Auto Body Gilroy News: 1-31-13

Quick Spin: 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG GT Coupe

Mercedes-Benz upgraded its SLS flagship Coupe and Roadster for the 2013 model year, and the changes are marked with them new “GT” nomenclature. Both SLS models arrive with a retuned naturally aspired 6.2-liter V8 delivering 583 horsepower and 479 pound-feet of torque (the horses are up from 563, but the torque remains the same) mated to a revised seven-speed AMG Speedshift dual-clutch gearbox. Rounding out the mechanical upgrades is a redeveloped AMG two-mode adaptive suspension. Physically, the revised models are differentiated by their new “GT” badging, darkened headlight/taillight buckets, red brake calipers, unique wheel colors and high gloss finish on the front grille, exterior mirrors and hood/fender fins. Inside the cabin are new red seatbelts, Alcantara upholstery and contrasting red stitching.

As it is nearly impossible to experience the aluminum gullwing beast on public roads, Mercedes invited out to Southern California’s Willow Springs to wring out the 2013 SLS GT Coupe on a racing circuit.

Driving Notes

It was impossible to feel the horsepower bump from the driver’s seat (the track’s 2,000-foot elevation negated the increase anyway), but the free-breathing V8 sounds even more spectacular each time I meet it. Gobs of low-end torque, a responsive throttle and a willingness to race to redline … [Read More]

Audi Prices 2014 A8L TDI, Confirms EPA-Estimated Mileage | CarandDriver

Audi is in the midst of a powertrain overhaul for its flagship sedan, the A8, having already swapped the base 4.2-liter V-8 for a supercharged V-6 and introduced two versions of the same twin-turbocharged, 4.0-liter V-8 to the lineup. Next up is a new, fuel-efficient diesel model—powered by Audi’s corporate 3.0-liter V-6 TDI engine—and the automaker has now announced pricing for it. The A8L TDI will cost $83,395 when it goes on sale later this year.

Now, Audi has yet to release pricing info for the rest of the 2014 A8 lineup, so for now we’ll compare the A8L TDI to its 2013 model year siblings. The diesel A8 will only be available in long-wheelbase form, and its price places it squarely between the $79,395 A8L 3.0T (supercharged V-6) and the $88,095 mid-level A8L 4.0T (twin-turbo V-8). For reference, the short-wheelbase A8 3.0T starts at $73,095 and the 4.0T at $81,795.  [Read More]

Vintage Photos: 1965 Indy 500 | HotRod

Show Us The Best Non-American V8 Engines | Jalopnik

American V8s are pretty awesome. They’ve been the muscles of U.S. car culture since Bonnie and Clyde first floored their Ford Model B. They’re the ultimate answer in the eyes of the costumers when it comes to the question of performance. More »