Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com Autoblog http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.autoblog.com/media/feedlogo.gif Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com en-us Copyright 2009 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Loma Performance unveils Corvette C6.BlackforceOne]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/25/loma-performance-unveils-corvette-c6-blackforceone/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/25/loma-performance-unveils-corvette-c6-blackforceone/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/25/loma-performance-unveils-corvette-c6-blackforceone/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

C6.BlackforceOne
Loma Performance Corvette "BlackforceOne" - Click above for high-res image gallery

Loma Performance seems to think that its new BlackforceOne Corvette is somehow evocative of POTUS' personal airplane. "Clearly reminiscent," they go so far as to say in their press release. (We think the moniker sounds as if could have been the title of a 1970s action film starring Fred Williamson.) Anyway, labored connections to the Prez's 747 aside, with the BlackforceOne, Loma appears to have come up with something pretty tasty.

It starts off as a base-engined C6 Vette, which is subsequently twin-turbocharged to make 783 horsepower (794 PS). Of that, a devilish 666 hp (675 PS) or so actually make it to the rear wheels. Accordingly, the sprint to 100 km/h (62 mph) takes a scant 3.4 seconds, and the top speed is 205 mph (330 km/h). The stock brakes are replaced with carbon-ceramic discs all around, and the suspension, wheels, tires, exhaust and other drivetrain components are also upgraded accordingly.

The package is then wrapped in a widebody kit drenched in one of three matte paint finishes. Production will be limited to 25 examples, according to Loma, which will formally unveil the BlackforceOne at the Essen Motor Show.


Gallery: Loma Performance Corvette BlackforceOne


[Source: Loma Performance]

Continue reading Loma Performance unveils Corvette C6.BlackforceOne

Loma Performance unveils Corvette C6.BlackforceOne originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 25 Nov 2009 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>blackforceblackforceonec6c6.blackforceonechevroletcorvetteessen 2009essen motor showEssen2009EssenMotorShowlomaloma performanceLomaPerformanceWed, 25 Nov 2009 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[GM swings the axe: 9,000 Opel jobs likely to be eliminated]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/25/gm-swings-the-axe-9-000-opel-jobs-likely-to-be-eliminated/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/25/gm-swings-the-axe-9-000-opel-jobs-likely-to-be-eliminated/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/25/gm-swings-the-axe-9-000-opel-jobs-likely-to-be-eliminated/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



General Motors shouldn't expect to achieve David Hasselhoff-level popularity in Germany anytime soon. The Detroit News reports that since GM has elected to keep and restructure its Opel division, 9,000 jobs (or somewhere thereabouts) will likely be cut, with the majority of those losses expected in Deutschland. The jobs will be eliminated as part of a $5 billion restructuring plan, which GM hopes to fund with a lot of help from European governments, as well as "employee contributions" (read: concessions). Just don't expect Angela Merkel to break out her Visa debit card anytime soon.

Opel/Vauxhall CEO Nick Reilly wins the Unintentionally Hilarious Quote of the Day award for this line: "We have also said that GM can and will put some money in, as well." What a novel concept. Digressing for a moment: Given that GM is out shaking the coffee can looking for ways to fund the Opel restructuring, it's hard to imagine a scenario where they find a way to save Saab, too. Getting the Opel business in order hardly sounds like it's going to be a picnic, so a rescue of the ailing Swedish automaker has got to be low on the priority list right now.

[Source: The Detroit News | Image Source: Thomas Lohnes/Getty]

GM swings the axe: 9,000 Opel jobs likely to be eliminated originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 25 Nov 2009 16:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Wed, 25 Nov 2009 16:25:00 EST<![CDATA[Pull Over: Broward County Sheriff gets a full-dress Challenger R/T]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/20/pull-over-broward-county-sheriff-gets-a-full-dress-challenger-r/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/20/pull-over-broward-county-sheriff-gets-a-full-dress-challenger-r/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/20/pull-over-broward-county-sheriff-gets-a-full-dress-challenger-r/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Dodge Challenger R/T Police Car - Click above for high-res image gallery

We like police cars. Seriously. Just not when they're filling our rearview mirrors, blue-and-reds ablaze. Then, our fanboy status diminishes markedly. In the meantime, however, we get pretty jazzed when a department does something a little different and cool. This week's example comes from the Broward County Sheriff's office, which appears to have added a fully-marked Dodge Challenger R/T to its fleet. Decked out in the BSO's familiar green-and-white livery, the muscular Mopar looks like it means business, ready to take down speeders and bust up meth labs with aplomb. We totally want to see it in person the next time we're down in South Florida -- just under our own, friendly terms. Thanks for the tip, Lee!


