Automotive Press
LIMITED EDITION RED BULL MEGANE SET TO FLY
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Automotive Press
LIMITED EDITION RED BULL MEGANE SET TO FLY Looking to break records? Mégane Re‐ naultsport Red Bull Racing RB8 is shod as standard with the same Cup chassis and Bridgestone tyres that helped Mégane Renaultsport 265 Trophy to es‐ tablish a new lap record for the Nürbur‐ gring. ese high-performance tyres are fitted to exclusive 19-inch gloss black ‘Steev’ alloy wheels with platinum coloured rims.
springs, dampers and anti-roll bar, a lim‐ ited slip differential, grooved discs with red Brembo front callipers and the po‐ tent two-litre-turbocharged 265hp en‐ gine with Stop&Start and trademark Re‐ naultsport technologies. Visit www.renault.co.uk for more infor‐ mation and to order now.
Advanced on-board technology : Re‐ nault R-Link and Renaultsport Monitor v2.0
• Limited edition Mégane Renault‐ sport Red Bull Racing RB8 on sale now, priced £28,245 on-the-road • Only 30 of the cars celebrating Re‐ nault and Red Bull Racing’s third For‐ mula 1 Constructors’ world title avail‐ able in the UK • New flagship hot hatch inspired by Red Bull Racing’s Formula 1 identity with exclusive Twilight Blue finish and Platinum detailing • Additional equipment includes Red Bull Racing branding, Recaro front seats, R-Link Multimedia system and TomTom Live navigation system, Bridge‐ stone Potenza RE050A tyres (from the 265 Trophy), plus the latest on-board Renaultsport Monitor v2.0 e Mégane Renaultsport is already hailed by many as the ultimate hot hatch, so the arrival of a new Formula One in‐ spired and Red Bull Racing-branded limited edition is set to ensure it flies even more than the standard model. e Formula 1 World Championship winning partners have again joined forces by making just 30 Mégane Re‐ naultsport Red Bull Racing RB8s avail‐ able to the UK market, priced at £28,245 on-the-road. e flagship Mégane Renaultsport takes its inspiration from Red Bull Racing’s Formula 1 identity, featuring an exclu‐
sive Twilight Blue finish with Platinum Grey detail. Packed with cutting edge technology, the only thing missing is wings. e striking hot hatch includes Recaro seats, R-Link Multimedia system and TomTom Live navigation system, Bridgestone Potenza RE050A tyres, plus the latest on-board Renaultsport Monitor v2.0. e exciting opportunity to own just one of 30 destined for the UK follows hot on the heels of the first images and details of Renault’s 2014 Formula One engine, the 1.6-litre V6 turbocharged Energy F1-2014, unveiled at the Paris Air Show. Renault and Red Bull Racing this year celebrated their third Formula 1 Con‐ structors’ world title and the new Mégane looks another sure-fire winner. e exclusive Twilight Blue finish takes its inspiration directly from the race team’s famous colours, while Red Bull Racing graphics at the rear and on the sides are further tell-tale hallmarks of this limited edition car. In addition to its sporty credentials, it stands out as partic‐ ularly elegant, too, thanks to exterior Platinum details (F1 blade, door handles, door mirror housing and rear lip spoiler) which contrast with the strik‐ ing Twilight Blue paintwork. Last but not least, a monochrome laurel on the rear side windows celebrates the team’s 2012 Constructors’ world title. Inside, the new limited edition version comes with a number of exclusive fea‐ tures, including Red Bull Racing brand‐ ing on the numbered aluminium kick‐ plates and carpet mats. e same logo appears on the headrests of the Recaro front seats which are trimmed in a new leather/fabric upholstery.
is limited edition version marks the availability of the built-in, connected RLink multimedia tablet for the Mégane Renaultsport range. e system’s six functions (navigation, telephony, multi‐ media, vehicle information, system set‐ tings and R-Link Store applications cata‐ logue) are controlled using either the touch screen display, the voice command function or the joystick situated on the centre console. Along with R-Link, there is now also the latest version of Renaultsport Monitor which fans of sporty driving will particu‐ larly appreciate. Owners will no longer need to choose between using the navi‐ gation or on-board telemetry systems thanks to the fact that the TomTom Live navigation system is built-in.
LONDON TO BRIGHTON VETERAN CAR RUN: A NEW CHALLENGE
New for Renaultsport Monitor 2.0: A new, more user-friendly and intuitive interface which uses R-Link’s seven-inch colour display • GPS tracked lap timing • Special Red Bull Racing home page • Certain information displayed in 3D form • Data can be saved on a USB stick • Plus the usual real-time access to power output data, 0-62 mph times, GForce diagram, etc. A Mégane Renaultsport first and fore‐ most e limited edition version packs the same fundamental features as Mégane Renaultsport 265 Cup, including stiffer
For the first time in its 117-year history, the 2013 London to Brighton Veteran Car Run will have a competitive element. e London to Brighton Veteran Car Run is not a race, but is certainly a chal‐ lenge. For the hundreds of hardy drivers at the wheel – or sometimes the tiller – of their pioneering motorcars, the only aim is to cover the 60 miles from London’s Hyde Park to Brighton’s Madeira Drive with‐ out mishap. For most participants, mere‐ ly arriving at Brighton is sufficient re‐ ward. But this year, for the first time ever on the Run, jointly sponsored by Tindle Newspapers and Bonhams, there will be winners. e Royal Automobile Club is
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turn out to enjoy a genuine and free to view spectacle.
SUMMER TOURING WITH SHARK
And, in line with tradition, the event takes place as close as possible to the date of the original 1896 run. Whilst the weather may be capricious, it does pro‐ duce the most splendid display of motor‐ ing apparel as many drivers and passen‐ gers dress in period clothing to comple‐ ment their cars.
delighted to announce that a Regularity Trial will be included in the world’s greatest celebration of the first pioneer‐ ing motorists. A Regularity Trial demands that entrants maintain a specific average speed over the event, with penalties for arriving at the finish, or at one of the secret inter‐ mediate time control points, too early or too late. Competitors can choose a specific time to aim at: three hours equates to a 20mph average, but they can opt to take four, five or even six hours, with the lat‐ ter time equating to a 10mph average
e special weekend now also features the Regent Street Motor Show on Satur‐ day 2 November, which now hosts the world’s premier Concours d’Elegance for veteran cars adding to the wonderfully nostalgic experience for both partici‐ pants and spectators. With its unique atmosphere and cama‐ raderie, the Run (staged specifically as a non-profit making veneration) com‐ memorates the Emancipation Run of 14 November 1896, which celebrated the Locomotives on the Highway Act. e Act raised the speed limit for ‘light loco‐ motives’ from 4 to 14mph, and abolished the need for these vehicles to be preced‐ ed by a man on foot waving a red flag. e Emancipation Run was first re-en‐ acted in 1927 and has taken place every November since, with the exception of the war years and 1947 when petrol was rationed. e Royal Automobile Club has managed the run with the support of the Veteran Car Club since 1930 and moved the start to Hyde Park in 1936 – this year will be the 77th Anniversary of that move.
