09.2020
COVER STORY
LAND ROVER DEFERNDER How the vehicle we now know as Defender has changed over 70 years
2020 HAS BEEN A YEAR THAT HISTORY WILL NEVER FORGET. Amongst the many things that happened and the whole world coming to a stand still, we have seen the automobile industry grow tremendiously with many concept cars released and new models hit the road too. It is also when OVERTAKE hits the ground running with this first issue of our monthly magazine. We are confident that you will like what we have in store for you in this one and also in the next editions to come.
Ezekiel Mwololo FOUNDER, OVERTAKE MAGAZINE
enjoy!
COVER STORY
FOCUS
LAND ROVER DEFENDER With the reveal of the 2020 Land Rover Defender, the first ground-up re design in the British off-roader’s history, we wanted to take a look back at the rugged SUV’s roots to show just how big a step this new model takes for the storied Defender nameplate.
WRC TOYOTA YARIS Packing 380 HORSEPOWER, The new Yaris WRC is built to win
SPANISH SUPERCAR Spania GTA company has decided to build a Spanish supercar after 15 years of experience in various leagues with Spania Gta competicion.
ENGINE MAINTENANCE TIPS An engine is like the heart of a car. It needs to run smooth in order to keep your car moving. I can’t emphasize more on how important it is to keep the engine fit and functioning efficiently.
LAMBORGHINI Lamborghini’s success enabled him to purchase a variety of luxury sports cars, including a Ferrari, considered one of the top cars of the time. After experiencing mechanical difficulties with his Ferrari, Lamborghini decided to start his own rival sports car company
With the reveal of the 2020 Land Rover Defender, the first ground-up redesign in the British off-roader’s history, we wanted to take a look back at the rugged SUV’s roots to show just how big a step this new model takes for the storied Defender nameplate. Take a look at how the Defender and its predecessors have changed over the years in the galleries below.
How the vehicle we now know as Defender has changed over 70 years
LAND ROVER SERIES II (1958-1971) The Series II made its debut 10 years later in 1958. Its exterior design featured the same inboard headlights and boxy profile as the Series I but added a pronounced shoulder line running the length of the vehicle. Options like door cards and side mirrors were available for the first time. LAND ROVER SERIES III (1971-1985) In 1971, Land Rover released the Series III. Headlights were moved away from the grille out to the fenders, which easily differentiated the Series III from its predecessors. Land Rover added synchros to the manual transmission and moved the gauges in front of the steering wheel from their former home in the center of the dash. A V-8-powered model was introduced in 1979. Because of the V-8’s larger dimensions, Land Rover pushed the grille forward and flush with the front fenders, giving the SUV’s front end the shape that would define it for the next three decades. LAND ROVER 90 AND 110 (1983-1990) That design carried over to the Land Rover One-Ten and Land Rover Ninety (later badged 110 and 90), introduced in 1983. This marked the first time a Land Rover utilized the coil-spring suspension from the Range Rover to replace the old cars’ archaicleaf-spring design. Various quality-of-life improvements like a more comfortable interior and modernized engine lineup made tremendous strides in on-road driving manners LAND ROVER DEFENDER (1990-2016) The Defender name finally came to life in 1990, following the introduction of the Land Rover Discovery in 1989. Land Rover wanted to distinguish its original workhorse from the new model. The Defender was sold in the U.S. from 1993 to 1997. It was effectively the same vehicle as the 110 and the 90, and remained largely unchanged beyond updated powertrains and special edition models until 2007, at which point it received an interior redesign. The last Defender rolled off the production line in January of 2016.
LAND ROVER SERIES I (1948-1958) The Rover Company had a problem after the second World War. Europe was in shambles and there wasn’t much demand for the sort of luxury cars Rover had made in the past. Inspired by the Willys Jeep, they developed the first Land Rover, an agriculturally focused four-wheel-drive truck with a steel frame and an aluminum body. It entered production in 1948 and what would come to be known as the Land Rover Series I was born. It was offered in various configurations that differed in wheelbase, door count, and body style.
LAND ROVER DEFENDER L663 (2020- ) At long last, Land Rover has given the Defender a total redesign for the 2020 model year. Dubbed L663, the new Defender rides on an aluminum-intensive unibody platform based on the one underpinning the Range Rover, Range Rover Sport, and Land Rover Discovery. It also does away with the traditional live-axle suspension in favor of an independent multi-link setup front and rear. Despite these massive changes, Land Rover is adamant that the Defender remains a capable off-roader. Can it live up to the legacy of its go-anywhere ancestors though? We can’t wait to find out.
