2013 DODGE CHALLENGER SRT8 392

 

THE 2013 DODGE CHALLENGER SRT8 392

By Bruce Hubbard

Auto Advisor Group

The  2013 Dodge Challenger SRT8 392 is one of the most exciting cars to drive. On the race track or on the best  back roads of North America the sophisticated suspension and electronics help control the powerful Challenger SRT.

The original 392 HEMI engine was introduced in the new 1957 model year Chrysler and Imperial products. It replaced the 354 cubic-inch version of the original HEMI launched in 1951.Compared with the 354 engine, the 392 was completely revised and improved, with larger valves and ports, a beefier block and crankshaft and improved bearings. In short, the 392 HEMI, often affectionately referred to simply as the “92,” was perfect for drag racing.

The 2013 Hemi has 392  cubic inches (6.4-liter) delivers 470 horsepower with 470 lb.ft. of torque across a wide range .

Standard Fuel Saver Technology (four cylinder mode) in automatic transmission equipped models allows the engine to operate economically on four cylinders or use the power of all eight cylinders when needed. The EPA fuel economy miles per gallon (mpg) (City/Hwy) ratings for the 2012 Dodge Challenger SRT8 392 are 14/23 for manual or automatic transmission models.

A look under the hood reveals unique valve covers with painted silver ribs and the “392 HEMI” logo, which gives the engine a unique, clean and aggressive look.

The 2012 Dodge Challenger SRT8 392 features a standard Tremec TR-6060 six-speed manual transmission and a dual-disc high performance clutch – a proven performer that was first offered on the 2008 Dodge Viper SRT10®.

The optional five-speed automatic transmission features new, standard steering wheel mounted paddle shifters that join the center console mounted Auto Stick, allowing for a choice of spirited shifting on both the road and the race track. Both methods give the driver the ability to manually select specific gears on the transmission.

In “Drive,” the transmission controller will automatically shift the vehicle. The aggressiveness of the shifting is defined by the mode chosen - either “Normal” or “Sport.” Fully adaptive electronic control of all shifting makes the powertrain more responsive while minimizing harshness.

In “Manual,” the shift method is defined by the driver choosing to use either paddle shift or Auto Stick. The “Sport” mode adds a hold function to the calibration in all gears, allowing the driver full control of the shifting schedule.

The SRT8 392 is lowered and drivers must be careful on driveways and deep water not to destroy the fascia.  The rear spoiler helps keep the SRT8 392 low for high speed track runs which I made over and over.  I had to concentrate on the Milford Test Track but then later on  test drives for a week it was fun to use the  “performance pages” as Dodge calls them. This allowed me to test 0-60,60-to-0, ¼ mile. 1`/8^th mile, , G-lateral and Longitudinal figures.  With the three season tires was great last week when weather in Detroit was nearly 60 degrees. But, today as Dodge states remove those tires and get some winter gripping tires for anything below 40 degrees will make the Challenger SRT8 392 slip and slide. YES! It did all morning even with default  electronic stability control on. I gave it too much pedal to see if Dodge was right on and they were.

Thumbs up and waves from those who saw the SRT version with the racing red stripes and large optional alloy rims and tires make the Challenger SRT a head turner. I had the Police insist I burn out before the Thanksgiving Parade of Detroit November 2012!

From all angles of the 2013 Challenger SRT8 392 we see beauty. Under the hood we see the power that is mated to the Autostick  transmission. Move inside and the red seats with special stitching are not just good looking but comfortable. Added heated seats make the journey in winter easier. The steering wheel also is heated and it works immediately.

The electronics help keep the 2013 SRT8 on the road. The electronic stability control has three settings. Default, Partial and Full-Off mode.

The adaptive damping suspension (ADS) system is new for 2012 and tuned specifically for the Dodge Challenger SRT8 392.

In “Auto” mode, a wide range of on-road and driver inputs – such as vehicle speed, steering angle, steering speed, brake torque, throttle position and lateral/vertical accelerations – automatically tune the suspension for specific conditions. In “Sport” mode, the damping system rebound and compression is locked to the higher damping rate. Drivers can easily choose between settings to quickly change the shock damping and harshness characteristics from “Auto” for everyday commuting to “Sport” for more spirited driving situations.

The ADS system on the Challenger SRT8 392 features the fastest turn-in and most nimble handling characteristics of any SRT product. In the “Sport” setting, the system provides the highest damping rates allowing the driver to push the handling envelope like never before.

The performance SRT-tuned, fully-hydraulic steering system features a heavy-duty pump combined with a damped steering gear to give drivers more direct response and on-center feel.

Sitting a half-inch lower than non-SRT models, the 2012 Challenger SRT8 392 rides on either the standard five-spoke, 20 x 9-inch fully forged aluminum wheels or available seven-spoke, 20 x 9-inch lightweight forged aluminum wheels with satin black painted pockets. Standard Goodyear RSA All-Season tires or available Goodyear F1 Supercar Three-Season complement the performance design cues and deliver serious gripping performance and handling.

The handling result is .90g capability on the skid pad – the most of any production Challenger and on par with some of the world’s best-handling performance coupes.

The rear seat is able to hold people who will be cramped because of minimal leg room. Entry into the rear seat is not an easy task either.

Best to keep the rear seat for extra storage or for children to sit in.

Cargo space is abundant. I needed more when carrying our gear and the rear seats added more than I could believe. 

The SRT8  392 does not have a spare tire.  So many manufacturers say no to spares. With road side assistance, AAA, and other services they feel that  no need for the spare. Still they offer one as an option.  When in Montana or even when in the outback I am not happy without a spare.  The inflator kit joins two Harmon Karden speakers and a large performance battery in the trunk.  The extra weight makes sense for this powerful 392 needs to keep the tires on the road and not spinning.

The start stop button was confusing at times.. Plus, doors would not lock. You must be careful on the start/stop ignition systems. I love the keyfob offering start of the vehicle from a distance. That made the car clean of the ice/snow we received in lat November plus made the car warm. That system automatically turned on heated seats and the heated steering wheel.