is summer, adventure out on the open road with a SHARK Vision-R GT Car‐ bon. New for 2013 the Vision – R GT Carbon is an updated model of the pop‐ ular Vision – R. Specifically designed with touring in mind the Vision – R GT Carbon offers the greatest panoramic aperture available on the market, similar to that of an open-faced helmet. Compared with a standard visor, the Vision – R GT Car‐ bon gives 25% more vertical vision and 10% more horizontal vision. Lightweight, the Vision – R GT Carbon
weighs just 1,390 grams due to its Car‐ bon/Aramid fibre construction. For su‐ perb comfort there is a removable natu‐ ral bamboo fibre interior and to ensure the perfect fit, it has inflatable cheek pads. e Vision – R GT Carbon is Pinlock ready and has an integrated anti-scratch sun visor. For spectacle wearers it has SHARK’s ‘Easy Fit’ glasses system, where the glasses sides sit easily inside a parti‐ tion of the helmet. e Vision – R GT Carbon is available in SHARK dealers across the country in a variety of colours and in sizes XS-XL. Prices start from £349.99 - £389.99. For more information on SHARK prod‐ ucts and to find your nearest stockist vis‐ it www.nevis.uk.com or call 01425 478936.
speed. For each minute under the target time, two penalty points will be imposed with one point imposed for each minute over the nominated time. Winners will be the cars with the fewest penalty points in each of the four time classes. Ben Cussons, Chairman of the VCR Steering Group, said: “e Steering Group is committed to evolving the event and adding value and involvement for the participants. We are restricting the Trial to 150 entries for the first year as it is a new initiative.” e 2013 Veteran Car Run, which takes places on Sunday 3 November, will at‐ tract as many as 500 automobiles from the dawn of motoring. As the longest running motoring event in the world, it is no surprise that 500,000 onlookers
STUNNING G-CLASS “IRON MOUNTAIN” TO APPEAR AT MERCEDES-BENZ WORLD THIS SUMMER An exhilarating 4x4 passenger ride is coming to the UK for the first time as part of the biggest summer ever at Mer‐ cedes-Benz World. From 29 July, for 10 days only, visitors to the Mercedes-Benz brand experience centre in Weybridge, Surrey, will be able to take a 100% climb up a man-made
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Automotive Press
MX-5 is the automotive equivalent of a double espresso. Near-telepathic steering and handling make other cars (even some sportscars) feel woolly and dull by comparison. You can pick-up a decent used MX-5 for just £1,500. We suggest you do.” Demonstrating the excellent reliability for which the Mazda brand is famed, other Mazda models also scored well in the Which? survey. Mazda3 was rated as 91.9 percent reliable and topped the ta‐ ble for medium cars (over three years old), generating the comment: “e Mazda3 costs owners less in annual re‐ pair bills than the majority of new cars that are still within their three-year war‐ ranty period.” “iron mountain”, tackle a mid-air seesaw and experience a gripping 45 degree descent back down to earth as passen‐ gers in the breathtaking G-Class Vertical Experience. e G-Class is the most rugged car in the Mercedes-Benz lineup, but in reality, few people ever get the chance to experi‐ ence it being pushed to its limits. But that’s about to change. Mercedes-Benz engineers used their ex‐ pertise to devise as many ways as possi‐ ble to test and challenge the formidable off-roader to ensure that it continues its legacy of being able to conquer any ter‐ rain. at’s why they created the G-Class Vertical Experience. Built to replicate a mountain near the Graz plant in Austria where the G-Class is tested all year round, this immense man-made iron structure provides one of the most extreme tests possible. From 29 July until 8 August, visitors to Mercedes-Benz World can experience every thrilling inch of this extreme test for themselves and discover what it feels like to drive a 4x4 vehicle 10 metres up into the air. G-Class Vertical Experience passenger rides cost £10 per person and are avail‐ able to purchase on the day of your visit at the Information Desk. Alternatively, when you redeem an adult or Under 16s
Driving Experience they cost just £5 per person. e G-Class Vertical Experience is just one of the many new attractions and ex‐ hibitions in the biggest summer ever at Mercedes-Benz World. e whole family can see the Stars and their Cars new celebrity exhibition, then watch the Silver Arrows Display Team put on a breathtaking performance of awe-inspiring performance driving,be‐ fore experiencing their skills for real with a thrilling Silver Arrows Hot Lap.
Youngsters can enjoy their first drive in a miniature Mercedes-Benz at the indoor Little Learners area and Mum and Dad can treat themselves to a thrilling AMG or 4x4 off-road Driving Experience. ere are Under 16s Driving Experi‐ ences and lots to keep the whole family entertained. So if you’re looking for something new to do this summer, take the whole family to Mercedes-Benz World and enjoy a great day out with lots to see and do, plus free entry every day. For more information or to book Driv‐ ing Experiences, visit www.mercedesbenzworld.co.uk or call 0870 400 4000.
MAZDA MX-5 NAMED ‘MOST RELIABLE NEW SPORTSCAR’ BY WHICH? • 2013 Which? Car Survey reveals that Mazda MX-5 is UK’s most reliable new sportscar • Mazda MX-5 praised by magazine as the ‘automotive equivalent of a double espresso’ • Mazda3, Mazda6 Estate and Maz‐ da2 score more than 90 percent for relia‐ bility e Mazda MX-5 has been named as ‘Britain’s most reliable new sportscar’ in the 2013 Which? Car Survey – the biggest survey of car satisfaction and re‐ liability conducted in the UK. Achieving a reliability score of 97.4 per‐ cent (for models up to three years old) and 91.1 percent (models over three years old) the Mazda MX-5 beat a host of rivals to claim first and second places in the age-related categories – while earning high praise from the Which? edi‐ torial team. “For a sportscar that will last for years and won’t cost a fortune in repairs, head to your local Mazda garage. e MX-5 has the lowest number of faults and no annual repair costs in the first three years,” states Which? For MX-5 models between 1998-2005 the magazine comments: “e Mazda
e Mazda6 Estate placed second in the Estate cars (up to three years old) catego‐ ry scoring 97.2 percent, while the Maz‐ da2 ranked fih among Superminis with a 96.4 percent score. Overall, the Mazda brand was ranked by the Which? team as equal-ninth out of 31 alongside Volkswagen in its Best Car Brands section, which merges the staff ’s road-test opinions with the Car Survey results. e magazine stated: “It looks like you can’t go wrong if you buy a new Mazda.” Jeremy omson, Mazda UK managing director, commented: “e 2013 Which? Car Survey findings are a wonderful en‐ dorsement of our products and our brand. I’m sure that our all-new Mazda6 and Mazda CX-5 compact SUV with their innovative SKYACTIV technology will claim top rankings in future Which? surveys. Meanwhile the iconic MX-5 is still winning friends more than two decades aer its introduction, recently being nominated as ‘Best Convertible‘ by Carsite.co.uk and earning the title ‘Most Popular Roadster‘ in the Honest John Awards earlier this year.“ Compiled annually, the 2013 Which? Car Survey was based on information sup‐ plied by more than 47,000 drivers relat‐ ing to over 57,000 cars.
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THE GETAWAY CARS: MINI UNVEILS THREE NEW OVERNIGHT SOLUTIONS FOR THE WEEKEND WARRIOR
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Automotive Press
kind a television can provide entertain‐ ment and chilly mornings can be made more comfortable thanks to an auxiliary heater. A particular highlight is the Clubvan Camper’s roof. e small glass panel can be opened for ventilation or star-gazing, while the storage rack above means own‐ ers can travel with equipment for out‐ door pursuits. Hygiene is always a key part of any weekend away and MINI’s ingenious de‐ sign engineers have even got that cov‐ ered. e Camper’s generous specifica‐ tion also includes an integrated handheld shower, with a water tank housed underneath the load floor. e trio each reflect different aspects of the rise in popularity of camping and festivals, creating a choice of premium home-from-home options for the enthu‐ siastic traveller. • e MINI Clubvan Camper is the world’s smallest luxury camper van, packed with practical solutions that make it ideal accommodation for an in‐ dividual on a weekend away. • e MINI Cowley is a compact yet comfortable caravan for two people, equipped with a twin-ring gas stove, fridge and sink.
e cars have been developed around the ‘maximum touring pleasure with minimal footprint’ philosophy, and illus‐
Styled with typical MINI flair, the
ey have been created as concept vehi‐ cles to showcase the depth of the MINI range, as well as the creativity and skill within the company’s design and engi‐ neering staff. ere are no plans to offer them as production vehicles at this stage. e MINI Clubvan Camper: good things come in small packages e freedom of the open road, a dynam‐ ic driving experience and everything you
e pleasure that millions of caravanners around the world enjoy is the ability to stop and stay anyway in comfort and safety. Now it’s possible to do that MINIstyle with the Cowley caravan.
