RPM February/March 2014

QUALI T SINCE Y

1972

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Contents

Bigger is Better i3

We test the all electric BMW i3 in downtown L.A. ...pg 24

Q50

The 2014 Porsche Panamera Turbo Executive ...pg 12

CES 2014

Our coverage of the 2014 Consumer Electronics Show ...pg 36

GTO

We take the redesigned Infiniti Q50 out for a test ...pg 27

ALSO INSIDE

Starting Lines-------------------------------------- 4 Road Test: Scion tC------------------------------16 Road Test: Lincoln MKZ Hybrid-----------------18 Road Test: Volvo S60 T6 AWD------------------20 RPM Test Fleet------------------------------------32

Car Collection

A look into part of Corrado Lopresto’s amazing car collection ...pg 46

Detroit

Ron Allegretto owns all three different body styles of the 1965 GTO ... pg 42

The best of the North American International Auto Show ...pg 28

The Truck Guy------------------------------------- 34 Classic Corner------------------------------------- 50 New Product Showcase-------------------------51 Parting Shots-------------------------------------54

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Volume 16, Issue No. 1 February/March 2014

Starting Lines: Ford Officially Unveils Next Gen 2015 Mustang

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

RPM IS AVAILABLE AT THE FOLLOWING:

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fter much speculation, Ford has officially unveiled the next gen 2015 Mustang that will mark 50 years of Mustang production. As expected, the 2015 iteration of the Mustang takes many key elements from the previous five generations but is considered an all-new shape that adds a lower, wider stance with a reduction in roof height and a new contemporary looking signature shark bite front fascia. In addition to that, 2015 will see the return of the fastback Mustang due to the sleeker profile of the car with a more steeply sloped windshield and rear glass. The car will continue to offer the 5.0L V8 that makes an improved 420 horsepower and 390 lb-ft of torque, and the 3.7L V6, but will add a 2.3L EcoBoost four-cylinder option into the mix. The EcoBoost engine’s power output is projected to be more than 305 horsepower while providing outstanding fuel economy that will challenge for class leading numbers.

Audi Shows Latest Concept at CES Audi is once again unveiling a Quattro concept car as it first did in 2010 and again late last year with the Sport Quattro concept. This time it’s called the Sport Quattro Laserlight concept and the only real difference would be the addition of revolutionary laser headlights that are said to blow all previous systems out of the water. Laser diodes are much smaller than LED diodes and provide twice the range and three times the luminosity of LED high beams. The car itself has a sporty,

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Time Delay Actual Position

Virtual Position

Volkswagen Jetta GLI Edition 30

aggressive look thanks to its wide, low stance, and the plug-in hybrid drive allows the car to put out 700 horsepower and 590 lb-ft of torque while maintaining incredible fuel consumption numbers of 2.5L/100 km. It is able to achieve this by combining a 4.0L V8 bi-turbo combustion engine with a disc-shaped electric motor that significantly bumps the power numbers up.

VW to Celebrate 30 Years of Jetta GLI Sports Sedan with Special Edition In 1984, Volkswagen introduced the first Jetta GLI to the North American market and while it was essentially a Jetta version of the GTI hatchback it immediately began to garner its own fan base.

Now to mark the 30th anniversary of that first GLI, Volkswagen will offer only a special edition of the GLI for the remainder of the 2014 model year called Edition 30. The car, which goes on sale early this year, holds true to the original GLI formula that

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included a peppy four-cylinder engine, a close-ratio gearbox and sport-tuned suspension, all of which have predictably improved over the years with modern technology. Now, instead of the 1.8L engine that pushed out 90 horsepower in the first 1984 Jetta GLI, you now get a 2.0L TSI engine that makes 201 horsepower paired with your choice of a close-ratio six-speed manual transmission or DSG dual-clutch automatic transmission. The special edition sport sedan will only be available in two trims; Edition 30 and Edition 30 with Navigation.

Former F1 World Champion Michael Schumacher has Near Fatal Ski Accident Former seven-time Formula One (F1) World Champion Michael Schumacher is in a medically induced coma in a French clinic after suffering a near fatal skiing accident in the French Alps on December 29th, 2013. Although he was wearing a ski helmet, Mi-

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Chevrolet Corvette Stingray

non-German travelers use the Autobahn as a way to get around, which leaves Germany with the bill as foreign residents obviously don’t pay the taxes to keep it up. The suggested toll would see it apply only to non-Germans using the highways, while German residents would be exempt. This has upset people in and outside of Germany, especially in neighbouring Austria, which sees an estimated 1.8 million motorists use the Autobahn regularly. There is no word on the exact logistics of the toll, but it is something the Germans will definitely give some consideration to.

chael suffered a serious head injury when he fell and hit his head on a rock. He was immediately airlifted to a French hospital that specializes in the treatment of brain injuries. Schumacher was put into a medically induced coma a day after the incident and has undergone urgent neurosurgery to relieve pressure on his brain after a scan showed he had suffered a cerebral contusion. In the following days, his condition improved slightly but his doctors noted Chevrolet Corvette Named he was not yet out of danger. At the time of writing, it has been North American Car of the Year reported that Schumacher’s condition was critical but stable.

The all-new Chevrolet Corvette Stingray was recently named the 2014 North American Car of the Year. It’s the first Car of the Year Germany to Possibly Put Toll on win for the Corvette since 1998. The award is considered to be Autobahn for Non-Citizens especially prestigious because unlike some other car or truck of Germany is considering placing a toll on one of the first and most the year awards given out by a single media outlet, this award is well-known networks of highways, the Autobahn. Due to Germany decided on by a jury of 49 automotive journalists from the United having 3,750 km of border with nine different countries, many States and Canada who represent all types of media outlets from

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print media to television, websites, and radio. To be eligible for this award, the vehicle must be completely new or substantially changed, and change the Corvette did. The standard Stingray model gets an impressive 455 horsepower and 460 lb-ft of torque from the 6.2L V8 engine.

Open Automotive Alliance Aims to bring Android Platform to Cars Car manufacturers Audi, General Motors, Hyundai and Honda have teamed up with Google and chipmaker NVIDIA to form the Open Automotive Alliance whose goal is to bring the Android platform to vehicles starting in 2014. The purpose of forming the OAA is to categories. The Mazda3 took the prize for Best New Small Car under $21,000, the Mazda3 Sport won Best New Small Car over $21,000 and the Mazda 6 received the honour for being the Best New Family Car over $30,000. All three categories were loaded with worthy adversaries but they all fell short as Mazda won all three categories it had entered. Other notable winners were the Infiniti Q50 Hybrid taking home the Best New Luxury Car over $50,000 award, the Mercedes-Benz S Class winning Best New Prestige Car and the all-new Chevrolet Corvette Stingray winning Best New Sports/Performance Car over $50,000. All category winners will have a chance to win the overall Canadian Car of the accelerate auto innovation into a common platform that will make Year which will be announced on February 13th at the Canadian the car safer and more intuitive for everyone. The goal is to offer International Auto Show in Toronto. a platform that offers openness, customization and scale which are key components of what make Android a part of millions of Mitsubishi Canada Sets people’s lives daily. This news comes as a bit of a surprise as All-Time Sales Record in 2013 Honda, GM and Hyundai are all partners in Apple’s Siri Eyes 2013 has proven to be a good year for Mitsubishi as it has enjoyed Free program that is trying to bring the interactive Siri platform its best ever sales year, selling a total of 21,104 vehicles which is up 7.3% from 2012’s 19,671. The sales leader was the RVR into vehicles as well. compact crossover which sold 7,653 units followed by the Lancer compact sedans which saw 7,404 vehicles bought. 2013 was a big Mazda takes Home Three Canadian year in other ways as well for Mitsubishi, as it released the all-new Car of the Year Category Awards The AJAC (Automobile Journalists Association of Canada) Cana- 2014 Mirage subcompact hatchback as well as the completely dian Car of the Year category winners were announced recently redesigned 2014 Outlander compact sport utility. Rounding out and the results saw Mazda take home awards in three different Mitsubishi’s lineup is the all electric i-MiEV and the now discon-

Mitsubishi Mirage 10 RPM Feb / Mar 2014

tinued Eclipse. Mitsubishi hopes to continue to grow its sales numbers and look to do so with a wide array of reliable vehicles paired with an industry-best warranty.

Chevrolet Introduces Industry-First Performance Data Recorder Chevrolet has announced at the Consumer Electronics Show that it will make a Performance Data Recorder available for the 2015 Corvette Stingray, which will allow users to record high definition video with telemetry overlays of their driving on and off the track.

This will be the first PDR (Performance Data Recorder) available from the factory and was developed with Cosworth, a British motorsports engineering company. The system will include three major components that are all easily integrated into the Corvette’s interior. A 720p high-def camera is mounted in the windshield header trim, and audio is

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recorded through a dedicated microphone in the cabin. Second is a self-contained telemetry recorder which uses a GPS receiver that operates five-times faster than the in-dash navigation system, which can also access vital vehicle information such as engine speed and transmission gear selection. Finally, the third component is an SD card slot that allows you to transfer video and vehicle data on an SD memory card.

2015 Ferrari California May be First Production Turbocharged Car Since 1992 A report from Motor Trend suggests that Ferrari will update its California model for the 2015 model year, which would include giving it Ferrari’s first turbocharged engine since the 1992 F40. The engine is said to be based on Maserati’s 3.8L twin-turbo V8 but will have all Ferrari components. Maserati’s version already produces 523 horsepower and 479 lb-ft of torque which is already a bump up from the current California’s 483 hp and 372 lb-ft. The same MT report says that the new California is expected to receive some new body panels which could improve the styling, and could also get an updated cabin with an all-new infotainment system.

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Big on Style, Performance and Luxury

2014 Porsche Panamera Turbo Executive Story and photos by Russell Purcell

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orsche’s Panamera line-up has expanded once again to include a pair of long-wheelbase models designed to cater to those buyers looking to maximize comfort and perhaps, as the name applies, use these rolling masterpieces as mobile offices.

There are three separate versions of the Executive model. In order of performance potency from quick to ultra quick, the three variants are based on the Panamera 4S, the Panamera Turbo, or the pinnacle, the Panamera Turbo S. This means that the cars come outfitted with most of the company’s technological and luxury equipment as standard fare, as well as the means to outperform most sports cars in the handling and performance department.