LAND ROVER DEFENDER 2020 INTERIOR Front head room 41 “ Rear head room 40 “ Front shoulder room 61 “ Rear shoulder room 59 “ Front leg room 39.1 “ Rear leg room 39.1 “ Luggage capacity 34.0 Cu.Ft. Maximum cargo capacity 78.8 Cu.Ft. Standard seating 5 EXTERIOR Length 197.6 “ Body width 79.1 “ Body height 77.4 “ Wheelbase 119.0 “ Ground clearance 5.8 “ Curb 4,815 Lbs. Gross weight 7,055 Lbs. FUEL Fuel tank capacity 23.8 Gal. EPA mileage estimates 17 City / 20 Hwy PERFORMANCE Base engine size 2.0 Liters Base engine type I-4 Horsepower 296 Hp Horsepower rpm 5,500 Torque 295 Lb-Ft. Torque rpm 1,500 Maximum towing capacity 7,716 Lbs. Drive type Four-Wheel
Turning radius
21.0 ‘’
DURABILITY Featuring our toughest materials yet and tested to its very limits. Defender has been designed for optimum durability. DESIGN This is design with undoubted integrity. And unrivalled purpose.
CAPABILITY Capable by nature. Defender can handle extreme terrains and confidently takes you from the urban jungle, to shifting sands and icy environments.
IN-CAR TECHNOLOGY Equipped for 21st century adventures, our most intuitive technologies to date ensure convenience, connectivity and visibility.
PACKING 380 HORSEPOWER, THE NEW YARIS WRC IS BUILT TO WIN The Toyota Yaris WRC is a new generation rally car tuned to near perfection in compliance with the 2017 FIA World Rally Car Technical Regulations. Under the hood, its 1.6-liter direct injection turbo engine growls with 380 horsepower plus.
WITH SIX VICTORIES, THE YARIS WRC IS THE MOST SUCCESSFUL RALLY CAR OF 2019 World Rally Cars are developed to compete at the highest level of WRC rallies. World Rally Cars are heavily modified in order to achieve maximum performance, but they are based on production cars. Since they are extensions of production cars, they are fitted with license plates and are able to drive on public roads. WRC introduced World Rally Car regulations for the first time in 1997, and have implemented several updates since. World Rally Cars are equipped with 1.6-liter direct-injection turbocharged engines, and all cars—including the Yaris WRC—make use of inline four-cylinder engines mounted in a transverse position. In order to limit output, cars are fitted with air restrictors measuring 36 millimeters in diameter. Nevertheless, the cars are capable of producing maximum outputs of more than 380 horsepower, and maximum torques of more than 425 newton metres. These impressive horsepower and torque values are efficiently transmitted to all four wheels via forward six-speed sequential semi-automatic gearboxes fitted with active center differential full-time four-wheel-drive systems. In addition, the cars are equipped with dedicated aero parts that provide high driving stability, such as overfenders for increased width and large rear wings.
Drawing on three seasons of experience to improve overall performance The Yaris WRC was developed according to World Rally Car regulations. It boasts outstanding engine performance, an intelligent four-wheel-drive system, suspension that provides superb traction, and consummate aerodynamic performance. As a result, the Yaris WRC is capable of driving on various roads across the world safely and at high speeds. Since its debut in 2017, the Yaris WRC’s engine, aerodynamics, suspension, and other components have undergone numerous updates, and the car’s performance has, as a consequence, steadily improved year after year. In 2018, the Yaris WRC won the manufacturer’s championship, and followed this up with success in the driver’s and co-driver’s championships in 2019. The 2020 edition of the Yaris WRC will be based on the 2019 model, incorporating upgrades to various parts. In particular, the team has sought both to make the car lighter and to further improve the performance of its engine. Three kinds of tires to match road conditions In racing, ideal tire size depends on whether the car is driving on gravel or on tarmac. Generally, 15-inch tires are used for gravel while 18-inch tires are used for tarmac. The number of tires that can be used for each championship event is regulated by the event, and the question of when to change tires is a key racing strategy.
Gravel
Tarmac
Snow
Specifications and equipment differ depending on the specific competition or special stage Vehicle specifications and settings change for every competition. Depending on whether the rally is held on gravel, snow, or tarmac, not only the tires but also parts such as the brakes and suspension need to be changed. For rallies held on smooth tarmac, the vehicle height should be kept to a minimum, however on rough gravel rally roads, the car should be higher to avoid contact with the road surface. Also, to accommodate changing road conditions including rain, settings such as the suspension and power train are adjusted as needed. For night driving, visibility is enhanced by installing an auxiliary light source on the hood called a light pod.
