rpm-aug-sept-2015-issuu by RPM Canada

370Z NISMO FROM RED LIGHT TO REDLINE. ®

Introducing the 2016 370Z NISMO Coupe. Equipped with new 19" NISMO forged alloy wheels by RAYS and new Recaro seats with Alcantara inserts, it’ll redefine what you think of as “cornering.” Add our legendary 350-hp 3.7-litre DOHC V6 engine with a NISMO -tuned free-flow dual exhaust H-pipe configuration, along with a new NISMO -designed aerodynamic body, and it’s easy to see that we’ve injected it with more NISMO than ever before. ®

NISMO® Performance

Racing Technology

Relentless Improvement

nissan.ca

Driving is serious business and requires your full attention. Obey all trafﬁc laws, always drive safely and wear your seat belt. Damage resulting from racing, competitive driving, track and/or airstrip use not covered by warranty. See your New Vehicle Limited Warranty and Owner’s Manual for proper vehicle operation and complete warranty details. Always wear your seat belt, and please don’t drink and drive. ©2015 Nissan Canada Inc.

Contents

It’s Back!

The 2016 Nissan 370Z returns for 2016 ...pg 12

Z06

‘Stang

300C

Area 27

Porsche

Turbo

The Z06 adds to the Chevrolet Corvette’s legend ...pg 20

We see how the new EcoBoost Mustang stacks up against the GT ...pg 38

We speak to former F1 Champ and Area 27 designer Jacques Villeneuve ...pg 30

ALSO INSIDE

Starting Lines-------------------------------------- 4 RPM Test Fleet------------------------------------24 VW Golf Sportwagon ----------------------------28 Track Day for Charity Event--------------------- 32 Diamond Rally------------------------------------- 34

The 2015 Porsche Performance Tour ... pg 16

The Chrysler 300C is often referred to as “the American Bentley” ...pg 26

Is the Fiat 500 Turbo as much fun to drive as it is to look at? ...pg 22

The Truck Guy------------------------------------- 36 Classic Corner------------------------------------- 42 New Product Showcase-------------------------43 Parting Shots-------------------------------------46

RPM Aug / Sept 2015

Volume 17, Issue No. 4 August/September 2015

Lexus IS Offers a Whole New Lineup for 2016

Publisher / Editor: Dean Washington dean@rpmcanada.ca Associate Publisher: David Symons david@rpmcanada.ca Managing Editor Jordan Allan jordan@rpmcanada.ca Circulation: Brenda Washington brenda@rpmcanada.ca Copy Editor Gerry Frechette gerryf@rpmcanada.ca Sales & Marketing Elaine Fontaine elaine@rpmcanada.ca Contributing Writers/Photographers: Jordan Allan Gerry Frechette Ian Harwood Nigel Matthews Russell Purcell Benjamin Yong

RPM IS AVAILABLE AT THE FOLLOWING:

VALUE-ADDED & FORWARDING PARTNERS

exus has recently announced its 2016 IS lineup to the general public, and with it comes two brand new models along with additional standard equipment across the entire lineup. The IS 200t will make its debut in the 2016 model year and will feature a powerful turbocharged 2.0L 4-cylinder engine under the hood, paired to an 8-speed automatic transmission with sport-direct shift control and sequential multi-mode shifter. The IS 200t will generate 241 horsepower along with up to 258 lb-ft of torque. The second new model will be the IS 300 AWD which will deliver more power than the outgoing IS 250 AWD that it replaces. With a 3.5L V6 and 6-speed automatic Super ECT transmission, the new model will make 255 horsepower with up to 236 lb-ft of torque. Additional changes to the IS lineup include standard rear seat side airbags, bringing the total number of airbags up to 10, and the versatility of standard 60:40 split folding rear seats. All models with an F Sport package will now include a standard moonroof and rain sensing wipers.

Buick to Offer Apple CarPlay Capability in All 2016 Regal and LaCrosse Models

Starting for the 2016 model year, Buick will offer the new Apple CarPlay capability for smartphones in all Regal and LaCrosse models. The technology will connect a smartphone through Buickâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s IntelliLink system, integrating applications such as navigation, hands-free text messaging, contact lists, and entertainment apps for news or music onto the 8-inch IntelliLink radio display. It is expected that later in the year Buick will also be offering Android Auto capability with its Intellilink system. Apple CarPlay takes iPhone features that customers would want access to while driving and puts them on the vehicleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s display in an easy-to-use manner which allows drivers to make phone calls, send or receive messages and listen to music, all controlled from the touchscreen or using voice via Siri. The system is compatible with iOS 7.1 or higher and is an excellent complement to the OnStar 4G LTE connectivity with Wi-Fi hotspot offered in all 2016 Buick models. Publishing Schedule: RPM is published 6 times per year by RPM Media Inc. Every second month. Subscription Info: 1 year: (6 issues) $9.95 + hst, 2 years: (12 issues) $17.95 + hst. Second class mailing #40050183. General Policies: The views expressed by the writers are not necessarily endorsed by the publisher. Reprints with permission only. Advertisements are accepted in good faith, but we suggest that it is in your best interest to check offers personally. Publication by rpm motoring monthly should not be taken as an endorsement of the product or services offered. The publisher assumes no responsibility for the return of any materials sent to our offices by individuals or organizations. MAILING ADDRESS: 2460 Kingsway Avenue, Port Coquitlam, B.C. Canada V3C 1T4

Tel: 604.629.9669 Fax: 778.285.2449 Toll free: 1.888.500.4591 Website: www.rpmcanada.ca

RPM Aug / Sept 2015

After a Brief Hiatus, the Mini Clubman Returns for 2016

Following a brief departure from the Mini lineup in 2014 and 2015, the all-new third-generation Clubman has been revealed and is poised to return to the lineup in early 2016. The new edition of the Clubman grows in size both inside and out when compared to its predecessor. It is considered to be a contemporary interpretation of the traditional “estate car” concept which is especially popular in the UK, which is Mini’s country of origin. The rear split doors which consist of two

production line in Stuttgart-Zuffenhausen. The 918 was developed to be a performance hybrid with plug-in technology and the concept was first debuted at the 2010 Geneva International Motor Show. In the summer of 2010 Porsche gave the green light for production development and the car was launched on the market in late 2013. The 918 will definitely be credited with providing a strong base for the advanced development of technologies for sports cars of the future. The key technology in the 918 is a drive concept which uses a high-performance combustion engine and two electric motors, all working together to push out incredible power and performance with an astonishing 887 horsepower of system power. In late 2013, the 918 set the lap record for street-legal vehicles with production tires on the North Loop of the Nurburgring with a breathtakingly quick time of 6 minutes and 57 seconds. Now with production complete, Porsche will work on implementing new ideas in the manufacturing process for the hybrid super sports car to ensure they are setting the standard for innovative capabilities of these types of cars.

Chevrolet Introduces All-New Second-Generation 2016 Cruze

Chevrolet has proudly announced the all-new 2016 Cruze, which is a larger and more efficient version of the brand’s best-selling global car. Going on sale in North America in early 2016, the new Cruze is side-opening wings allow the Clubman to achieve a unique status as a six-door model. The Clubman will be offered in two different models - the Mini Cooper Clubman and the Mini Cooper Clubman S. Under the hood of the base model is a 1.5L 3-cylinder engine that pushes out 134 horsepower and 162 lb-ft of torque while the “S” model is powered by a 2.0L 4-cylinder that makes 189 horsepower with 207 lb-ft of torque. Both engines feature Mini TwinPower Turbo Technology, and both also come standard with 6-speed manual transmissions. The Clubman also offers the latest generation 6-speed Steptronic transmission while the Clubman S will introduce an optional 8-speed Steptronic.

Porsche Completes Production of Technological Marvel 918 Spyder

packed with new technologies such as Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, Porsche has recently announced that after 21 months of produc- and new active safety features. The exterior styling has been inflution time, the final and 918th Porsche 918 Spyder has come off the enced by the 2014 Impala and all-new Malibu and gives the Cruze a

Porsche 918 Spyder

RPM Aug / Sept 2015

Audi A4

sleek appearance, with a sporty, muscular look that is sure to make it stand out against its competitors. The interior of the new Cruze is designed to be a more comfortable and better-connected environment for the driver and passengers. It features more rear legroom and knee room and a thoroughly modern design. A new, standard 1.4L turbocharged engine will make 153 horsepower and 177 lb-ft of torque with a GM-estimated 5.9L/100 km highway fuel efficiency with the automatic transmission. Additionally, an all-new, more rigid and lighter architecture is used which enables more nimble and direct steering and handling attributes.

Alfa Romeo Previews All-New Giulia Sedan

makerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s famous design language. It has been designed to achieve a perfect 50/50 weight balance as the engine and the mechanical parts are arranged between the two axles, leaving very short overhangs. A six-cylinder turbocharged gasoline engine tuned by engineers with Ferrari backgrounds will deliver an amazing 510 horsepower to the rear wheels and will allow it to achieve an impressive 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) time of just 3.9 seconds. The engine is made entirely of aluminum to reduce weight and will produce that genuine Alfa Romeo sound. In order to obtain an excellent power-to-weight ratio, in addition to a lightweight engine, the Giulia will see the ample use of ultralight materials throughout the entire vehicle such as carbon fibre, aluminum, aluminum composite, and high-strength plastics.