The car has been lengthened by 15 centimetres (six inches), but visually it appears to be much more, as the rear windows look enormous, as does the stretched roofline. All of this new real estate has been incorporated into the rear passenger compartment, which is spacious enough to make the two passengers feel like they are riding in a limousine. Legroom is expansive and my size 13 feet were pleasantly surprised by the extra wiggle room offered in the footwell.

The Panamera Turbo Executive features a potent 4.8-litre, twinturbocharged V8 under its long hood. Porsche’s automobiles are designed for performance, so it should come as no surprise that this engine puts out a healthy 520 horsepower and 512 lb-ft of torque. For those consumers looking to outfit the car to its true potential, it can be ordered fitted with the Sport Chrono Package for an extra $2,910, which boosts torque levels to a stump-pulling 568 lb-ft! This is more than enough power to motivate this 2,070-kilogram cruise ship from 0-100 km/h in a mere four seconds!

The Panamera Turbo Executive utilizes Porsche’s phenomenal seven-speed Porsche Doppelkupplung (PDK) transmission. This marvel of engineering is capable of executing gear changes faster than just about any transmission in the world, and has been optimized to allow the driver to extract the most from the engine’s wide power band.

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road-holding magic can be attributed to Porsche’s Active Suspension Management (PASM) system. When equipped with the optional Adaptive Air Suspension with Porsche Dynamic Chassis Control (PDCC), the enthusiastic driver is able to finely tune the suspension and sway bars to best suit his/her driving conditions and sporting intentions.

When it comes time to rein in the fun, the Executive’s big, beefy brakes react so quickly that they catch you off guard at first. Pedal response is positive and confidence inspiring, and these big binders seem to resist fading.

The Panamera Turbo Executive is equipped with a high-performance all-wheel drive system. Power delivery to all four wheels is a treat, whether exploring the car’s handling limits at the track, or carving your way through fresh snow over a slippery road surface.

This proven platform features a clever torque vectoring system (designed to direct power to the wheel appropriate for trajectory and traction) and an elecAcceleration is impressive, as the twin turbochargers spool up almost tronically locking rear differential. instantaneously and the transmission rockets up through the gears, striving to keep the rumbling V8 engine operating within its very wide Like all Panamera models, the Turbo Executive provides very luxusweet spot. A healthy dose of torque is readily available whenever rious seating for four adults, and all seating positions have been the need arises, so the execution of passing manoeuvres and the designed for spirited driving as well as comfort. The two rear seats occasional on-ramp grand prix become stress-free operations. The feature a bucket design similar to those up front, which helps give Panamera Turbo Executive may appear heavy and awkward, but it the passenger cabin a very unique and exclusive look. sure moves like a sports car.

Rear seats are heated and cooled for passenger comfort, and inSurprisingly, for such a long car, the Turbo Executive is nimble dependent climate controls give the passenger control over their through tight curves. The car maintains a precise line and always individual environment. Power operated privacy screens offer shade tracks straight and true, exhibiting only a hint of body roll. Much of this from prying eyes and harmful solar rays.

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The modern interior design layout first featured in the Panamera has now been incorporated into lesser Porsche models, so I found myself immediately at home when behind the wheel. The wide centre console has a wide array of controls and buttons, but you will be amazed at how quickly their placement and various functions become intuitive to use. The car’s shifter features a comfy grip, and manual shifting can be executed via the side shift gate or by using the paddle controls.

Audiophiles will appreciate the Bose-engineered surround-sound audio system which features 14 speakers and 585 watts of clean power. The Porsche Communication Management system includes the company’s latest navigation system, and incorporates a seveninch colour touch screen which worked very well. The centre armrest function. When operating the car in Sport (or Sport Plus) mode the features a 12-volt power port as well as an auxiliary input and a USB engine mapping and gearbox become optimized for high-performance rather than fuel efficiency. port for connecting portable electronic devices.

Despite the fact the Panamera Turbo Executive offers limousine-like comfort in the rear passenger cabin, I sense that most people would rather be behind the wheel. Designed with a true cockpit layout, drivers will notice that all the gauges, and the majority of the controls, are within easy reach of both hand and eye.

Porsche’s three-mode, adaptive air suspension is on board as standard equipment. This quick-acting system gives the driver the ability to raise the car at the touch of a button if they find the need to clear snow or shallow road debris, or conversely, to lower the car to allow for more efficient ingress or egress.

My test vehicle came equipped with the aforementioned Sport Chrono Package which places a compact lap timer in a recess atop the centre of the dash. This innovative device allows the driver to customize throttle-mapping, chassis tuning, and stability and traction systems.

It also increases steering response and offers a nifty Launch Control

There is no shortage of cargo room as the rear seatbacks fold forward to extend the size of the cargo area to permit the transport of long and bulky items.

The 2014 Panamera Turbo Executive represents a new level of comfort and luxury for the Porsche brand. As a result, it carries a hefty price tag and an air of exclusivity. But for those individuals fortunate enough to own one, you will be the envy of the block.

SPECIFICATIONS Base Price (MSRP): . .......................................................................... $184,100 Price as tested: . ................................................................................. $204,965 Type: ........................................................... 5-door, 4-passenger luxury sedan.

Layout: ................................................................. Front-engine, all-wheel-drive Engine: ..............................................................4.8-litre twin-turbocharged V-8 Horsepower: . .........................................................................520 @ 6,000 rpm Torque (lb-ft): . ..516 @ 2,250 rpm (boosted to 568 with Sport Chrono Package Transmission: . .............................................................7-Speed PDK automatic Brakes: ............................................................................................... Disc/disc Top speed: . ........................................................................................ 305 km/h Acceleration (0-100 km/h): . ...................................................................... 4.0 s Fuel economy [L/100 km city/hwy]:.......................................................13.8/8.3

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Value Meets Fun The refreshed 2014 Scion tC Story by Jordan Allan, photos courtesy of Scion Canada

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Having driven the previous 2013 edition of the tC less than a year ago, I sort of knew what to expect when I got behind the wheel of the 2014 version: an aggressive looking, fun-to-drive, quick and agile compact sports coupe with a few minor upgrades from last year. I was correct in my assumption but was a bit surprised and pleased to see the lengths Scion took to not only improve the way it looked, but the way it drove as well.

The stabilizer bar has been modified, which, along with increased body rigidity, will greatly help decrease body roll which is instantly recognizable when taking a sharp corner at higher speeds. The six-speed automatic transmission now features the Dynamic Rev Management technology it borrowed from the FR-S, which automatically makes the engine rev higher to match the engine speed of the next lower gear when the driver downshifts in the manual shift mode.

hen Scion teamed with Subaru to release the FR-S/BRZ for the 2012 model year, there was a pre-existing sport compact coupe in Scion’s lineup that maybe got a little bit lost in the shadow of the new model. The tC, which has been around since 2005 in other markets, entered its second generation for the 2011 model year and has been again refreshed for 2014 with the goal being for Scion to remind people that it does have another capable sport compact coupe in its lineup.

Also, a feature that isn’t new to this year but is certainly worth mentioning is the loud, rumbly exhaust note you get from the engine basically every The tC received many exterior upgrades in the 2014 refresh, such as time you accelerate. Some people may put that in the ‘con’ category but new headlamps, a new hood that extends to a more muscular grille, new when you have a vehicle that’s designed to have a sporty feel, a nice LED tail lamps, and a new general look that somewhat resembles the snarly exhaust note is the perfect reminder you’re in such a car and FR-S (if you can’t beat ‘em, join ‘em). The all-glass roof is a nice touch, probably is a plus for the younger demographic Scion is after. as are the 18-inch alloy wheels, and the overall aggressive look of the car should appeal to a younger audience which is exactly the type of So while the FR-S may get majority of the headlines and will quite posmarket Scion is targeting. sibly be the first vehicle that comes to mind whenever Scion is mentioned, the tC has proven that it is certainly not to be forgotten. It has shown it The interior remains relatively unchanged from the previous year, has the capability to be not only a fun car to drive, but also a practical one and is still a pretty basic layout that won’t be blowing you away with a as well, and when you consider it has an MSRP of almost $5,000 less large number of features and options, yet is more than practical in its than the FR-S, it is certainly a viable option when you’re in the market design. The thick-rimmed, flat-bottomed steering wheel helps raise the for a two-door sporty coupe. sportiness quotient, and the 6.1-inch LCD touchscreen infotainment unit is extremely easy to navigate. Another big plus for the interior is the surprising amount of room there is despite being such a small car. My seat didn’t have to be put all the way to the back to allow my 6’4” frame to be able to drive the car, and during my test drive I had a number of people comment on how impressed they were with the legroom and headroom of the back seat.

Under the bonnet, you’ll find the same 2.5L DOHC inline four-cylinder from 2013, although the power numbers have strangely dropped by one horsepower and one lb-ft of torque, bringing the numbers to 179 and 172 respectively. I found the engine provided more than enough power to be considered sporty, with my only criticism being that our test model was fitted with the updated 6-speed automatic transmission instead of the 6-speed manual transmission that I’m sure would have only enhanced my experience.

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Return to Glory 2014 Lincoln MKZ Hybrid Story and photos by Russell Purcell

The subject of this review is the MKZ Hybrid, which is fitted with a 2.0-litre, Atkinson-Cycle inline four-cylinder hybrid engine and an Electronic Continuously Variable Transmission (e-CVT). This ultra-efficient powerplant generates 188 combined horsepower and 129 lb-ft of torque, and is only available in front-wheel drive form.

Lincoln Drive Control is standard, which is an automatic system which intuitively integrates a variety of systems - engine, transmission, steering and chassis- to reduce noise, refine the ride, and improve driving dynamics.

It seems to work, as the car is a precise handler, and overall ride quality was smooth and serene throughout my test period.

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hen I was a young lad, if you drove a Lincoln, you were viewed as I found acceleration to be very linear, as the car surges forward quickly someone who had made it. You might be a captain of industry or a and quietly with surprisingly little noise from the e-CVT. In fact, the MKZ sports hero, or if the car rolled by in stretched limo form, you were obviously Hybrid is one of the quietest cars I have ever driven. a rock star.