Gallery: Broward County Sheriff Dodge Challenger R/T


[Source: Law Officer Connect]

Pull Over: Broward County Sheriff gets a full-dress Challenger R/T originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 20 Nov 2009 19:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>20092009 dodge challenger rt2009DodgeChallengerRtbroward county sheriffbroward sheriffs officeBrowardCountySheriffBrowardSheriffsOfficebsochallengerdodgepolice carpolice challengerPoliceCarPoliceChallengerrtFri, 20 Nov 2009 19:57:00 EST<![CDATA[Lexus GX460 to debut in China at Auto Guangzhou 2009]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/16/lexus-gx460-to-debut-in-china-at-auto-guangzhou-2009/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/16/lexus-gx460-to-debut-in-china-at-auto-guangzhou-2009/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/16/lexus-gx460-to-debut-in-china-at-auto-guangzhou-2009/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

2009 Lexus GX 470
2009 Lexus GX470: Its days are numbered

The arrival of the 2010 Toyota 4Runner meant that a luxury-badged cousin would soon follow. Sure enough, Toyota has announced that the new 2010 Lexus GX460 will be among the array of vehicles to be shown next week at China's Auto Guangzhou 2009 show. As the nomenclature would suggest, the next-gen GX will be powered by a 4.6-liter V8, which is rumored to make 300 horsepower in the GX460, a 37-hp bump over the 4.7-liter V8's output in the current vehicle (shown above).

According to scuttlebutt posted to ClubLexus.com following last year's New York City dealer meeting, we should look for the new GX to arrive in January 2010 with styling that borrows heavily from the full-sized LX570 SUV and electrically-folding third row seating. We'll keep our eyes peeled for photos and additional info, but in the meantime you can check out Toyota's brief PR after the jump.

Continue reading Lexus GX460 to debut in China at Auto Guangzhou 2009

Lexus GX460 to debut in China at Auto Guangzhou 2009 originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 16 Nov 2009 17:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>20102010 lexus gx4602010LexusGx460breakingGuangzhouGuangzhou 2009Guangzhou Auto ShowGuangzhou2009GuangzhouAutoGuangzhouAutoShowgx460lexuslexus gxLexusGxnew lexus gxNewLexusGxMon, 16 Nov 2009 17:59:00 EST<![CDATA[VW building $125M flagship dealer complex on Manhattan's west side]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/13/vw-building-125m-flagship-dealer-complex-on-manhattans-west-si/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/13/vw-building-125m-flagship-dealer-complex-on-manhattans-west-si/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/13/vw-building-125m-flagship-dealer-complex-on-manhattans-west-si/#commentsFiled under: , ,

VW Audi Manhattan
Rendering of new VW/Audi complex in Manhattan - Click above to view in high-res

Volkswagen is building swanky new digs on New York City's west side for its VW and Audi brands. The automaker has purchased a 256,000 square foot space currently occupied by Potamkin GM (the Potamkin family has been synonymous with car sales in NY for decades), which stretches between 55th and 56th Street along 11th Avenue.

Visually unimpressive in its current state, the space will be converted into a state-of-the-art mega facility featuring brand-new Volkswagen and Audi stores. VW's total outlay for the real estate purchase and ensuing renovation will be around $125 million. The splashy move is part of the automaker's push to dramatically increase its U.S. sales numbers over the next several years. Potamkin GM will relocate a few blocks south to the space once occupied by Potamkin Honda (the family has sold its Honda franchise to another dealer group). Official press release after the jump.