Audi Unveils All-New

Recently Alfa Romeo gave the world a preview of its all-new Giulia sedan at the Alfa Romeo Museum in Arese, Italy. The new Sedan A4 and A4 Avant features a simple yet elegant design that stays true to the Italian auto- The new generation Audi A4 and A4 Avant have recently been shown off by the German automaker. The car has been completely re-worked from the ground up and will feature a bold new look with a bundle of new safety and technology features. When compared to the previous model, the car has grown in size but has been reduced in weight â&#x20AC;&#x201C; up to 120 kg depending on the engine option. This allows for more space for passengers and cargo, but with a better fuel efficiency rating due to the reduced weight. The exterior features an even more athletic and sporty appearance and comes available with optional LED headlights and matrix LED headlights with dynamic turn indicators. Inside of the A4 is a spacious interior with new colours and materials and LED lighting accents as standard equipment. Under the hood of the redesigned model in its native Germany will be the option of three TFSI engines and four TDI options. All transmission options have been redesigned including the six-speed manual, sevenspeed S-tronic, and the 8-speed Tiptronic. Given that this is a global introduction, it is not yet known when the new A4 and A4 Avant will arrive in Canada or in what configurations.

RPM Aug / Sept 2015

Laser Measured, Custom-Fit

FloorLiner™

Available in Black, Tan and Grey

Check out our full line of Automotive Accessories at WeatherTech.ca

Cargo/Trunk Liner

All-Weather Floor Mat

Side Window Deflectors

Acura · Audi · BMW · Buick · Cadillac · Chevrolet · Chrysler · Dodge · Ferrari · Ford · GMC · Honda · Hummer · Hyundai · Infiniti Isuzu · Jeep · Kia · Land Rover · Lexus · Lincoln · Maserati · Mazda · Mercedes-Benz · Mercury · Mini · Mitsubishi · Nissan Oldsmobile · Plymouth · Pontiac · Porsche · Saab · Saturn · Scion · Subaru · Suzuki · Toyota · Volkswagen · Volvo · and more!

Canadian Customers WeatherTech.ca

American Customers WeatherTech.com

European Customers WeatherTechEurope.com

Jeremy Clarkson, James May, and Richard Hammond Reportedly Talking to Netflix Regarding New Car Show

A recent report from a British paper called The Mirror suggests that former Top Gear presenters Jeremy Clarkson, James May, and Richard Hammond have been in talks with Netflix regarding the creation

of a new car show. According to the report, a clause in their BBC contracts forbids the trio from making a rival car show on any UK channel until April 2017. Apparently the three had been in talks with ITV, another British television channel, about doing a new show but it had proven difficult to operate around their former BBC contracts. The clause, however, wouldn’t apply to streaming video services like Nissan Debuts Juke-R 2.0 Concept Netflix or Amazon. Clarkson has been quoted in saying that he has been in discussions with a California based streaming video services at Goodwood Festival of Speed The Nissan Juke-R debuted in 2011 as the world’s first crossover company, even going as far as to suggest he has changed his drinking supercar as it paired Nissan’s quirky Juke crossover with the engine habits to continue discussions despite the time difference between and running gear from the Nissan GT-R. Now to mark the Juke’s fifth Britain and the West Coast of the USA. year of production, Nissan has debuted the Juke-R 2.0 concept at the annual Goodwood Festival of Speed. The new concept will use the McLaren 570S makes Vancouver same 600-horsepower twin-turbo V6 engine from the current GT-R Nismo, plus will incorporate the upgrades from the recent facelifted Debut in Stunning Fashion Juke which was revealed last year, including revised lighting and body It comes as no surprise that McLaren Vancouver selected the accents. Additionally, the Juke-R 2.0 will boast a ton of additional Gastown district as the setting to unveil the British marque’s latest styling upgrades such as bumpers and wheel arches all made from offering, the stunning McLaren 570S. The crowd had assembled at Inform Interiors to get their first look at the brand’s new entry model carbon fibre and finished in a matte black colour.

McLaren 570S 10 RPM Aug / Sept 2015

Audi Considering Adding entry-level Turbocharged R8

We told you a couple of issues back that Audi had revealed its second generation of the R8 supercar at the Geneva International Motor Show. Now a few months down the road from that, rumours have begun to swirl that Audi could be planning to add an entry-level turbocharged version of the R8. According to a Motoring report, Audi executives are considering adding a turbocharged version for this model cycle of the R8 and it would indeed land at the bottom of the range. The report further indicated that somebody within Audi suggested that the company’s five-cylinder turbo engine was among the options being considered for the application. It would be assumed that a smaller displacement then the already offered V10 engines would mean a substantial decrease in power, but in the example of the Audi TT Clubsport Turbo concept which uses the same five-cylinder engine option, it pushes out a respectable 600 horsepower, which is only 10 less than the R8 V10 Plus model.

STRONGER

TOUGHER

THE ORIGINAL W

that had just made its global debut at the New York auto show, followed by previews in Toronto and now Vancouver. The first car to be produced for McLaren’s new Sports Series, the 570S is powered by the latest variant of the same potent 3.8-litre twinturbo V8 engine as used in the stunning 650S and pinnacle model, the P1. The car is rear-wheel drive and layout is a rearmid engine configuration. Horsepower is a healthy 562 and torque is 443 pound-feet. The transmission is a 7-speed dual-clutch manumatic gearbox, and the car features a full carbon-fibre tub to keep the weight in check and provide optimal passenger safety. The 570S will be priced around the $200,000 mark and has been designed to target rivals such as the Audi R8 V10 and the Porsche 911 Turbo S with regards to both features and performance. I think it is safe to say that McLaren’s latest offering will help the boutique auto builder establish itself as a powerhouse in the Canadian marketplace in no time.

MORE DURABLE

2015 GMC SIERRA POCKET STYLE FLARES ®

ADDS UP TO 2.00” of tire coverage from road debris OEM MATTE BLACK FINISH is easy to paint 100% UV PROTECTED Dura-Flex 2000 – no chalking ®

Limited Lifetime Warranty

2014 TOYOTA TUNDRA Extend-A-Fender Flares ®

NOW IN COLOR BLACK, WHITE AND MORE - details at bushwacker.com

800-338-3800

bushwacker.com RPM Aug / Sept 2015 11

Return of the Z

2016 Nissan 370Z Story and photos by Benjamin Yong

seats feel great and hold you just tight enough. It’s a very driverfocused cockpit with a basic but purposeful instrument cluster he Nissan 370Z is back for 2016, and this time around, it’s and a trio of angled gauges covered by cute little hoods that read fighting in a lower weight class. Nissan announced a few out engine oil temp, battery voltage and the time. months ago that it would take a whopping $10,000 off the sticker price of the entry level offering, called the Coupe Enthusiast Edi- The steering wheel has a cool Z in the middle of the horn button tion, boasting an MSRP of $29,998, helping it more fairly compete and the whole thing slides up and down along with the cluster, with a crop of affordable V6-powered sports cars in the market.

To be expected, slashing a quarter of the cost means removing several standard features, but more on that in a bit. This Z remains very much a looker with its black-finish 18-inch alloy wheels, bi-function boomerang xenon headlights, daytime running LED strips in the front bumper and a Solid Red paint job (new Deep Blue Pearl was released this year). That and its aggressive angry-shoe wedge shape still give the six-year-old model a faint air of head-turning exoticness which stands out on the road — and that’s saying something considering I live in a city where Bentleys, Maseratis and McLarens are an everyday sight. The interior of the 370Z is where some of the cutbacks are more evident. The good things first: the black woven “carbon” pattern

but unfortunately doesn’t telescope out, making operating the wheel in a comfortable manner for me an exercise in finding the right balance of sliding and tilting the driver’s seat. A navigation system is replaced by a cubby hole, and I was surprised the retro radio/CD player even had a Bluetooth handsfree option. The upside of removing 21st-century creature comforts is that the car is a tad lighter, weighing in at 1,497 kilograms. Not petite, but an improvement nonetheless. Buyers can choose between a six-speed manual transmission, present in the press car, or a 12 RPM Aug / Sept 2015

seven-speed automatic. The standard is fun to drive but shifts feel clunky and rough when youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re quickly moving through the gears. A SynchroRev Match downshift rev matching system is available to smoothen the process, the caveat being since there are no option packages, the only way to get it is to repay the extra $10k to move up to the Touring trim. Returning to duty is the 332-horsepower 3.7-litre V6 engine. Quick revving with 270 lb-ft of torque on tap, the VQ37VHR is quick and emits the sufficient amount of growl. To combat its girth, Nissan has implemented significant uses of aluminum and carbon fibre in the hood, hatch, fender, engine bay and suspension. Combined with the 55/45 front-rear weight distribution, the 370Z feels livelier than you might imagine. The speed-sensitive power steering was revised last year to provide tighter and more direct road feel, although vibrations are filtered out using a damper-like solenoid valve.

14 RPM Aug / Sept 2015

The other trim that hasnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t been mentioned is the Coupe Touring Sport manual ($43,998) and auto ($45,498) that comes with GPS, backup camera, upgraded BOSE audio and an auto-dimming mirror. For more adventurous types, move up to a NISMO with 350 horsepower, sport suspension and Recaro seats for $47,998.