The spacious passenger compartment features excellent seating and Unfortunately, the luxurious Lincolns of the past are long gone, as the brand good visibility. All controls are within easy and the dash and console look lost much of its lustre with the arrival of more dynamic competitors from very modern. Gear selection is made via a vertical strip of soft touch butboth Europe and Japan. Even GM’s Cadillac division was leaving Lincoln tons, while touch sensor controls are used to operate the climate control system. in its wake.

The MKZ is luxuriously appointed and a variety of trim levels allow you to make it quite opulent. Features such as perforated leather seats, real wood and alloy trim, full LCD instrumentation, a THX-certified sound system, and heated and chilled front seats create a very pleasant environment.

Optional safety equipment packages include a suite of advanced driving One look at the Lincoln MKZ and it is obvious that the design team has aids such as Lane Keeping Aid, Lane Keeping Alert and Driver Assist, as worked hard to differentiate these new models from their sister offerings well as Adaptive Cruise Control and Collision Warning. at Ford. While shared platform designs represent the bricks that give the modern car company a solid foundation upon which to build, it is equally The MKZ model lineup is distinctive and offers a nice mix of technology and style. All three variants should sell well, but the hybrid version may prove important that the different brands establish their own identity. to be the star, as it represents an attractive package at a very competitive Available in three flavours, the MKZ is a mid-sized, front-wheel drive sedan price. Welcome back Lincoln. that Ford officials hope will help re-establish the Lincoln brand. It has been penned to be elegant, luxurious, and chock full of technology. An aging SPECIFICATIONS customer base is a killer, so the MKZ is aimed at bringing a much younger Base price (MSRP): .............................................................................. $38,350 consumer into the Lincoln family.

A concentrated effort has been made to return Lincoln to its former glory, and the resulting product lineup now includes a number of models that have been designed to attract a new wave of customers to the once-proud nameplate.

There are two gasoline engine choices available. Entry level cars are fitted with Ford’s 2.0-litre EcoBoost four-cylinder engine which produces 240 horsepower and 270 lb-ft of torque. For those consumers who appreciate the smooth running of a V6, Lincoln offers the MKZ fitted with a 3.7-litre unit good for 300 horsepower and 277 lb-ft. Both of these models feature a six-speed automatic transmission, and all-wheel drive is available as an option.

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Price as tested: . ................................................................................... $48,300 Type of vehicle: .......................................... FWD, front-engine, mid-size sedan.

Engine: ...................................2.0L, inline 4-cylinder with electric motor assist.

Power: . ..................141 hp @ 6,000 rpm (188 hp combined engine and motor) Torque: . ......................................................................... 129 lb-ft @ 4,000 rpm Transmission: . ............. Electronic Continuously Variable Transmission (e-CVT) Brakes:...................................................................... Four-wheel disc with ABS Fuel consumption (L/100km city/hwy): . .................................................4.0/4.0

Familiar Flame Reignites Interest in Volvo

The 2014 Volvo S60 T6 AWD Story and images by Russell Purcell

shroud. Gone is the deeply stepped waistline that gave the rear of the first generation car much of its visual appeal, but the new version now he Volvo Group’s automotive division has been struggling to main- features a pronounced character line that is carried the full length of the tain its popularity in North America for the last few years. This is car, bridging the fenders. largely due to the fact that the company had changed ownership and had seemingly been abandoned by its previous owner, the Ford Motor My parents have been driving Volvo products for the last 25 years. They Company. Add to this what appeared to be a stagnant model lineup were initially attracted to the Volvo brand by the company’s reputation and a shrinking dealer network, and things started to look grim for the as an innovator in passenger safety, and I am thankful for this, as they stalwart of passenger safety.

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As we enter 2014, there seems to be a flicker of hope for the stoic brand as the company has significantly refreshed the top end of its model lineup, including the S60 and S80 sedans, the XC60 crossover, and XC70 wagon.

I recently got behind the wheel of the new top-of-the-line S60 T6 fitted with the excellent Instant Traction All-Wheel Drive system.

There have been significant revisions to the car’s exterior, but Volvo purists, like my father, will appreciate that the company’s design team has stayed relatively true to the original model with regards to both styling and overall dimensions. were fortunate to have survived a horrendous collision without injuries while travelling in their 1988 Volvo 760. The car was a write-off, but my parents were not, so it came as no surprise to me that they replaced their crumpled car with a then new, 2001 Volvo S60 2.4T. This car continues to serve them well, but recently my father expressed an interest in getting a new car, so when the opportunity came to get behind the wheel of the At the rear of the car, the taillights have been enlarged and a pair of latest version of the S60, he was excited to check it out. integrated exhaust pipes peek out from beneath a revised bumper “I really like the look of the new car. It has a more modern appearance, SPECIFICATIONS but is obviously a Volvo,” offered my father. “It feels familiar to me, which I like.”

Base price (MSRP): .............................................................................. $47,550 The car has been fitted with all-new bodywork from the windshield forward. There is a shapely new hood, wide front fenders, and an enlarged grille bookmarked by elongated headlights. A stylish new front fascia sports a larger air intake, bright accent trim, and horizontally-mounted LED daytime running lights.

As tested price: .................................................................................... $51,695 Type: ...........................................................AWD, front-engine, mid-size sedan Engine: ................................................................. 3.0L turbo inline six-cylinder Power: . ......................................... 300 hp @ 5,600 rpm (325 hp with Polestar) Torque: ..................................... 325 lb-ft @ 2,100 rpm (355 lb-ft with Polestar) Transmission: .......................................................................6-Speed automatic Brakes: .................................................................... Front & rear disc with ABS Fuel consumption (L/100km): ........ City 11.7 (24.1 mpg); Hwy 8.1 (34.9 mpg)

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In his former life as a dentist, my father was a detail man and a craftsman, so he appreciates quality workmanship when he sees it.

“The level of fit and finish is really impressive throughout the car. I really like the design of the new dash and the clever instrument display.”

PERFORMANCE & MILEAGE

The display which caught his appreciative eye is a new adaptive digital instrument cluster which features three distinct themes, all of which give the cockpit a high-tech appearance. Other highlights include Volvo’s first paddle shifters and a dash-mounted seven-inch colour display screen which helps keep the driver apprised of various system functions and user settings.

The test unit also featured the basic suite of Volvo safety technologies including a new radar-based Blind Spot Information System (BLIS) , Cross Traffic Alert, and a Rear Park Assist camera.

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Both of my parents enjoy taking long road trips, so cabin comfort is a necessity.

“The seats are very comfortable and there is more room in the back seat area and trunk,” piped in my mother. “I think Volvo has done an excellent job with the redesign of this car.”

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During our test drive, it became apparent that my father felt at home behind the wheel of the T6, but he wasn’t sure if he felt the need for the full 325 horsepower and 355 lb-ft of torque produced by the 3.0-litre turbocharged inline sixcylinder engine that had been tweaked with the Polestar Performance software upgrade. The Polestar option increases the boost pressure of the turbocharger, re-optimizes ignition- and fuel-mapping, and sharpens throttle response.

Enthusiast drivers will adore it, but my father was concerned that it was overkill.

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“This car performs wonderfully on the road, and the six-speed gearbox was really smooth. I like the idea of the all-wheel drive system given the fact that we live in an area with lots of snow and rain. Overall, the car handles well, and has plenty of power, but I think I would appreciate a model with a little less horsepower in order to get better fuel economy.”

Luckily for him, it appears that a new wave of four-cylinder turbocharged engines are on Volvo’s horizon partnered with an ultra-efficient eight-speed gearbox. This is great news, as it means my parents’ love affair with the curvaceous Swede may continue in the near future.

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Turning Heads

and price. Our base-model CLA tester was as black inside as it was outside, with just a bit of piano-black and aluminum-look trim. The seats are draped in Artico, which looks as close to leather as vinyl will ever get, and the fit-and-finish was to the usual high standards of Mercedes. Said seats were very supportive in all the right places, The 2014 Mercedes CLA being adjustable electrically in 12 directions, and the instruments and Story and photos by Gerry Frechette controls are reminiscent of more-expensive models – especially the sculpted steering wheel. As is becoming the custom, many functions any of the luxury car brands are moving downmarket, bringing are controlled through an LED screen atop the dashboard. This one out compact cars that they hope will appeal to the younger demo- looks a bit like an add-on thing here, not all that integrated, and defigraphic on a budget. To do that, they need to be stylish, frugal, full of nitely not a fold-away type, which we recognize would add cost. technology, and deliver a sporty and luxurious driving experience.

Being a sedan, mention must be made of the CLA’s back seat. As you might expect with the coupe roofline, headroom is at a premium for taller folks, while legroom is fine unless the occupant of the seat ahead is also tall and has the seat slid all the way back. Said rear seat folds down to make for a bigger cargo area.

M

Like any base model, the CLA is built to meet a price point, so things you might expect to see on a Mercedes sedan (heated seats, sunroof, leather), plus the sort of gear a hip, style-conscious owner would want (audio and infotainment upgrades, bigger wheels) can be found in the options list.

Mercedes-Benz has entered this segment with the CLA-Class sedan, slotting in under the venerable C-Class that had been the entry sedan. Preceding the CLA to market was the B-Class, a compact hatchback, and the new car shares much of its platform and mechanical componentry – but not its appearance. Mercedes has basically taken its high-end CLS four-door coupe and made a 7/8-scale version of it. All the styling cues mimic that car, and the CLA looks fast just sitting there.

Actually, it does get up and go, with its 2.0-litre turbo four driving the front wheels through a seven-speed dual-clutch paddle-shifted gearbox, with 208 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque as low as 1,200 rpm. Mercedes claims zero-to-100 km/h times of 6.7 seconds, and it feels at least that quick with all that torque down low. On the efficiency side, there is the Eco start/stop function that shuts down the engine when your foot is off the throttle. Mercedes claims 7.8L/100 km in the city; we saw 12.0L of premium gasoline indicated on the computer, in normal urban driving. Highway consumption is said to be 5.1, which would be in diesel territory. Maybe that is why no diesel is offered.