[Source: Volkswagen]

Continue reading VW building $125M flagship dealer complex on Manhattan's west side

VW building $125M flagship dealer complex on Manhattan's west side originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 13 Nov 2009 17:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>125 million125Millionaudidealershipmanhattannew yorkNewYorkvolkswagenvwFri, 13 Nov 2009 17:58:00 EST<![CDATA[On Veterans Day, a word of thanks]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/11/on-veterans-day-a-word-of-thanks/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/11/on-veterans-day-a-word-of-thanks/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/11/on-veterans-day-a-word-of-thanks/#commentsFiled under: ,



We'd like to take a brief pause from the normal frivolity around here to acknowledge and salute America's veterans. Thanks to all the men and women who have served our country, for the innumerable efforts and sacrifices you have made in the past and continue to make today. It is because of you that we have the great freedoms we take for granted. For that, we are humbled, and we are very grateful.

Thank you.

[Image: Flickr - dklimke via CC 2.0]

On Veterans Day, a word of thanks originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 11 Nov 2009 09:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2009militaryveterans dayVeteransDayWed, 11 Nov 2009 09:45:00 EST<![CDATA[VIDEO: NASCAR's Dickies 500 shows you how to properly deliver a pace car]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/10/video-nascars-dickies-500-shows-you-how-to-properly-deliver-a/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/10/video-nascars-dickies-500-shows-you-how-to-properly-deliver-a/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/10/video-nascars-dickies-500-shows-you-how-to-properly-deliver-a/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Dickies 500 Chevrolet Camaro pace car delivered in style - Click above to watch the video

The official pace car for last weekend's Dickies 500 NASCAR Sprint Cup race was none other than the 2010 Chevrolet Camaro SS. This, in itself, is no biggie. What's interesting is how the car was delivered to the Texas Motor Speedway prior to the race. If you watched sports over the weekend, you know that salutes to America's veterans were part of just about every event that took place (Veterans Day is tomorrow, remember).

As part of that theme, NASCAR had the Camaro delivered to the track in a CH-47 Chinook helicopter. In the video posted after the jump, you'll see the big heavy-lift chopper touch down, drop its ramp, have the Chevy drive on out, and take back off. At the wheel of the Camaro was NASA astronaut Doug Hurley, who is also a TMS season-ticket holder, a United States Marine Corps colonel, and was the pilot of the shuttle Endeavour on this year's STS-127 mission. Pretty. Freaking. Cool. In fact, short of the Camaro and Chinook subsequently turning into robots and fighting each other on the TMS infield, it doesn't get much cooler. Follow the jump to watch.

[Source: YouTube]

Continue reading VIDEO: NASCAR's Dickies 500 shows you how to properly deliver a pace car

VIDEO: NASCAR's Dickies 500 shows you how to properly deliver a pace car originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 10 Nov 2009 19:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>20102010 chevrolet camaro2010 chevy camaro2010ChevroletCamaro2010ChevyCamarocamaroch-47chevroletchevychinookdickies 500Dickies500nascarsalute to veteransSaluteToVeteranssprint cupSprintCuptexas motor speedwaytexas speedwayTexasMotorSpeedwayTexasSpeedwayveterans dayVeteransDayTue, 10 Nov 2009 19:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Laptop steering wheel desk is real. And real funny.]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/07/laptop-steering-wheel-desk-is-real-and-real-funny/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/07/laptop-steering-wheel-desk-is-real-and-real-funny/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/07/laptop-steering-wheel-desk-is-real-and-real-funny/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Laptop DeskYou know, when we're driving along, eating buffalo wings and trying to manage a Super Slurpee while playing Cooking Dash on the iPhone, it sure would be helpful to have a place to keep all that stuff organized. Thankfully, there's the Laptop Steering Wheel Desk, which accomplishes all of the above AND finally gives us a place to keep our bleu cheese and celery sticks, to boot. (You see, our cupholders are already occupied by french fries.) This "Why didn't I think of that?" stroke of genius slides right around your steering wheel, which it uses as an anchor for your much-needed flat surface.

Listen, steering is overrated anyway, right? Actually, the official product description on Amazon.com says, "For safety reasons, never use this product while driving." But come on, we're excellent drivers. We're pretty sure we can handle this. Based on the user reviers, others have found this device to be exceedingly convenient. Some of the user-submitted photos suggest that the Laptop Steering Wheel Desk may indeed be troublesome in the hands of less experienced drivers, but we remain skeptical. We think we'll put one in the shopping cart with that Three Wolf Moon T-Shirt we've been eying. Then, when it arrives, we're hunting for a drive-thru pizzeria. Thanks for the tips, everyone!

