From Porsche Boxster to Cayman in 3 months!

This is a little hobby project I had taken up since I got my first Porsche this year. It consumed all-in-all about 3 months (and quite a sum as well!) before this end product: a hardtop coupe i.e. Cayman 2.7 look-alike. Hence the new badge! :)

Well, a little nip & tuck plus facelift did do wonders to hide better a vehicle's age, much like a person...no?
By the way, the coupe you see above may be for sale if the price is right. Hmmm...a larger displacement 911 (997 series) would be nice, in the 'evolution' of things!

Email me at forwheels@gmail.com if you're interested. (Sorry, for sale in Malaysia only)






Related post:
2001 Porsche Boxster vs Mazda MX5

Michael Schumacher confirmed for MERCEDES GP PETRONAS

The MERCEDES GP PETRONAS Formula One Team has confirmed that seven-times Formula One World Champion Michael Schumacher will make his racing return in 2010 with the Silver Arrows team.

With seven Drivers' World Championships, 248 Grand Prix starts, 91 victories, 154 podium finishes and 68 pole positions, the 40-year old German needs no introduction following an illustrious and record-breaking Formula One career from 1991 to 2006 at the Jordan, Benetton and Ferrari teams.

Michael's return to racing with MERCEDES GP PETRONAS sees his return to Mercedes-Benz Motorsport where he began his racing apprenticeship as part of the Junior Programme in 1990, racing in Group C sports cars and DTM, and sees Michael renew his partnership with Ross Brawn with whom he won all seven of his World Championships.

Meanwhile the MERCEDES GP PETRONAS line-up for the 2010 season will also see another German, 24 year old Nico Rosberg, piloting the other Silver Arrows car.

Here are the comments of members of the newly restructured team, previously known as Brawn GP:

Michael Schumacher: "MERCEDES GP PETRONAS represents a new challenge for me both in a sporting and a personal context. It is a new chapter in my racing career and I am really looking forward to working with my old friend Ross Brawn and my companions from my days with the Mercedes Junior Programme. I am convinced that together we will be involved in the fight for the Formula 1 World Championship next year and I am already looking forward to getting back onto the race track. For me, this partnership closes the circle. Mercedes supported me for so many years when I began my Formula 1 career and now I can hopefully give something back to the brand with the star."

Nico Rosberg: "It is fantastic that Michael is returning to Formula One and will be my team-mate at MERCEDES GP PETRONAS. It's a great challenge for me to be up against one of the best drivers of all time. I'm sure that we will form a very strong partnership as he will have lost none of his speed! It is also great news for our sport and the fans."

Ross Brawn, Team Principal of MERCEDES GP PETRONAS: "I am delighted that we can confirm today that Michael will make his much-anticipated return to Formula One next year and drive for our MERCEDES GP PETRONAS team. As seven-time World Champion, Michael's outstanding record in Formula One speaks for itself and I am looking forward to working with him again. With the completion of our driver line-up, I believe that we now have the most exciting partnership in Formula One with Michael and Nico, who provide the perfect mix of talent, experience, speed and youth. We can now turn our full attention to the preparations for the new season and everyone at MERCEDES GP PETRONAS is extremely excited about the challenge ahead. With the investment and support in our team provided by Daimler, Aabar and our new title partner Petronas, and with two such exciting drivers, we have all of the building blocks in place to have another successful season in 2010."

Norbert Haug, Vice-President of Mercedes-Benz Motorsports: "In April 1991, when I had been in charge of the Mercedes-Benz Motorsport programme for just six months, Michael was standing beside me on the balcony one evening. Without the slightest doubt, he said in a low voice: "It's about time that I got into Formula 1". Michael had just turned 22 years of age and four months later, he made his debut at Spa in a Jordan. Mercedes-Benz helped him to this point and the rest is history: seven World Championship titles, more than any racing driver, 91 Grand Prix wins, more than any racing driver. Michael has more of everything than every other driver. As part of the Mercedes Junior Programme, Michael had raced in Group C sports cars and competed in a few DTM races. Ross Brawn, then our opponent at Jaguar, quickly realised Michael's talent and they went on to win all seven of his Drivers' World Championship titles together at Benetton and Ferrari. Our sporting ambition has always been that Michael should drive again where his professional career had started and Michael knew that. We often joked about it after the races and discussed the prospect seriously several times during the last 14 years in Formula 1.

It didn't happen in 1995, it didn't happen in 1998 and it didn't happen in 2005. I am delighted that it will now happen in 2010. I am very much looking forward to working with Michael and everybody at Mercedes-Benz and Daimler extends a very warm welcome to our "apprentice" of 19 years ago. That apprentice is now the most successful racing driver of all time."