The interior will surprise no one who knows Mercedes vehicles, along with most people who have only been in other sedans of this size 22 RPM Feb / Mar 2014

Driving the CLA base model enthusiastically is quite satisfying. It feels light on its feet, and its steering, braking and suspension are firm and direct, the latter maybe at some cost in ride quality. It also feels solid, stable and composed as a Mercedes should be, more than one might expect for a car of this size and weight.

Indeed, the CLA buyer gives up little of the traditional Mercedes attributes despite the lower price point, and gets a stylish little sedan that really turns heads.

SPECIFICATIONS Base price (MSRP): .............................................................................. $33,900 Type: ....................................................................... 4-door, 5-passenger coupe Layout: ..................................................................................Front engine/FWD Engine: ......................................................................................... 2.0L turbo I4 Transmission: . .................................................7-speed twin-clutch manumatic Power: . .................................................................................................. 208 hp Torque: ................................................................. 258 lb-ft @ 1,200-4,000 rpm Curb weight: . ...................................................................................... 1,480 kg 0-100 km/h: ..........................................................................................6.7 sec.

Brakes: ..................................................................... Discs, front and rear; ABS Fuel Consumption (L/100km, city/hwy): ...............................................7.8 / 5.1

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Cutting-Edge Technology The all-new BMW i3 is a fully Electric Vehicle Story and photos by Gerry Frechette

A

t the recent Los Angeles International Auto Show, BMW brought an entire fleet of pre-production versions of its new i3 electric urban car, and turned them loose for drives in downtown L.A. The i3 has been perhaps the most eagerly anticipated of the small EV runabouts, and the chance to drive one for 20 minutes, months before its official introduction in showrooms, and in its natural environment, was not one we had to be talked into.

uninterrupted flow of power up to its top speed, which is limited to 150 km/h in the interests of efficiency, says BMW with tongue somewhat in cheek, one thinks. Unfortunately, we only experienced the 0-60 launch (okay, to 80 once) on our drive in L.A. The i3’s interior is roomier than you might imagine, thanks to the four wheels being pushed out to the corners, and there being a totally flat floor pan. Access to the rear seats is through rear-hinged doors, and the seat height both front and rear is slightly higher than other small cars, for a better view down the road. The front seats are firm and supportive, as you’d expect. There is a small luggage compartment, which can be enlarged with the rear seats folded down.

The driver is faced with two free-standing display screens for the instrument cluster and the Control Display of the iDrive system. The climate control and audio functions form the lower edge of the dashboard, the On-Off and ‘Gear’ selector are on a stalk to the right of the steering column, and everything else is done through the iDrive control system. The materials used on our tester included light-coloured eucalyptus wood on the dashboard, and fibres from the kenaf plant on the instrument panel surround The i3 is one of two vehicles (the other being the amazing i8 performance and door trim panels, for a unique enviro-tech sort of look. There are a few car that was also shown at L.A. and will be introduced later) that comprise different ‘looks’ for the interior depending on trim level chosen. the initial offerings of what is actually a new brand within BMW called i.

BMW has gone far beyond just designing a sub-compact sedan around The i3 is not a radical departure in its exterior design, with one exception. an electric drivetrain. Essentially, as one might expect, the company’s first According to BMW, ‘the dip in the beltline just rearwards of the front doors pure electric vehicle (and the first premium-brand car designed to be an creates a larger side window surface for the rear compartment, giving EV) is built from the ground up to meet the expectations of BMW drivers, passengers a particularly generous feeling of space.’ We imagine there while addressing the need for sustainable global mobility. was more at play here than just that, as this is the defining element of the i3’s exterior design, and something that people will think is a refreshing The i3 is designed around what BMW calls LifeDrive architecture. The departure from the norm, or.....maybe not like so much. Beyond that, chassis and drivetrain are incorporated into a flat, skateboard-like platform, almost entirely made from aluminum, called ‘Drive,’ onto which the ‘Life’ passenger module, which is primarily carbon fibre reinforced plastic (CFRP), is mounted. The batteries and motor are both located around the rear axle, and the rear wheels are the driven ones, in the BMW tradition.

Consequently, the i3 boasts 50-50 weight distribution, a low centre of gravity, and a curb weight of 1,195 kilograms, with 230 kg in the batteries alone. This is light weight for a four-passenger sedan.

The lithium-ion battery pack generates 22 kWh, which BMW claims results in a driving range of 130-160 kilometres, with another 40 km available (at the cost of some dynamism) depending on the ECO PRO drive mode selected. The electric motor, also developed in-house, generates 170 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque, which is all available from rest, of course. The result is a very quick little car, with claimed numbers of zero-to-60 km/h in just 3.7 seconds, 0-to-100 km/h in 7.2 seconds, and 80-to-120 km/h in only 4.9 seconds. The i3 is said to accelerate with an 24 RPM Feb / Mar 2014

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Pedestrian Warning systems will warn the driver of excessive closing speeds, and decelerate the i3 with up to maximum stopping power.

Speaking of stopping, there is little or no need to use the i3’s brake pedal in normal urban driving. The throttle pedal acts as both accelerator and engine brake. When the driver releases the pedal, kinetic energy is regenerated by the drivetrain to recharge the battery. This has the effect of slowing the car down. This energy recuperation is speed-sensitive, which means the car “coasts” with maximum efficiency at high speeds and generates a strong braking effect at low speeds. The brake lights illuminate if the amount of recuperation in progress produces the same braking effect as actually pressing the brake pedal. The conventional braking system only joins the action if the driver summons greater braking power by depressing the brake pedal. We tried the brakes once from that one burst to 80 km/h just to see what it felt like, and this wouldn’t be a BMW without the traditional twin-kidney grille, which just about stood the car on its front bumper with a light touch on the pedal. is totally blanked-off because there is no need for cooling air in the front The i3 will not need many brake system services over its lifetime. of the car.

It has obviously not escaped BMW’s notice that range anxiety and actually finding an unoccupied charging station out on the road are two of the EV driver’s prime concerns, and for those who need more than 160 km on an actual plug-in charge, there will also be available an engine which will charge the batteries on the fly, but not drive the car. Therefore, it does not add any power, but does add weight, about 140 kg, all over the rear wheels where it is located next to the electric motor. The engine is an aircooled 650-cc twin from the motorcycle line. With this range extender, the i3 will be able to travel more than 100 km further before refuelling, yielding a maximum range of approximately 300 km.

Connectivity and electronic safety aids are rampant in the i3. There are way too many standard or available capabilities to list here, and we didn’t have time to experience any of them, but a few that caught our eye include Traffic Jam Assistant that not only relieves the driver of the task of accelerating and braking in stop-go traffic through the camera-based Cruise Control, but also takes over the steering movements to keep the car in the lane.

BMW’s ConnectedDrive includes mobility services, such as Concierge Services for information and Intelligent Emergency Call, and also has an intermodal route guidance system that is capable of incorporating local public transport connections into route planning. It is also capable, through the Driving Range function, of incorporating all possible variables to determine the most optimal route to take. The Collision Warning and

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At this writing, watching the Canadian dollar fall day-by-day, the i3 is expected to sell for $44,950 before any available government incentives.

The optional range extender will cost an additional $4,000.

To the expected attributes like cutting-edge technology, sustainability, connectivity, safety, and efficiency, BMW has included a large helping of driving pleasure and performance into the EV recipe with the i3 subcompact sedan. It will cost more than other EVs, but for the enthusiast, it will be well worth it.

So, the engine and drivetrain of the Q50 are a known quantity, but there is no shortage of new technology in it, as we seem to say with just about every vehicle we drive these days. We don’t have the room to describe everything, but three ‘world’s first’ (according to Infiniti) available tech features merit a mention.

One is Direct Adaptive Steering™, a ‘steer-bywire’ system that allows independent control of the Q50’s tire angle and steering inputs, transmitting the driver’s intentions to the wheels faster than a mechanical system. Four combinations of steering settings are offered, allowing customization by driver preference or road conditions. DAS allows the driver to change both steering effort and steering gear ratio.

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Also offered is Active Lane Control, which makes small steering input angle adjustments if the Q50 undergoes minor direction changes due to road surface changes or crosswinds. One other new active safety feature is Predictive Forward Collision Warning that warns the driver of risks that lie beyond the driver’s field of view. It not only can sense the relative velocity and distance of a vehicle directly ahead, but also of a vehicle travelling in front of the preceding one.

The 2014 Infiniti Q50 AWD Story and photos by Gerry Frechette

W

ith the across-the-board rejigging of Infiniti’s model names, the entryluxury sedan formerly known as the G37 has morphed into the Q50.

Not only is it a new model name, but it is an all-new design, too.

The Q50 shows off the latest Infiniti design language, with voluptuous curves everywhere. Certainly, in this class of car where the Q50 has to vie for attention with some of the most noteworthy sedans in the world, it has the looks to jump out from the crowd.

The Q50’s interior is as attractive as the exterior is, with rich-looking materials. The seats are supportive and comfortable. The new dashboard There are several different models of Q50 sedan available, starting with is clean and sleek, with two LCD touch screens in the centre stack for the regular rear-wheel drive model, to which can be added all-wheel drive, control of the new-gen Infiniti InTouch™ telematics system designed to hybrid drivetrain and the Sport package. You can even get all three of those synchronize car and driver. Believe me, you will feel like you have tailored upgrades on the same car – making for an all-weather capable, frugal, fast the car to your exact preferences in every area you can imagine. A selecand aggressive-looking sedan. While we would love to have tried that one, tion of vehicle-centric apps is pre-loaded into the system. Owners can also our tester was the no-less enticing “regular” all-wheel drive model. download, update and synch personal apps through their smartphones and USB drives.

Like all non-hybrids, this model is powered by the very familiar 3.7-litre 328-horsepower V6 that has been a mainstay of the Infiniti line-up for years. Given its price range (starting under $40K), the Q50 is an esthetic and Backing it is a seven-speed automatic transmission, and the combination technological tour de force. is silky smooth in normal use, and quite powerful enough to be entertaining, if not a road burner. Indeed, this engine has way more power than the base engines of most of the Q50’s competition.