Vehicle height for gravel
Work at the service park is a battle against time While circuit races have pit stops, at rallies servicing and repairs are performed at the service park. Once the competition begins, the time allotted for servicing is limited to just 15 minutes in the morning prior to the race, 30 minutes during the day, and 45 minutes at night. In Spain, rallies include both gravel and tarmac roads. Because major adjustments are required to change the car’s specifications from gravel to tarmac, a special 75-minute period is allowed for the nighttime service slot. Once a vehicle has been serviced at night, it is parked in a garage called the “Parc Fermé,” where no further servicing is permitted until the next morning.
VEHICLE SPECS
ENGINE Engine type In-line 4-cylinder turbo, direct injection Engine displacement 1600 cc Maximum power Over 380 PS Maximum torque Over 425 Nm Bore / stroke 83.8 mm / 72.5 mm Air restrictor 36 mm, following FIA regulations Transmission Gearbox 6 Speed hydraulic shift Gearbox final drive 4 wheel drive, 2 x mechanical differentials, active center differential with torque split options. Clutch Double Plate Sintered Clutch CHASSIS / SUSPENSION Front / rear Macpherson Suspension travel Classified Steering Hydraulic Rack and Pinion Braking system Gravel 300 mm air and liquid cooled, Tarmac 370 mm air and liquid cooled DIMENSION AND WEIGHT Length /width /height 4085 mm (inc. aero device) / 1875 mm / adjustable Track width Adjustable Wheelbase 2511 mm Minimum weight 1190 kg
Vehicle height for tarmac
PERFORMANCE Acceleration Top speed
Classified 201 kph (Ratio Specific)
MAR 14, 2020 OGIER SCORES HIS FIRST VICTORY IN THE TOYOTA YARIS WRC
Light pods
GTA Motor G
Spania GTA company has decided to bu experience in various leagues Body style: Cou Segmen
GTA Spano
uild a Spanish supercar after 15 years of with Spania Gta competicion. upĂŠ (two-door) nt: Exotic
Spania GTA company has decided to build a Spanish supercar after 15 years of experience in various leagues with Spania Gta competicion. Their first product was the 2012 GTA Spano. The prototype was shown at the 2010 Top Marques Monaco event. But it took another three years to finish the production model. While the prototype was equipped with an 8.3-liter V10 engine from the Dodge Viper. But it wasn’t all. Usually, the production model is not as good as the prototype. With the Spano, it was different. The car impressed with its look. There were two large air-scoops on the front bumper. The sculpted side of the vehicle showed additional intake air vents for the mid-placed engine. And it was a big, Dodge Viper V10 engine stuck under the rear hood. The bodywork was built entirely with carbon fiber, titanium, and Kevlar. For the interior, the GTA Spano featured bucket-seats covered in Alcantara. The main interior colors were dominated by the carbon-fiber grey and gold on the center console. The yellow rings around the dials from the instrument cluster completed the look. Under the hood, the Geneva model featured a new engine, also taken from the Dodge Viper, but upgraded at 900 hp due to a supercharger and it was mated to a 7-speed dual-clutch gearbox.
GTA Motor officially launched the production version of GTA Spano at the 2012 Geneva International Motor Show. The main innovations included in this car compared to the prototype version, which debuted a year before at the same Swiss trade fair, lie in its exterior design. Production model introduces new components, such as front and side air intakes, a front bonnet, rear-view mirrors and a door-opening system. At the rear, we find lots of innovative aspects, such as a new large-sized diffuser, which confer it a more modern and aggressive look, among others technical innovations.
10 ENGINE MAINTENANCE TIPS
#1. CHANGE ENGINE OIL AT REGULAR INTERVALS This is the least you can do. The engine oil keeps all moving parts well lubricated so that wear and tear is minimal. Also, it traps all the dust, dirt, and sediments, keeping them out of places they shouldn’t be. Check oil levels every month and top up if the level is low. Oil grade and change intervals are subject to the manufacturer’s recommendations. The oil filter is equally important as it filters all the junk from the oil and stops regulation back into the engine. This will ensure that you engine runs smooth and cool. #2. KEEP CHECK ON THE COOLING SYSTEM Even though we have come a long way in terms of efficiency of a car engine, a lot of energy is lost during combustion in the form of heat. Metals and alloys, which your car engine is made out of, are not very good friends with heat. Always ensure there is ample coolant in the tank as it is very important for heat dissipation. A 1:1 ratio of coolant and distilled water is ideal. Also, it’s a good thing to look at the engine temp gauge on a hot sunny day and shut your car down in case it’s close to overheating. #3. LET IT BREATHE Short of breath? Feeling tired? Your car’s engine needs oxygen as much as you do. A constricted air flow can cause the fuel to not burn completely, in turn increasing emissions and reducing mileage. Check the air filter and get it cleaned/ changed whenever you feel there is too much dirt and debris stuck to it. Your engine needs to breathe properly to function well and keep going. #4. LOOK FOR LEAKS When you pull out of the driveway, stop and look at the parking spot for any fluids on the ground. If the fuel is leaking, you should visit the nearest mechanic and get it checked. You can also check under the hood to see or smell something leaking. Engine oil and antifreeze are fluids you should look out for when checking for leaks. #5. DON’T KEEP GOING ON RESERVE FUEL Petrol contains sediments which settle at the bottom of your tank. Years of running and there will be definitely a layer of crap which shouldn’t reach the engine. Running on low fuel pulls this junk into the fuel pump which could cause a lot of wear. Instead of just praying it doesn’t reach the engine, top up your tank and save yourself repair/ replacement cost of the fuel filter and pump.