All three models have been styled with MINI’s much-loved design cues to the fore. ey display the character and fun personality which motorists have come to associate with MINI, and which have made the brand such a global success.
e Cowley caravan is a luxurious overnight solution and all the mod cons are fitted, including two comfortable sleeping berths, a twin-burner gas stove and a water tank complete with pump and sink facility. A solar module charges the on-board battery and there’s a 230volt connection to power the fridge, TV/ DVD and audio equipment.
trate the principle of creative space utili‐ sation for which MINI is renowned.
e MINI Cowley: a new style bench‐ mark in compact towing
• e MINI Countryman ALL4 Camp with its innovative roof-top tent is the getaway car for an adventurous cou‐ ple, evoking images of African safari and expedition vehicles.
e compact tourer has been named af‐ ter the historic factory – today known as Plant Oxford – which is home to much of the current MINI range. It was also where the classic BMC/Austin Mini was built and is this year celebrating a cente‐ nary of car manufacturing.
need with you – the MINI Clubvan Camper has it all. It’s arguably the world's smallest luxury camper van, a MINI Clubvan which has been transformed into a versatile home on wheels. Behind the solid side win‐ dows there is a spacious sleeping berth for one person, plus a small, extendible kitchenette complete with propane stove and chest fridge. On-board facilities includes the MINI Navigation Portable XL sat-nav, which will help drivers find their way to the most remote spots. If the weather is un‐
teardrop-shaped trailer is a genuine head-turner. In silhouette it’s reminis‐ cent of the curved lines of the MINI panels, and the doors have sliding win‐ dows on both sides – a standard feature in the classic Mini up to 1969. e sumptuously trimmed veehicle is only 12 centimetres wider than a MINI Club‐ man including exterior mirrors and
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weighs just under 300 kg. With exceptional manoeuvrability, the MINI Cowley ensures that the hallmark MINI driving fun can still be enjoyed while towing, irrespective of the distance travelled. e MINI Countryman ALL4 Camp: safari-style accommodation for the ad‐ venturous spirit Finding overnight accommodation can be a real headache, especially for drivers who have taken a spontaneous trip to a festival or beach. But there’s no need to worry about finding the perfect place to bed down when travelling in this MINI. Even when completely off the beaten track, all the owner has to do is head up‐ stairs. e innovative roof-top tent is show‐ cased above a MINI Countryman which, thanks to its intelligent all-wheel drive system ALL4, is well-suited to travelling over rough terrain. But this simple and practical sleeping solution can easily be mounted on a MINI or MINI Clubman. e upper half of the tent is simply fold‐ ed out of its storage box. Plump up the pillows and two occupants are ready to relax, then wake up to a perfect view of the ocean, mountain or valley. How about an early morning ride out to buy breakfast? It’s easily done because a mountain bike can be easily transported on the specially fitted bicycle rack.
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e roof-top tent quickly folds away into its box when it’s not needed. e exterior has been painted in Absolute Black metallic with white stripes to match the car beneath.
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WORLD’S FIRST FULL PRODUCTION FUEL CELL CARS TO ARRIVE IN THE UK
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Emission-free hydrogen powered vehi‐ cles will soon be operating in London. It is the intention that five Hyundai ix35 Fuel Cell models – the first production fuel cell cars in the world – will be an in‐ tegral part of the London Hydrogen Net‐ work Expansion (LNHE) project. Hyundai Motor, as a supplier to the LHNE project, will join the existing con‐ sortium of companies with expertise in hydrogen transport infrastructure and operation, working to establish the UK’s first hydrogen transport network cover‐ ing London and south east England. e LHNE project, a government-backed initiative co-funded by the Technology Strategy Board, will put hydrogen-fu‐ elled vehicles into daily business use and deliver the refuelling infrastructure to support their operation. ese fuel cell vehicles will be leased to key public and private fleet users in the capital. ey are among the first of 1,000 examples that Hyundai has committed to produce between now and 2015 and are built on the same production line, in Ul‐ san, Korea, as the Tucson. e majority of those 1,000 cars will be available in Europe where the European Commission has established a number of schemes, such as the Fuel Cells and Hydrogen Joint Undertaking (FCH JU), to promote the use of hydrogen as an en‐ ergy carrier with zero carbon content. With various hydrogen projects concen‐ trating on establishing hydrogen infras‐ tructure in Europe, the timing is right for hydrogen-powered vehicles to accel‐ erate the project. World’s first mass produced Fuel Cell vehicle As the first car company in the world to assembly line-produce fuel cell vehicles, Hyundai has enabled not just the real start of Europe’s Hydrogen Roadmap but also accelerated London’s plans to be‐ come one of the major hydrogen capitals of the world. For Hyundai, the philosophy behind the ix35 Fuel Cell project has been to pro‐ duce a car that offers the same practicali‐ ty, safety levels and driving experience as an ix35 driven by an internal combus‐ tion engine, but with zero tailpipe emis‐ sions. at means comparable perfor‐ mance – 100mph maximum, 0-62mph in 12.5 seconds and a range of almost 370 miles from each tank – but with no emissions: the only emission is water. Quick and easy refuelling Just as importantly, a Fuel Cell vehicle can be refilled in two to three minutes and, in use, an ix35 Fuel Cell demands no compromise from the driver.
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Although Hyundai has been developing its Fuel Cell vehicles for more than 15 years, it is only now - with the start of a viable hydrogen refuelling network in place - that it can consider putting a fuel cell car into series production. So aer a number of ‘false dawns’ for hy‐ drogen-powered cars, this time the Fuel Cell vehicle has a genuine, clear and real‐ istic future here in the UK. Much of this is down to the work of the London Hy‐ drogen Partnership and that of other projects such as the London Hydrogen Network Expansion project which is led by Air Products. With these key partners working togeth‐ er, hydrogen mobility is about to become a reality. Two hydrogen fuel stations are already open in the Capital – one of which has public access – with a third to come as part of the London Hydrogen Network Expansion (LHNE) project.
viding invaluable insights and bringing global experience to the Mayor’s innova‐ tive low carbon, low emission transport activities.” Tony Whitehorn, President and CEO of Hyundai Motor UK, said: “Hydrogen de‐ livers considerable environmental bene‐ fits and we are looking forward to work‐ ing closely with the other partners to drive forward its widespread introduc‐ tion.” e London Hydrogen Partnership has initiated more than £50 million worth of hydrogen projects already. Its partners have been involved in the implementa‐ tion of the two existing refuelling sta‐ tions, the operation of five fuel cell Lon‐ don buses which joined the Transport for London fleet in 2011, with another three to join in 2013, as well as a fleet of hydrogen iconic London taxis, fuelled by hydrogen.