SPECIFICATIONS Base price (MSRP): .............................................................................. $29,998 Type: ...............................................................................Two-passenger coupe Layout: ............................................................... Front engine, rear-wheel drive Engine: ....................................................................................... 3.7L DOHC V6 Transmission: . ......................................................................... 6-speed manual Power: . .............................................................................332 hp @ 7,000 rpm Torque: ........................................................................... 270 lb-ft @ 5,200 rpm Curb weight: . ...................................................................................... 1,497 kg Brakes: .............................................................Front/rear vented disc with ABS Fuel Consumption (L/100km, city/hwy combined): .....................................10.9

Porsche Performance Tour

Story and photos by Jordan Allan

of its 3.8-litre flat-6 felt incredible as did the sharp shifts from its 7-speed PDK transmission (found in all cars on this trip). The way it negotiated he Porsche Performance Tour is a three-day tour of the West Coast the sharp corners was nothing like I had ever felt before, plus it provided of British Columbia that consists of three different Porsche models ample room for my partner’s and my rather tall frames, as well as our driven on three different surfaces - road, track, and off-road. Having re- suitcases and a few other items. cently had the opportunity to participate in the latest iteration of this great As we neared Whistler, it was time to switch vehicles and next on the docket for us was the Boxster GTS. Although it makes a little less power out of a smaller engine (330 horsepower from a 3.4-litre engine) it surely did not disappoint, as it gave me the opportunity to drop the top and listen to an incredible exhaust note that was one of the most amazing I had ever heard. Another thing that should be said for the Boxster GTS is you can certainly feel that it weighs less than its 911 counterpart, as it felt much lighter and agile, making it the perfect vehicle for the next part of our journey.

We were told (via two-way radios equipped in each car) to take windy Callaghan Road just outside of Whistler and go up to Olympic Park where we would hop on a shuttle to a fleet of Cayenne S’s waiting to be taken off-road. Once we hit the trails, I found that the Cayenne S was able to handle everything we threw at it on an incredibly challenging course that consisted of steep climbs, elephant tracks, and some hill descents that were greatly aided by the SUV’s hill descent control that automatically applies the brakes, allowing you to completely remove event, I found an even greater appreciation for Porsche than I already your foot from the pedal. had thanks to what has to be three of the greatest days a gearhead could ever experience. Now, when I say I already had a great appreciation for the Porsche brand, this was based strictly on hearsay, as I had yet to get behind the wheel of one of these incredible machines. I quickly learned that this tour was definitely the best way to get introduced to the brand, as it brilliantly showcased everything they are capable of. With a lineup consisting of a total of ten cars (eight for us participants, plus two Martini Porsches for the instructors) we departed from Vancouver International Airport on day one and started our journey that would see us first stop in Whistler. If you’ve ever been on the Sea-to-Sky highway that connects Vancouver with Whistler and beyond, you’ll know that it is an incredible road complete with fun corners and curves plus breathtaking views. This obviously is the ideal situation for a Porsche, and my first ride of the event, the latest 911 Carrera 4S, was a great way to start. The 400 horsepower out 16 RPM Aug / Sept 2015

"7"*-"#-& */

CONCAVE MESH

Y Y Y Y %*3&$5 #0-5 03

r #3*--*"/5 ."$)*/&% '"$&

%6"- '*5 "11-*$"5*0/4

8*5) (6/.&5"- #"$,(306/%

r %&4*(/&% '03 453&&5 1&3'03."/$& r $-"44*$ &6301&"/ 45:-*/(

8IPMFTBMF *ORVJSJFT 0OMZ

day began, Mission Raceway Park where there is a road course set up for us to really push the limits of these cars on the surface they truly belong on, the track. After a briefing from our lead instructor, professional Porsche race car driver Kees Nierop, we hopped on the track where we would each have a chance to take all of the models out for a lap on what is a truly fun course. This was a lead-follow situation where Kees and fellow instructor Jonathan kept us all in line by leading us, while giving instructions on how best to tackle the course while remaining fast but safe through the tight turns and long straightaways.

After we got off the trails, we got back into our sports cars and headed into Whistler Village to get some much-needed rest and get set for day two of our tour. Day 2 consisted of strictly road driving, heading north from Whistler, through Pemberton and onto one of the most spectacular roads that I, or any driver for that matter, will ever drive on. It was an even more challenging road than the Sea-to-Sky, with narrow lanes and even sharper curves, handled perfectly by our third and fourth rides of the trip, the mid-engine Cayman S pushing out 325 horsepower and the Cayman GTS which made 340 horsepower. Although lower in the food chain, the Cayman felt somewhat more balanced than the 911 thanks to its mid-engine layout. At the end of the Duffy Lake Road after, of course, driving no higher than the speed limit, we found ourselves in Lillooet heading towards our final Day 2 destination of Vernon. After a brief stop in Kamloops and our final car switch of the day, which put us in the fastest car on the trip, the 911 Carrera 4 GTS which makes in astounding 430 horsepower and featured a look that clearly turned heads more than any other vehicle available, we finally arrived at the incredible Sparkling Hills Resort at the Predator Ridge Golf Course, having travelled an exhausting 438 km. After a bite to eat and an amazing stay at one of the province’s most luxurious resorts, we were up at the crack of dawn and ready for our last leg of the tour. We started heading South through Kelowna, then West through Merritt where we jumped on the Coquihalla Highway, which had speed limits of up to 120 km/h, which was more than ideal for a pack of Porsches to really strut their stuff. Once we got into Hope, we got back on Highway 1 where we headed for the spot I had been looking forward to since this

18 RPM Aug / Sept 2015

This was truly the best opportunity to see exactly what Porsches are all about, as we didn’t hold anything back and truly pushed ourselves and the cars to the limit. The handling on each and every model that was available to us was second to none as far as I’m concerned, and the sheer power coming out of the corners and on to the straights allowed us to reach incredible speeds, but still able to feel like we were in total control the whole time. After they pried us off the track and back onto normal street conditions, we headed back to YVR to see our 1,061-km total journey come to an end. Reflecting back, this trip was exactly what I had envisioned when I first heard about it and will most certainly be one of the most incredible driving experiences of my life. The cars were top notch, the scenery was breathtaking, and the staff were helpful and knowledgeable. I truly cannot wait to get back behind the wheel of a Porsche again.

Instant Collectible

2015 Chevrolet Corvette Z06

No effort has been spared to make the Z06 as aerodynamic as possible, with more tricks learned through racing. Form follows function he best values in high-horsepower performance cars are made here, so virtually every exterior change on the 2015 Corvette Z06 has by Americans. There – we said it. You can spend six or even seven figures on one of the vaunted European brands, but you can also spend high-five figures for a car like the Chevrolet Corvette Z06, and you’ll have as much power, speed and technology – with one exception - as all the others. No, you can’t have a Z06 with plug-in hybrid powertrain and 900 horsepower, but 650 horses are plenty sufficient for most folks. Story and photos by Gerry Frechette

That number, generated by a 6.2-litre supercharged V8, makes the Z06 the most powerful, quickest accelerating and fastest Corvette (or any car, really) that GM has ever made. And, no surprise, the car built around this engine owes a lot to the winningest GT car in international racing this year (think Daytona, Sebring, Le Mans). Some of the shared parts include hydroformed aluminum frame, carbon fibre roof and hood, composite floor panels, dry sump oiling, and titanium purpose. The wider flared fenders accommodate larger, wider wheels and tires than the regular Stingray. There are vents everywhere to intake valves. Racing does improve the breed. provide more air to the engine, brakes, transmission and differential. And the aerodynamic package generates incredible downforce for cornering grip and stability. The rear is wider than a Stingray by 80 mm and the front by 56 mm, and for even more grip, Z06 comes standard with Michelin® summer-only Pilot® Super Sport ZP tires, P285/30ZR19 front and 335/25ZR20 rear. The major options packages for Z06 are primarily based on aerodynamics and enhanced track performance, as the mechanical package is an all-in approach by Chevy. There are three ‘levels’ available, the top one being called Z07 which includes even more capable tires and Brembo carbon ceramic brakes. The owner of the base model Level 1 car we drove chose to add the Level 3 rear spoiler set-up through the dealer. Otherwise, it was the base model with 7-speed manual; an 8-speed automatic is available. The engine is the new LT4 in GM-speak, and this all-aluminum, direct-injected pushrod engine generates 650 horsepower and 650 20 RPM Aug / Sept 2015

SPECIFICATIONS Base MSRP: ......................................................................................... $90,985 Type of vehicle: .................................. Front-engined, RWD performance coupe Engine: ......................................................6.2L OHV 16-valve supercharged V8 Power: . .............................................................................650 hp @ 6,400 rpm Torque: . ........................................................................ 650 lb-ft @ 3,600 rpm Transmission: . .........................................................7-spd manual / 8-spd auto Curb weight: . ...................................................................... 1,598 kg / 3,524 lb Weight distribution (% front / rear): .........................................................50/50 Warranty: ..........................................................5 yr / 160,000 km (powertrain)

by some of the world’s most pricey and capable exotics, the Z06 gave up nothing to them, and delivered exhilarating acceleration, cornering and braking. It also delivered in the sensory department, with a glorious V8 bellow at full throttle that overwhelmed the more shrill-sounding imports. One thing the Z06 is not is what you might call a luxury car. Similar two-seat imports are much more sumptuous inside, and Chevy makes no apologies for its strategy of the Z06 being a driver-focused car,

pounds-feet of torque. We could get eloquent about this kind of power, and even comment on whether anyone really needs it on a street car, but driving a car like this certainly puts into perspective what the application of performance-oriented technology can deliver. In this case, zero-to-100 km/h in about 3.5 seconds. The quarter mile in the

with little extraneous to get in the way of driver involvement. The interior is nicely done with soft-touch surfaces, especially compared to previous Corvettes, with supportive seats and great ergonomics for even the tallest of drivers. The Driver Mode Selector lets you select between Weather, Eco, Tour, Sport and Track modes, and three of the major systems that are adjustable are the Magnetic Selective Ride Control, the Performance Traction Management, and the Electronic Limited Slip Differential. 11-second range. And probably about 200 mph top end. You can’t use From driving around town in the rain, to flat out on the track, there is something for everyone here. the power everywhere, but when you can, it is mind-bending. On the other hand, you can drive this car on a daily basis, as it is totally without any driveability issues around town. Fortunately, we were able to explore the mid-ranges of the Z06’s capabilities, on a certain highway as part of an exotic car rally in the spring. Did we exceed the posted speed limit (80 km/h) a couple of times? You can draw your own conclusions on that. Surrounded as we were

Of course, what you have with any Corvette is the long heritage of it being America’s sports car. The Z06 adds to the legend, and is an instant collectible. Chevy can’t build enough of them for American enthusiasts, and they are hard to get in Canada. But for a mere $90K or so, and maybe a bit of a wait, you too can have a supercar that will run all day with those pricey exotics. And that is the best value of all.