The base Challenger SRT8 392 starts at $43,775.00 but quickly can  get to over $50,000.00. The test car I drove came in at $50,800.00 not including destination charges of $995.00.  It had the customer preferred package 22X at $1995.00 which gave the sound system an upgrade to include Harmon Karden Audio Group and premium speakers.  The auto stick automatic Transmission added another $1,100.00 and included Steering Wheel Mounted paddles, Tip Start,3.06 Rear Axle ratio.  The sunroof I like which includes the two wide red stripes down the hood ( $995.00).  For the great looking alloy rim and 245/45ZR20 3-Seas Goodyear tires add $150.00.  UCONNECT 730 Option gives you CD/DVD/MP3/HDD/NAVIGATION with 40 GB hard drive. The GPS navigation is terrific. 

One item added is for the luxury of a gas guzzler $1,000.00.

The sound system was a pleasure to use. I would like soon that the U Connect join up with Google earth to add true images of where you are traveling.

Total for the 2013 Challenger SRT8 392  I drove was $50,800.00.  MOPAR after market products are also available to even make the Challenger SRT8 392 more impressive.

I have driven the Mustangs, the Camaros, and the Challengers and they are all superb. Sophistication in all the controls of the Challenger really impressed me and it is one of the best “sports” cars I have ever driven.

I wished our test car offered the following:

1.     Blind Spot monitoring.

2.     Lane Departure Control.

3.     Rear Camera or better as Infiniti has the above 3D camera system.

4.     Google earth on Navigation System.

5.     Adaptive headlamp system. The present system is good but Adaptive are even better.

6.     Move windshield squirters to the actual windshield wipers and add heat.

7.     Adaptive Cruise Control with Crash Avoidance.

Owners of any Chrysler Group SRT vehicle receive one day of professional driving instruction as part of the SRT Track Experience, designed to maximize their driving knowledge and skills on the street or track. Sessions are held throughout the year at selected tracks.

Bruce Hubbard

Auto Advisor Group

brucehubbardphotography.IFP3.com

AUTO ADVISOR GROUP
BRUCE HUBBARD

AUDI AG has achieved another technological milestone in motorsport. On the 80th running of the famous Le Mans 24 Hours, a vehicle with hybrid drive – the Audi R18 e-tron quattro – has triumphed for the first time.

Around 200,000 spectators witnessed a fascinating race with the drama and incidents that are typical for Le Mans plus an impressive demonstration of “Vorsprung durch Technik.” The four Audi R18 cars from Audi Sport Team Joest were the quickest and most reliable vehicles and after 24 hours occupied positions one, two, three and five.

“By achieving this further success at the world’s most important endurance race our engineers demonstrated their high technological expertise in a particularly impressive way,” commented Rupert Stadler, Chairman of the Board of Management of AUDI AG, who personally watched the race on location. “With the e-tron quattro in combination with ultra lightweight design, we put a completely new technology on the grid and immediately won with it – this cannot be taken for granted by any means, particularly here at Le Mans. This weekend again showed the type of things that can happen in this race and how important perfect preparation is.”

All four Audi R18 cars had the chance to clinch what amounted to the brand’s eleventh Le Mans victory in total. After 378 laps, last year’s winners Marcel Fässler (CH), André Lotterer (D) and Benoît Tréluyer (F) at the wheel of the Audi R18 e-tron quattro designated as car number “1” were again the front runners. Dindo Capello (I), Tom Kristensen (DK) and Allan McNish (GB) as the runners-up caused the all-wheel drive of the future in which the conventional drive system is intelligently combined with an electrically driven axle to record a one-two result. Audi is already testing this technology in which the drive shaft is replaced by electric cables for use in production vehicles.

Le Mans rookie Marco Bonanomi (I), Oliver Jarvis (GB) and Mike Rockenfeller (D) in the best conventionally powered Audi R18 ultra completed the fourth one-two-three victory for Audi at the Le Mans 24 Hours after 2000, 2002 and 2010. Romain Dumas (F), Loïc Duval (F) and Marc Gené (E) at the wheel of the second R18 ultra finished in fifth place.

Operating at the rear of all four Audi R18 cars was the latest evolution of the compact V6 TDI engine with VTG mono turbocharger that was used at Le Mans for the first time in 2011. The new ultra-light transmission with a carbon fiber housing – a novelty in a Le Mans sports car – held up to the Le Mans endurance test covering a distance of 5.151 kilometers in all four vehicles without any problems as well. Like quatto all-wheel drive, ultra-lightweight design is a core competency of the company.

The two Audi R18 e-tron quattro cars embody these two technologies in a particularly extreme form – and they were the protagonists at the 80th edition of the endurance classic right from the beginning. They only had to relinquish the leading position to one of the two Toyota hybrid vehicles once for a few laps on Saturday night. After the early retirements of their fiercest rivals the two R18 e-tron quattro cars fought a thrilling duel for victory throughout the night until noon on Sunday during which the lead changed several times and the two diesel hybrid sports cars were often separated by just a few seconds.

An accident by Allan McNish in the fast Porsche corners less than three hours before the finish caused the preliminary decision. Audi Sport Team Joest managed to repair the heavy damage at the front of the R18 e-tron quattro in record time and to thus save second place. In the early phase, car number “2” had lost nearly a lap after a massive piece of rubber pick-up had gotten stuck in the area of the rear suspension.

The winning car with chassis number R18-208H nicknamed “Electra” was not spared from incidents either. Marcel Fässler touched the track barrier twice on Saturday morning: the first time after spinning at high speed and the second time when he had to evade a GT vehicle that was standing sideways in the Mulsanne corner. Benoît Tréluyer, who was suffering from a severe cold which he had caught on Friday while participating in the drivers’ parade in the rain in the center of Le Mans, spun once at the entrance to the pit lane.

The third-placed Audi R18 ultra – car number “4” – lost a lap right at the beginning of the race due to a check of the rear suspension. On late Sunday morning a gear got stuck twice which the driver was able to correct each time by switching the ignition on and off. Afterward the R18 was running perfectly again and allowed Marco Bonanomi and Oliver Jarvis to clinch the first podium place at Le Mans together with Mike Rockenfeller, who returned to the podium a year after his serious accident.

Two nearly identical slips caused the Audi R18 ultra #3 in which Loïc Duval set the fastest lap of the race to lose its chance for victory. On Saturday night, Romain Dumas in the first chicane while lapping a GT vehicle hit the dirty part of the track and slid against the track barrier. The same mishap occurred to Marc Gené on Sunday noon. In both cases, Audi Sport Team Joest managed to repair the R18 in an extremely short period of time. In total, though, twelve laps were lost.