Ten-fold increase in Fuel Cell vehicles by 2015 A further three fuelling stations are planned by 2015, by which time it is ex‐ pected that the number of fuel cell vehi‐ cles in London will have risen ten-fold from the initial five to at least 50 or more including passenger cars, buses and scooters. Kit Malthouse, London Deputy Mayor for Business and Enterprise and Chair‐ man of the London Hydrogen Partner‐ ship, said: “e work of the London Hy‐ drogen Partnership and other projects has really catapulted London towards the forefront of the move to a hydrogen fu‐ ture. “Battery electric vehicles are a great tech‐ nology but like the fax machine they are only temporary and there is a great deal of consumer resistance towards them for all manner of reasons, including range and the time it takes to recharge them. “Even though we have around 1,300 charging points in the capital you cannot guarantee getting a space outside your house to charge overnight: London is just too densely populated.” Hydrogen from renewables “For me, hydrogen cracks all those prob‐ lems and it also solves other issues along the way such as making best use of wind energy, for example. We also produce a huge amount of waste and we are look‐ ing at schemes that convert biomass into hydrogen. So as well as producing a clean fuel we would be reducing the amount of waste we put into landfill. “ese are early days, but I am tremen‐ dously excited by the prospects of Lon‐ don’s hydrogen future. Hyundai is pro‐
SILVERSTONE PAYS TRIBUTE TO JIM CLARK • Racing legend celebrated 50 years aer winning first world title • BRDC Silverstone Classic Dinner honours double champion • Personal trophies and former cars on display • Clark’s Lotuses to star in two his‐ toric F1 tribute races Final plans to celebrate the remarkable racing achievements of double world champion Jim Clark at this summer’s Sil‐ verstone Classic (26-28 July) have been confirmed.
As previously announced the two his‐ toric Formula One races for grand prix cars dating back to the early Sixties era are being dedicated to Clark as well as a very special commemorative dinner. Set in the dramatic Silverstone Wing building, the inaugural BRDC Silver‐ stone Classic Dinner will be held on Fri‐ day 26 July almost exactly 50 years aer Clark won the British Grand Prix at Sil‐ verstone on 20 July 1963 en route to his first World Championship crown. Open to members of the British Racing Drivers’ Club and Silverstone Classic competitors, the evening will include special tributes to the Scotsman – a rac‐ ing legend who is still widely hailed to be Britain’s greatest ever Grand Prix driver. Born in Fife, Clark won the Formula One World Championship title in 1963 and 1965, and was the first British driver to win the Indianapolis 500, again in 1965. At the time of his death, when rac‐ ing a Formula Two car at Hockenheim in Germany in 1968, he had won more Grands Prix (25 from just 72 starts) and pole positions (33) than any other driver. Many of those who knew Clark from the Sixties will be sharing their memories during the BRDC Silverstone Classic Dinner. Among the invited guest speak‐ ers are several of his old team-mates in‐ cluding Jack Sears and Sir John Whit‐ more as well as period mechanics Bob Dance, Dick Scammell and Cedric Selzer from his title winning days at Lotus and renowned designer Len Terry. ey will be joined by BRDC member Robs Lam‐ plough and HSCC director Grahame White who were both present on that fateful day at Hockenheim. Cars raced by Clark will be present, too, both inside the Wing and in echelon outside the building to welcome guests. Adding further to the special golden an‐ niversary celebration, the Jim Clark
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Drivers’ Club. “e superb Classic presents us with the perfect opportunity to pay tribute to past champions and the inaugural BRDC Silverstone Classic Dinner is clearly going to be a very, very special evening.” Tickets for the exclusive BRDC Silver‐ stone Classic Dinner in the Silverstone Wing are priced at £99 (including VAT) and available from the official website: SilverstoneClassic.com/BRDCdinner. All those attending will receive a special pin badge presented by the Jim Clark Trust. General admittance tickets to the Silver‐ stone Classic must be purchased in ad‐ vance by ursday 25 July. Full details can be found on the official www.silver‐ stoneclassic.com website.
THE NEW MERCEDES-BENZ S 63 AMG: DRIVING PERFORMANCE IN THE LUXURY SEGMENT Trust will be displaying around 20 of the glittering trophies currently on show at the Jim Clark Room – the museum lo‐ cated in Clark’s home town of Duns, Berwickshire. Several members of the Clark family will also be savouring the evening. Famous cars once raced by Clark won’t just be on static display. e entry list for the two hugely evocative Jim Clark Tro‐ phy for Pre-1966 Rear Engined Grand Prix Cars showdowns organised by the Historic Grand Prix Cars Association (HGPCA) is headed by a number of the Lotuses in which the talented Scot scored so many of his stirring victories. Foremost among these is the very Lotus 25 in which he won the 1963 British Grand Prix at Silverstone en route to his first world championship crown. In total, Clark won the British Grand Prix on no fewer than five occasions – a tally that remains unbeaten to this day – and three of these victories were at Silverstone. With its monocoque chassis and shrill 1500cc Coventry-Climax FWMV V8engine, the Lotus 25 was a game changer as David Coulthard discovered when driving the illustrious green machine at the Silverstone Classic Media Day back in May for preview features on BBC tele‐ vision, the Daily Telegraph and Motor
Sport magazine. e experienced Andy Middlehurst has the honour of racing the famous titlewinning car at the Classic while Nick Fennell competes in another Lotus 25 in which Clark won races during the fol‐ lowing 1964 season. Both are beautifully prepared by Classic Team Lotus, the Norfolk-based equipe is run by Clive Chapman, son of the marque’s genial founder Colin. Clark’s earlier Formula One career is well represented by two slab-sided 2.5litre Climax-powered ex-works Lotus
18s raced by John Chisholm and Paul Smeeth. Also lining up is the unique Type 32B which carried Jimmy to the 1965 Tasman Cup title in the Antipodes with American lawyer Chris Locke at the helm. “Jim Clark was without doubt one of the greatest racing drivers of all time and a hero to all of us mere mortals. He wore the BRDC Badge with pride and was a notable member of the Club and a true Silverstone hero – that’s why we are so pleased and privileged to be honouring his incredible career,” said Derek War‐ wick, President of the British Racing
Mercedes-AMG is unleashing the new S 63 AMG. e most powerful high-per‐ formance saloon in the luxury segment sets new standards in terms of driving dynamics, lightweight construction and efficiency. e AMG 5.5-litre V8 biturbo engine – the most powerful member of the BlueDIRECT engine family, with an output of 585 hp and torque of 900 Nm – delivers effortlessly superior perfor‐ mance. anks to systematic lightweight construction based on the "AMG Lightweight Performance" philosophy, the S 63 AMG is up to 100 kilograms lighter than its predecessor. A combina‐ tion of an efficient drive system and re‐ duced weight results in an NEDC com‐ bined fuel consumption of 27.4 – 27.9 mpg (237 to 242 g/km CO2). Ola Källenius, CEO of Mercedes-AMG GmbH: "Following the successful launch of the A 45 AMG and the CLA 45 AMG, the new S 63 AMG highlights our exper‐ tise in the automotive high-end segment. Lightweight construction and absolute performance are among the key strengths of the new flagship model from Mercedes-AMG." Tobias Moers, Head of Overall Vehicle Development and Board Member of Mercedes-AMG GmbH: "We have un‐ questionably achieved our aim of mak‐ ing the new S 63 AMG more powerful, lightweight and efficient than its prede‐
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cessor. In terms of driving dynamics as well, the S 63 AMG has made giant leaps forward."
Series, the S 63 AMG is the second AMG high-performance model to replace the conventional starter battery with a lithi‐ um-ion battery. e new technology of‐ fers numerous advantages over a con‐ ventional battery concept: with a capaci‐ ty of 78 Ah, the lithium-ion battery re‐ places both the starter battery and the backup battery – resulting in a weight saving of over 20 kilograms. e highperformance battery is relatively insensi‐ tive to cold temperatures and has com‐ pact dimensions. e S 63 AMG is the world's first volume produced vehicle with this type of battery concept.