RPM Aug / Sept 2015 21

High On Style

tional six-speed automatic to make commuting a little less stressful. The automatic transmission features manual shift capabilities for those drivers who prefer to choose their own more aggressive shift points.

2015 Fiat 500 Turbo

The 500 Turbo will accelerate to 100 kilometres-per-hour from a standstill in a tick over eight seconds. In order to handle the extra dose of power provided by the turbocharger and reduce torque steer, the car Story and photos by Russell Purcell has been equipped with larger half shafts and heavy-duty constant anadians love small cars, so it should come as no surprise that when velocity joints. Chrysler brought the tiny Fiat 500 to North America, it quickly found For a short-wheelbase car, the 500 Turbo delivers a very smooth ride a home in many car parks and driveways. and tracks with precision. The engineering team has fitted a sport-tuned The almost sickeningly cute little car is perfectly suited for urban trans- suspension to give the car more dynamic handling capabilities and help portation duty, as its diminutive size and capable handling allow it to enhance traction.

Having improved both the power and dynamic capabilities of the car, it was decided that its braking system would also need an upgrade. A highperformance braking system with larger front rotors helps keep things in control and inspires driver confidence. The product planners also added a throaty exhaust system to the Turbo’s build sheet. Fiat-Chrysler has been working hard to improve on the overall quality of their automobiles, and the interior of the 500 Turbo reflects this. The level of fit and finish has steadily improved with each evolution of the now iconic little car. The classic contrast of the largely black interior and white dash panel of our test unit is pleasant to the eye, but the optional navigate through congested city streets with ease. Unfortunately, the Rosso Red leather seats and door inserts helped give it an added dose car loses some of its lustre when the roads get twisty, as it doesn’t offer of curb appeal. much punch in the performance department. While the majority of buyers in this segment are shopping for an economical runabout, there is still The car’s dash layout is a study in simplicity. Controls are minimal and a portion of this population who appreciate a little zip to help enhance there is very little clutter to distract you. The Turbo’s compact dimensions ensure that everything is within easy reach of both hand and eye, their daily driving experience. although I found operating the shift lever rather awkward as it is mounted The 500 Turbo is a mid-range model which is positioned between the on a dash plateau rather than on the floor or centre console. standard 500 and the hot-tempered firecracker Abarth. The goal was to A leather-wrapped three-spoke steering wheel features a full compleoffer customers sporty performance at a moderate price. ment of secondary controls for the audio, Bluetooth and cruise functions. Under the hood of the Fiat 500 Turbo resides the same 1.4-litre MultiAir I found the electric power assist to be light, which means the driver inline four-cylinder engine as used in the standard 500 model, although always feels in control. it has been enhanced by the addition of a turbocharger which boosts SPECIFICATIONS horsepower by 34 percent. This high-revving engine produces 135 Base price (MSRP): .............................................................................. $19,895 horsepower and 150 pound-feet of torque, which does not sound like Price as tested: . ................................................................................... $24,910 ............................................. FWD, front-engine, sub-compact hatchback much in this day and age, but given the car’s small size and light weight, Type: Engine: ............................................................. 1.4L, 16-valve, turbo 4-cylinder Power: . .............................................................................135 hp @ 5,500 rpm it delivers a respectable output. The car comes with a five-speed manual transmission as standard equipment, but I suspect that most buyers will opt to purchase the op22 RPM Aug / Sept 2015

Torque: ................................................................. 150 lb-ft @ 2,500-4,000 rpm Transmission: ................................. 5-speed manual (or optional 6-speed auto) Brakes: ...................................................................... Four-wheel disc with ABS Fuel consumption (L/100km): .................................City 8.5; Hwy 6.9 - Manual City 9.6; Hwy 7.3 - Automatic

Taller individuals may find the driving position in a Fiat 500 to be rather uncomfortable, as you sit very high in the driverâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s seat and the foot well is very short if you have long legs. My right knee was forced to make regular contact with the dash protrusion and my size 13 feet seemed to grow even larger whenever I got behind the wheel. Luckily, there is an abundance of headroom, even in cars fitted with the optional sunroof upgrade. The Fiat 500 has been designed to accommodate four adults, but it is best suited for a couple of adults and their weekend gear.

The rear seating compartment is a tight fit, especially if you are a long-legged adult, and the mere act of slipping past the front seatbacks into the tiny space should be reserved for small children. The front bucket seats are comfortable enough for extended cruising and feature a fair amount of side bolstering. Outward visibility is great out front, as the hood falls away very quickly, and the side windows are quite tall. However, rear visibility is an issue, as the head restraints block the view out the rear windows, making shoulder checks difficult. At first glance, the Fiat 500 Turbo looks like its siblings, but in reality it features a unique front fascia which adds a little length to the car as several inches of space was required under the hood to accommodate the turbocharger. The front and rear fascias are also slightly more aggressive than those fitted to the standard car. The front unit incorporates large air intakes to direct air to the brakes, engine and intercoolers. Front and rear lamp bezels are black as is the rear diffuser. A subtle rear spoiler is mounted atop the liftgate to add a little more flair to the carâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s appearance, and lightweight alloy wheels complete the look. The Fiat 500 is a great car for those consumers looking for a compact vehicle that is high on style and easy to handle. Pricing is reasonable given the equipment levels and performance, but if you tend to carry passengers or gear, you may want to consider the larger Fiat 500L or 500X.

RPM Aug / Sept 2015 23

TEST F Volkswagen GTI

Price: ....................................................................................................$37,285 Engine: ................................................................2.0L DOHC turbocharged I4 Trans: . .....................................................................6-speed DSG manumatic Power: ....................................................................................................210 hp Torque: ................................................................................................258 lb-ft Curb Weight: .....................................................................1,378 kg/3,041 lbs Fuel Consumption: (L/100km – City/Hwy) .......................................9.4/6.9 New for 2015: The VW GTI enters its 7th generation for 2015 and is longer, wider and lower than the last one. The interior received a significant styling and functionality upgrade, and the exterior look remains reminiscent of the original GTI but now sports a more modern look. Segment Competitors: Ford Focus ST, Nissan Juke Nismo The Skinny: The VW GTI is a hot hatchback entering its 7th generation with a reputation of being an incredibly fun to drive vehicle that’s as practical as it is exhilarating. The sporty front seats hold you firmly in place, and passenger room is great for up to 4 adults. The new overall look of the car is great and has remained true to what has made it successful for the better part of 4 decades. Pros: Incredibly fun to drive, handles like it’s on rails and feels like it has much more power than it does. Cons: The gas gauge dropped much faster than we expected it to. The Verdict: The VW GTI is one of the best hot hatchbacks available right now and provides a combination of sportiness and practicality that is rarely found on other vehicles.

Honda CR-V

Price: . ................................................................................... $35,790 Engine: . ............................................ 2.4L DOHC 16-valve 4-cylinder Trans: ............................... Continuously variable Transmission (CVT) Power: . ................................................................................... 185 hp Torque: . ................................................................................ 181 lb-ft Curb Weight: . ...................................................... 1,629 kg/3,592 lbs Fuel Consumption: (L/100km – City/Hwy) ............................ 9.1/7.2 New for 2015: The CR-V receives a significant mid-cycle refresh for 2015 receiving engine, transmission, a number of Honda Sensing safety and driver assistance features, exterior and interior styling upgrades and plethora of new standard features. Segment Competitors: Nissan Rogue, Dodge Journey, Jeep Cherokee, Mazda CX-5, Ford Escape, Toyota Rav4, Hyundai Santa Fe, Kia Sportage. The Skinny: The mid-cycle refresh comes at a perfect time for the CRV as the small SUV segment has never been stronger. The styling, both inside and out has never been better, and the new direct injection engine provides more than enough power but still remains very efficient. Cargo and passenger room is plenty and it drives much more like a car than an SUV. Pros: We were very impressed with the fuel efficiency. Cons: We’re not sure we like Honda’s two screen setup on the dash. The Verdict: The Honda CR-V finds itself in an incredibly tough segment but has done enough with the refresh to keep it more than relevant against its competitors.