[Source: Amazon.com]

Laptop steering wheel desk is real. And real funny. originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 07 Nov 2009 09:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>buffalo wings are awesomeBuffaloWingsAreAwesomecompletely safeCompletelySafedistracted drivingDistractedDrivinglaptop steering wheel deskLaptopSteeringWheelDesksteering wheel deskSteeringWheelDeskSat, 07 Nov 2009 09:01:00 EST<![CDATA[VIDEO: Fun, frolic and destruction with a dump truck at Detroit's Packard plant]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/06/video-fun-frolic-and-destruction-with-a-dump-truck-at-detroit/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/06/video-fun-frolic-and-destruction-with-a-dump-truck-at-detroit/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/06/video-fun-frolic-and-destruction-with-a-dump-truck-at-detroit/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

This dump truck is going to take a dive - Click above to watch the video

In future Detroit, pushing a junked dump truck out of a fourth floor window at the old Packard plant might result in a swarm of gen-1 Taurus police cars surrounding the building, and, if you're particularly unlucky, intervention by ED-209. ("You have 20 seconds to comply...").

In the present day, this creative bit of criminal mischief gets you featured on The Wall Street Journal website. Go figure! Follow the jump to watch the video.

[Source: The Wall Street Journal]

Continue reading VIDEO: Fun, frolic and destruction with a dump truck at Detroit's Packard plant

VIDEO: Fun, frolic and destruction with a dump truck at Detroit's Packard plant originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 06 Nov 2009 11:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>4th floor window4thFloorWindowabandoned buildingabandoned buildingsabandoned detroitAbandonedBuildingAbandonedBuildingsAbandonedDetroitDetroitdump truckDumpTruckout the windowOutTheWindowPackardpackard plantPackardPlanturban spelunkingUrbanSpelunkingFri, 06 Nov 2009 11:40:00 EST<![CDATA[ESPN: Danica Patrick close to two-year NASCAR Nationwide deal]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/05/espn-danica-patrick-close-to-two-year-nascar-nationwide-deal/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/05/espn-danica-patrick-close-to-two-year-nascar-nationwide-deal/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/05/espn-danica-patrick-close-to-two-year-nascar-nationwide-deal/#commentsFiled under: ,



Rumors of IndyCar's Danica Patrick dipping a toe into the stock car racing pool have been swirling for months, but a new report suggests that an end to the rumors is near. ESPN says that Patrick is on the verge of signing a NASCAR Nationwide Series contract with JR Motorsports, the operation owned by Dale Earnhardt, Jr. Unnamed sources that spoke to ESPN call the talks "near their final phase" and comment that it'd be a "surprise if it didn't happen." In any case, don't expect a formal announcement until sometime after the Sprint Cup chase draws to a conclusion on November 22.

The potential move to JR Motorsports was made possible when driver Brad Keslowski jumped ship to join Roger Penske's NASCAR Sprint Cup team. According to ESPN, Patrick is angling to drive the number 7 car (the same number she runs in IndyCar), which would replace the current JR Motorsports number 5 car. Since Danica will continue to run the full IndyCar schedule as well, she'd be a part-time driver for JR Motorsports, sharing the race car with Junior and another unnamed driver. If the signing happens and NASCAR gives its blessing, Danica will make her first stock car appearance in the Lucas Oil Slick Mist 200 ARCA race on Feb. 6 during the Daytona Speedweeks, and go on to drive in 12 to 13 Nationwide Series races during the 2010 season. Frankly, given NASCAR's feel for marketing and Danica's undeniable celebrity, we see no way that she won't be in place for a debut during the February Speedweeks, assuming she does indeed ink the rumored deal.

[Source: ESPN | Image: Robert Laberge/Getty]

ESPN: Danica Patrick close to two-year NASCAR Nationwide deal originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 05 Nov 2009 10:39:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Brad KeslowskiBradKeslowskidanicadanica patrickDanicaPatrickESPNIndy carIndyCarJr motorsportsjr motorsports ESPNJrMotorsportsJrMotorsportsEspnnascarnationwide seriesNationwideSeriesroger penskeRogerPenskesprint cupSprintCupThu, 05 Nov 2009 10:39:00 EST<![CDATA[A new Chrysler logo takes wing?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/03/a-new-chrysler-logo-takes-wing/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/03/a-new-chrysler-logo-takes-wing/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/03/a-new-chrysler-logo-takes-wing/#commentsFiled under: ,