AMG Lightweight Performance: up to 100 kg lighter than before Systematic implementation of the AMG Lightweight Performance strategy re‐ duces the weight of the S 63 AMG by up to 100 kilograms compared to the prede‐ cessor model. is weight saving was achieved largely thanks to the use of AMG forged light-alloy wheels, a lightweight lithium-ion battery and a weight-optimised AMG high-perfor‐ mance composite brake system. Furthermore, the entire outer skin of the S-Class, including the roof and the front end of the body, is made of aluminium. Installing a spare wheel recess made of carbon fibre, a material used in Formula 1, reduces the weight by a further four kilograms. e S 63 AMG also leads the way when it comes to power-to-weight ratio, boasting a figure of 3.49 kg/hp, re‐ sulting in effortlessly superior perfor‐ mance. Acceleration from 0 to 62 mph takes 4.0 to 4.4 seconds, depending on model variant, and the top speed is 155 mph (electronically limited).
AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT seven-speed sports transmission
2,070 kg*** Acceleration
gine water and transmission oil • Lightweight composite oil pan • Alternator management • ECO start/stop function
0-62 mph e models at a glance: S 63 AMG Short wheelbase S 63 AMG Long wheelbase* S 63 AMG 4MATIC Long wheelbase Displacement 5,461 cc 5,461 cc 5,461 cc Output 585 hp at 5,500 rpm 585 hp at 5,500 rpm 585 hp at 5,500 rpm Max. torque 900 Nm at 2,250-3,750 rpm 900 Nm at 2,250-3,750 rpm 900 Nm at 2,250-3,750 rpm Fuel consumption NEDC combined 27.9 mpg 27.9 mpg 27.4 mpg CO2 emis‐ sions 237 g/km 237 g/km 242 g/km Kerb weight (according to EC)
4.4 s 4.4 s 4.0 s Top speed 155 mph**** 155 mph**** 155 mph**** * Only available as right-hand drive; ** Ready-to-drive condition (Fuel tank filled 90%, without driver and luggage); *** Kerb weight (fuel tank 90% full, with driver (68 kg) and luggage (7 kg));**** Electronically limited In terms of maximum output and fuel consumption, the AMG 5.5-litre V8 biturbo engine remains the most effi‐ cient series-produced V8 engine of all. With an output of 585 hp and a torque of 900 Nm, the AMG eight-cylinder unit from the BlueDIRECT engine family (in-house designation M 157) outper‐ forms all comparable engines. e fuel consumption of the new S 63 AMG is lower than that of the predecessor model, even though the engine output has been increased by up to 41 hp. e range-topping eight-cylinder model al‐ ready meets the requirements of the EU6 emissions standard, which is due to come into force in 2015. Technical highlights of the AMG 5.5litre V8 biturbo engine:
1,970 kg** 2,045 kg*** 1,995 kg** 2,070 kg*** 1,995 kg**
• Direct petrol injection with piezo injectors • Biturbocharging • All-aluminium crankcase • Four valves per cylinder with camsha adjustment • Air-to-water intercooler • Efficient cooling of engine oil, en‐
AMG sports exhaust system with ex‐ haust flaps e AMG sports exhaust system in the S 63 AMG has automatic logic-controlled exhaust flaps in both rear silencers. When the transmission is in "C" (Con‐ trolled Efficiency) mode, the flaps re‐ main closed in most situations, in which case the eight-cylinder biturbo engine's sound is more understated – perfect for long trips and a comfortable ride in the rear. In "S" (Sport) and "M" (Manual) modes, the exhaust flaps open earlier and more spontaneously, especially if the driver prefers a dynamic driving style. e result is an even fuller, emotional, hallmark AMG engine sound.
Maximum individuality and custom-tai‐ lored dynamics are the strengths of the AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT seven-speed sports transmission. e three transmis‐ sion modes – "C" (C ontrolled Effi ciency), "S" (Sport) and "M" (Manual) – provide each driver with a personal set-up. In comfort-oriented "C" mode the ECO start/stop function is active and shuts off the eight-cylinder engine when the car is at a standstill. In addition, the driver experiences smooth transmission characteristics with com‐ fort-oriented gearshis. In "C" mode the car generally starts in second gear. In the "S" and "M" transmission modes the engine and transmission are signifi‐ cantly more agile and the ECO start/stop function is deactivated. A brief and pre‐ cisely defined retardation of ignition and injection under open throttle results in even faster and acoustically more emo‐ tional gearshis. All variants of the S 63 AMG are fitted with ESP® Curve Dynamic Assist as standard. A targeted brief brake inter‐ vention on the inside rear wheel results in defined cornering of the vehicle and ensures greater agility when taking cor‐ ners at high speed. ere is no irritating understeer when turning into corners.
Engine production at AMG Like all AMG engines, the eight-cylinder biturbo engine for the S 63 AMG is as‐ sembled by hand in the hand-finishing section at AMG, observing the most stringent quality standards. Highly qual‐ ified engine fitters assemble the M 157 in Affalterbach according to the "one man, one engine" philosophy. Apart from serving as an AMG hallmark confirming superlative precision and production quality, the AMG engine badge bearing the engine fitter's signature also attests to the peerless DNA of Mercedes-Benz's high-performance brand. Lithium-ion battery reduces weight by over 20 kilograms Following the SLS AMG Coupé Black
e S 63 AMG with rear-wheel drive features AMG sports suspension based on Magic Body Control. e new SClass is the first car in the world able to recognise road surface undulations in advance. If Road Surface Scan detects such undulations with the help of the stereo camera, Magic Body Control ad‐ justs the suspension in advance to suit the situation. Both suspension modes – "Comfort" and "Sport" – are also avail‐ able here. e AMG-specific elastokine‐ matics ensure more directness when driving dynamically. Both suspension variants available for the S 63 AMG offer hallmark Mercedes comfort on long journeys. Electromechanical AMG speed-sensitive sports steering with variable steering ra‐
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tio is the perfect complement as it great‐ ly enhances vehicle handling and agility whilst maintaining driving safety at high speeds. In "Comfort" suspension mode, the AMG speed-sensitive sports steering enhances comfort by providing more steering assistance. If the "Sport" suspen‐ sion setting is selected, on the other hand, the driver feels sportily stiff steer‐ ing assistance – which tends to result in better road feel. e pre-programmed curves for power assistance enhance feedback and steering precision. AMG light-alloy wheels based on sys‐ tematic lightweight construction
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AMG ceramic high-performance com‐ posite brake system has front brake discs with a diameter of 420 millimetres and is recognisable by the "AMG Carbon Ce‐ ramic" logo on the specially painted brake calipers. Design: dynamism and exclusivity fused with sensuous forms Powerful and exclusive, dynamic and prestigious – the new S 63 AMG also makes a visual impression. e highperformance saloon's design is defined by the impressive blend of hallmark sen‐
hallmark of AMG vehicles and empha‐ sises the exclusivity and power of the S 63 AMG. Flics in high-gloss black on the side air intakes optimise the flow of air to the cooling modules – a design that is a familiar sight in motorsport. e threedimensional front splitter in silver chrome reduces li. Side sill panels with three-dimensional inserts in silver chrome make the vehicle appear closer to the road and create dy‐ namism along the flanks with the brand's hallmark "Dropping Line". Large light-alloy wheels are another trademark
For the first time, the S 63 AMG is avail‐ able exclusively with AMG forged lightalloy wheels. is design reduces weight whilst increasing strength and lowers the unsprung masses, resulting in advan‐ tages in terms of handling and spring/ damper element response. In the stan‐ dard specification, the S 63 AMG is fit‐ ted with AMG light-alloy wheels that are painted titanium grey with a high-sheen finish – size 8.5x19 at the front and 9.5x19 at the rear with 255/45 R 19 and 285/40 R 19 tyres respectively.