SPECIFICATIONS Base price (MSRP): .............................................................................. $37,500 Price as tested: . ................................................................................... $43,400 Type: ....................................................................... 4-door, 5-passenger sedan Layout: .................................................................................Front engine, AWD Engine: ....................................................................................... 3.7L DOHC V6 Transmission: . ..............................................................................7-speed auto Power: . ..................................................................................................328 hp Torque: . ......................................................................... 269 lb-ft @ 5,200 rpm Brakes: ...........................................................Vented discs, front and rear, ABS Curb Weight: .......................................................................1,718 kg (3,787 lb) 0-100 km/h: ..............................................................................6.0 sec approx.

Fuel Consumption (L/100km, city/hwy): ...............................................11.1/7.3

RPM Feb / Mar 2014 27

The Highlights From Detroit

BMW M235i

The Best of the North American International Auto Show

Story by Gerry Frechette, photos by the manufacturers

I

t’s been several years since the heady days of 2007 and earlier, when the NAIAS at Detroit was an exciting show, full of wild concepts and new production vehicles. Well, the 2014 version of the most important auto show on the continent confirmed that the industry is all the way back from its darkest days, with a barrage of cool new vehicles.

Interestingly, most of the big reveals were not trucks (with one obvious exception) or anything that could be called especially eco-conscious beyond what is built into all cars these days. No, most of the new vehicles were enthusiast-oriented performance and/or luxury cars, to to North America. It is to be powered by the ubiquitous 2.0L TFSI and the surprise of some and the delight of many.

6-speed Tiptronic combination, and should appeal to upwardly-mobile active city dwellers.

Acura TLX Prototype The new TLX is said to still be a prototype, but it looked ready for BMW 2-Series production as displayed. It will replace both the TL and TSX models, The 2-Series replaces the 1-Series, and stays true to its concept of being a very sporty compact car, with slightly larger dimensions than before. That will prove true with the M235i, which will have a 3.0litre turbo straight six pumping out 322 horsepower, and appropriate chassis upgrades. This will be reminiscent of the 1-Series M Coupe, which was tons of fun.

BMW M3/M4 The previous M3 sedan and coupe have been split into M3 sedan and M4 coupe, in keeping with the latest model nomenclature. The

with the size of the former, and the efficiency of the latter. Look for AWD and a new nine-speed automatic to be part of the package when it hits showrooms this summer.

Audi Q3 A Q3 has been offered in overseas markets for a few years, but this new generation of premium compact crossover SUV will make its way 28 RPM Feb / Mar 2014

previous V8 is gone, as the new models return to twin-turbo straight six power. They are expected to be lighter, roomier, better handling and more efficient. With 425 hp and less weight, nobody should miss the V8.

the new 200 looks like a big improvement, and it needs to be in this hyper-competitive segment. Like the compact Dart, it has a lot of Fiat influence in its technology, and is said to be a much better performer than before. The nine-speed automatic will help with efficiency.

Cadillac ATS Coupe Ford F-150 The ATS Coupe builds on the success of the well-received ATS sedan, The F-150 is the obvious exception mentioned in the intro. The top Cadillac’s compact entry-luxury car, while adding a bit of ‘sport’ to the selling vehicle in America now sports an aluminum body and a frame

equation for those who want only two doors. We expect the drivetrain made from high-strength steel, resulting in a weight savings of some choices – four or V6 – to be the same as the sedan. We wonder if 700 pounds. A 2.7-litre EcoBoost V6 will be available for maximum there will be a “V” version for more serious performance fans. fuel efficiency.

Chevrolet Corvette Z06 Chevy has wasted no time in showing the latest Z06 on the C7 platform, and it is said to be faster than the outgoing C6 ZR1. The Z06 has a supercharged engine based on the LT1 in the regular Vette, with a mere 625 hp, and all the heavy-duty mechanicals to back it up as a serious track-day car. We expect this to be the best value in an ultra-performance car.

Ford Mustang This was the new Mustang’s first public viewing, although media had seen it earlier. As this icon celebrates its 50th anniversary this April, the all-new model will go all modern, forsaking some of its retro-ness

Chrysler 200 After a few generations of mid-size sedans that didn’t make the grade,

in the interests of efficiency, lightweight, etc. The 5.0 V8 is still to be available, to be joined by the model’s first turbo four in about three decades.

Chevrolet Corvette Z06 RPM Feb / Mar 2014 29

Lexus is going after the established luxury-performance coupe players with the new RC line. The RC F, like the IS F before it, comes with strong performance credentials, led by a 5.0L V8 with about 450 hp, and such trickery as brake cooling ducts and active rear spoiler.

Mercedes C-Class The C-Class moves slightly up-market; it’s lighter and more fuel efficient, with new roomier interior, more equipment and standard

Honda Fit The third-generation Fit is all new. More interior room, new 1.5-litre engine and CVT automatic transmission, better performance, and much-improved fuel efficiency. It is said to be a fun little car to drive, as buyers in this class are looking for that now.

Hyundai Genesis Sedan The Genesis luxury sedan is all new, except for its 3.8 V6 and 5.0 V8 engines. All-wheel drive will be available. Everything has been AWD. It follows the lead of the last generation, with turbo four and V6 engines, and we can expect other variants (coupe, AMG car, etc) in due course.

Nissan Sport Sedan Concept Officially, this is a design study that might hint at future directions for

upgraded to compete with the most vaunted of luxury brands. As previously, the Genesis is expected to compete strongly on value, with a lot of features for the price.

Kia GT4 Stinger Concept Kia has seen the popularity of simple, light rear-wheel drive sports coupes, and built the Stinger to gauge public reaction to the possibility of building a similar car. The concept has a 2.0L turbo four with 315 Nissan’s styling. Many think that it is a thinly-veiled look at the new Maxima sedan. We think that would be a good move by Nissan, as that model is certainly due for a more dynamic appearance.

hp, and a six-speed manual transmission. Kia wants to appeal to the youth market and be the sporty brand from Korea, so we’d expect this one to be built.

Lexus RC F

30 RPM Feb / Mar 2014

Porsche 911 Targa Porsche goes back into its 911 history and re-introduces the Targa.

Unlike the original, where the roof was a lift-off design, the new version sees the glass panel retracted under the rear window. The fixed roll hoop in aluminum looks very retro. Beyond this, not much is different from the other 911 models.

Volkswagen Golf R The newest generation of Golf is out this year, and this is the performance model, in the same vein as the last Golf R was. That means

Subaru WRX Sti Subaru’s flagship rally car-for-the-street, all new for ‘15, is longer, roomier, better handling, and upgraded inside. The engine remains a more highly-tuned 2.0L turbo four (expect 290 hp) and all-wheel the familiar 2.5L turbo four, with 305 hp. New is a brake-based torque drive, a big step up from the GTI. The U.S. is getting it; will Canada? vectoring system, for quick rotation in tight corners.

We certainly hope so.

Toyota FT-1 Concept This is one concept that really had enthusiasts drooling. Toyota hasn’t had a big performance profile the past several years (not counting NASCAR), but most look back fondly at the Supra. Could this be the basis for the next Supra – hopefully with a nicer front end? It’s not too far-fetched a notion.

Volvo Concept XC Coupe This concept may be a little whimsical (a two-door coupe SUV), but many of the major design details are for real. This will likely be the new face of Volvo, and a lot of what you see here will appear on the new XC90 in a year, and subsequent models. Volvo is re-inventing itself to remain a player in the luxury market.

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RPM Feb / Mar 2014 31

RPM TES Mercedes E350 4Matic

Price: . ................................................................................................ $63,000 Engine: .................................................................... 3.5L DOHC 24-valve V6 Trans: ......................................................................................... 7-speed auto Power: ................................................................................................. 302 hp Torque: .............................................................................................. 273 lb-ft Curb Weight: . ................................................................. 1,815 kg / 4,001 lb Fuel Consumption: (L/100km – City/Hwy) .................................. 10.5 / 7.1 New for 2014: The E-Class received a revised front end for 2014 as well as a few styling changes to the interior. Additionally, new safety features have been added such as auto stop-start, and a new 4-cylinder diesel engine replaces the previous V6.

Segment Competitors: Lexus GS, Cadillac XTS, Acura TL, Audi A6, BMW 5-Series The Skinny: The E350 received a minor facelift for 2014 but remains relatively unchanged. While always a pleasure to drive, no one feature stands out from the rest. That said, this is still a solid constituent in its class.

Pros: The ultra sleek and sexy body lines are topped off by an outstanding exhaust note.

Cons: The stiffer suspension results in a ride quality that may be rougher than one might expect.

The Verdict: The E350 gets an overall passing grade; take me to the track, Jack!

Mitsubishi Outlander

Price: .................................................................................................$30,998 Engine: ....................................................................3.0L DOHC 24-valve V6 Trans: .........................................................................................6-speed auto Power: .................................................................................................227 hp Torque: ..............................................................................................215 lb-ft Curb Weight: .................................................................. 1,590 kg / 3,505 lb Fuel Consumption: (L/100km – City/Hwy) . ................................10.1 / 7.1 New for 2014: The Outlander was completely redesigned for 2014 and now benefits from an updated look. Under the hood a 2.4L 4-cylinder or 3.0L V6 are the options with a plethora of safety technologies available like Forward Collision Mitigation, Lane Departure Warning and Adaptive Cruise Control.

Segment Competitors: Ford Escape, Jeep Patriot, Toyota RAV4, Hyundai Santa Fe, Mazda CX-5, Honda CR-V The Skinny: The completely redesigned Outlander will surely benefit from its updated look as it now has a classier, upscale appearance.

Pros: Our V6-equipped test model provided more than enough power to go along with an overall smooth and quiet ride.

Cons: The 4-cylinder model sees a power drop of over 60 horsepower from the V6, which may leave it feeling a bit sluggish.

The Verdict: The changes to the Outlander have proven to be positive, while still remaining affordable which makes it definitely worth looking at if the mid-size SUV class is what you desire.

Kia Optima Turbo

Price: . ................................................................................................ $32,995 Engine: ........................................................... 2.0L Turbo DOHC 16-valve I4 Trans: ......................................................................................... 6-speed auto Power: ................................................................................................. 274 hp Torque: .............................................................................................. 269 lb-ft Curb Weight: . ................................................................. 1,484 kg / 3,272 lb Fuel Consumption: (L/100km – City/Hwy) ...................................11.8 / 7.6 New for 2014: The Optima received some front and rear end tweaking for 2014 as well as updated LED rear taillights. A new SX-L level trim has been added to the lineup which features 18-inch wheels, red brake calipers and premium leather seats.