New Chrysler logo filed with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office

Tomorrow, we'll get the official skinny from Chrysler on what the automaker's product plans are over the next few years. As the Fiat-directed new (and new again) Chrysler looks to break free from the shackles of mediocrity and reinvent itself, a filing at the U.S. Patent and Trademark office appears to confirm an Allpar report published earlier this month, showing the new winged logo that will presumably adorn cars coming from the Chrysler division. The look is sleeker and clearly more modern than the previous winged logo, which incorporated the old Chrysler seal. The new one has an almost Aston-esque vibe to it, featuring "Chrysler" embossed in a blue emblem centered between the outstretched wings. Allpar also reports that Dodge cars will ditch the Ram's-head logo for something all their own as well. We've got a feeling everything will be revealed during Chrysler's marathon six-hour press briefing tomorrow, so stay tuned for more. Thanks to Mike for the link!

[Source: U.S. Patent and Trademark Office]

Continue reading A new Chrysler logo takes wing?

A new Chrysler logo takes wing? originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 03 Nov 2009 09:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breakingchrysler logochrysler wing logoChryslerLogoChryslerWingLogonew chrysler logoNewChryslerLogoTue, 03 Nov 2009 09:01:00 EST<![CDATA[VIDEO: Dogs like trucks. Leopards apparently prefer Audis.]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/01/video-dogs-like-trucks-leopards-apparently-prefer-audis/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/01/video-dogs-like-trucks-leopards-apparently-prefer-audis/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/01/video-dogs-like-trucks-leopards-apparently-prefer-audis/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

A leopard chills in his Audi TT - Click above to watch the video

You've pretty much achieved Tony Montana status when you can keep a big cat as a pet. But how do you transport Fluffy around when it's time to venture beyond that "The World Is Yours" statue at the homestead? Apparently, the preferred method of this particular leopard-owning baller is to simply load the kitty into the passenger seat of an Audi TT, roll down the window, and head out on the town. (Perhaps a Mercury Cougar would be more appropriate? Maybe a Jaguar?)

Leopards apparently like this as much as a yellow lab enjoys squinting into the wind from the bed of a pickup truck. Seriously. Follow the jump to see for yourselves. Thanks for the link, Charlie!

[Source: YouTube]

Continue reading VIDEO: Dogs like trucks. Leopards apparently prefer Audis.

VIDEO: Dogs like trucks. Leopards apparently prefer Audis. originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 01 Nov 2009 16:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>audiaudi ttaudi videoAudiTtAudiVideobig catBigCatexotic petexotic petsExoticPetExoticPetsleopardleopard videoLeopardVideottvideoSun, 01 Nov 2009 16:32:00 EST<![CDATA[Old Yeller: 2010 Dodge Challenger R/T Classic in Detonator Yellow]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/01/old-yeller-2010-dodge-challenger-r-t-classic-in-detonator-yello/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/01/old-yeller-2010-dodge-challenger-r-t-classic-in-detonator-yello/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/01/old-yeller-2010-dodge-challenger-r-t-classic-in-detonator-yello/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2010 Dodge Challenger R/T Classic in Detonator Yellow - Click above for high-res image gallery

While it lacks the agility of the Mustang GT and the raw knuckle-dragging power of the Camaro SS, the Dodge Challenger drips with style and no small amount of comfort, plus it's plenty fun in its own right, too. As you all know, there's not a lot of new stuff going on with Chrysler's 2010 lineup, so to keep things interesting with the Challenger, they're doing it with colors. We've seen the big coupe in Plum Crazy already, and now, via Red Letter Dodge, we have our first look at a Challenger R/T Classic in Detonator Yellow, the special "high impact" color that preceded the currently-available Plum Crazy. Not shabby. Check it out in high-res in the attached gallery.