Interior: beguiling appointments, de‐ sign and quality Like the exterior design, the S 63 AMG interior is a beguiling combination of the sportily exclusive atmosphere of a true AMG automobile with classic Mercedes values such as improved interior dimen‐ sions, new control logic, new ergonomic touches, ease of use, safety, appeal and aesthetics. e newly developed AMG sports seats with electrical adjustment, Memory function and seat heating offer the driver and front passenger more lat‐ eral support. Fine nappa leather in AMG V8 design with lavish perforations and AMG badges in the front and rear seat backrests create an exquisite and luxuri‐ ous atmosphere on board. Special touch‐ es include the embossed emblem on the armrest of the front centre console and the high-quality analogue clock in IWC design, which for the first time features three-dimensional, milled metal hands and metal appliqués on the dial. e AMG sports steering wheel with its distinctively contoured rim, perforated leather in the grip area and aluminium shi paddles allows perfect vehicle con‐ trol. Another feature displaying the hall‐ mark AMG look is the high-resolution TFT colour display as an AMG instru‐ ment cluster with two animated round dials: in addition to the AMG-specific lettering and the needles in red/silver, further distinctive design features in‐ clude the AMG logo in the speedometer with 205 mph scale (le) and the "V8 BITURBO" lettering in the rev counter (right).
Optional extras include AMG forged light-alloy wheels, painted titanium grey and polished, with size 8.5x20 at the front and 9.5x20 at the rear paired with 255/40 R 20 and 285/35 R 20 tyres re‐ spectively. e AMG light-alloy wheels feature a high-quality, screwable and ful‐ ly integrated wheel bolt cover made of forged metal. Its shape is reminiscent of a centre lock as seen in motorsport. e AMG logo is elegantly integrated into one of the ten spokes. As an option, these AMG light-alloy wheels can also be supplied painted matt black with a high-sheen rim flange. As an alternative in the same format, there is a "Siena" de‐ signer variant with five twin spokes, which is painted titanium grey with a high-sheen finish and has a black wheel bolt cover. AMG ceramic high-performance com‐ posite brake systemas an option for the first time Extremely short stopping distances and spontaneous deceleration are a given for any AMG high-performance car. And the new S 63 AMG is no exception as it is equipped with a weight-optimised, fade-resistant AMG high-performance composite brake system. An AMG ce‐ ramic high-performance composite brake system is available as an option for the first time. e more than 20 per cent lighter design ensures lower unsprung masses as well as enhancing driving dy‐ namics, agility and ride comfort. In ad‐ dition to this, the system has a longer service life, is more resistant to corrosion and displays higher thermal stability. e
chrome and the two chromed twin tailpipes of the AMG sports exhaust sys‐ tem with exhaust flaps.
sual Mercedes forms, classic architecture and a sleek silhouette with classic AMG design features. A large, upright and dis‐ tinctly three-dimensional radiator grille underlines the special status of the SClass – with an exciting contrast to this being provided by the front apron with three large air dams. e front apron with the grille painted in high-gloss black displays the stylised "A" that is a
AMG feature: they afford a clear view of the AMG high-performance brake sys‐ tem. "V8 BITURBO" lettering in new, contemporary typography on the front wings identifies the top-of-the-range eight-cylinder model. is new lettering also appears in the "S 63 AMG" model designation on the boot lid. e design is drawn to a powerful conclusion by the black diffuser insert with trim in silver
Selecting "Warm up" in the AMG main menu brings up two round dials indicat‐ ing the engine oil and transmission oil temperatures. Vehicle configuration, for example activation of a certain transmis‐ sion and suspension mode, is effected in the AMG main menu "Setup" by means of buttons on the centre console. An ani‐ mated S 63 AMG on the TFT display be‐ tween the speedo and rev counter gives the driver visual feedback. e upper section of the display contains a perma‐ nent gear indicator and, when manual transmission mode "M" is selected, also an upshi recommendation. At the low‐ er edge, the activated transmission mode, the ESP® mode and the suspen‐ sion set-up are displayed. Further standard equipment for all S 63 AMG models includes: • AMG door sill panels • AMG floor mats • AMG sports pedals in brushed stainless steel with rubber studs • Ambient lighting
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• Attention Assist • Collision Prevention Assist • COMAND Online • 10 loudspeakers with Frontbass • Metallic paintwork • Pre-Safe® Plus • Tyre pressure loss warning system • LED High Performance head‐ lamps
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FORD OFFERS FOCUS ST AND FIESTA ST WITH POWER-BOOSTING MOUNTUNE UPGRADES
Numerous individualisation options are available from the AMG Performance Studio and include: • AMG Exterior Carbon-Fibre package • AMG ceramic high-performance composite brake system • AMG carbon-fibre engine cover • AMG performance steering wheel in nappa leather / Dinamica, black • AMG trim in carbon fibre/black piano lacquer • Brake calipers, painted red Additional optional extras include: • Air-Balance package • Burmester® surround sound sys‐ tem • Burmester® high-end 3D surround sound system • Business Telephony in the rear • Chauffeur package • designo appointments packages • Executive seat • Exclusive package • First-Class rear suite • Folding tables in the rear • LED Intelligent Light System • Seat Comfort package incl. Ener‐ gising massage function • Warmth Comfort package Intelligent Drive: new standards in safe‐ ty e S 63 AMG likewise sets new stan‐ dards in active and passive safety: what began with Pre-Safe® ten years ago and continued with Distronic Plus is now leading to a new dimension in driving. Comfort and safety have blended into one. Mercedes-Benz calls this "Intelli‐ gent Drive". New systems make the new S-Class even more comfortable and safe: • Driving Assistance package Plus • Night View Assist Plus World premiere in September 2013 e new S 63 AMG celebrates its world premiere in September 2013 at the Frankfurt International Motor Show; the car will arrive in the UK in late 2013. UK specification and pricing are still to be confirmed.
Ford’s critically acclaimed Focus ST and
Fiesta ST hot hatches just got hotter with the introduction of official Mountune upgrades. e packages are developed by race en‐ gine and road-car performance specialist Mountune, and boost output from the Focus ST’s 2.0-litre EcoBoost engine to 275PS – 10PS more than a Porsche Boxster which costs £15,000 more
(£38,237). Even the legendary Ford Sierra Cos‐ worth RS500 would be le with a rear view of the Mountune-upgraded Focus ST, which can sprint from 0-62mph in less than six seconds – more than half second faster than the standard Focus ST.