All-New Hyundai Tucson

Click on all images to enlarge

Hyundai Motor Co is on a roll for the new decade: their daringly suave and stylish revamped all-new Sonata barely settled into our visual cortex of our grey matter, their superb Theta II GDI engines and in-house new 6-speed auto 'box have been revealed for very-near future applications. Now, here comes another 'wow-factor': their mid-size SUV, new Tucson replacement model for year 2010.

The all-new Tucson will only be offered initially with a 2.4-litre four-cylinder petrol, capable of 176 hp and 228Nm of torque. Transmission options include a 6-speed manual or an all-new 6-speed automatic. A 2.0-liter Theta II engine will be available later in 2010, perhaps that will be the likelihood variant seeing the light of day in Malaysia. In Right Hand Drive (RHD) configuration of course!

Keep bringing em on Hyundai!!!!

Hyundai Azera/Grandeur gets updated for 2010

Hyundai Motor Co. began receiving orders today for Grandeur (Azera) facelift that offers more luxurious exterior than the preceding model and a variety of upgraded features to attain more safety and convenience.

Exterior

With its design focus on a progressive concept, Grandeur Facelift is reborn with more prestigious exterior. The facelift possesses overall dynamic and luxurious image with the differentiated designs of bumper, lamp, radiator grill, muffler and etc.

Safety

Securing the best stability in its class, all models of Grandeur Facelift are basically equipped with Vehicle Dynamic Control(VDC), dual front and side curtain airbags for the event that a crash is unavoidable.

Price

The price ranges from 27.1 million won to 28.9 million won for models with 2.4 Theta(θ) II VVT engine, from 29.8 million won to 34.0 million won for models with 2.7 Mu(μ) V6 DOHC engine and from 35.9 million won to 39.8 million won for models with 3.3 Lambda(λ) V6 DOHC engine (approximately US$23,214 to US$34,038, based on today’s currency exchange rates).

A pictorial history of the Mercedes-Benz E-Class by the top-guns of M-B Malaysia (MBM)

Though not truly a big fan of the top-brass guys (and gals) at Mercedes-Benz Malaysia (MBM) and especially the way they mistreat customers and potential customers alike (some Merc dealers too, as rumoured), I must admit the 3-D holographic-esque presentation at the launch of the new W212 E-Class was really something to be savoured as unique and classy among the many car launches we get annually in Malaysia. The free-flowing wine, champagne, cognac and beers were not too bad either! :)

Click on all pictures to get a bigger image of the W110 (Tailfin) right through to the W211 predecessors! I guessed my shutter would have missed one or two circa 2nd World War models, but what the heck...I reckon the Tailfin is what most will remember as one of the most iconic great great grandfather of the E-class!

Here's looking forward to perhaps owning a E200 GGI or E250 CGI - both turbocharged -sometime in 2010 or 2011?

Volvo sold an updated version of the Volvo S60

Since the summer of 2006, Volvo sold an updated version of the Volvo S60. Changes in the body, especially with the new optional equipment, and the frame. The engine remains unchanged.

Volvo S60 decorative treatment of the body are usually optional elements of the bodywork, interior and exterior. The front flap is another option at the bottom and can be deleted in its entirety body color. This can result in a small rear spoiler also optional on the top of the fuselage.

Volvo S60 now has a number of different networks, the larger Volvo emblem. New broken mirror. There are three new colors (silver electric blue and red maple Orinoco) and three new tires: Nodus (7 \ "x 16 \") Tucano (7.5 \ "x 17") and Eudora (8 "x 18") .

Inside the Volvo S60 is optional decorative aluminum, especially in the console and steering wheel. You can also instruct optional, the instrumentation in the form of hours that the Volvo S80 and introduced so far only for the Volvo S60R.

Volvo S60 range of upholstery is different. Now, the optional leather portfolio, the combined two different tones and textures. The steering wheel is perforated
leather.


Volvo S60 is optional xenon headlights for short and long, with a slight curve. Other items of equipment, the occasional changes, which now yield three flashing on the lever. Optionally, it may be a reflection of our inner compass.

Volvo S60 is changed after the attack. Pier caps, and stabilization is less flexible, shock absorbers are stiffer. According to Volvo, is rolling the new Volvo S60 25 percent.

Volvo S60 range of gasoline engines has five variants of the five-cylinder engine: 140, 170, 209, 260 or 299 horses. Anyone can manually or automatically, with the exception of the most powerful Volvo S60R, which can only be manual. Both are less efficient front-wheel drive, traction is the strongest total of 209 horses, and is front-wheel drive or full.