Gallery: 2010 Dodge Challenger - Detonator Yellow


[Source: Red Letter Dodge]

Old Yeller: 2010 Dodge Challenger R/T Classic in Detonator Yellow originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 01 Nov 2009 15:19:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 dodge challenger2010DodgeChallengerchallengerdetonator yellowDetonatorYellowdodgehigh impactHighImpactrtrt classicRtClassicSun, 01 Nov 2009 15:19:00 EST<![CDATA[Make it stop: Bad landau tops]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/01/make-it-stop-bad-landau-tops/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/01/make-it-stop-bad-landau-tops/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/01/make-it-stop-bad-landau-tops/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Silly landau tops - Click above image for high-res image gallery

Landau tops. Frankly, some are fine. Show us, say, a mid-to-late '70s Olds Cutlass or Lincoln Town Coupe gussied up accordingly from the factory, and we're liable to nod in approval and make one of those, "Ehh, not bad at all!" facial expressions in appreciation of the old barge. That said, most modern landau roof applications are dealer-installed, and commensurately disastrous and stupid.

My friend Scott had been telling me about two particularly egregious examples he regularly sees in his Brooklyn neighborhood. "Show me," I told him. So he remembered to tote his camera with him this week and sent me these. The Buick LeSabre isn't all that surprising, gauche though it may be. But the Ford Escort? Yeah, that's a good one. Gotta love those opera lights and the fading "Ghia" lettering, too. Will anything ever stop these people?

Your turn: What's the most terrible landau top application you've personally witnessed? We know you have stories. Share.

UPDATE: TTAC fires a salvo of its own. Fun!


Gallery: Bad Landau Tops


[Images courtesy of Scott Nyerges]

Make it stop: Bad landau tops originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 01 Nov 2009 13:51:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bad landau topsBadLandauTopsbuickbuick lesabreBuickLesabreescortfordford escortFordEscortghialandau topsLandauTopslesabreopera lampsOperaLampssilly landau topsSillyLandauTopsSun, 01 Nov 2009 13:51:00 EST<![CDATA[The Lingenfelter 455 T/A Concept really is badass]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/31/the-lingenfelter-455-t-a-concept-really-is-badass/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/31/the-lingenfelter-455-t-a-concept-really-is-badass/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/31/the-lingenfelter-455-t-a-concept-really-is-badass/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Lingenfelter 455 T/A Concept - See more images at Car and Driver

Car and Driver is the first outlet to post real live photos of the SEMA-bound Lingenfelter 455 T/A Concept. By taking the looks of the '70 Trans Am and adapting them to the new Chevrolet Camaro, Lingenfelter has created something that will have you playing "What if.." scenarios regarding Pontiac over and over again in your heads. Imagine a world in which you could walk into a General Motors dealer and pick between this and the G8 GXP...

Anyway, snap out of it, because that ain't happenin'. We think what's likely to happen, if people go as batsh*t crazy over this creation at SEMA as we think they will, is that Lingenfelter will probably offer the package to customers. That's probably good, anyway, as we can't see GM spending the bucks to offer the 455 T/A's upgraded interior (yeah, it's premium vinyl, baby) and monstrously-upgraded engine. See, that 455 nomenclature's no joke. According to C/D, the 455 CID/7.5-liter V8 rocks an 11.5:1 compression ratio, ported and polished LS7 heads, a new intake and a forged crankshaft. The exhaust is by Corsa, the honeycomb wheels are custom jobs, and most importantly, the engine comes correct with 655 horses and 610 lb-ft. of torque. We'll have plenty more on this bad mofo next week from SEMA. In the meantime, head over to CarandDriver.com for more images.

[Source: Car and Driver via Camaro5 | Image: Patrick M. Hoey]

The Lingenfelter 455 T/A Concept really is badass originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 31 Oct 2009 18:07:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>455 ta455Tabrealingconceptlingenfelterlingenfelter 455 ta conceptLingenfelter455TaConceptpontiacsemasema 09sema 2009Sema09Sema2009trans amTransAmSat, 31 Oct 2009 18:07:00 EST<![CDATA[Dodge Challenger NASCAR Nationwide Series racer unveiled]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/31/dodge-challenger-nascar-nationwide-racer-unveiled/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/31/dodge-challenger-nascar-nationwide-racer-unveiled/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/31/dodge-challenger-nascar-nationwide-racer-unveiled/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2010 Dodge Challenger New Nationwide Series racer - Click above for a high-res image gallery