Buick Verano

Price: . ........................................................................................................... $35,505 Engine: ................................................. 2.0L EcoTec DOHC VVT turbo 4-cylinder Trans: .......................................................................................... 6-speed automatic Power: ............................................................................................................ 250 hp Torque: ..........................................................................................................260 lb-ft Curb Weight: ............................................................................1,610 kg/3,550 lbs Fuel Consumption: (L/100km – City/Hwy) ...........................................11.4/7.9 New for 2015: The Verano now comes with standard OnStar with 4G LTE for 2015 which provides a Wi-Fi hotspot that is able to accommodate up to 7 devices. Segment Competitors: Acura ILX, Audi A3, Chevrolet Cruze, Lexus IS, Mercedes-Benz CLA, The Skinny: The Buick Verano delivers a premium level of equipment for this segment such as a standard rear-view camera, available heated steering wheel, and an overall refined look both inside and out. It is available with 2 different engine options and the Ecotec 2.0L turbo engine our tester was equipped with impressed

us a great deal. Pros: We were genuinely surprised by the power generated from the 2.0L turbocharged engine. Cons: Not as much backseat space as you’d expect. The Verdict: The Verano is a fully capable small luxury sedan that comes with all the bells and whistles, a more than competent drivetrain, and a plethora of standard features that make it instantly competitive in its segment. 24 RPM Aug / Sept 2015

FLEET Mazda CX-3

Price: . ..........................................................................................$28.995 Engine: ............................................................... 2.0L DOHC 16-valve I4 Trans: ............................................6-speed automatic with manual mode Power: . ..........................................................................................146 hp Torque: . .......................................................................................146 lb-ft Curb Weight: ............................................................. 1,330 kg/2,932 lbs Fuel Consumption: (L/100km – City/Hwy) . ...............................8.8/7.3 New for 2016: The Mazda CX-3 compact crossover SUV is all-new for the 2016 model year and is the fifth vehicle in the Mazda lineup to feature SYACTIV technology and the KODO-Soul of Motion design theme. It’s powered exclusively by a 2.0L 4-cylinder engine and can be found in either front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive configurations. Segment Competitors: Nissan Juke, Jeep Renegade, Fiat 500X, Chevrolet Trax, Buick Encore, Honda HR-V The Skinny: The CX-3 enters the market at a time when owning a compact SUV has never been more popular. It offers some of the space and practicality that a SUV has but with the driving characteristics of a hatchback. It is by far one of the better looking vehicles in its segment and comes with some safety and technology features you wouldn’t think you’d find in such a vehicle. Pros: Feels incredibly nimble while driving allowing you to dart in and out of traffic if need be. Cons: If you’re a tall person you will have a tough time finding a comfortable driving position. The Verdict: The CX-3 is entering an extremely competitive segment but with its good looks, well-mannered driving habits, and SUVlike practicality it should do fine when stacked up against its competition.

Lexus RC F

Price: . ........................................................................................................... $91,822 Engine: ...........................................................................5.0 L DOHC 32-valves V8 Trans: ................................................................................8-speed with paddle shift Power: ............................................................................................................ 467 hp Torque: ..........................................................................................................389 lb-ft Curb Weight: ............................................................................1,795 kg/3,958 lbs Fuel Consumption: (L/100km – City/Hwy) .......................................... 15.2/9.5 New for 2015: The Lexus RC F is all-new for 2015 and is the second V8 F-Series model from Lexus and adopts some of the tuning and technology that went into the Lexus LFA supercar. It features a 5.0L V8 engine under the hood putting out an impressive 467 horsepower and was designed for optimum grip and handling agility. Segment Competitors: Ford Mustang, Dodge Challenger, Chevrolet Camaro, Hyundai Genesis, BMW 4-Series. The Skinny: The Lexus RC F re-introduces the F brand to Lexus which is a nod to Fuji Speedway in Japan where Lexus’ high-speed development takes place. It introduces quite a few world and Lexus firsts in technology such as the first front engine rear drive vehicle with a Torque Vectoring Differential, the first Lexus to employ Active Sound Control, and the first Lexus to feature a Sport VDIM system with Expert mode just to name a few. Pros: When you really put your foot into it, the sound that comes out of its stacked dual exhausts is unbelievable. Cons: Although it is a very fast car, it does feel heavy at some points. The Verdict: The RC F joins a plethora of 2-door, rear-wheel-drive V8’s available on the market and although it carries a high price point we believe it is certainly worth checking out if you’re looking to buy such a vehicle.

Range Rover Evoque

Price: . ..........................................................................................$52,195 Engine: . ...................................................................2.0L DOHC Turbo I4 Trans: ...................................................................................9-speed auto Power: ...........................................................................................240 hp Torque: . .......................................................................................250 lb-ft Curb Weight: ............................................................. 1,670 kg/3,681 lbs Fuel Consumption: (L/100km – City/Hwy) . .............................11.3/7.9 New for 2015: The Evoque’s optional self-parking system adds perpendicular parking for 2015 and the blind spot monitors now includes a rear cross-path alert system. Segment Competitors: Audi Q5, Audi Q3, Lexus NX 200t, MercedesBenz GLA-Class, Porsche Macan The Skinny: The 2015 Land Rover Range Rover Evoque truly is one of the best looking options when it comes to small SUVs. It is somewhat capable during off-road situations but still provides drivers and passengers with a refined ride while on road. The interior layout is second to none in terms of both practicality and design. Pros: The fuel economy was great and it truly is a treat to look at. Cons: We experienced some visibility issues from inside, especially from the rear. The Verdict: The Range Rover Evoque may sacrifice some interior space due to its low, sloping roof line but what it loses in that it more than makes up for in capability and style. RPM Aug / Sept 2015 25

The American Bentley The Chrysler 300C

Story and photos by Gerry Frechette

get all-wheel drive), but to many, the 300 has just got to have the Hemi V8, which now outputs 363 horsepower, and complements the “in your face” attitude of the 300’s styling. It’s smooth and plenty powerful for most, although it’s a bit surprising there is no “SRT8” or higher-powered version. What it isn’t is especially efficient, despite Multi Displacement System cylinder deactivation and 8-speed automatic. Transport Canada says 14.8L/ 100 km city, but the onboard computer said 18.0L (16 mpg)! That, despite a very light foot on the throttle, to give it every chance to sip fuel.

f there is one thing the American auto manufacturers have always been good at, and become well-known for worldwide, is building But, whatever; you won’t much care when ensconced in the sybaritic big, fast, roomy full-size four-door sedans. If you go back 50 years, confines of the 300’s interior. Chrysler has come up with “themes” for the 300’s available interior trims, and ours was La Jolla (the California beach town) in Indigo and Linen (very dark blue and off-white). A more sensational interior treatment I have not seen on anything short of five times the price; even the steering wheel is two-tone leather. Aside from the look, the feel is one of space and comfort, and lots of both. The seats are wide and comfortable, although one shouldn’t expect a high level of lateral support on the freeway on-ramp Grand Prix. There is lots of shoulder and leg room, both front and rear, and the two people in the rear will not much miss not being up front. The tester had pretty much all the options, including big harman/kardon audio and Uconnect connectivity/infotainment. The 300C is the quintessential big sedan for those who value longdistance comfort, effortless but not excessive power, and a big helping of American style and prestige. Yes, there are other full-size V8 sedans available, even a couple of American ones, but most wear foreign badges and cost upwards of $100K. For half that amount, you they were called family sedans and were the most common cars on can have what has come to be called “the American Bentley” - the North American roads. One of the most imposing was the Chrysler 300C. We call it a throwback to another age, a time when size and comfort were their own rewards. 300 sedan with a 440 V8. Much has changed in the auto landscape since then, of course, but you can still buy a really big, fast and roomy sedan, and one of them is still called the Chrysler 300. In this case, to be exact, the 300C Platinum, the top-of-the-line model. To look at the 2015 300, you will quickly see that the basic design concept is little changed from the 2005 original. It is just more refined, and the grille and wheels are larger. Nor are the powertrains much different than what has come to be expected. Yes, you can get the perfectly adequate 3.6-litre Pentastar V6 (the only way now to also 26 RPM Aug / Sept 2015

SPECIFICATIONS Vehicle type: . ....................................... Full-size, front-engine, four-door sedan MSRP (300C Platinum RWD): .............................................................. $43,595 Price as tested: . ................................................................................... $49,430 Engine: ..........................................................................................5.7L OHV V8 Transmission: . ..............................................................................8-speed auto Power: . .............................................................................363 hp @ 5,200 rpm Torque: . ......................................................................... 394 lb-ft @ 4,200 rpm Brakes: .......................................................................... 4 ventilated discs, ABS Curb Weight: .......................................................................1,962 kg (4,326 lb) Fuel Consumption rating (L/100 km, city/hwy): .................................14.8 / 9.3

SIZES

'3%

17 X 8 18 X 8 19 X 8.5 20 X 8.5

â&#x20AC;¢ MANUFACTURED IN DIRECT BOLT APPLICATIONS

1&3'03."/$& 8)&&-

â&#x20AC;¢ ALL POPULAR APPLICATIONS AND OFFSETS AVAILABLE

ATTENTION GRABBING PERFORMANCE WHEELS

â&#x20AC;¢ OPTIONAL COLORS ARE AVAILABLE

WE RECOMMEND ZENNA BRAND ULTRA HIGH PERFORMANCE TIRES

8IPMFTBMF *ORVJSJFT 0OMZ

EXPERT DESIGN AND MANUFACTURING

+VOF_ )4

LIFETIME STRUCTURAL WARRANTY

â&#x20AC;¢ AVAILABLE IN GUNMETAL

My range-topping Highline trim tester was equipped with lots of creature comforts, like a huge panoramic sunroof, ambient LED lighting and dual-zone climate control Then there’s the leather-covered sport seats, with 12-way power adjustability for the driver, that I can’t praise enough. On my 11-hour trek to Alberta, I often drove for three-to-four hour stretches at a time. Never once did any part of my body cramp up, and I think a lot of that has to do with the wonderful lumbar support offered. As with other cars in the lineup, the navigation system is intuitive and fairly quick, big assets when finding one’s way in a different city. Nowadays, we all need to charge our mobile devices, and I was shocked that my Sportwagon didn’t have USB ports. It’s coming in 2016 models, when the company launches a new infotainment platform, but that provided little solace during my trip. There is a proprietary cable for Apple devices, but the way it’s designed, if you have a case on your phone (who doesn’t?), you may have to remove it before you can plug in.