“This was a race of the kind you can arguably experience only at Le Mans,” said Head of Audi Motorsport Dr. Wolfgang Ullrich after his four Audi R18 cars had crossed the finish line. “You should never rejoice too early at Le Mans, which was obvious again especially on Sunday noon. The whole world was already talking about a one-two-three-four victory and all of a sudden two of our cars had accidents almost simultaneously. That the squad repeatedly managed to repair the cars so quickly after the slips clearly speaks for Audi Sport Team Joest that can simply be banked on at Le Mans. On the whole, I can only take my hat off to the entire squad of Audi Sport that worked extremely hard for a year to make this triumph possible. It was a very big challenge to develop a hybrid car in such a short time that is quick and able to hold up for 24 hours. The fact that, as in 2001 with the TFSI engine and in 2006 with the TDI, we managed to be successful right on the first run simply proves the level of technological expertise that is available at Audi. This is a great day for Audi Sport, for Audi and for the e-tron quattro.”

With its eleventh victory at Le Mans, Audi has extended its lead in the World Endurance Championship. Dindo Capello, Tom Kristensen and Allan McNish as the runners-up recaptured the lead in the drivers’ world championship.

2013 KIA SORENTO

AUTO ADVISOR GROUP
BRUCE HUBBARD

Major improvements for upgraded Kia Sorento

Kia stated to us in their press release the following:

 Kia’s hugely successful Sorento CUV will receive a host of significant improvements when the new upgraded model goes on sale later this year in most markets. Significant changes include a re-engineered bodyshell, enhanced powertrains for best-in-class fuel economy with lower emissions; improved ride; handling and refinement; additional convenience and safety features; and a fresh new look for the exterior.

“Since its introduction in 2009, the second-generation Kia Sorento has achieved more than 620,000 sales around the world.  Today, it is manufactured in Korea and the USA, attracting over 130,000 U.S. customers last year to rank as the best-selling Kia model in the States for the second year in a row,” commented Thomas Oh, Kia’s Executive Vice President & COO of the International Business Division.  “We have given very careful attention to feedback from owners, and the upgraded Sorento is not just a cosmetic exercise, but a major step forward for our popular CUV.”

Kia’s designers have created new headlamps with LED positioning lights, a new tailgate with LED rear combination lamps; new bumpers (front and rear) with vertical-axis fog lights and a larger area of body-color surface; and an expanded choice of wheels to include larger diameter (19-inch) alloys.

 

Inside the five or seven-seater cabin, there are more soft-touch surfaces plus a new LCD instrument cluster, new center stack with 8-inch display screen, and a new console featuring a straight-gate selector with a leather-booted lever on automatic transmission models – reinforcing the vehicle’s more luxurious character.  Offered in black or beige cloth or leather, the interior can be bathed in natural light through a larger optional panoramic sunroof with no center cross beam and a powered blind.

VOLKSWAGEN CROSS COUPE CONCEPT

AUTO ADVISOR GROUP
BRUCE HUBBARD

VOLKSWAGEN CROSS COUPÉ MAKES ITS WORLD DEBUT AT THE TOKYO MOTOR SHOW

Compact hybrid crossover SUV mixes style, performance, and efficiency

Wolfsburg/Tokyo -  At the Tokyo Motor Show, Volkswagen is revealing the Cross Coupé, a concept SUV that looks towards the future. This all-wheel-drive plug-in hybrid vehicle shows how Volkswagen designers could envision a crossover that’s part four-door coupe, part compact SUV. The design team, led by Walter de Silva and Klaus Bischoff, has created an intriguing study that impressively combines the best of the two worlds. Original, strong in character, and sculptural and dynamic, the Cross Coupé hints at the future of SUV design at Volkswagen.

The sporty Cross Coupé concept is based on Volkswagen’s new modular transverse matrix (MQB)—the first time a vehicle has been shown off this platform. The four-seater SUV is powered by two electric motors and a direct-injection turbocharged gasoline (TSI®) engine. The Cross Coupé can drive a distance of up to 25 miles purely on electric power.

Long wheelbase, short overhangs

The concept car is longer than a VW Golf and shorter than a Tiguan at 171.1 inches overall. At 73.5 inches wide and 60.0 inches high, it also falls neatly in between these two bestsellers. The Cross Coupé is thus sized in the globally popular A-segment. With a very long wheelbase of 103.5 inches—two inches longer than a Golf and an inch longer than the Tiguan—compared to its overall length, the Cross Coupé has correspondingly short overhangs: 33.7 and 33.9 inches, respectively, at the front and back. The powerful, muscular proportions are underscored by the wide 62.4-inch front and 63.5-inch rear track dimensions.

The Cross Coupé is still designed to be practical off-road as well as on pavement. The front approach angle, for instance, is 24.2 degrees and the rear departure angle is an impressive 32.5 degrees. The Cross Coupé reinforces its off-road credentials with excellent ground clearance.

Forward Looking Design

The defining features of the Cross Coupé’s styling are the long hood, a completely new frontal aesthetic, the set-back passenger compartment, and the low window line for an SUV. The Cross Coupé looks like it has been milled from a solid block, with extremely precise and modern lines. It also shows the direction in which Volkswagen design is developing.

One striking element is a shoulder line—the tornado line—that looks as if it has been cut with a razor blade. This runs just below the frameless windows, extending from the front to the rear fenders. The decidedly flared fenders create a very powerful stance and produce a silhouette that is reminiscent of a sports car, allied with the robustness of an SUV. The 20-inch alloy wheels, equipped with 265/45-section tires, enhance the sporty look. At the rear, a voluminous coupe-like C-post rises up over the wheelarches.

Radical Front Lights: The potential of the Volkswagen design DNA developed by Walter de Silva (Group Chief Designer) and Klaus Bischoff (Volkswagen Chief Designer) is shown in the concept car’s front section. In this instance, the characteristic horizontal lines of the “Volkswagen visage” become a link between present and future. Unlike today’s models, the designers have physically merged the twin bi-xenon headlamps with the radiator grille’s chrome-plated fins. Two chrome bars that ascend to the sides of the vehicle and link the headlamps are part of an entirely new lighting concept; the lower of the two chrome fins contains the Daytime Running Lights and the fin above it incorporates the turn signals.

The center of the bumper has an area painted in the vehicle’s color: a precisely shaped character line extends upwards to form a homogenous unit with the bars of the radiator grille. Right at the bottom of the bumper is another air intake, which is fitted with two additional smaller chrome bars. To the left and right of each inlet are the LED foglights.