NASCAR's rollout of its new Nationwide Series race car design has garnered buzz already with the introduction of the first-ever Mustang-branded stocker, and it got another shot in the arm yesterday at Talladega when Chrysler pulled the wraps off its brand-new Dodge Challenger Nationwide racer. We personally love the fact that the Challenger NNS car retains the same general front-end look as the production street car -- partially restoring an element that's been missing from stock cars for years now. The new Nationwide Mustang and Challenger will join their yet-to-be-unveiled counterparts from Chevy and Toyota (don't hold your breath for a Nationwide Camaro) in four races on the 2010 Nationwide Series calendar: Daytona in July, then later dates at Michigan, Richmond, and Lowe's Motor Speedway. The new car designs are expected to be fully adopted for the 2011 NASCAR Nationwide Series season. This process mimics the way NASCAR rolled out the Car of Tomorrow in the top-tier Sprint Cup series. Check out Dodge's official press release after the jump, and have a closer look at the new Dodge Challenger Nationwide car in the gallery below. As soon as Chrysler PR uploads photos that show more than just the car's front end (come on, guys...), we'll update the gallery.

UPDATE: NASCAR.com has shots of all four new NNS cars. The Chevy and Toyota retain Impala and Camry branding.


Gallery: 2010 Dodge Challenger NASCAR Nationwide Series Car


[Source: Dodge Motorsports]

Continue reading Dodge Challenger NASCAR Nationwide Series racer unveiled

Dodge Challenger NASCAR Nationwide Series racer unveiled originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 31 Oct 2009 12:24:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>20102010 dodge challenger2010DodgeChallengerbreakingchallengerchallenger stock carChallengerStockCardodgedodge challengerDodgeChallengernascarnationwide seriesNationwideSeriesnew nationwide carNewNationwideCarstock carStockCarSat, 31 Oct 2009 12:24:00 EST<![CDATA[Happy Halloween from Autoblog]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/31/happy-halloween-from-autoblog/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/31/happy-halloween-from-autoblog/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/31/happy-halloween-from-autoblog/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Smashing a giant pumpkin with Grave Digger - Click above to watch the video

Those punk kids who TP your neighborhoods and smash pumpkins on mischief night? Rank amateurs. If you want to do something, do it right - an idea that Conan O'Brien clearly has a handle on. Hence, when it came time to smash a pumpkin on The Tonight Show, he procured the world's largest, and the blunt instrument he calls upon to do the smashing is Dennis Anderson's Grave Digger. You all know how this ends. The video's posted after the jump. Thanks to Shawn for the heads-up!

[Source: NBC via YouTube]

Continue reading Happy Halloween from Autoblog

Happy Halloween from Autoblog originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 31 Oct 2009 09:13:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>conan obrienConanObriendennis andersonDennisAndersongrave diggerGraveDiggermischief nightMischiefNightpumpkin smashPumpkinSmashsmashing pumpkinsSmashingPumpkinsthe tonight showTheTonightShowSat, 31 Oct 2009 09:13:00 EST<![CDATA[Review: 2010 Buick LaCrosse CXL aims upmarket and almost hits target]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/27/2010-buick-lacrosse-cxl-review/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/27/2010-buick-lacrosse-cxl-review/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/27/2010-buick-lacrosse-cxl-review/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2010 Buick LaCrosse CXL - Click above for high-res image gallery

With great fanfare, General Motors has introduced the 2010 Buick LaCrosse, a vehicle with which the automaker hopes to jump-start a sweeping brand transformation for the tired Tri-Shield. For Buick to be a success in GM's post-bailout, post-bankruptcy era, the brand must dump its well-deserved reputation as the preferred marque of last-time buyers. (Average age of previous-model LaCrosse buyer: Around 70.) For better or worse, as it scrambles to get more - and younger - drivers behind the wheel, Buick has elected to position itself as America's Lexus in a bid to give itself some premium cachet.

Frankly, that's a pretty tall order, but if first impressions mean anything, the Buick LaCrosse might be crowned GM's savior on appearances alone, because it's that attractive, especially compared to the fish-faced namesake it replaces. The 2009-and-prior LaCrosse looks like the unfortunate love child of a third-generation Ford Taurus and a Mitsuoka Orochi. Or, put plainly, it looks like some ugly Chinese car. By comparison, the 2010 LaCrosse is classy and stylish. Therein lies the delicious irony: the 2010 Buick LaCrosse's glitzy looks were, in fact, jointly developed with GM China's design team. Go figure, and be thankful. In the metal, this ride draws plenty appreciative stares.