Volvo S60, there are three diesel engines, a five-cylinder engine: 126, 163 or 185 horses. All have front-wheel drive and the two can result in a stronger automatic transmission.

Mercedes-Benz W212 E-Class launched in Malaysia

It's finally here, the all-new E-Class (W212) being launched by Mercedes-Benz Malaysia (MBM) at a glitzy evening function at the Palace of Golden Horses. To begin with only the E300 V6 will be available for sale immediately, priced at RM458,888.

The mass-market E200 CGI (estimated to retail about RM370k) will only be available sometime April 2010, along with the E250 CGI (circa RM410k) at about the same time. Both variants will have the same 1.8L lump in different state of tune and turbo-boost - along with direct injection - churning out 184hp/270Nm and 204hp/310Nm respectively. In contrast the E300 is powered by a naturally-aspirated 3.0L V6 pumping out a combo of 231hp/300Nm. Both the 4-cylinders E-Class only make do with 5 A/T 'box while the V6 will sport Merc's 7G-Tronic.

The Jaguar XJ model

Jaguar XJ model in 2008 differs from the previous series some changes, changing their appearance and equipment

The Jaguar XJ body length, there are four settings of the rear seats, electric or two individual seats separated by a heated center console.

Jaguar XJ, there are four engines, one diesel and three gasoline engines. Diesel six-cylinder V-engine volume of 2.7 liters and 207 hp. It is an interesting motor for low noise and vibration have.

Jaguar XJ is the gasoline engine with six cylinders in V, 3.0-liter displacement and 238 hp maximum. The other two are eight ounces in one part of the cylinder displacement 4196th They differ in that the compressor has a greater capacity, 396 hp, 298 hp instead of the atmosphere to reach

Jaguar XJ Jaguar XJ suspension is a parallelogram deformable in two axes. Springs and tires are the buffer is a variable electronic control system (CATS).

Jaguar XJ Jaguar XJ equipment includes standard features such as stability control, xenon headlights double rooms, two of the air conditioning, automatic lights and wipers and Bluetooth connectivity for cell phones.

The Jaguar XJ series 2008, all versions of the Jaguar XJ front seats with heating, ventilation is the same level on XJR and optional on others. In addition, the seats of a new design to increase comfort and support for Jaguar, and more room for rear passengers.

a glimpse of the Mercedes-Benz C-Class

Mercedes-Benz C-Class car is expensive and high quality. The price can be much higher than the charge as special equipment is very rich.

While may be some interesting decisions as standard for Mercedes-Benz C-Class a very good impression. In some variables, this is the best car is of similar size. Although the price is reasonable or not, are the main disadvantages of space and rear seats for Mercedes-Benz C-Class 220 CDI vibration motor in the city.

Mercedes Benz C-class variables, with their quality, their level of active safety and quality as a result of the suspension: comfort and stability. To the best of these three functions in the midsize sedan will receive, you have to spend what it takes on Mercedes-Benz C-Class.

Mercedes-Benz C-Class have the advantage that it decreases rapidly and in particular active safety on the roads. The difference compared to other salons much cheaper it is found only in exceptional cases and committed (eg,) avoidance maneuvers at high speed. Braking is too short, but it is very safe.

Mercedes-Benz C-Class Mercedes-Benz C-Class is an agile car on the street slowly, but as an average or high-speed corners, there are excellent results. These considerations also apply to the suspension, which has a built very comfortable, but not too soft.

Change Mercedes-Benz C-Class 220 CDI with automatic, 'we' I have tested, there is no indication or performance or consumption, but one of the best. This version is also better than other models, the smoothness of the engine in the service of the city. Yes, very smooth road bikes.

If you think the relationship between price and size inside, there are better cars, Mercedes-Benz C-Class. In the foreground is a lot of space and places are very good. Because there is enough room for two adults who are not too high, but the three space is limited, because the shape of the seat is inadequate and not very wide.

Mercedes-Benz C-class to the equipment, the (serial seven airbags one of them has on the driver's knees lit), belts with emergency stress tensor and restrictions in the four outer seats, active head restraints and automatic connection. On his knees airbags for the driver is on the markets of the Euro-NCAP standard study. Scope Mercedes-Benz C-Class engine variants consists of gasoline and diesel.