Segment Competitors: Chrysler 300, Toyota Avalon, Dodge Charger, Mazda6, Hyundai Sonata, Nissan Maxima The Skinny: The Optima’s minor facelifts for 2014 help solidify the notion it’s one of the better looking mid-size sedans on the market. Our SX Turbo test model has all the options and features you could want and is remarkably fun to drive.

Pros: The 2.0L turbo engine is surprisingly fast, and we found the interior to be one of the more functional examples in this segment.

Cons: While the engine provides a sport car like feel, we’d like to see the steering be a tad stiffer.

The Verdict: The Optima combines great overall body style with a good looking interior. When you throw in the fun factor without experiencing sticker shock, you’ve got a car that should be able to compete well in the mid-size sedan class.

32 RPM Feb / Mar 2014

ST FLEET Mazda3 Sport GT

Price: .......................................................................................................... $26,855 Engine: ..................................................... 2.5L SKYACTIV-G DOHC 16-valve I4 Trans: .................................................................................................6-speed auto Power: ......................................................................................................... 184 hp Torque: .......................................................................................................185 lb-ft Curb Weight: .......................................................................... 1,375 kg / 3,031 lb Fuel Consumption: (L/100km – City/Hwy) . .........................................7.5 / 5.1 New for 2014: Completely redesigned for 2014, the Mazda3 now features the KODO Soul of Motion design language as well as fuel-saving SKYACTIV technology. Now standard on the Mazda3 is push-button start, automatic power door locks, and remote keyless entry, just to name a few.

Segment Competitors: Kia Forte, Dodge Dart, Toyota Corolla, Chevrolet Cruze, Hyundai Elantra, Ford Focus, Volkswagen Golf, Honda Civic The Skinny: The Mazda3 is completely redesigned for 2014 and is now shorter, wider and lower than previous iterations, which give it a more aggressive stance.

The interior has been simplified and has eliminated most of the buttons to make way for an HMI Commander Switch (fancy name for a rotating dial) Pros: Due to the wide range of models and trims, the Mazda3 is able to appeal to a wide range of consumers.

Cons: Using a dial to control the infotainment system could take some getting used to The Verdict: While Mazda has made some necessary changes, they have stayed true to the formula that has seen the 3 succeed in the past.

Dodge Durango Citadel

Price: . ................................................................................................ $51,995 Engine: ...................................................................................... 5.7L OHV V8 Trans: ......................................................................................... 8-speed auto Power: ................................................................................................. 360 hp Torque: .............................................................................................. 390 lb-ft Curb Weight: . ................................................................. 2,312 kg / 5,097 lb Fuel Consumption: (L/100km – City/Hwy) .................................. 15.6 / 9.1 New for 2014: The Durango received a refresh for 2014 that sees the addition of a new front bumper, headlights, and rear bumper that gives it a sportier look. Inside, a 5-inch touchscreen is now standard as is a new steering wheel that features paddle shifters. Also new is an optional 8-speed transmission.

Segment Competitors: Chevrolet Tahoe, Toyota Sequoia, Ford Explorer, Audi Q7, Honda Pilot, Mercedes-Benz GL The Skinny: The Durango really is a cool looking SUV and the interior of our Citadel test model was immaculate with dual screens, middle row captain’s chairs and all the technology features you could ask for.

Pros: Drives like a vehicle much smaller than it actually is which is an impressive feat when you consider the actual size.

Cons: The big V8 engine in our test model was a bit gas thirsty and the quirky dial shift knob takes some getting used to.

The Verdict: If you’re looking for a luxurious people mover with a ton of safety features, more than enough room, and price isn’t the overriding factor then this could be the vehicle for you.

Mini Countryman JCW ALL4

Price: ............................................................................................... $38,500 Engine: ........................................................................ 1.6L DOHC turbo I4 Trans: ....................................................................................... 6-speed auto Power: ............................................................................................... 208 hp Torque: ............................................................................................ 192 lb-ft Curb Weight: ................................................................ 1,480 kg / 3,263 lb Fuel Consumption: (L/100km – City/Hwy) . ................................ 8.7 / 6.5 New for 2013: The Countryman received a few interior updates including redesigned door panels and armrests that saw the window controls move from the centre stack to the doors, plus new rings that surround the centre speedometer.

Segment Competitors: Fiat 500L, Honda Fit, Audi A3, BMW 1-Series, Nissan Juke The Skinny: The John Cooper Works (JCW) Minis are the performance iterations of the quirky little cars, featuring a quicker engine, many exterior upgrades such as 19-inch alloy wheels and an overall aggressive look to both the front and the rear. Inside you get the classic centre-mounted speedometer and actually a lot more leg and headroom than you’d expect.

Pros: The 1.6L turbo 4-cylinder engine surely gets your blood pumping if you put your foot into it, and the overall look of the car complete with red racing stripes and a rally-style rear air diffuser surprisingly turned a lot of heads.

Cons: The centre-mounted speedometer can be a bit hard to get used to, while the digital one in the tachometer directly in front of the driver saves some headaches.

The Verdict: Overall, we enjoyed our time with this hot little hatch as it garnered some attention from onlookers and was fun to drive.

Once you get used to the quirky interior, you’ll find it to be very functional and easy to use.

RPM Feb / Mar 2014 33

The Truck Guy

Ian Harwood

2014 Chevrolet Silverado Story by Ian Harwood, photos courtesy of GM Canada

and 450 lb-ft of torque. This engine also has active noise cancellation, very similar to good-quality headphones. The transmission is a six-speed electronically-controlled automatic with two overe’s a ‘twenty year straight get to work on time’ guy. He’s a drive gears. An estimated combined fuel consumption of 13.0/8.7 ‘love one woman for all his life’ guy. He’s a ‘shirt off his back L/100 km, although my real-world numbers were not that close, give you his last dime’ guy. He’s strong and apparently loves the helps push a tank of gas a little further. Properly equipped, this Silverado can tow up to 5,216 kg (11,500 lb) which is impressive strong new 2014 Chevy Silverado. for a half-ton pickup.

The folks over at GM felt it was time to raise the bar and with this latest incarnation I believe they took a major step forward. The redesigned interior offers more leg room and is easily accessed Competition is fierce in the half-ton Pickup market, and with such through the larger doors. Stain-resistant cloth seats or optional heavy concentration on fuel consumption, it’s tough to find a bal- leather seats are very comfortable. The glove box is a two-piece ance between efficiency and a strong capable truck. You can’t just design and the centre console has plenty of room for files and junk to go missing for years! beef up a suspension and still expect a smooth ride.

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The Silverado utilizes finely-tuned shock absorbers that can respond to small vibrations and tackle the big bounces with ease. I found that driving the Silverado over a pothole-laden road did change the dynamics of this truck on how it handled itself, but until the shocks adjusted themselves, I had my doubts. The frame mounts at the back of the cab are hydraulic and this also helps to control any vibration. The rear axle size has been increased to handle the larger torque output from the engine.

Speaking of engines, the Silverado offers three choices. The first is a 4.3-litre V6 with 285 horsepower and 305 lb-ft of torque. There is also an all-aluminum 5.3-litre V8 with 355 horsepower, and a 6.2-litre EcoTec V8 that produces 420 horsepower 34 RPM Feb / Mar 2014

The steering wheel controls and other knobs on the dash are within reachable distance from the driver and large enough that they can be used while wearing work gloves.

My tester was equipped with MyLink system that basically controls everything. The voice recognition is easy to use and can respond to normal speech patterns. Bluetooth capabilities allow easy pairing of any smart phone with very little effort, and accessing your music is a breeze.

The rear bumper has steps built into it on both corners of the truck, making the job of climbing in the back an easy task. The tailgate features EZ-lift hardware that makes lowering it a one-handed job.

Available LED lights mounted under the box rails light up the cargo area and make every nook and cranny visible. The many innovative improvements made to this truck, ones that were necessary to keep up with consumer demands, will help improve sales across Canada.

This Silverado is strong, but is it strong enough to keep the competitors at bay?

RPM Feb / Mar 2014 35

CES 2014

Story and Photos by Dave MacKinnon

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ach year, we make the trek to Las Vegas to launch another year’s worth of the latest electronic gadgetry. The North Hall of the Las Vegas Convention Center is home to the automotive electronics booths, and things were pretty much status quo from years past. The OEMs continue to force their presence, with Audi being the presenting sponsor of the North Hall itself. A few key car audio brands were noticeably missing from the North Hall, sadly choosing to tempt fate at an off-site location and add transportation costs and time to their dealers’ schedules. The frigid weather in the north-east delayed a lot of early-show travel plans, so rather than being crazily busy on the first two days, then quieter on the third and fourth, it was relatively continuous.

There were two definite and clearly visible trends in the industry – integration with mobile devices and new series of small ampli-

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fiers. Head unit companies like Kenwood, JVC, Pioneer, Clarion and Alpine showed multimedia source units with cell phone App integration. Some of them even include an HMDI input on the rear of the unit to use as an auxiliary A/V input. Further, Kenwood, JVC and Pioneer units will let you send touch screen commands

back to your Android phone – so you can use all the features and functions of the phone through the touch screen of your radio.

Companies like Crux, Axxess, Idatalink and PAC continue to offer new and exciting interfaces to allow you to connect your phones and your i-devices directly with your vehicle. The very popular

38 RPM Feb / Mar 2014

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For more information, visit pioneerelectronics.com/AR PIONEER and the Pioneer logo are registered trademarks of Pioneer Corporation. Apple and the Apple logo are trademarks of Apple Inc., registered in the U.S. and other countries. App Store is a service mark of Apple Inc. Google Play and the Google Play logo are trademarks of Google Inc. (C) 2014 Pioneer Electronics (USA) Inc.

Maestro interface product from idatalink for Ford, Chrysler, GM and more are now compatible with not only Kenwood radios, but select Pioneer and Alpine units as well. Advanced infotainment connectivity was shown by Pioneer with its NEX series of units, as well as the new Kenwood flagship.