Ford is also offering an official Moun‐ tune upgrade for the Fiesta ST, which will increase maximum power to 215PS*, enabling 0-62mph acceleration in 6.7sec, compared with 6.9sec on the factory model – faster than a £35,865 Mercedes-Benz SLK 200 AMG Sport. e Mountune upgrades boost both Fo‐ cus ST and Fiesta ST in-gear acceleration
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Automotive Press
Salon Prive will see the launch of Glad‐ stone Motorcycles, the first brand new bespoke British motorcycle manufactur‐ er to come to the market since Hesketh in 1984. Henry Cole, TV presenter of World’s Greatest Motorcycle Rides (Travel Chan‐ nel Worldwide) and e Motorbike Show (ITV4) is the CEO of Gladstone Motor‐ cycles.
too. Peak Focus ST torque, heightened to 400Nm, improves 31-62mph accelera‐ tion in fourth gear by 0.8sec to 4.9sec, while peak Fiesta ST torque, enhanced to 320Nm*, improves 31-62 mph accelera‐ tion in fourth gear by 0.7sec to 5.7sec. Any of the UK’s 120 Mountune-appoint‐ ed Ford dealers will be able to fit the up‐ grade – in under 60 minutes for the Fies‐ ta ST, and less than 90 minutes for the Focus ST. Both are fully compatible with the Ford warranty, meaning Mountune modified vehicles continue to be covered against mechanical failure for three years or 60,000 miles from the original date of purchase. “Ford’s ST models already deliver blister‐ ing performance – for these Mountune upgrades we have squeezed out every last drop of fun and served it on a plate to the fans that are as passionate about performance as we are,” said Tyrone Johnson, Ford Team RS engineering manager. e Focus ST Mountune upgrade in‐ cludes a cast alloy inlet duct (silver or black powder coat finish), high-flow air filter element, larger alloy intercooler (silver or black powder coat finish) and unique calibration. e Fiesta ST version has a re-modelled air box base with sec‐ ondary inlet duct, a high-flow filter ele‐ ment and unique calibration. e Focus ST Mountune upgrade, at £1,225 for silver and £1,275 for black,
still means the boosted Focus costs less than a standard Volkswagen Golf GTi. e Fiesta ST Mountune upgrade costs £599**,with the finished Fiesta costing less than both the standard Peugeot 208 GTi and Renaultsport Clio 200 Turbo. “We worked hand-in-hand with Ford engineers to deliver what we believe is the best bang-for-buck value on the mar‐ ket,” said David Moore, Mountune mar‐ keting manager.
Named aer Cole’s Great Great Uncle, Gladstone the Prime Minister, Henry’s lifelong dream has always been to launch a British Motorcycle manufacturer pro‐ ducing limited runs of the finest hand built British motorcycles. Salon Privé will play host to the global premiere of e Gladstone No. 1, a Metisse framed, Triumph powered, truly bespoke British Bobber hand craed to reflect the heady days of motorcycling in the 1950’s.
SALON PRIVÉ 2013 CONFIRMS THE GLOBAL PREMIERE OF GLADSTONE MOTORCYCLES
Gladstone will produce only nine exam‐ ples of this unique motorcycle and Salon Privé provides the opportunity for the public to see it for the first time. In addition to e Gladstone No 1. Salon Prive will also see the launch of e Gladstone “Cinder Path Racer” bicycle and an inaugural collection of Gladstone designed luxury clothing and accessories including jackets, gloves, helmets, gog‐ gles and tweed caps. Henry Cole commented: “Quite simply where else would you want to launch an exclusive, hand built, new British Motor‐ cycle brand other than at Salon Privé? We are all terribly excited to be part of this fantastic event.” Tickets for Salon Privé can be purchased at www.salonprivelondon.com or by call‐ ing the Ticket Hotline on 0808 100 2205. Entry is fully inclusive of Pommery champagne, lobster luncheon, English aernoon tea and full access to all areas.
Automotive Press
THE FASTEST TAXI DRIVER IN THE WORLD
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Well-known to viewers of BBC Top Gear, Sabine Schmitz is preparing to make her Silverstone Classic (26-28 July) debut racing a 220mph Porsche 962 in one of the massive event’s thrilling races for Group C prototypes. e 44-year-old German first came to fame as the ‘fastest taxi driver in the world’, a title she gained for driving pas‐ sengers around the full 12.9-mile Nür‐ burgring Nordschleife circuit at very high speeds. Over the past decade Schmitz has made regular appearances on Top Gear –most memorably when claiming all she need‐ ed was a Transit van to beat Jeremy Clarkson’s best lap time around the fear‐ some Nordschleife in a Jaguar S-type diesel. It was a challenge she only just failed to master in a later show. As well as being a television personality both in the UK and Germany, Schmitz is also a notable racing driver. Indeed, she was the first woman to taste victory in a major 24-hour race when winning the Nürburgring 24 Hours in 1996 – a feat she repeated the following year, too. At the Silverstone Classic, Schmitz will be sharing a Porsche 962 with Klaus Abbelen in the two spectacular show‐ downs for Group C prototypes that raced at Le Mans in the Eighties. “e Porsche 962 is such great car for the purists – I just love driving it,” she said. “Silverstone is the Mecca for all petrol‐ heads and, with all the downforce in the fast sections, racing the 962 is going to be a fantastic experience… if a little painful on the poor old neck muscles!” “It’s going to be an incredible feeling to be racing against so many wonderful cars from that period,” confirmed Abbe‐
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len. “For us to be part of something so special is just going to be amazing. We can’t wait.” e two Group C races are now firmly established among the major highlights at the Silverstone Classic, notably the spectacular showdown at dusk on Satur‐ day evening. Every year the entry seems to get stronger and more competitive. Incredibly this year’s grid will include no fewer than six Porsche 962s with ex-F2 racer Herve Regout likely to be the pace‐ setter. Others to look out for are Japanese speedster Katsu Kubota in his Nissan R90C – a winner at the 2011 Classic – plus the fire-breathing 1989 Mercedes C11 ‘Silver Arrow’ shared by Gareth Evans and triple FIA orough‐ bred Grand Prix champion B ob Berridge. Nic Minassian debuting the world’s sole surviving Jaguar XJR-14, though, will take a lot of beating. As a member of Peugeot factory team, the British-based Frenchman has two Le Mans podiums to his name in 2008 and 2011 and the Ross Brawn-designed purple XJR-14 won the FIA World Sportscar Championship in 1991 when piloted by the likes of Martin Brundle and Derek Warwick. Indeed the evocative Group C field is truly representative of the era with Jaguar XJR8/9, Martini Lancia LC2s, Spices galore, a Swiss-built Cheetah and the Australian Veskanda-Chevrolet all in the mix. “is year’s two Group C race have all the ingredients to be the most exciting yet,” said Nick Wigley, Event Director. “We have all the most competitive cars and drivers from past years plus the added thrill of Sabine in the 962 and Nic
Automotive Press
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in the incredible XJR-14 which is proba‐ bly the ultimate Group C racer. e sights and sounds of these fabulous cars racing into the sunset on Saturday evening is going to be very special.” ose wanting to catch what promises to be two epic Group C battles at the un‐ missable Silverstone Classic must buy tickets in advance. In keeping with the popular event’s widely acclaimed ‘access all areas’ policy, tickets include free en‐ trance to all the special classic car dis‐ plays, both National and Wing racing paddocks and pit complexes, trackside grandstands, live music concerts on Fri‐ day and Saturday evenings plus a host of other entertainment for all ages and in‐ terests. Adult admittance is from just £35 (plus fees) and considerable savings are on offer for those festival goers spending the full weekend at Silverstone. Full de‐ tails can be found on the official www.silverstoneclassic.com website.
YAMAHA STYLES A BAGGER
All the rage in the US is cut-down tourer versions of traditional cruiser machines. Yamaha now come to the table with this great new variant available in kit form, created just for you by your Yamaha dealer. Styled for custom cruising, the new 2013 Yamaha XV1900A Midnight Star CFD (Casual Full Dress) brings both elegance and luxurious comfort to the cruiser market while retaining the reputation for power and performance that is associat‐ ed with this V-twin family. e XV1900A CFD enhances the overall riding experience thanks to a host of new features. A new full-width fairing combines timeless style with effective wind protection while two spacious colour-matched hard cases with quickrelease fixings and one-touch openers make the XV1900A CFD an even more attractive tourer. ose who are looking to unlock the touring potential of this impressive ma‐ chine will appreciate the windscreen as well as the long and low aluminium frame that is designed to deliver a sporty yet balanced ride. To further enhance the usability of the powerful 1900cc air-cooled V-twin en‐ gine, the new model now features an 'as‐ sist and slipper' clutch. is new design of clutch reduces the effort required to operate while also enhancing the motor‐
cycle's stability under deceleration. With its huge V-twin engine and luxuri‐ ously equipped chassis, the Yamaha XV1900A Midnight Star CFD is built for serious cruiser rid‐ ers who want a stylish neo-streamliner that has the potential to handle long dis‐ tances.
