roadster, the Wiesmann GT.

The two-seater coupé celebrated its premiere as a production vehicle at the IAA 2005 in Frankfurt, to be acclaimed by the motoring experts.

Despite the suggestions of a classic design as a further development of the Wiesmann-Roadster it was a completely new car which was created. Basic data were gained from the Wiesmann Racing GT, which was tested as a experimental vehicle under extreme conditions during the 24-hour race at the Nürburgring in 2002.

Since it was clear from the outset that this vehicle would not only be optically different, but based on different fundamental data, from the Roadster, there was plenty of room for manoeuvre in the development. Starting point for considerations was the engine. This was to represent a new sparkle, come what might.

Since, as it is well known, displacement can only be replaced by one thing, and that is more displacement, thoughts quickly made friends with the idea of using a BMW V8 engine of 4.8 litres capacity. This made a larger engine compartment than the Roadster's essential, which consequently meant that all the dimensions of the Wiesmann GT would have to be oriented towards that.

Thus, the GT grew in all directions, compared with the Roadster: it was three centimetres higher, eleven wider, and no less than 37 longer. To take account of the rather higher fuel consumption of the larger engine, 10 litres additional fuel tank volume was provided, at 70 litres, to guarantee adequate range on longer journeys.

The challenge now facing the engineers was to convert the engine's output into vehicle dynamics. Normally, a larger vehicle also weighs more, which in turn adversely affects the performance figures. This was avoided by designing an aluminium monocoque, familiar from the racing scene. In this way, the increase in weight was kept within bounds, and at 70 kg was extremely modest for a car of this size. The bodywork is of lightweight, high-quality, fibreglass-reinforced compound material and in the familiar manner is also fabricated in the factory.

The xenon headlights ensure good visibility in darkness, and the rear lights, which consist of LEDs, not only give a clear signal but are also unmistakable as the hallmark of the Wiesmann GT even at night.

With a power-to-weight ratio of 3.41 kg/HP the Wiesmann GT is to be found in the leading group of sports cars. The low centre of gravity, the perfectly-tuned running gear combined with the bullish torque delivered by the engine, the optimum seating position for driver and passenger ensure unalloyed driving enjoyment.

The Wiesmann GT is an individual sports car with a classic design, which fits perfectly in the automotive landscape and which will capture its own niche.

Base price: € 111.000 incl. VAT

Zagato Perana Z-One, 2009

 
 
 
 
Zagato Perana Z-One, 2009

The Zagato is launching an exciting World Premiere on the occasion of the 2009 Geneva Motor Show: the Zagato Perana Z-One (Zee-One).
The sports car Zagato Perana Z-One signals the first collaboration of the Milanese Coachbuilders with a South African Vehicle Manufacturer: Perana Performance Group.

The Perana project is the result of Zagato's 90 year-long expertise in constructing fully functional running concepts. Virtual reality development has been integrated from inception, effectively eliminating the need for the traditional styling model and enabling the prototype to be completed in less than 4 months by the South African team.

The Design Concept
As the latest descendant of the Zagato sports car family, Z-one is designed with full blooded Zagato form language.
Reflecting this pure passion from this brand new sports car specialist, the proportion and volume of Z-one is even tighter than usual sports car styling, accentuated by couple of long and dynamic curves with keen edge which visually integrate some important design features like the air out-lets. Surfaces defined by those cutting edges are even more sculptured maintaining the modern Zagato line which we have been developing for a decade.

Initiative
Following in the footsteps of Zagato's long tradition of masterfully designed cars, the Zagato Perana Z-One is no mere dream car, but a thoroughly practical and feasible production proposition that is expected to be available for sale to discerning European buyers by July 2009.
The Zagato Design Centre has styled the Zagato Perana Z-one to ensure it is built as a limited series production car. Sales will be limited to 999 cars per annum within Europe to assure exclusivity and to commemorate the 90 years of Zagato design.
Complying with Euro 4 emission legislation, this value proposition is expected to be launched at the introductory price of under 50.000 Euros, before taxes - an irresistible and highly competitive offer.

Technical Development
From the innovative tubular and box section chassis to the exciting interior styling, the Zagato Perana Z-One is a concentration of advanced design and engineering. Fully certifiable for the road, this ultra high-performance, front engined sports coupé uses a powerful 6.2 litre V8 engine that drives the rear wheels. This genuine 2-seater coupé, enjoys the benefits of almost 50/50 weight distribution allowing for exhilarating, balanced and predictable road manners.