Practical Wagon

On the road, the cabin is whisper quiet. There is the faintest lumpy engine sound characteristic of diesels, but highway noise is kept to a minimum. At 903 millimetres, the rear legroom isn’t as spacious as you would guess

The 2015 Volkswagen Sportwagon Story and photos by Benjamin Yong

first saw the Volkswagen Golf SportWagen — It’s spelled Sportwagon here in Canada, FYI — at the L.A. International Auto Show last year, and knew it was going to be something special. Whereas “station wagon” is considered a taboo term down south, in the Great White North we don’t seem to mind a practical vehicle that allows us to function in adult mode without having to transition to an SUV or minivan.

given the form factor, but there’s oodles of cargo space in the back: 861 litres with the rear seats up, and 1,883 with seats folded. The last time I drove to CowTown, I took a previous-gen MazdaSpeed3. While the drive was fun, I remember stopping multiple times to fill up, and sweating bullets when the “No gas for 100 kilometres” sign appeared on the side of the highway, somewhere around the halfway point between the two provinces. With the turbodiesel, I had no such worries whatsoever. I almost made it all the way to my destination without refueling, the car yielding something like 800 km on a single tank.

Offered in both a gasoline TSI 1.8-litre with 170 horsepower, and a TDI diesel 2.0-litre with 150 hp, I gleefully was able to test the latter on a 970-kilometre drive from Vancouver to Calgary. The magic number for the diesel variant is 236 — that’s how many pound-feet of torque is available at a lowly 1,750 rpm, which means available power almost immediately when you need it. First, let’s talk about how it looks. If you like the standard Golf/GTI shape, then by extension you should love the wagon. It’s really just a stretched out version; basically imagine an elongated hatchback, with some slightly different bumpers, taillights, liftgate and a set of roof rails. 28 RPM Aug / Sept 2015

If growing up means having a station wagon as daily driver, than maybe it’s not so bad after all. Gasoline models start at $22,495, TDI at $24,995.

SPECIFICATIONS Base price (MSRP): .............................................................................. $30,495 Type: ...................................................................... 5-door, 5-passenger wagon Layout: ..................................................................................front engine, FWD Engine: ............................................................................2.0L TDI four-cylinder Transmission: . ............................................................................. 6-speed DSG Power: . .............................................................................150 hp @ 3,500 rpm Torque: . ......................................................................... 236 lb-ft @ 1,750 rpm Curb weight: . ...................................................................................... 1,460 kg Brakes: .........................................................................front/rear disc with ABS Fuel Consumption (L/100km, city/hwy combined): .................. 5.6 L (observed)

1997 F1 World Champion Jacques Villeneuve and the General Manager of Porsche Centre Langley Aly Jiwani.

Villeneuve and his partners recognized that there are a lot of “petrol-heads” in the region who do not get the opportunity to really drive their high-performance automobiles in the manner they are intended to be used, so a facility like the 4.9-kilometre track they are building will provide them with a way to experience their cars in a safe environment. When it came to designing the layout of the track, Drossos approached Villeneuve with some initial ideas, and the Osoyoos Band came forward with a number of potential sites. “For the most part, we had to go with what was available, but we were looking for a relatively hilly terrain. What we eventually decided upon proved much hillier than what we initially planned for, but it is good terrain to work with, as we don’t have to touch the land too much, a factor that greatly reduces construction costs and makes sense from an environmental standpoint.”

One-on-One Area 27 track designer Jacques Villeneuve

Villeneuve’s main goal was to design a track that he would have fun driving on. “To get enjoyment, I need the track to be both interesting and challenging,” proclaimed the 1997 Formula 1 World Champion. “I wanted to design a track that helps communicate to the driver the reason why they got into racing in the first place, so there has to be both a fun factor and a risk factor to it.”

As a top-level racing driver, Mr. Villeneuve has driven on many of the greatest circuits the world has to offer, but he was careful not to try and just copy corners and features from these other facilities. “I didn’t try to replicate any features from other tracks, as the reality Story and photo by Russell Purcell, is that a corner is only as good as what comes before and after it. additional photos courtesy of Area27.ca There has to be a natural flow to a track, and the driver needs to ith shovels ready to hit the ground to kick off construction of establish a rhythm to be able to drive it quickly.” the much anticipated Area 27 track in sunny Osoyoos, B.C., Canadian racing legend Jacques Villeneuve took the opportunity to The accomplished driver relied heavily on his racing experience visit Vancouver to help his partners in the enterprise kick off a rally when planning the design of the track. “It is always good to have event to promote the ambitious project during a cocktail party at the a very high-speed corner that is taken almost flat-out, followed by an area where heavy braking is required, so that you can surprise Open Road Auto Group’s Porsche Centre Langley. another competitor and execute a pass. I think that we have achieved Jacques became involved in the Area 27 project when his friend Bill a nice balance with our layout.” Drossos came up with the idea of creating a new private track facility in the sun-drenched Okanagan region of British Columbia. A scenic “If you make a track overly safe, the driver won’t experience an 200-acre parcel was located near Osoyoos, and with the help and adrenalin rush. You always need to have an element of risk in the participation of the Osoyoos Indian Band, a plan was quickly put sense that you will pay a price for your mistake, but I wanted to into place for a multi-purpose recreational facility focused around make sure that it was a very small price at this track.” high-performance automobiles. Area 27 Track Layout. “Bill and I have been friends since I was 16 years-old,” said Villeneuve, now 42. “I met him when we both attended the Spenard-David Racing School at Shannonville, Ontario, where we were both acting as mechanics at the time.”

“He approached me with the idea of the track a few years ago, and I loved it, as I have always enjoyed designing tracks just for fun on paper. I had already designed a go-kart track in Quebec, but recognized that it would be interesting to design a real dedicated racing track.” Now residing in Europe, Villeneuve didn’t get involved in the process of acquiring the land or getting the necessary approvals needed to construct such a facility, but he was excited by the location of the property selected due to its scenic natural beauty, proximity to the large markets like Calgary and Vancouver, and favourable climate. 30 RPM Aug / Sept 2015

Area 27 members will need to take an advanced driving course before hitting the new track. “Just because you have a fast car and access to a racetrack doesn’t mean that you know what you are doing. It is still possible to get seriously hurt even at a track that has been designed to the highest standards. The truth of the matter is that in order to enjoy the act of driving, you need to really know what you are doing, so our courses will help our members become much better drivers.” The numbers 12 and 27 have long been associated with the Villeneuve name when it comes to competition, as both Jacques and his late father Gilles sported these numbers on racing cars at the height of their respective careers, but Jacques was quick to point out during Future track location.

our interview that he had never been involved with number selection during his career or in naming the new circuit in Osoyoos. “The team and sponsors chose those numbers for me during my time in Indy Car, largely for the image it would bring and the historical connection to my father. I didn’t like it, but it did have a positive effect when it came to marketing as it will, I suspect, for this project as well.” “People tend to remember my father as driving the number 27 Ferrari, but that is the number he died with. When he won his first race and was fighting for the championship, he was driving number 12. For that reason I think the number 12 is a much better number.” Villeneuve won the 1995 Indy 500 and the CART championship in the number 27 Player’s machine, so he is not surprised that the number 27 has emerged again as part of the new track’s name. While this is largely for the same marketing reasons as before, the Area 27 name was also selected due to the fact that it correlates nicely with the name for the secret U.S. military base known as Area 51. “The Area 27 name is a play with words and numbers that is easy to remember, but it also makes it easy for us to develop and name other tracks if we choose to open more facilities in the future.” RPM Aug / Sept 2015 31

others are attending for the first time. Everyone must supply their own vehicle. So why breast cancer? “I have non-direct relatives that have had breast cancer before and I have a few friends that, you know, people in their family have it. I think every one of us have either family or know someone like friends or friend’s parents that are affected by it,” Regina says, adding that there is still a stigma attached to talking about the subject in Chinese circles. So the goal is to raise awareness and make it part of regular dialogue. This year, $21,135 was raised for the foundation, up from $15,500 last year and $10,000 in 2013.

Track Day for Charity

Just because the activities are all for a good cause, doesn’t mean it isn’t fun at the same time. Track Day for Charity has increasingly been drawing an impressive array of owner cars, and this latest event featured a Nissan GTR, three Porsche 911 GT3 RS’s, a BMW M3, M5, M6 and many more in attendance.

Story and photos by Benjamin Yong

n any given city, there are numerous ways people can get involved with grassroots motorsport. But how often is it tied to raising money for a charitable non-automotive cause, like the Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation? Aptly called the Track Day for Charity, the annual event, held at Mission Raceway Park, is in its third year and growing, says founder and For another $50, anyone can climb into the passenger seat while one organizer Regina Chan. of the Morrisport drivers pilots a supercar screaming around the track for a couple of hot laps. The chosen vehicles change each year, with “Last year, we doubled the size of the event in terms of the participants this year’s being a Lamborghini Aventador, a Ferrari California T, a Ford and the sponsors, and this year we doubled the size from last year. So GT40, a Porsche 911 Carrera and Cayman S. I can see the increase of people knowing about the event and wanting to join,” she says. For those who would prefer to spectate, $100 gets you a ticket with For a $500 entry fee — proceeds go towards charity — participants receive a full day of private track time, which includes one-on-one instruction from professional race car drivers that belong to event partner Morrisport Advanced Driving. All amateur drivers learn proper techniques like braking, steering and following the racing line, and no previous experience is required. Some are repeat customers from previous years, while

access to the VIP tent that includes a hot buffet lunch, gift bag and one round of optional hot laps. All participating driver spots were sold out, and Chan says locals really get fired up about taking part. “How often, especially in the Chinese community, can people spend the whole day at the race track at an event like this? So this is something special.” For more information, visit http://www.trackdayforcharity.com. 32 RPM Aug / Sept 2015

Diamond Rally 2015 Story & Photos by Gerry Frechette

he third annual Diamond Rally presented by Luxury & Supercar Weekend was the greatest collection of exotic cars ever seen in Vancouver, and a big success on all levels.