Gallery: Review: 2010 Buick LaCrosse


Photos copyright (C)2009 Drew Phillips / Weblogs, Inc.

Continue reading Review: 2010 Buick LaCrosse CXL aims upmarket and almost hits target

Review: 2010 Buick LaCrosse CXL aims upmarket and almost hits target originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 27 Oct 2009 11:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 buick lacrosse2010 buick lacrosse cxl2010BuickLacrosse2010BuickLacrosseCxlbuickbuick lacrossebuick lacrosse cxlBuickLacrosseBuickLacrosseCxlcxlfeaturedlacrosselacrosse cxlLacrosseCxlreviewreviewsTue, 27 Oct 2009 11:57:00 EST<![CDATA[Just as we suspected: SVT Raptor minus 1980s decals = More awesome]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/10/just-as-we-suspected-svt-raptor-minus-1980s-decals-more-aweso/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/10/just-as-we-suspected-svt-raptor-minus-1980s-decals-more-aweso/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/10/just-as-we-suspected-svt-raptor-minus-1980s-decals-more-aweso/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2010 Ford SVT Raptor at Latemodel Restoration Supply - Click above for high-res gallery

If you read some of the model-specific buff books like Muscle Mustangs and Fast Fords (raises hand), you're probably familiar with Latemodel Restoration Supply, which always has a multi-page ad in the mag touting its wares. Earlier this week, a shiny new Ford F-150 SVT Raptor visited the retailer's HQ. Photos were taken and posted to Flickr, where we saw them and decided they were definitely worth sharing. The Raptor is interesting on three levels. First off, it's a Raptor. Secondly, it's finished in Blue Flame -- a color that looks extremely good on this truck. (Frankly, we're tired of seeing the orange ones.) Finally, this particular machine rolls without the cheesy, '80s-looking factory bed-side graphics package. End result: a Raptor that's clean and mean. Clearly, this is the way to do it.


Gallery: 2010 Ford F-150 SVT Raptor in Blue Flame


[Source: Latemodel Restoration Supply]

Just as we suspected: SVT Raptor minus 1980s decals = More awesome originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 10 Oct 2009 20:48:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>20102010 ford f-1502010 Ford F-150 SVT Raptor2010FordF-1502010FordF-150SvtRaptorfordraptorsvtsvt raptorSvtRaptorSat, 10 Oct 2009 20:48:00 EST<![CDATA[Ford to reveal 2011 Mustang powertrain updates at L.A. Auto Show]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/09/ford-to-reveal-2011-mustang-powertrain-updates-at-l-a-auto-show/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/09/ford-to-reveal-2011-mustang-powertrain-updates-at-l-a-auto-show/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/09/ford-to-reveal-2011-mustang-powertrain-updates-at-l-a-auto-show/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


2010 Ford Shelby Mustang GT500 click above image for hi-res image gallery

Los Angeles will be a busy show for the Blue Oval boys. In addition to the official introduction of the U.S. Ford Fiesta, the rumormill regarding what's powering the 2011 Ford Mustang range figures to stop spinning once and for all.

We, along with green cars maven John Voelcker, were guests with Ford's global product development chief, Derrick Kuzak, on FoxNews.com's Fox Car Report yesterday. Kuzak didn't divulge any specifics regarding the Mustang during the broadcast, but as we all headed out following the appearance, he did let us know that our Mustang questions would be answered in Los Angeles this December. Earlier published reports have indicated that a new, more powerful, 300+ horsepower base V6 is in the offing, along with the widely-expected 400-horsepower 5.0-liter V8.

The other juicy rumor floating around that we want to see come true is that of an aluminum-block version of the 5.4-liter supercharged V8 for the 2011 Shelby GT500. To that end, we simply asked Kuzak, "How about an aluminum-block GT500?" He just smiled and replied, "That's a good thought." We'll cross our fingers while we wait and see.


Gallery: 2010 Ford Shelby GT500 Mustang

Ford to reveal 2011 Mustang powertrain updates at L.A. Auto Show originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 09 Oct 2009 16:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011 ford mustang2011FordMustangford mustangFordMustangla 2009la auto showLa2009LaAutoShowlos angeles 2009los angeles auto showLosAngeles2009LosAngelesAutoShowpowertrain updatesPowertrainUpdatesFri, 09 Oct 2009 16:58:00 EST