Specification Sheet
    * Dimension
          o Curb Weight: 1195 kg
          o Weight Distribution
                + Front: 50%
                + Rear: 50%
          o Wheelbase: 2540 mm
          o Track
                + Front: 1627 mm
                + Rear: 1570 mm
          o Length: 4406 mm
          o Height: 1233 mm
          o Width: 1924 mm
          o Seating Capacity: 2
 
    * Engine
          o Configuration: V8, All Aluminium
          o Displacement: 6200 cc
          o Power: 328 kW
          o Torque: 583 Nm
          o Max. rpm: 6600 rpm
          o Fuel Delivery: Fuel Injection. Electronic, Sequential Port.
          o Compression Ratio: 10.7: 1
 
    * Drive train
          o Gearbox: 6 speed manual
          o Differential: ZF Limited Slip
 
    * Wheels: Perana / Zagato
          o Front: 18 x 10J
          o Rear: 19 x 12J
 
    * Tyres: Michelin PS2
          o Front: 275/35 ZR18
          o Rear: 345/30 ZR19
 
    * Chassis
          o Layout: Front/Mid Engine, RWD
          o Frame: Steel Tube Space Frame
          o Body: Vinyl-Ester/Glass Composite
  
  * Brakes
          o Front: 325mm
          o Rear: 305mm
          o Assist type: Vacuum
 
    * Steering: ZF Power Assist
    * Suspension
          o Front: Unequal Length A-arms, Eibach springs, Bilstein shocks, Anti-roll bar
          o Rear: Unequal length A-arms, Eibach springs, Bilstein shocks, Anti-roll bar
 
    * Fuel Capacity: 85 litres
    * Performance
          o Power/weight ratio: 328 hp (240 kW)/tonne
          o 0-100km/h: <4 secs (est)
          o 0-160km/h: <10 secs (est)

Ferrari FXX Evolution, 2008

 
 Ferrari FXX Evolution, 2008

The innovative FXX programme, based on the eponymous prototype car and launched by Ferrari in June 2005, is being extended to 2008/2009. The Ferrari FXX, which is the most advanced GT ever created at Maranello, has been updated with an evolution package aimed at further improving its handling and performance. The package was developed as a result of Ferrari's collaboration with its Client Test Drivers and with the invaluable support of Michael Schumacher. The FXXs equipped with this package will also sport a new livery in addition to new rear wing profiles.

The Ferrari FXX is not homologated for road use and there are no plans to compete with it either. In fact, the Ferrari FXX prototype is designed exclusively for track driving as part of a specific R&D programme agreed with a selected group of just over 20 clients involving 14 group test sessions and 14 private ones in the last two years. Thanks to readings taken over the 16,500 kilometres of tests carried out in 2006 and the 18,500 kilometres covered in 2007, the modifications made to the car have focused on honing its aerodynamics, running gear and electronics. Seven-times Formula 1 World Champion Michael Schumacher also joined the ranks of the client test drivers and gave the programme the benefit of his vast experience on several occasions.

Maranello's engineers studied the wealth of information gained to develop a kit which will cut the FXX's Fiorano lap time to under 1'16'' (previously it was 1'18''). The Ferrari FXX's 6262 cc V12 engine can now punch out a massive 860 hp at 9500 rpm. Gearshifting takes just 60 ms, a drop of 20 ms on the previous time, and the gear ratios have been adapted to make use of the extra 1000 rpm now delivered by the engine.

The car's new traction control system, developed in close collaboration with the GES Racing Division engineers, gives the driver a choice of no less than nine different settings (plus the off position) which are selected using a switch on the central tunnel. This means that the driver really can modify the car's behaviour on the track from corner to corner, just as the Formula 1 drivers do to maximise performance and reduce tyre wear. The Ferrari FXX's traction control is also now less invasive and more flexible, adapting more efficiently to the individual driving style of each driver - a requirement pinpointed when this very extreme car was being driven on the track by non-professional drivers.

The Ferrari FXX's special 19" Bridgestone tyres now last longer too thanks to a new car setup and new front suspension geometry, while the Brembo brakes, which boast large Composite Ceramic Material (CCM) discs, are more efficient with the result that the brake pads last twice as long. Thanks to the drivers' feedback the Ferrari engineers have also developed new aerodynamic solutions aimed at increasing downforce over the rear axle. The Ferrari FXX now sports a new rear diffuser, nolder and rear flaps which have combined to increase aerodynamic efficiency by 25% overall. The active front spoiler control system settings have been adjusted to take these modifications into account too. New telemetry monitoring of the steering angle and brake pump pressure will further boost the interaction between Client test drivers and the company's engineers also. From next year onwards, it will be possible for drivers to have two extra video cameras mounted on their car in addition the existing rear-facing one. This will, of course, give the drivers excellent rear visibility without having to impinge in any way on the car's aerodynamics.

The Ferrari FXX Evolution package includes participation in a series of track events that Ferrari is organising at international circuits for 2008/2009. Six events are planned for each year (two in North America, two in Europe and two in Asia). In addition to these, the FXXs will also be participating, as per tradition, in the prestigious end-of-season Ferrari World Finals.

As happened in 2006/2007, the cars will be backed up at each event by a 15-member official team made up of engineers, electronics experts and mechanics capable of providing complete assistance to clients. Needless to say, the latter will still be able to organise their own private individual track sessions in their car as well.
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