On the amplifier front, we saw new compact high-frequency, high-quality digital amplifiers from Arc Audio, Focal, Mosconi and Clarion. All of these amps use the latest in switching and control technologies to allow Class D topologies to actually sound pretty darned good.

Something that caught my eye and is well worth mentioning was in the Kicker booth. They had a demonstration of the performance of its full AWG-spec copper power wire compared to an undersized copper-clad aluminum cable. The difference was 20 percent in terms of how much power the amp could make. If you Google Kicker Wire Demo, you can see the demo for itself.

On an unrelated-to-audio note, I was impressed and intrigued by a lighting demonstration Audi had in its booth. Shown there was a new laser headlight technology using a laser diode that shines at a phosphorescent material that then emits a bright white light. This technology will be used in upcoming vehicles for the high-beams and work in conjunction with far-from-average LED lighting for low-beams. This demonstration at the show was an evolution of last year’s amazing Bang & Olufson-powered audio presentation and included an array of lasers, a smoke machine, the nose cone of the R18 Le Mans race car and a set of amazing B&O speakers. It was a hair-raising and emotional demonstration, to say the least.

There is always something cool to see at CES. If you have never gone, it’s time to plan for next year.

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A Herd of ‘65 Goats

Ron Allegretto’s three beautiful 1965 Pontiac GTO’s Story and photos by Cam Hutchins

Allegretto drove it around the block and promptly started tearing it apart.

The car was not up to his standards so the motor and transmission came lthough a Full Pull or Hat Trick in the automotive world usually refers out. It was a 3-speed manual car from the factory but a 4-speed had been to someone owning ‘55, ‘56 and ‘57 Chevys or T-birds, Ron Allegretto stuffed into her somewhere along the way. It is now upgraded to a Richhas got all three body styles of the 1965 GTO...Two Door Post, Hardtop mond 5-speed, as it has more appeal and is great on the highway. and Convertible. Being somewhat of a “Goat” herder he is always looking after his cars, making improvements and restoring them. The GTO is often The car was kept red and improved in other ways, including switching referred to affectionately as the “Goat”...” Greatest of all Times.” Technically, the 4-barrel carb for a Tri-power set-up, and disc brakes up front. It had the optional power steering and brakes, and originally drums all around.

GTO refers to the Italian phrase Gran Turismo Omologato.

The car came to Canada with later-sixties GTO or Firebird discs up front.

The car was driven from 1994 to 2013 and it was time for some better bodywork. A change of colour was made to a different original GTO hue, “Reef Turquoise,” but he left the existing parchment interior and white top.

The Black carpets follow the factory specs for parchment interiors.

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Some upgrades also include a Rallye dash, wood steering wheel and power antenna. The stock “Rallye One” wheels are available options on 1965, have the correct dated stamps and came from a ‘65 convertible. While on vacation in Tucson looking for poverty caps for the “Post” car, Allegretto bought the wheels off a fellow who had bought a ‘65 GTO Convertible for his son, and the son changed the wheels and then sold the car.

Allegretto’s passion for Pontiacs started in High School when a friend bought a new GTO. Being a Pontiac enthusiast, he drove a 1977 Pontiac Grand Prix for 22 years and then a 1997 Grand Prix GTP. Back in ‘93, Allegretto was looking for something to buy that he could drive right away. A 1965 GTO Ragtop was offered for sale in The Vancouver Sun classifieds by a fellow in Burnaby who wanted to buy a plane. He had brought the Red GTO up from Georgia and it had been in the Year One Parts Catalogue, since Year One is based in Georgia. It had a bright white interior and white top but originally was Blue Mist Slate with dark blue interior and Black top.

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Allegretto trailered it home and stripped it down and cleaned it up. The car then went to a shop in Duncan, B.C. for a rotisserie restoration to factory specs. The car was supposed to have a Muncie M20 4-speed manual transmission, but it arrived with a 3-speed transmission complete with the correct grease crayon marking of “DB,” indicating Dearborn. The engine was a 1970 455 with 4-bolt mains that was not running, but a “Date Correct” 389 engine was found in Austin, Texas.

Painted Mayfair Maize with a black interior, factory correct for the car, it had 82,000 miles and still has the original seat covers. It came with power steering, a non-buttoned AM radio, tinted glass, Tri-power 389, 3:55 SafeT-Track rear end, drum brakes and poverty dog dish hubcaps. The car was originally built in Fremont, California and was shipped to In 1998, a Hardtop was available from a local GTO collector. The car had Gresham, Oregon. It lived in Coldwell, Idaho for at least 25 years. an 8 year-old Montero Red paint job, but needed an interior and some minor work. Over the years, Allegretto has been chipping away to make This car’s original options and the lighter 2-door post body were popular it perfect, although the Montero Red paint has stayed and after 20 years with drag racers. It ended up with the fender wells cut out for headers, it still looks great. Most other things have been worked on. Recently, the making drag racing a very real possibility. All the past abuse was fixed original engine had developed a knock under load and with 130,000 miles on her, it was time to pull it out for an overhaul. Allegretto had noticed the front of the frame had been poorly swapped in the past. With the engine out, it was time to repair the frame. A straight frame was purchased locally from a collector and now the car meets Allegretto’s high standards.

The red two-door Hardtop still has the same paint it came to Allegretto with but has been completely gone over with a fine-toothed comb. It now has a 389 with Tri-power and the original two-speed automatic transmission has been upgraded to a 200 4R. The original two-speed was rebuilt and is in storage. The interior has the parchment vinyl, power steering , power windows, dual speed wipers, pushbutton radio, backup lights and tinted glass. It originally came with a 389 4-barrel and was Fontaine Blue with Black vinyl top and Parchment interior. The upgrades are power disc brakes, Tri-power, power rear antenna, reverberation sound system, the 200 4R Transmission and four-core rad.

In 2002, thinking a Post car would complete his collection, Allegretto scanned eBay regularly looking for a candidate, but a friend actually found the car. A rust-free example had an eager seller, and although a price was offered, the guy wanted to wait for a better offer. A few days later, a deal was struck and the fellow hauled the car to a friend’s place in Redmond, Washington, as the seller was heading to pick up another car in western Washington.

44 RPM Feb / Mar 2014

and the car’s restoration was completed in January 2006. It has since competed and been shown as far away as Bend, Oregon. It only has 1,500 miles on her, but all Allegretto’s cars get regularly driven, so it has to take its turn.

Of all the 1965 GTOs built, the numbers break done as follows: 55,722 hardtops, 11,311 convertibles and 8,319 two-door posts. Pontiac GTOs were not made in Canada until 1969. Allegretto’s Hardtop and Post were built in Fremont and the Convertible was made in Pontiac, Michigan.

The cars get regularly driven, and getting to ride in two of the three, I was very glad there was a strong handle on the dash for the passenger to hang onto as these Goats know how to Go!

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A Bygone Age of Excellence

Story and photos by Jason Grunsell

is a dwindling art form, but names such as Bertone and Pininfarina live on working with manufacturers such as Ferrari, Lamborghini and was still feeling exhilaration from my Ferrari experience when I had Alfa Romeo. the privilege to meet Corrado Lopresto, a Milanese architect and avid car collector. Corrado kindly showed my wife and me a small The major difference in Corrado’s collection is that these are working, portion of his unique automobile collection. My singular impression drivable cars, not cossetted fragile antiques; to this end, he takes of this very charismatic gentleman was his unbridled passion for his great pleasures in presenting his cars around the world at Concours collection. It would be fair to say that I was not able to store the myriad d’ Elegance events. For each purchase, Corrado researches the hisof details Corrado showered me with regarding each and every car tory of the car establishing its provenance. Once purchased, he and he showed us, roughly 40-50 cars, in and around the city of Milan. his team painstakingly restore the cars to running order, though not The collection comprises around one hundred automobiles of Italian to perfection. Corrado told me about being at an event where Ralph manufacture, with Alfa Romeos and Lancias figuring prominently in Lauren was present with some of his cars. One example was a 1939 the collection. To view this collection is to take a step back in time to Bugatti 57C Atalante valued at some 30 million dollars. Ralph’s cars an age when cars were handbuilt to their owners’ individual tastes. are immaculate, and in pristine condition, whereas Corrado’s cars Corrado’s cars showcase the age of the coachbuilders or carrozzeria keep the interior is as original as possible and the seats and the in Italy who produced bespoke works of art for wealthy patrons. This steering show the aged patina of use. I saw numerous examples of

I

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more cars sat under car covers. One by one I helped Corrado remove the covers to reveal a host of Alfa Romeos and Lancias all of which are either 001, or 1 of 1, or simply a prototype. We talked about each one after which Corrado led us to the inner sanctum. Inside was a living museum of cars. The walls were adorned with pictures of many of the cars at their origin, and stacked in a cabinet were numerous trophies and victory wreaths. A few cars I recognized, but I confess for the majority, only the badge on the front helped identify the make and nothing more. Wherever I looked, a unique car sat quietly waiting for Corrado to tell me its story.

I would need to write a book to do justice to all the cars in this wonderful room, but a few caught my eye. The first car I spotted was a gold 1974 De Tomaso Pantera Series II prototype. I have long been

this; most memorable, as I am a huge fan of F1, was a 1948 Abarth car driven by Tazio Nuvolari. The wooden steering wheel was heavily weathered and frighteningly thin, and the red original leather seat, cracked and worn with age, both of which made my connection with the car much more tangible and real. Seeing the car’s gas tank directly under the driver’s seat made me appreciate how much racing has advanced since 1948.

One of Corrado’s locations for housing some of his cars (we saw two) is located some 40 minutes outside of Milan in a warehouse full of hidden treasures. We drove into the open section of the warehouse where a dozen or so cars have joined the collection but have not yet been worked on. We then we went into a locked area in which 20 or

48 RPM Feb / Mar 2014

While this collection of cars deserves all praise and adulation, said collection would not exist without the passion of Corrado Lopresto.

Among the many stories Corrado told me about showing his cars around the world, the one that struck me most was during a presentation in which he was told he had only three minutes to talk about his car. Thirty minutes later and Corrado was still on the stage engaged

in the storytelling of his unique car. I think this speaks to the heart of his passion for each car, which are not bought because of their future value, but because of Corrado’s personal interest in the history and the details of each car. It was a privilege to meet Corrado and to be given this rare opportunity to view a unique automobile collection.