Coupe-style roofline: The shallow line of the side windows also influences the rear of the car. The steeply raked rear window is typical of a coupe. The rear edge of the hatchback is finished off by a spoiler, which optically extends the roof surface and also optimizes the aerodynamics. The rear light clusters are kept slim and, in similar fashion to their counterparts on the latest production models such as the new CC, they feature a delicate, pale, horizontal bar that makes them look very elegant. The chunky rear bumper is, however, typical of an SUV and features integrated exhaust pipes on either side.

The Best of Both Worlds

Inside, the worlds of the SUV and the coupe form an exciting alliance. This four-seater has a significantly sportier design than conventional SUVs. For example, the dashboard has the precise lines of a coupe’s, yet is raised up like an SUV’s. The surface of the dashboard exudes a very refined quality, yet is also very robust. This robustness is also a feature of the controls and touch points inside the vehicle: for instance, the stability control systems and driving modes are controlled via two aluminum-alloy rotary switches, with the button for the electric parking brake located between them. The strikingly wide shift lever for the seven-speed dual-clutch automatic (DSG®) transmission is also made of aluminum: as well as providing some visual fun, it also is pleasing to the touch. Two robust but elegant grab handles are a feature of the center stack, which also incorporates the HVAC controls and air vents, and a touchscreen display that monitors all relevant vehicle functions, from on- and off-road navigation to the sound system.

Programmable instruments: Arranged behind the three-spoke steering wheel is a user-programmable instrument cluster. The driving mode‘s rotary control knob can be used to select between “Sport,” “City,” and “Offroad.” The screen display varies according to the mode selected: for instance, “Offroad” mode features a compass and a topographic map. Each of the three modes has a customized screen layout and different color scheme. Positioned centrally between the twin round dials is another multifunction color display that shows vehicle information, the phone menu, audio details, and additional navigational information.

Designed for long journeys: The Cross Coupé is fitted with four individual bucket seats that have solidly integrated headrests. The four passengers have ample leg-, head- and shoulder-room. The backs of the rear seats and the front passenger’s seat can be folded fully forwards to accommodate bulky items such as surfboards and bicycles. The seat backs have an outer synthetic covering so that they form a durable surface for such loads when they are folded down. There’s 13.4 cubic feet of trunk space behind the rear seats, which expands to 43.4 cubic feet with the rear seats folded.

Innovative Hybrid Powertrain

The Cross Coupé has not one but three power sources, which work together efficiently as a hybrid system. Underhood, there’s a 148-horsepower (110 kW) TSI engine that delivers 155 pound-feet of torque as well as an electric motor that makes 54 hp (40 kW) and 133 lb-ft. Together or individually these two motors power the front axle. If the Cross Coupé is to be used in all-wheel-drive or pure electric mode, a further electric motor that is integrated as a co-axial drive unit in the back axle powers the rear wheels. This second electric motor generates up to 114 hp (85 kW) and develops 199 lb-ft of torque. The overall output of the system (gasoline engine and electric motors) is a maximum of 262 hp (195 kW).

Because the battery is mounted low, inside where a conventional driveshaft would run in the “transmission tunnel,” the vehicle has a low center of gravity. Combined with the balanced layout of the power sources, the concept has the dynamic handling of a coupe while retaining the functionality of an SUV.

Electric Avenue: When the vehicle is being driven purely on electric power, the motors receive their current from an eight-module 9.8 kWh lithium-ion battery. An electronic power control module, operating at around 370 volts and integrated into the engine compartment, manages the flow of high-voltage energy to and from the battery and the electric motors. Meanwhile, the Cross Coupé’s low-voltage electrical system is supplied with the necessary 12 volts through a DC/DC converter. The battery is charged either via 230-volt external sources or—when in motion—via the TSI engine and front- and rear-axle regeneration.

Highly Efficient: With a full tank of fuel the Cross Coupé weighs 3854 pounds, distributed 58 percent front and 42 percent rear. The payload is 992 pounds.

In purely electric mode, the vehicle can be driven up to 25 miles, emissions free. In the New European Driving Cycle (NEDC), the fuel consumption is 87 mpg (2.7 liters/100 km), equating to CO2 emissions of just 62 g/km. With a 14.5-gallon fuel tank, the theoretical range in hybrid mode is 506 miles: add in the electric range, and the Cross Coupé can do 531 miles without stopping for fuel.

Sustainable and Sporty: Despite the focus on sustainability, the concept car is still sporty. The Cross Coupé accelerates from 0 to 62 mph in just 7.0 seconds and has a top speed of 125 mph. In electric-only mode, the top speed is governed to 75 mph. Both the gas mileage and driving performance are positively influenced by the Cross Coupé’s excellent aerodynamics and low overall height (for an SUV), with an overall drag coefficient of just 0.329.

How the hybrid drive system works: Both electric motors help (boost) the gasoline engine (TSI) during acceleration. As mentioned above, however, they can also power the concept car on its own for a distance of up to 25 miles, depending on conditions. In this instance, by opening the clutch, the TSI is disconnected from the drivetrain and switched off. The clutch on the gearbox side, however, remains closed and the seven-speed DSG thus remains connected. Cross Coupé drivers can also choose to drive relatively long distances on pure electric power (as long as the battery has enough charge). To do so the driver simply presses the relevant driving mode button on the centre console next to the shift lever. As soon as the TSI needs to be brought back into play due to the battery’s level of charge or any other parameters, the engine starts up—almost imperceptibly for driver and passengers—and smoothly engages with the drivetrain.

Charging at the press of a button: Whenever the Cross Coupé’s brakes are applied, both electric motors act as generators, utilizing the braking energy to charge the battery (regeneration). The driver can (via another button next to the shift lever) also consciously charge the battery from the TSI engine—for instance, in order to have sufficient electric power to drive later in a regulated zone that’s preserved exclusively for zero-emission electric vehicles. At all times, the current electric range and the Cross Coupé’s overall range are displayed on the instrument panel.

Multi-mode Drivetrain: Based on the amount of drive (for instance, loss of traction on the front axle) or through the driver consciously switching to all-wheel or electric mode, the rear electric motor engages in an instant. In general there are three driving modes available to the driver: City (eco-mode with minimal fuel consumption); Sport (dynamic driving); and Offroad (permanent all-wheel drive).

THE CONCEPT IS BRILLIANT!  ONCE AGAIN VOLKSWAGEN HAS DONE A GREAT JOB SHOWING US WHAT COULD BE COMING NEXT.