Not only was it a chance for well-heeled driving enthusiasts to exercise their supercars on a run from Vancouver to Whistler on a sunny earlysummer day, it was also an opportunity for each driver to raise funds and awareness for the charity of their choice, which included Canuck Place, Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Hospital and Variety Club. Over 100 cars set out from Brian Jessel BMW with a police escort to Highway 1, heading to a first pit stop at Chances Casino in Squamish, and then on to the Whistler Olympic Plaza, where all the cars were displayed for the public. With cars on hand such as two McLaren P1s (among more than a dozen other McLarens), a Porsche 918, and innumerable Ferraris, Lamborghinis, Mercedes, BMWs and Corvettes, there was no shortage of exotic machines to ogle.

34 RPM Aug / Sept 2015

How do you put a value on the car you’ve always loved? The thrill of driving it the heads you turn the gleam in your kids’ eyes All the barns you searched the hands you shook the money you paid don’t add up to what it’s worth to you

BECAUSE LIFE’S BETTER IN A CLASSIC

Replacing ‘priceless’ isn’t easy, but that’s exactly what Hagerty does, with Agreed Value coverage. Learn more and get a quote at Hagerty.ca. 877.922.4041 | LOCAL BROKER | HAGERTY.CA Hagerty Canada, LLC policies are underwritten by Elite Insurance Company, an Aviva Canada company.

CLASSIC CAR INSURANCE

This type of open design works great for most of the pickup trucks on the road today. However, when a truck with an open differential meets loose gravel, or a wet section of the road, it directs power to the wheel with the least amount of resistance. The result is the wheel on the loose surface spins free, while the other wheel on the better traction surface provides little or no power.

Differentials Explained

Limited Slip differentials are designed to “limit” the tendency of an open diff, and send power to a wheel that lacks traction, by redirecting the power to the other wheel. The Limited Slip differential will send power to both wheels equally when traveling straight, and when one wheel spins due to a lack of traction, the differential will automatically provide torque to the other wheel with traction. Limited Slip differentials limit the loss of torque to a slipping wheel through clutches, gears, and other methods, depending on the unit. It will not provide 100 percent lock-up of the differential in extreme situations such as when a wheel completely loses traction.

Limited Slips are recommended for daily-driven vehicles and are used in many applications where traction is sometimes needed, as in emerStory by Ian Harwood gency vehicles. They are also ideal for front axles of 4x4 vehicles that are not equipped with front hubs that can be disengaged. A locking difften times you are driving down a normal logging road and you ferential or “Locker” uses a mechanism that allows left and right wheels encounter mud on one side of it. You slow down and travel through to “lock” to each other and turn at the same speed regardless of which it, only to find out you are losing traction and the wheel starts to spin. Be- axle has traction or how little traction a slipping wheel has. This means fore you know it, you are stuck on what appears to be a basic road. traction can be sent to a wheel that may be planted firmly on the ground while the other wheel of the axle is completely off the ground. Let me explain why that is. It all comes down to the differential, and I’m not talking about math but the differential on your vehicle’s axle. In this situation, an open differential will spin the free wheel, sending The standard differential, or what is referred to as an open diff, is what absolutely no torque to the wheel in the ground. A limited slip in this comes from the factory with most new trucks. The open diff holds the situation will send some torque to the wheel on the ground but possibly ring gear and a set of gears called spider gears. These spider gears not enough to provide any forward momentum. The popularity of Eare responsible for allowing a vehicle to negotiate a turn and allow the Lockers has increased in the last few years. The lockers are activated outside wheel to travel farther and turn faster than the inside wheel. by a switch inside the vehicle and are used on most modern 4x4s.

36 RPM Aug / Sept 2015

Tale of Two Mustangs Ford Mustang EcoBoost vs. GT

Story and photos by Benjamin Yong

for racing harnesses. The sides have plastic hooks designed to hold onto and give easy access to the seat belt buckles, but I found they he tale of the two Mustangs began a couple of years ago when rarely stay in place, resulting in having to reach cross-body in a very Ford first announced to the world that they would once more be awkward manner to reach the belts. offering a four-cylinder Mustang alongside a V8 GT (and a reworked V6 as well, which we won’t be discussing here). Not just any four banger, My EcoBoost tester’s interior was not quite as well-appointed as the GT Premium I drove. The infotainment consisted of the standard SYNC setup, looking rather dated with its big square buttons and numerical pad, rather than the upgraded SYNC with MyFord Touch that puts almost all commands onscreen, albeit not in the most user-friendly manner. Fortunately, Ford’s highly anticipated and completely redesigned SYNC 3 will be available on 2016 offerings. Unfortunately, it’s

however, but one equipped with their engine-of-the-future EcoBoost technology. What would big power pony enthusiasts think? Well, after a week of testing both back-to-back, it turns out turbocharged efficiency and muscle car don’t have to be mutually exclusive. Whatever the powerplant choice, exterior differences between the two variants are almost nil save for a different rear emblem and wheels/ brakes, and the shape of the new Mustang is jaw-dropping. After seeing the vehicle parked next to a previous model, it’s clear how light years ahead the design is, while retaining reminders of its ancestry such as the elongated hood that’s clearly visible from the front seat, classic not backwards compatible, so if you purchase a MY2015 you are stuck fastback styling and tri-bar rear taillights with sequential signaling. with the antiquated system. Compared to the outgoing ‘Stang, the 2015 version is lower (1,382 millimetres high), has a wider track (1,582 mm/1,648 mm front/rear) and After driving the mighty V8 first, firing up the engine of the EcoBoost was wider rear fenders, yet manages to look more aerodynamic because slightly anticlimactic. The fun doesn’t come until after you start moving. of its chiseled projector headlights, steeply sloping windshield and rear Direct injection, variable cam timing and, of course, the turbo allow the window. The trick front splitter underneath the bumper and hood vents aren’t just for show — vehicle dynamics engineers carefully chose parts SPECIFICATIONS to minimize air under the car to keep everything planted for drivers on Ford Mustang EcoBoost the street or at the track. Overall drag resistance for the new model has Base price (MSRP): .............................................................................. $33,799 improved by three percent, equaling one per cent better fuel efficiency Type: ....................................................................... 2-door, 2-passenger coupe at highway speeds. Layout: ................................................................................. front engine, RWD Ford calls the cabin of the Mustang an “aviation-inspired cockpit” because of the driver-focused ergonomics like large, clear instrumentation with a speedometer humorously labeled “Ground Speed.” Included with the EcoBoost are a pair of cloth reclinable Recaro seats that are supportive without being obnoxiously grabby, and have inserts built in 38 RPM Aug / Sept 2015

Engine: ....................................................................... 2.3L turbocharged 4-cyl. Transmission: . ......................................................................... 6-speed manual Power: . .............................................................................310 hp @ 5,500 rpm Torque: . ......................................................................... 320 lb-ft @ 3,000 rpm Curb weight: . ...................................................................................... 1,602 kg Brakes: .........................................................................front/rear disc with ABS Fuel Consumption (L/100km, city/hwy combined): ................ 12.2 L (observed)

Mail in rebate. Offer valid from Sept 1 - Oct 31 2015. See website for details.

NEW M/T METAL SERIES WHEELS & DEEGAN 38 WHEELS AVAILABLE!

BAJA STZ

CLASSIC III™

BAJA ATZ

MM-245

CLASSIC III™ BLACK

BAJA MTZ

MM-366

SIDEBITER® II

BAJA MTZ

DEEGAN 38 PRO 2

BAJA CLAW TTC

For a dealer near you, 866-943-7178 • MickeyThompsonTires.com

MM-489

DEEGAN 38 PRO 4

NEW

CLASSIC BAJA LOCK™

MM-164M

NEW

MM-164B

DEEGAN 38

But that’s not the purpose of the EcoBoost — it’s meant to draw a fresh demographic to the brand. Perhaps people who are in their late 20s or early 30s who want an affordable sports car that looks and drives good and is easy on the wallet. Well, people like me. While the GT provided an undeniably raucous good time, I could see the combined 17.7 L/100 km city and highway fuel economy becoming an issue over time. Personally, I’d take a 110 horsepower loss and 12.2 L/100 km

“little” four cylinder to put out 310 horsepower and 320 lb-ft of torque. Step on the gas and the whine of the turbine breaks the silence while you’re propelled forward following a hint of turbo lag. Acceleration is quick, although the high end of each gear fizzles out a little, prompting numbers any day of the week. And it shows — recent reports indicate you to select the next one if there’s enough road. boosted Mustangs are flying off dealer lots. The suspension consists of double ball-joint MacPherson struts up front, allowing the use of larger brakes. My press vehicle came with If nothing else, the rebirth of one of Ford’s most iconic badges proves the EcoBoost Performance Package featuring uprated brake rotors that there’s clearly room in today’s marketplace for more than one with four-piston front calipers. The rear uses independent suspension breed of pony. with aluminum components to save weight and improve comfort and SPECIFICATIONS handling. The ride is stiff without being overbearing, and handling is sharp for the car’s size. At 1,602 kilograms, the EcoBoost is nearly Ford Mustang GT Premium 80 kg lighter than the GT (1,681 kg), and you feel the lightness in the Base price (MSRP): .............................................................................. $42,499 corners. I had a passenger with me who still believes domestics can Type: ....................................................................... 2-door, 2-passenger coupe Layout: ................................................................................. front engine, RWD only travel in a straight line, and even he was impressed with the way Engine: ..................................................................................................5.0L V8 this Mustang moves. We’ve covered the V8 in a previous issue, and I will just say this: if you are a traditional big-power muscle car purist, nothing can replace the 435 hp or 400 lb-ft of torque pouring forth from the 5.0 litre. How does the saying go, there’s no replacement for displacement?