Mercedes-Benz C-Class in gasoline can save different variations on the four-cylinder or six-cylinder atmospheric pressure. 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine has a capacity compressor and volume, with two versions: Mercedes-Benz C-Class 180 K to 156 horses and 200 K Mercedes-Benz C-Class 184 hp. Six bottles are Mercedes-Benz C-Class 230, 204 hp, Mercedes-Benz C-Class 280, 231 and 350 hp, Mercedes-Benz C-Class 272 hp.

With 156 hp engine, the benefits and consumption of Mercedes-Benz C-Class are normal. Mercedes-Benz C-Class with a value of 180 K, the maximum speed, but not because of its low-power or high acceleration. BMW 320i with 170 hp and accelerates countries invest far less than the new Mercedes-Benz C-Class 180 K.

According to official figures, Mercedes-Benz C-Class 200 CDI consumes more than most lounges on their size and power, the slow and rapid acceleration with the highest possible speed. In these models, only the Volvo S60 is spending more money.

Mercedes Benz C-Class diesel engines, use four (200 CDI 136 hp or 220 CDI 170 hp) or six cylinders (320 CDI 224 hp).

Citroen C3 Picasso has the same length as the Nissan Note

Citroen C3 Picasso measures 4.08 m long, 1.73 m wide and 1.62 meters high. Tj. Citroen C3 Picasso has the same length as the Nissan Note, but is wide and high, to do with more space. Among the cars in its class, Opel Meriva other in the back seat, but the Note, Renault Grand Modus and Ford Fusion closer.

In return, the Citroen C3 Picasso is one, that offers less space for the legs, although one of the longest. It has five seats. Strain is the height (385 to 500 l) depending on the location of the rear seats.

Citroen C3 Picasso rear bench can be moved 150 mm in the longitudinal direction, which is used to configure the interior as needed. So where to get what you want, it is the largest cargo capacity with rear seats only to the full 500 liter luggage, given the great length Citroen C3 Picasso. Tailgate has a wide area and left a large opening for loading and unloading of luggage

In addition, the rear seats reduces the activation of the lever, some on their backs. It is a flat load space, through the play, which moves in the trunk. Through the support of the passenger seat and strikes can be used as a small table

Citroen C3 Picasso at the carrier 's position draws attention to the dashboard, which is located) in the middle of the dashboard (like the Citroen C4. Among the various elements of which may have air conditioning, there are two areas, a panoramic glass roof that an area of 4.52 hectares, meters, sensors or automatic aid with the Citroen C3 Picasso parking lights and windscreen cover.

The motor is used for two petrol and two diesel engines, all of them already in other models of Peugeot and Citroen. Gasoline is produced in cooperation with BMW, with indirect injection and variable distribution of "Valvetronic '95 hp 1.4-liter and 1.6-liter 120-hp. Diesel engines have the same 1.6-liter block, but with different power: 90 to 110 horses.

Citroen C3 Picasso-quality materials and interior modifications Citroen C3 Picasso is significantly better than the C3 position in the field of tourism. The design is different, the materials used, and every detail of the auctions are more care from the proposal. There are more covered with plastic and set out in pieces.

Driver's seat Citroen C3 Picasso is located in a high position, as is usual in MPVs. Shifter near the steering wheel is located. It is located in the middle level, the note on the dashboard, and not on the floor.

Citroen C3 Picasso as a seat, bent in its lowest position high, the legs. In this position, people who like slightly larger width of the foot in the door and appreciate the middle of the dashboard console. Citroen C3 Picasso steering wheel height and depth, and no buttons covered. Upper anchorages are to be adjusted in height.

On Wednesday have the top of the dashboard, in front of the device a large, flat box with a lid, which is to be stored flat objects, the approximate size of the captive-book format. His biggest drawback is that it is not nearly the driver and front passenger. Sacks doors are too big and gloves (9 liters), with a square shape very profitable. It can be cool with air conditioning and lighting.

Be extended over the chest pit, flat, the raw material, like a breath of golf ball. It does not seem very useful. Perhaps it is the spring. The steering wheel on the left is a hole in the shape of the shell, which is from the same material, are used to coins or keys can leave. Another hole course and is located deep beneath the radio. This can be for large objects, such as suitable electronic calendar, wallet or mobile phone.

Forward visibility is very good, with two narrow columns to reduce the blind spots in front. The amount was later thick and vertically.

Citroen C3 Picasso small mirror, depending on the ceiling to view the past in the rear seats. Positions of the sides are sliding doors and can only be expected that the contact patch with the front seats to increase space in the trunk. With the front, carry out measures 500 liters.

Citroen C3 Picasso rear seat can be regulated to some degree slope. Windows and doors do not come sliding down. Glass is about 10 cm lower than the limit. The rear boot is very good and finished out of the position of the double-stack is useful.