Mopar Ram Runner Wins Truck Duel in the Desert

Mopar Ram Runner Wins Truck Duel in the Desert

I was not there but talking to the PR department at RAM we found out that the MOPAR outfitted RAM Runner was 33 seconds faster than Ford SVT Raptor on a punishing 4.73-mile loop.

The vehicles I was told by PR executive at RAM were 2010 and 2011.  So in reality these were customized vehicles like I have seen at MOPAR headquarters.  What Ford did I do not know.

GREAT PR for MOPAR. And let me tell you in the last event MOPAR had in Warren I was impressed. They have everything for the man or women that wants to produce more power, look great and travel the roads. By that I mean they have suspension systems that allow a big RAM to go on the highway, Desert, fire trails and rock climbing. What MOPAR has done is branding a new performance BRAND.

Teamed up with all the Chrysler/Dodge/RAM SRT vehicles they make it easy for a buyer to customize a vehicle that is perhaps one of a kind.

The Mopar Ram Runner and the Ford SVT Raptor  RAM stated met for a shoot-out at Ocotillo Wells State Vehicular Recreation Area (SVRA), a state park in southeast California with 85,000 acres of nothing but dirt, dust and desert. When all was said and done, the Mopar Ram Runner was declared the winner. OK that was from RAM but I did not see the specs on the FORD.

PickupTrucks.com (powered by Cars.com) teamed with veteran SCORE International Off-Road
Racing Series Trophy Truck driver Chad Ragland to thoroughly evaluate both trucks on a challenging
4.73-mile evaluation loop.

“I was impressed with Ram Runner’s extreme off-road capability,” said Ragland. “We jumped,
slammed into mounds, cut through deep sand and it came out like a pro, rarely getting into the
bumpstops or touching the skid plates,” said Ragland. “Those front-end shocks are amazing. During
our first set of runs, I could feel myself tighten a bit as we headed toward the big rocks and ruts, but
then the front end just sucked it all up. Those big springs and shocks had no problems.”

“We like how the Ram Runner kit can be built in pieces and stages based on what the truck owner
wants and needs,” said Mark Williams, Editor, PickupTrucks.com. “You can go full throttle right away, or take it slower, building your perfect desert explorer at your own pace, factoring in your own
budget.”

“Our Mopar Ram Runner is the ultimate desert racer based on a production vehicle,” said Pietro
Gorlier, President and CEO of Mopar, Chrysler Group LLC’s service, parts and customer-care brand.

“Mopar Ram Runner offers superior suspension travel to handle rough terrain and greater approach
and departure angles for better clearance.”

“We’re proud that – under the most punishing real-world test conditions possible – the Mopar Ram
Runner takes PickupTrucks.com’s top off-road honors over the Ford Raptor,” said Fred Diaz,
President and CEO – Ram Truck Brand and Chrysler de Mexico.

 “Whether you’re into desert racing, rock crawling, hunting and fishing or just need a hard-working dependable work truck, there’s truly a Ram truck for everyone.”

The Mopar Ram Runner kit, developed with successful Baja off-roader Kent Kroeker, RAM told me includes the following: Pre-Runner Stage II Lift Kit, off-road front bumper, off-road front and rear fenders, off-road rear-tire carrier, sport performance hood and cat-back exhaust. Each element of the kit may be purchased separately. The kit may be installed by do-it-yourselfers or in a Ram dealership.

The Mopar Ram Runner kit is equal to or better than the competition on a number of fronts. The
heavy-duty suspension system can handle practically any abuse the off-road dishes out. Front upper
and lower control arms, which are three inches longer than production arms, provide added width and
allow greater wheel travel over rough dirt trails.

Front lower control arms are constructed of plate steel in order to withstand off-road punishment.
Upper control arms include rebuildable high-angle ball joints. Both inner and outer tie rods are
substantially strengthened and contribute to the vehicle’s rugged, off-road steering characteristics
and capabilities. Outer tie rods, constructed of forged steel, measure 1 inch in diameter. Inner tie rods
also are nearly 20-percent beefier than production, increasing from .62 inches to .75 inches.
At the rear, a 5-link coil spring rear suspension is utilized and helps provide a 30-degree departure
angle.

The Pre-Runner Stage II kit offers a boost in suspension travel, 14 inches both front and rear, which is
superior to the suspension travel on the Ford SVT Raptor. The Ram Runner kit, which includes Fox 3-
inch internal bypass shocks, offers performance on par with that of an off-road Baja race truck and
outperforms the 2.5-inch shocks of the competition.

Ground clearance is approximately 13 inches at the center of the front cross-member and 16 inches
at the rocker panels.

Body parts included in the Mopar Ram Runner kit, created with Trophy Truck inspiration, feature a
tough-yet-stylish look built to handle the rigors of the off-road while turning heads on the street. The
front bumper is constructed of steel with an integrated skid plate. With a 41-degree approach angle,
ample clearance is assured over the deepest off-road obstacles.

Front and rear fiberglass fenders are lightweight, tough and durable with wider wheel wells that allow
for tremendous suspension articulation with zero tire-to-body interference. The eight-inch wider track
also provides an imposing, aggressive look.

The stamped aluminum, dual-scooped sport performance hood adds even more to the forceful
appearance of the Ram Runner Kit. The spare-tire carrier is located in the bed of the pickup and
enables easier access and provides the ability to transport a larger spare tire, contributing to the
overall appearance and “Baja truck feel.”

Following is additional information on the Mopar Ram Runner kit, which is available for owners of
2009 to 2011 model-year Ram 1500 models:
Mopar Ram Runner Kit (each part may be purchased separately)
Pre-Runner Stage II Lift Kit: 5-link coil-spring rear suspension, lower control arms, upper control
arms, rebuildable high-angle ball joints and forged steel, high-angle tie rods. Fourteen inches of
suspension travel in front and rear, three-inch internal bypass Fox shocks. (MSRP: $13,670, Part No.
P5155662)

Off-Road Front Bumper: Steel construction with integrated skid plate, high approach angle of 41
degrees provides greater clearance over off-road obstacles. (MSRP: $1,290, Part No. P5155663)
Off-Road Rear-Tire Carrier: Rear placement allows for easier access and ability to carry larger tires
needed for the off-road. (MSRP: $1,425, Part No. P5155664AB)