#6. CHECK YOUR BELTS Rubber belts are essential links to keep everything in tune when an engine runs. If you hear a squeal coming from under the hood, it is time to replace them. You should check your belts for cracks and signs of wear even though they last a long time. But if they break while the engine is running, it can cause serious damage to engine components, “expensive engine components” #7. DON’T IGNORE THE CHECK ENGINE LIGHT This light is your car’s subtle scream for help. Never ignore this and immediately get the car inspected by your local mechanic. It’s basically a self-diagnosis which is put in place to protect your engine. It’s not necessarily serious every time but you’ll never know unless you get it checked. #8. REPLACE YOUR FUEL FILTER It’s similar to the oil filter but filters out junk from the fuel, prohibiting entry into the combustion chamber. A new filter means free flow of clean fuel to the fuel pump and engine. This ensures there is less build-up inside the engine and its thirst for fuel is quenched. #9. REPLACE SPARK PLUGS AND WIRES The spark plug acts as a fire starter. It ignites the air-fuel mixture in the cylinders and requires little maintenance owing to its long life span. Regular maintenance will ensure that the engine retains its spark. At times, they don’t even need replacement. Some cleaning can be of great help as a lot of soot gets accumulated around the electrode over time. #10. YOUR ENGINE DOESN’T LIKE REVVING JUST TO COME TO A COMPLETE HALT Engines are engineered to run at constant speed. This is when they perform the best. Too much variation in the revs tires it out and this takes a toll. City driving, where you constantly move and come to a stop is really hard on the engine. Try not to rev too hard. Instead, be sure footed and don’t over-accelerate when you know you have to stop again. Try sticking to the highway whenever possible. This will give you better mileage (now you know why driving on the highway results in less fuel consumption) and keep that engine running for longer.
These checks should keep your engine healthy and save you a lot of money in repairs/ replacement/ maintenance. The engine is the most expensive and complex part of your car. It demands good care and will return the favor by fetching a good resale value when you plan to sell your car.
in history On April 28, 1916, Ferruccio Lamborghini, the founder of the company that bears his name and is known for stylish, high-performance cars, is born in Italy. After World War II, Lamborghini founded a business making tractors from reconfigured surplus military machines, near Bologna, Italy. He later expanded into other ventures, including manufacturing air-conditioning and heating systems, and grew rich. Lamborghini’s success enabled him to purchase a variety of luxury sports cars, including a Ferrari, considered one of the top cars of the time. After experiencing mechanical difficulties with his Ferrari, Lamborghini decided to start his own rival sports car company, even hiring a former top Ferrari engineer. Automobili Lamborghini was officially established in 1963 in Sant’Agata Bolognese, Italy, and the same year debuted its first car, the Lamborghini 350 GTV, a two-seater coupe with a V12 engine.
The company’s logo featured a bull, a reference to Ferruccio Lamborghini’s zodiac sign, Taurus the bull. Various Lamborghini models had names related to bulls or bullfighting, including the Miura (named for Don Eduardo Miura, a breeder of fighting bulls), a mid-engine sports car that was released in mid-1960s and gained Lamborghini an international following among car enthusiasts and a reputation for prestige and cutting-edge design. In the early 1970s, Lamborghini’s tractor business experienced problems and he eventually sold his interest in his sports car business and retired to his vineyard. Automobili Lamborghini changed hands several times and in the late 1990s was purchased by German automaker Volkswagen. The company continued to build high-performance cars, including the Murcielago (capable of going over 200 mph) and the Gallardo. Ferruccio Lamborghini died on February 20, 1993, at the age of 76.