I have been afforded two rare opportunities in 2013, to visit Ferrari in Maranello and to meet Corrado Lopresto in Milan. I would like to thank Mr. Lopresto for his generosity in showing my wife and me his stunning collection and allowing us the opportunity have a glimpse of another age. I look forward to visiting him again in the future to see the rest of his collection and hopefully be able to have Mr. Lopresto as a guest on my personal passion, my television series First Rides.

a fan of the Pantera, so I knew what is was but not its history. Fascinatingly, this car was a one-off which was designed and built by the Ghia design studio for Ford, which had canceled the project in 1973.

The next car was in the centre of the room, a 1931 Alfa Romeo 6C 1750 Aprile Spider Corsa. A mouthful for such an utterly beguiling work of art. The Aprile Roadster was originally constructed as a supercharged Gran Sport chassis, bodied by Zagato as a racing car in 1931. The car was purchased with extensive damage in 1938 by Giuseppe Aprile, a coachbuilder in Savona who intended to rebody Please visit www.firstrides.net the Alfa in a style that would showcase the abilities of his Carrosserie. Aprile commissioned Count Revelli de Beaumont to design the body. Corrado purchased the Alfa in 2008 and had it restored to the exquisite work of art we see today. This car typifies the history of all of Corrado’s cars, the art and styling of individual carrozzeria, the personal history and the restoration to working order. One of the most unusual cars I saw was the Lancia Sibilo prototype. It was a very 1970’s interpretation of future cars in dark brown. It turned out this car was based on the iconic Lancia Stratos, which is a one of my favourite cars. Looking in more detail I recalled seeing this car in a car magazine many years ago and here I was standing in front of the actual machine. Surreal.

RPM Feb / Mar 2014 49

Hand-Built:

Driver sits next to engine in 3-wheeler; leather belts connect clutch Story by Nigel Matthews

A

microcar is the smallest vehicle considered to be an automobile.

Of all those ever built, the Peel 50 is probably the smallest, capable of a top speed of 56 km/h depending on how much you had for breakfast! Most car collectors have a fascination for bubble cars, as microcars were referred to during the ‘60s due to their bubble shape appearance.

The high level of craftsmanship and mechanical genius that went into Probably the world’s largest microcar collection belonged to Bruce this single seater is amazing. It uses a single-cylinder, 7.5-horsepower, Weiner of Madison, Ga., which was auctioned off in February of this 247 cc Villiers two-stroke engine mated up to a separate gearbox from a Renée Gillet (French Motorcycle) connected via a chain. year.

One four-wheeled example, a 1958 FMR Tiger 500, fetched a record The clutch connection is made by series of three leather belts and the final drive to the rear wheel is also via a steel chain. breaking price of $322,000.

I recently had the pleasure of examining a 1955 Grataloup, which came out of the Weiner collection. It was expected to fetch $25,000 - the auctioneer’s gavel fell at $35,000. It was purchased by the Lane Museum which has an incredible assortment of unusual cars (check it out at lanemotormuseum.org).

The ingenious connection to the engine from the electric starter motor is made via a leather linkbelt. When you look into the engine compartment, which is positioned alongside the driver for balance and stability, it looks very busy and complicated!

The usual French soft ride is achieved by leaf springs mounted transThe one-off Grataloup was built by Monsieur Grataloup of Bagnèresde- versely in the front and longitudinal at the rear. It is reported by those who Bigorre, France and was used as his daily driver for many years until have driven the car that the large front wheels make for a stable 83 km/h ride and that it is also capable of handling some rough terrain. he traded it in at a local Citroen garage.

FACEL Vega was Outrageously Expensive, Ultra-Luxurious and Flamboyantly French Story by Nigel Matthews

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efore the Second World War, French-built grand touring automobiles included some of the greatest automobile names of the 20th century — Bugatti, Delage, Delahaye and Talbot-Lago.

In 1938, Jean Daninos founded the metal-stamping company Forges et Ateliers de Construction d’Eure et de Loire (FACEL). The company flourished and built everything from kitchen sinks to gas turbine parts for Rolls-Royce and de Havilland aircraft engines.

As the company diversified, it moved into the business of stamping automobile bodies and secured some lucrative contracts with Ford-France, Simca, Delahaye and Panhard.

Daninos began his automotive career at Citroen during the early 1930s and he never lost interest in cars. Soon, he was not only building the bodies as a subcontractor, he expanded into the final assembly. One of his favourites was the Ford Vedette Comete coupe, which he designed.

He saw an opening in the lack of a French luxury sports car and decided to build something outrageously expensive, ultra-luxurious and flamboyantly French.

With the help of his brother Pierre - the famous writer and humorist - they decided to call it the Vega.

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It featured a handmade body, powered by a 276-cubic inch De Soto Firedome V8 and an interior trim finished in rich leather complemented by faux painted woodwork on the dash and door caps. Pioneered by FACEL, this later became a combination adopted by the British and Italians in the 1960s, with the introduction of the Jensen and Iso, all fitted with American V8 engines. These cars were very powerful and luxurious, but far from economical.

The FACEL Vega was launched at the 1954 Paris Auto Show, and its $8,000 to $10,000 price tag was on par with a Rolls-Royce or Bentley. The company’s downfall came when Daninos decided to build a smaller all-French-built four-cylinder sports car called the Facellia.

The FACEL Company had a short life, spanning just one decade, during which time 1,178 cars were produced. Famous owners included Stirling Moss, Ringo Star, Tony Curtis, Ava Gardner, the King of Morroco and a number of Saudi princes.

Nigel Matthews is Director of Sales and Marketing for Hagerty Canada - the world’s leading specialist provider of collector car and boat insurance. Contact him at nmatthews@hagerty.com or visit Hagerty.ca.

NEW PRODUCT SHOWCASE Diablosport Tuning Available for 2014 Corvette Stingray

CS600-S Remote Starters Kit from Compustar Compustar’s CS600-S kits are an all-in-one bundle that includes all necessary components to install a remote starter on your vehicle. The kit features a bypass module, two remote transmitters and a remote starter.

The system has a range of up to 1,000 feet (305 metres) and can be set to automatically start at a certain time or temperature. Additionally, Compustar starters do work on vehicles that have diesel engines.

For more information please go to www.compustar.com

Diablosport is proud to be one of the first manufacturers to offer tuning options to owners of the new 2014 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray. Available in both the inTune handheld tuner and Trinity dashboard programmer, Diablosports C7 Corvette tuning features pre-loaded tunes for both 93 and 91 octane tunes as well as an industry-first throttle boost adjustment. Other adjustable parameters of the Stingray when using Diablosport tuning are speedometer calibrations, shift points, and rev limiter adjustments just to name a few.

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Kumho I’Zen KW27 Winter Tires Kumho’s I’zen KW27 winter tires are able to achieve maximum performance thanks to three-dimensional sipes that also improve traction on snowy or icy roads.

The tires are made from a compound with higher silica content when compared to summer tires to keep it flexible in lower temperatures. They also feature an asymmetric pattern that provides them with outstanding grip which allows for more stable cornering during the winter. The I’Zen KW27 comes in a variety of sizes including tires for wheel sizes 15inch to 19-inch.

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NEW PRODUCT SHOWCASE Clarion NX604 Multimedia Station The new Clarion NX604 features built-in Navigation with exclusive Intelligent Voice technology, powered by Google. All you have to do is talk to the NX604 and ask it what you want, and Intelligent Voice does the rest. You can say “I want pizza,” “I have a flat tire” or “find me a four-star hotel” and Intelligent Voice will search the Google database for a destination and plan you a route – it just doesn’t get easier. Additionally, the system has realistic 3D-rendered maps and landmarks to even further assist you in arriving at your destination.

For more information please go to www.clarion.com

Surf City Garage’s New Enthusiast-Grade Black Edge Line Surf City Garage has recently announced its new line of EnthusiastGrade Black Edge products that are formulated to work exclusively well with black and dark cars. Surf City credits the inspiration of the new line to the most expensive wax ever offered by the company, Diablo Negra which cost $12,500. All products in the Black Edge line feature quality formulas and ingredients, partnered with outstanding longevity and protection, to ensure your car is getting the best possible treatment.

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All-New Lingenfelter Supercharger Upgrade Kit for 2009-2014 Cadillac CTS-V Lingenfelter Engineering is proud to show off its latest offering for owners of 2009-2014 Cadillac CTS-V - an all-new Supercharger Upgrade Kit. The kit comes complete with everything you need to get your Cadillac north of 700 horsepower, which is a gain of over 140 horsepower.

Some of the components that are included in the kit are Lingenfelter’s CNC-Ported LSA Cylinder heads, an LS GT9 Hydraulic roller camshaft, and a Supercharger Upper Pulley kit, just to name a few. The only thing the package doesn’t have is the ECU programming which is available for separate purchase.

For more information please go to www.lingenfelter.com

Eibach Springs Anti-Roll Kit for FR-S/BRZ Eibach Springs Anti-Roll Kit for 2013 and newer Scion/Subaru FR-S/BRZ will allow the critical

fine tuning of your vehicle’s handling characteristics. The kits are designed to reduce body roll by using stiffer bars than the OEM examples.

This will immediately result in improved handling and cornering grip in any situation. The bars are manufactured from tubular high-strength aircraft-grade steel and come finished with a long-lasting red powdercoat finish. The kit comes with all necessary mounting hardware and features a bolt-on installation that requires no drilling.

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, did we mention, our products FIT LIKE A GLOVE.

800.858.5634

StampedeAutomotiveAccessories.com

For more information please go to www.performance-suspension.eibach.com RPM Feb / Mar 2014 53

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Parting Shots is where we share those photos that defy classification. If you’ve seen something fourwheeled (or otherwise) that you would like to share, please send it to partingshots@rpmcanada.ca

Clearly this guy plays by his own rules.

It’s a car, no it’s a boat, no... it’s both.

Why spend money customizing your car when you could do it yourself?

54 RPM Feb / Mar 2014

Well at least they won’t have very far to go to make a claim.