Off-Road Front Fenders: Tough, durable fenders feature wide wheel wells allowing for tremendous
suspension articulation, zero tire-to-body interference, and provide an imposing, aggressive look.
(MSRP: $1,055, Part No. P5155665)

Off-Road Rear Fenders (6-foot, 4-inch bed): Tough, durable fenders feature wide wheel wells
allowing for tremendous suspension articulation, zero tire-to-body interference, and provide an
imposing, aggressive appearance. (MSRP: $1,395, Part No. P5155666)

Sport Performance Hood: Stamped aluminum, dual-scooped hood with molded bezels adds to the
forceful appearance of the Ram Runner kit. (MSRP: $1,070, Part No. 82211065AE)

5.7L Cat-Back Exhaust: Dual exhaust with chromed tips for bumper with cut-outs. (MSRP: $1,175,
Part No. P5155280)

Mopar-First Features
Mopar has introduced numerous industry-first features including:

Vehicle-information apps: first to introduce smartphone vehicle-information applications, a new
channel of communication with consumers

Electronic owner manuals: first to introduce traditional owner manuals in a DVD and brief userguide
format

Wi-Fi: first to offer customers the ability to make their vehicle a wireless hot spot
Wireless charging: first to introduce in-vehicle wireless charging for portable devices

Electronic Vehicle Tracking System (EVTS): first to market with a new interactive vehicle
tracking device that sends owner a text when vehicle is driven too fast or too far based on preset
parameters

2011 Mopar Challenger Drag Pak: first to introduce a 500-plus cubic-inch V-10 drag-race
package car

Camper trailers: first to introduce off-road camper trailers

Brand-specific customer care telephone lines: first to offer Sunday service hours for customers

WiTECH: first to support vehicle diagnosis and software updates leveraging off-the-shelf
personal computers and a dedicated wireless tool network.

BRYAN Zvibleman stated to me yesterday that they have amazing equipment for the 2012 and 2013 RAM trucks for those that must customize. 

I am so impressed by MOPAR and the entire RAM team. Things are only getting better for Chrysler/DODGE/RAM.

Bruce Hubbard
Auto Advisor Group

VOLKSWAGEN UNVEILS R-LINE CC

AUTO ADVISOR GROUP
BRUCE HUBBARD

Volkswagen will unveil the R-Line version of the CC at the Auto Mobil International show in Leipzig on June 1st. This CC model will be available in the U.S. at the end of 2012 with the 200-horsepower, 2.0-liter, turbocharged TSI® engine, mated to either a six-speed manual or a six-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission.

With interior and exterior enhancements, the R-Line upgrades make the CC an even sportier vehicle. Compared with the Sport model, the R-Line gains a more aggressive front bumper design that incorporates a large lower air intake and projector-style foglights with a striking chrome motif. Side skirts and the R-Line logo on the grille further differentiate it from the Sport model, along with shaded taillights and unique and dramatic 18-inch aluminum-alloy wheels. Inside, there are stainless-steel R-Line scuff plates and the multifunction steering wheel for the DSG-equipped model has paddle shifters.

The CC 2.0T R-Line will feature standard Bi-Xenon headlights with LED Daytime Running Lights and the Adaptive Front-lighting System; LED taillights; LED license-plate illumination; rain-sensing windshield wipers; Climatronic® automatic climate-control; heated 12-way power front seats; the touchscreen Premium VIII sound system with HD Radio, eight speakers, and a six-disc CD changer; Bluetooth® technology; iPod® connectivity; and V-Tex leatherette seating surfaces.

The CC was refreshed for the 2013 Model Year, featuring new front and rear styling and an extended range of standard equipment. The 2013 CC went on sale in March and now has seating for five (previous models seated four). The new CC makes an even bolder move towards the automotive luxury class, offering a sleek, dramatic look at a highly attainable price.

BMW ZAGATO COUPE

AUTO ADVISOR GROUP
BRUCE HUBBARD

PRESS RELEASE FROM BMW

The Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este will once again host a spectacular world premiere in 2012 and, in so doing, build on its tradition as a gathering of the industry’s leading coachbuilders. The premiere in question will see the time-honoured Milanese coachbuilder Zagato team up with BMW to unveil the result of a unique collaboration: the BMW Zagato Coupé.

Zagato has worked in close collaboration to create an exciting and emotionally charged coupé in the finest tradition of automotive workmanship. The BMW Zagato Coupé embodies the unbridled fascination of cars and fuses the design DNA of the two companies into a fresh and desinctive whole. This one-off model is the product of many hours of skilled hand-craftsmanship and breathes new life into the tradition of coachbuilding.

It is hard to think of a better occasion for the premiere than the Concorso d‘Eleganza Villa d’Este, one of the most exclusive events in the world of classic cars and motorcycles. The vehicles shown on the banks of Lake Como are hand-picked, the number of entrants limited and the surroundings simply without comparison. The Concorso began as a get-together of coachbuilders presenting one-off hand-built creations, and the BMW Zagato Coupé follows very much in that tradition.
                                                                              
Made for the road.
The two partners settled on a realistic and applied approach to the development of the BMW Zagato Coupé. “Zagato has always provided its customers with ready-to-drive cars which can be sent into action on the road or race track without further ado – and the BMW Zagato Coupé fits the same template,” says Dr Andrea Zagato, who represents the third generation of his family to sit at the helm of the company. To this end, the car is registered for road use and meets all the legal requirements worldwide. “It is relatively easy to build a design study which is not intended for use on the road. Not having to meet any stipulations governing crash safety or pedestrian protection opens up a host of new avenues in terms of design,” he adds. “The challenge lies in injecting the emotional appeal of a concept car into a road-legal machine. And we think we have succeeded in doing just that with the BMW Zagato Coupé.” Indeed, the new creation has already cut a “bella figura” at high speeds during testing on the BMW test track.
Both partners can look back on a rich heritage, sharing as they do a passion for cars that stretches back over 80 years. Added to which, Adrian van Hooydonk, Senior Vice-President BMW Group Design, and Andrea Zagato are long-time appreciators of each other’s work; indeed, Zagato took home the prestigious Concorso d’Eleganza Design Award in both 2010 and 2011. However, this collaboration is about more than mutual respect.

Zagato chief designer Norihiko Harada and van Hooydonk have been friends for many years, so when Andrea Zagato proposed a collaboration, it wasn’t long before the decision was made to build a car at Zagato that embodies the two companies’ passion for cars.