40 RPM Aug / Sept 2015

Transmission: . ......................................................................... 6-speed manual Power: . .............................................................................435 hp @ 6,500 rpm Torque: . ......................................................................... 400 lb-ft @ 4,250 rpm Curb weight: . ...................................................................................... 1,681 kg Brakes: .........................................................................front/rear disc with ABS Fuel Consumption (L/100km, city/hwy combined): ................ 17.7 L (observed)

#SEMA2015

SEE NEW PRODUCTS • EXPLORE NEW TECHNOLOGIES • EXPERIENCE NEW TRENDS • MEET MANUFACTURERS

NOVEMBER 3–6, 2015 LAS VEGAS CONVENTION CENTER LAS VEGAS, NV

Motors had built a factory in West Bengal near Calcutta (now Kolkata) to produce the Landmark. Despite the car being etched in British style, it was immediately embraced by India due to its size, and the comfortable ride experienced by its passengers. The Ambassador, affectionately known as the “Amby” in India, replaced the Landmark and was the first car to be built in India. During its 57-year production run, it was considered a status symbol and was used widely by politicians and government officials. It only began losing its dominance and foothold when Maruti-Suzuki introduced a low priced hatchback in the mid-80s. The Ambassador was fitted with the well-known 1,489 cc, 55-horsepower, BMC B-series engine, and later was the first car in India to be fitted with a diesel engine (37 hp, B-series). In 1992 it was available with a 1.8 litre Isuzu Engine.

King of the Indian Roads The Hindustan began life in England in 1942

A trip to India would not be complete without the experience of riding in a Hindustan Taxi, and today there is no shortage of those. Bombay (Mumbai) has 55,000, Calcutta 35,000. For comparison’s sake, London has 22,000 black cabs and New York 40,000 vehicles for hire. Over time, these familiar yellow taxis will disappear from Indian streets and be taken out of service, as new legislation states that any vehicle 20 years old or older can no longer be used as a taxi. My recent ride in Calcutta brought back fond memories of being delivered to prep school in a Morris Oxford Series III during the early ’60s.

Story and photos by Nigel Matthews

he company was founded by industrialist Mr. B.M. Birla, a man with a vision which grew into the people’s car and dominated sales in India until the mid-1980s. The first model offered was a knockdown (or re-assembled) Morris 10, rebadged as a Hindustan 10. That was followed by the Model 14.

Other than the indestructible cloth interior and the newer plastic dash and thick steering wheel, it was just as I remembered.

Nigel Matthews is the global director of client services for Hagerty Insurance Agency, LLC — Hagerty is the world’s largest specialist provider of collector car insurance and provides many resources that support the classic car lifestyle. Contact him at nmatthews@hagerty. com or visit hagerty.ca

The next body style change resulted in the Landmark, a knockdown A Morris Oxford fitted with a 1,478 cc, side-valve engine that had been used in the Hindustan 14. The uni-body constructed Morris Oxford was launched in July of 1955, named by William R. Morris after the University City of dreaming spires. The tooling for production of the Morris Oxford family sedan, used by the British middle class, was sent in the mid-50s to India, where Hindustan 42 RPM Aug / Sept 2015

NEW PRODUCT SHOWCASE Hellwig Releases 2015 Ford Mustang Sway Bars

K&N AirCharger Air Intake System for 2015 Ford Mustang GT

Hellwig has just released front and rear tubular sway bars for the 2015 Ford Mustang which are made from 1-3/8” 1026 DOM to minimizes the added weight while still increasing the performance. The sway bar will increase the vehicle’s roll rate to improve handling and traction while decreasing body roll, and is made to work on both track cars and daily drivers. They feature a forged 3-hole adjustment allowing it to be tuned to your specific driving style. The new sway bar will replace the existing sway bar installing in the same location and only requires basic hand tools for installation.

The K&N AirCharger air intake system replaces the factory air filter and air intake on the new 2015 Ford Mustang GT and will dramatically reduce air intake restriction as well as smooth and straighten air flow. This results in your engine inhaling a larger amount of air which in turn means more usable power and acceleration throughout the engine’s RPM range, and an improved throttle response and engine sound. The air intake comes with a high-flow air filter and a heat shield that installs directly into the original air box space.

For more information please go to www.hellwigproducts.com

For more information please go to www.knfilters.ca

ADVAN Neova AD08R Performance Tire from Yokohama The ADVAN Neova AD08R performance tire is Yokohama’s fastest tire yet and is designed to deliver a sharp steering response with maximum cornering capability on dry and wet surfaces. The tires are infused with an all-new race-inspired compound and offers improved grip and a faster ride for drivers who like to push the limit. Additionally, Yokohama’s Orange Oil Technology maximizes performance while minimizing environmental impact by replacing some of the petroleum oil traditionally used in tires with oils harvested from orange trees. For more information please go to www.yokohamatire.ca

Parts For Any Mopar

Everything you need... Anywhere you need it!

VarsityChrysler.com RPM Aug / Sept 2015 43

NEW PRODUCT SHOWCASE DLS New Ultimate UPi6 6.5-inch 2-Way Speaker Kit

Supremacy Clutch Systems by McLeod Racing

DLS Audio’s new Ultimate Series UPi6 6.5-inch 2-way component kit comes with a separate 28mm tweeter with copper rings for improved sound. They feature an aluminum cone and are part of the Ultimate Hi-End Series, while boasting a powerful neodymium magnet system and two-inch voice coil. They come with filter boxes with selectable tweeter levels in two steps and feature a frequency range of 50-25,000 Hz and an impedance of 4 ohms.

McLeod Racing is proud to bring its world-famous quality to sport compact vehicle owners with its new line of Supremacy Clutch Systems. The new systems are available in different levels to meet the different power holding needs and driving styles of sport compact owners. The most moderate system is the Street Tuner level, followed by Street Power, both of which feature highquality matched pressure plates. Next up is the Street Elite system that boasts high clamp-load pressure plates and are made for vehicles with more moderate bolt-ons than the entry Street Tuner level. At the top of the line is the Drag Mag level that is made for high-horsepower and high-RPM sport compact applications.

For more information please go to www.dlsaudio.us

For more information please go to www.mcleodracing.com

EXCEEDS FACTORY SPECS • ESTER-BASED FULL SYNTHETIC • 1200 PPM OF ZINC

• LONGER DRAIN INTERVALS • LOWER OIL TEMPS

800.624.7958 | REDLINEOIL.COM 44 RPM Aug / Sept 2015

Flowmasterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s American Thunder Axle-back Exhaust System for the 2015 Mustang EcoBoost or V6

The American Thunder Axle-back exhaust system for the 2015 Ford Mustang from Flowmaster is a perfect option for someone looking for a moderately aggressive sound level outside of the car while maintaining a mild sound level inside the car. This bolt-on system for the 2.3L EcoBoost or 3.7L V6 engines features 3inch inlet pipes that flow into a pair of Super 10 series mufflers for maximum performance. Built out of 409S stainless steel and utilizing 4-inch polished stainless steel Flowmaster embossed tips, the system is designed for an easy fit and includes all necessary parts and hardware for installation. For more information please go to www.flowmastermufflers.com

New Centerforce Hydraulic Release Bearing for Mustang V6 and V8

HOOD PROTECTORS & SIDEWIND DEFLECTORS Easy Installation / Maximum Protection / Available in Smoke or Chrome

DESIGNED / ENGINEERED

2FIT At Stampede, form meets function. We create products that are not only more aerodynamic, but provide an integrated style that compliments your vehicle. And keep in mind, our products FIT LIKE A GLOVE.

The new Hydraulic Release Bearing from Centerforce provides smooth, consistent pedal effort for a superior clutch operation. Available for 2005-2010 Ford Mustang V6 and V8 models as well as the 2006-2008 5.4L Supercharged Shelby GT500, the bearings feature a direct bolt-in fit and require no additional adjustments for installation. They are best used when paired with a Centerforce Clutch that features the patented centrifugal weight system for a total performance clutch package, but can also be used with stock clutches or other aftermarket options.

800.858.5634

StampedeAutomotiveAccessories.com

For more information please go to www.centerforce.com RPM Aug / Sept 2015 45

Guess they couldn’t squeeze into that spot after all.

Trunks and trucks are overated! Looks like someone got cut-off.

Honestly, he may be better than some of the drivers that are on the road. How is it possible that you wouldn’t see a jet in your way?

We’re not sure how... or why.

Parting Shots is where we share those photos that defy classification. If you’ve seen something four-wheeled (or otherwise) that you would like to share, please send it to partingshots@rpmcanada.ca 46 RPM Aug / Sept 2015

AVAILABLE IN: 1500K GREEN

3000K YELLOW

4300K OE

6000K WHITE

8000K SLIGHT BLUE

12000K 25000K 35000K 40000K MORE BLUE

DEEP BLUE

PURPLE

PINK

MATCH YOUR XENON HIDS WITH OUR LED PRODUCTS FOR A COMPLETE LOOK!

SALES@LUMENSHID.COM 1�888�822�6120 / DEALER INQUIRIES WELCOME