BMW and the Italian design.After sawing in 1939 the creation of the first BMWs sporting tailor made Italian metalwork, a coupé based on the BMW 328 for the upcoming race season and specifically for the Mille Miglia (where it triumphed in 1940), BMW was back to Milan in 1954 to buy from Renzo Rivolta, founder of ISO, drawings, license and tooling necessary for the production of the legendary Isetta.
Almost sixty years later BMW had the opportunity to re-establish a connection with the Rivolta family. As a matter of fact Marella Rivolta, wife of Andrea Zagato, is Zagato Art Director and responsible of BMW Coupé Zagato trim and colours.

The hands of Italian designers were also responsible for the eye-catching looks of the BMW 3200 Michelotti Vignale (1959), BMW 700 (1959), BMW 3200 CS Bertone (1962) and BMW M1 (1978) – all of which retain the status of design icons to this day.

The BMW Zagato Coupé heralds a new chapter in the tradition of cooperation between BMW and Italian designers. Much has changed since those earlier collaborations, however, with the advent of new working methods such as digital sketching, Photoshop and CAD/CAS tools opening the door to an entirely new way of working. Despite these advances in the design tools available, the human touch is still essential to the process. “Working with Zagato was a fantastic experience. It was extremely enriching for us to create something with people who share our understanding of good design and passion for cars,” explains Karim Habib, Head of Design BMW Automobiles. “And that is what makes the car so special – the open and constructive dialogue with Zagato, their experience, craftsmanship and incomparable sense for forms. All of these gifts are wrapped up in the BMW Zagato Coupé.”

The body of the BMW Zagato Coupé has been built entirely by hand. As in the past, the new skin was tailored to fit the car’s mechanical architecture, tracing its lines yet giving it space to breathe. The Zagato experts spent many hours crafting the aluminium sheet metal by hand and meticulously moulding it to give the car its unique form.

The design – a BMW seen through the eyes of Zagato.
The BMW Zagato Coupé is a collaboration between auto enthusiasts – a BMW seen through the eyes of Zagato. This comes through in the design of the car, hallmark design cues from both companies merging to form an emotion-laden coupé in the best Zagato tradition. The brief for the car was clear from the outset: the BMW Zagato Coupé was to be a “Vmax concept”, a road-registered, aerodynamically optimised machine capable of achieving high speeds yet at the same time meeting all legal requirements and crash-related stipulations – a car that is ready and eager to be driven.
The proportions of the BMW Zagato Coupé alone exude the promise of a very special driving experience. The extremely long bonnet, greenhouse set well back and double bubble roof and Kamm Tail sum up the dynamic focus of the car as only a coupé could. The flowing roofline melts away into the compact, muscular rear, where the car’s power is transferred to the road. This sculptural and visually striking surface treatment is a Zagato hallmark and lends the BMW Zagato Coupé a distinctive and instantly recognisable personality. The surface treatment, on the other hand, is clearly inspired by BMW. The car’s dynamic silhouette sees precise lines forging a path over taut surfaces towards the rear. Surfaces moulded with eye-catching depth underline the sporting statement of the BMW Zagato Coupé. “For me, the BMW Zagato Coupé holds a very special magic. It exudes a certain spontaneity which, when combined with the type of unconventional solutions typical of Zagato, lend the car a very individual elegance,” says Zagato chief designer Norihiko Harada.

A striking front end. The BMW Zagato Coupé is extremely three-dimensional, very wide and powerfully contoured at the front. The dynamically forward-surging front end dips down prominently towards the road and gives the car an agile sense of purpose, as if in mid-leap. A stunning interpretation of the classic BMW face – with its twin circular headlights, kidney-shaped radiator grille and BMW logo – marks the BMW Zagato Coupé out as a BMW without the need for a second glance. These extremely low, width-emphasising elements lend the front end an undeniably sporty appearance.

The contoured bonnet builds on this dynamic flair with its sweeping lines and taut surfaces. A pair of air intakes integrated into the bonnet send extra supplies of air into the engine compartment and highlight the presence of the high-performance engine beneath. The contours of the bonnet are picked up by the double-bubble roof as the lines of the body continue on to the rear of the car. These two domes built into the structure of the roof are a signature feature of Zagato design and reduce the front area. As well as providing greater headroom when wearing a helmet on the track, the double bubble (“doppia gobba”) roof also enhances the car’s aerodynamics and increases the roof’s torsional rigidity. The roof of almost every Zagato features this design.

Looking further down below the bonnet, the headlights of the BMW Zagato Coupé focus purposefully on the road ahead, and accentuate the car’s driver-oriented character and high-speed potential. Low down between the headlights is Zagato’s take on the BMW radiator grille, with matt kidney frames inspired by Buckmister Fuller geodetic structures A stand-out detail here is the use of countless small matt Zagato “z” letters to make up the kidney grille. Viewed from the front, the “z” letters appear to be floating within the kidneys. Close-up, it is clear that they are set against a collection of other dark-coloured “z”s positioned into octagons. Gleaming chrome “z”s are used only on the visible side of the octagons. This arrangement injects added depth into the kidney grating and gives the front end an extra touch of class.

The design of the front apron steers the eye to the wheels and the car’s broad stance. Large air intakes add low-set finishing touches to the car’s nose, their dynamic form and size hinting at the power of the engine under the bonnet.

Dynamic, powerful flanks. From the side, the BMW Zagato Coupé displays the pared down, clearly defined distribution of visual mass for which Zagato is renowned, blended with the familiar surface treatment and design language of a BMW. Its coupé design also necessitated a new roofline, which highlights the car’s potential with impressive fluidity and dynamic élan.

The long, sweeping bonnet sends the greenhouse a long way back towards the rear and the car’s visual focus is therefore also pulled rearwards, in traditional Zagato 2 seater style. The rear end itself is cut almost vertically in another Zagato cue, which enhances aerodynamics. The flanks, meanwhile, adopt the classical BMW Roadster lines, imbues them with extra tautness and extends them into the muscular rear end with a compelling swing of the hips. The attractive interplay of lines here draws attention to the rear wheels and the car’s rear-wheel-drive configuration. The powerful flourish above the rear wheels is picked up and passed on by the spoiler, injecting the whole area with additional dynamic impetus.

The side air vents reference the form of the bonnet intakes and extend their dynamic agenda to the car’s flanks. Below the side vents, the silver “z” provides another nod to the cooperation between BMW and Zagato.

Slightly offset behind the silver “z”, a matching indentation provides greater depth and three-dimensionality. The two “z”s in the air intakes and BMW badges are the only gleaming chrome elements on the BMW Zagato Coupé.

Another characteristic Zagato design theme is the specially designed “criss-cross” transition from the side windows into the rear window. The lower section of the side window surrounds slants dramatically upwards just ahead of the rear end and extends to form the upper border of the rear window. In so doing, this hallmark design element links the sides and rear via the C-pillar and ensures a harmonious connection between the different sections of the car. This aspect of the BMW Zagato Coupé design is particularly striking when viewed from above.

A common heritage
Both BMW and Zagato are famous for getting the same inspiration from Professor Kamm’s studies on aerodynamic rear end. The 1940 BMW 328 Kamm Coupé as well as the Alfa SZ and TZ boosted a typical Kamm-tail (K-tail) layout. This solution became famous in Italy with the name “Coda Tronca” bodies which were tested by Zagato in the beginning of the 60s.

Kamm Effect is part of the functional design approach that aims to the aerodynamic efficiency. According to this, the CX can be lowered by keeping compact volumes at the same time. The  reduction of the wind resistance is assured with the Kamm Tail design, without any need of a very stretched “drop” shape of the tail.

BMW Zagato Coupé doesn’t need the support of any fix or mobile rear wing since the aerodynamic of its tail is already very efficient.

A muscular rear end. The distinctive rear end provides the clearest evidence of Zagato’s influence. Formed almost without a single joint, the rear end cuts a classy figure, appearing as if formed from a single mould. Nothing interrupts the flow of surfaces and the powerful sculpture of the rear. At the same time, this also provides evidence of the high degree of hand-craftsmanship involved in making the car and Zagato’s experience in the manipulation of surfaces and forms, channelled into the car’s design at the company’s studio.

Taken as a whole, the rear of the BMW Zagato Coupé has a very broad, low-slung appearance, its powerful, solid form and purposeful design language giving the car a planted stance on the road.
The most distinctive feature of the rear end is the transparent panel in its upper section familiar from other Zagato creations. Divided visually into three sections, the generous glass surfaces open up a line of sight to the lights and into the interior. Their dark tint gives the BMW Zagato Coupé an even sportier look. A curved bar featuring the Zagato trademark splits the surface into sections and gives the car a greater impression of width. The likewise tinted rear window can be opened, offering access to the rear luggage compartment.

A prominent rear bumper feeds downwards into a large diffuser. The diffuser extends well out to the sides, providing an effective contrast to the bar dividing the glass and lending the rear an extremely broad and sporty presence in the process. Matt edging accentuates the form of the diffuser, draws the focus to the wheels and underlines the planted stance of the BMW Zagato Coupé. The exhaust tailpipes, positioned towards the outer edges of the rear, add further emphasis, their matt finish contributing another stylish flourish to the rear.

Highlights and details. The unique character of the BMW Zagato Coupé is reflected in even smaller details. The 19-inch light-alloy wheels in classically sporty five-spoke design have a hint of propeller about them, offering a subtle nod to the origins of both companies. Indeed, both BMW and Zagato founder Ugo Zagato took an airborne route into automotive construction. Their subtly attractive matt finish lends the car extra allure from the side.

A very special highlight of the BMW Zagato Coupé is its paintwork. The exclusive exterior paint finish Rosso Vivace – an expressive shade of red – brings the surfaces and forms of the BMW Zagato Coupé to life. Depending on how the light hits the body, the colour spectrum ranges from something close to black all the way to a brilliant red. This remarkable depth and radiance is possible thanks to sophisticated paint application technology. The primer coat – made up of a black application, followed by a layer of shimmering metallic silver – is applied first. Then come six ultra-thin coats of the exclusively developed red shade to deliver this unique effect. Finally, two layers of clear coat seal in the colour.

Exquisite touches in the interior. The interior is clearly structured, in customary BMW style, and invites the keen driver to take the helm. This character was picked up by the Zagato designers and given further emphasis by an exclusive colour and materials concept. Exquisite materials and high-quality details provide an extremely stylish showcase for the interior’s sporting flair and driver focus.

Additional elements fitted by hand, such as horizontal lines in the instrument panel and doors, heighten the interior’s sense of sporting elegance. The lines culminate in a dynamic upward curve for extra sporting effect. The base colours for the exclusive leather trim are a light and dark shade of grey. Together, they underline the horizontal geometry of the interior, while red decorative stitching in the instrument panel, doors and seats brings the colour of the body into the interior and adds extra sporting touches. A “z” embroidered into the seats is the clearest reference in the interior to the origins of the BMW Zagato Coupé.

The “horizontal line” design theme has also found its way into the luggage compartment, as have the two shades of grey and the red accents. Here, the lines are a subtle reference to the form of the double-bubble roof. Two exclusive accessories – a hat bag and a travel bag – set the seal on Zagato’s colour and materials upgrade. The travel bag also recreates the form of the double-bubble roof and is designed to maintain its bulbous lines even when empty.

Zagato – a coachbuilder with a long tradition.Founded by Ugo Zagato in 1919, today Zagato is the only automotive body manufacturer still in independent ownership. From its earliest days, Zagato has taken a minimalist and pared-down approach to its creations, very much in keeping with the Milanese tradition of design. Volumes takes precedence over details, thanks in part to technical considerations. Body designer Ugo Zagato learned his trade in – among other industries – aviation, where aerodynamics and lightweight construction play a central role. Zagato duly applied these principles rigorously in the construction of cars and soon celebrated a rash of race victories as a body construction partner to Alfa Romeo. The “necessary beauty” of aerodynamics and lightweight construction came to represent a maxim of design, one that has defined the form of every Zagato since. The narrow focus on coupés, two-door driving machines stripped back to their essential components, also became a Zagato tradition, underpinning an “unspoilt” driving experience.

Today, with Andrea Zagato becoming the third generation of his family to take his seat at the helm, the company describes itself as a design studio combining the emotion and hand-craftsmanship of body construction with the precision of state-of-the-art technology. Zagato follows coachbuilding tradition in developing only the shell of the car and leaving the mechanics of the machine untouched. And it does so not by taking over the design process for large carmakers, but by working in tandem with the relevant design teams. More than 200 Vmax concepts, special editions and micro-series have been created in this way down the years and find appreciation among connoisseurs and collectors the world over. Indeed, all Zagatos are coveted collector’s items today and worth many times what their original owners paid for them.