Suggested retail price: £15,999* Availability: Now *(plus road fund and first registration fee) Full details can be found on our website www.yamaha-motor.co.uk Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ yamaha.motor.uk
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Automotive Press
SCHECKTER RECREATES HISTORY AT CARFEST
Motor sport history will be made at Car‐ Fest South at Laverstoke Park Farm in Hampshire (23-25 August) when Jody Scheckter drives the history-making sixwheeled Tyrrell for the first time in near‐ ly 40 years.
World Championship title. Recently he has added the extraordinary Tyrrell P34 to his collection – a car he will drive for the very first time in nearly four decades when CarFest South returns to his Laverstoke Park Farm in late August.
It was back in 1976 that the Tyrrell team introduced the most revolutionary car ever seen in Formula One, the ground breaking Tyrrell P34. e radical car fea‐ tured not two conventional, but four much smaller front wheels designed to give additional grip and downforce – a concept since outlawed by the F1 rule makers. Two cars were built for the team’s drivers Jody Scheckter and Patrick Depailler to race in that year’s FIA For‐ mula One World Championship.
"It was a very special car, despite the fact
ter. “e Tyrrell fascinates a lot of people – it is legendary. Although it did not per‐ form as well as the engineers expected, I came third in the World Championships that year, so it really was part of my jour‐ ney to the top of F1. e last time I drove it was in 1976, so it will certainly bring back some wonderful memories
e three-day event – hosted by BBC Radio 2 DJ Chris Evans and raising funds for BBC Children in Need – fea‐ tures an amazing line-up of the world’s finest road and racing cars as well as a mouth-watering selection of fabulous festival food, great family entertainment for all ages plus live music from top bands including Texas, Keane, Ocean Colour Scene, Jools Holland and Amy Macdonald. Moreover BBC Radio 2 will be broadcasting live from Laverstoke Park on Saturday from 10:00-13:00.
e P34’s golden moment came at the Swedish Grand Prix staged at the Ander‐ storp circuit in June where Scheckter took pole position and then made histo‐ ry by becoming the only driver ever to win a Grand Prix in a six-wheeled car. Although that was the only win, in total Scheckter scored no fewer than ten top six finishes in the car from just 12 starts. Over recent years, Scheckter has been busy collecting many of the most signifi‐ cant cars from his distinguished racing career including the Ferrari 312T4 in which he won the 1979 Formula One
It will be a doubly special weekend for Scheckter as he will not only take a trip down memory lane thrilling capacity crowds in his newly acquired P34 but also delight in hosting CarFest South which takes place quite literally in his own back yard as Laverstoke Park is the organic/biodynamic farm he established in Hampshire.
With so much on offer, it’s no surprise that tickets for CarFest South have com‐ pletely sold out. A limited number of Friday tickets, however, are still available for CarFest North being held at Oulton Park, Cheshire on 2-4 August. For more information visit the official Carfest website at www.carfest.org. that I was not a fan of the theory behind the design,” admits an expectant Scheck‐
when I drive it at CarFest".
Automotive Press
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MONTESA HONDA TO RETURN TO UK WITH NEW 2014 COTA 4RT MODELS
e long-awaited, new-for-2014 Monte‐ sa Honda Cota 4RT – a model that will be sold in two versions, the 4RT260 and the 4RT260 Factory – was unveiled at the latest round of the Trial World Championship in Barzio, Italy. Follow‐ ing this, Honda (UK) is pleased to con‐ firm that both models will be sold in the UK. e Cota 4RT260 has been developed in collaboration with the Repsol Montesa Team, without compromise on quality and technology. It offers a high base-lev‐ el of performance for both amateur and advanced riders. For more competition focussed riders, the 'Factory' offers highspecification SHOWA suspension and a host of other upgrades. It also carries the Repsol Montesa Honda team image and graphics – a team that has enjoyed unri‐ valled domination in World Trials in re‐ cent years, taking the last fieen world titles (indoor and outdoor) with rider Toni Bou. e new model has an increase in dis‐ placement to 260cc, which results in im‐ proved performance, more usable rpm
range and stronger torque in the mid range. In addition, engine braking has been reduced significantly, offering en‐ hanced rider feel and control. Founded in 1945, Montesa has since consolidated its reputation as one of the most prestigious motorcycle brands in the world. In 1983 the relationship with Honda began and it would prove the start of decades of domination in the world of trials. Both new-for-2014 mod‐ els will be manufactured in Montesa Honda’s modern facilities in Santa Per‐ pètua de Mogoda (Barcelona), guaran‐ teeing the superior quality standards that have always been associated to the Cota 4RT model. e Cota 4RT260 and the 'Factory' will be available in the UK from start of the last quarter of 2013, through selected Honda (UK) off-road franchised dealers. Price cannot yet be announced but both models will be priced extremely compet‐ itively.
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Automotive Press
McLAREN GT SHOWS TRACK FOCUS WITH 12C GT SPRINT ing system with carbon ceramic (CCM) brake discs. Tyre changes are made easi‐ er through an on-board air jacking sys‐ tem and centre-locking 19-inch OZ wheels, shod with Pirelli racing slick tyres. Inside the cabin, the 12C GT Sprint is fitted with an FIA-approved rollcage and integrated fire extinguisher system. A fully adjustable HANS-approved, lightweight composite racing seat fitted with full six-point harness provides the optimum driving position, while an airconditioning system is retained, albeit a lightweight version, offering added com‐ fort. A carbon fibre dash houses the race de‐ veloped digital display and key vehicle controls which interface with a McLaren GT developed steering wheel. Further enhancements are available through a range of bespoke options in‐ cluding a CFD (computational fluid dy‐ namics) developed aerodynamic package including carbon fibre rear wing and front splitter, and further lightweight components including a polycarbonate windscreen. McLaren GT is to produce a new high performance variant of the 12C, named the 12C GT Sprint, designed to offer fur‐ ther enhanced handling through opti‐ mised aerodynamics and track focus. e track-only model signifies the con‐ tinued development of the 12C model, and bridges the gap between the 12C, it‐
self fully accomplished on both road and track, and the all-out racing 12C GT3 and 12C GT Can-Am Edition models. It has been designed and developed by McLaren GT, the race car building arm of the McLaren Group, and retains many of the unique systems from the 12C road car, on which it is based.
Built around the lightweight carbon fibre MonoCell chassis, and with develop‐ ments to systems such as ProActive Chassis Control, (PCC), Brake Steer and the McLaren Airbrake, the latest model from McLaren GT has been honed to deliver a more track-focused GT racing experience whilst retaining the balance and precise characteristics much praised in the road car.
e 12C GT Sprint, finished in heritage McLaren Orange as standard, will make its world premiere at the 2013 Good‐ wood Festival of Speed. Further details will be announced in due course, but an initial batch of 20 cars will be delivered in 2013, available from McLaren retailers at a price point below GBP £200,000*.
Generating 625PS, the optimised 3.8litre twin turbo engine includes a unique oil system, and cooling system which features a 12C GT3 developed central front radiator. e GT Sprint retains the 12C’s seven speed twin clutch gearbox. e PCC suspension system has been tuned and recalibrated to suit the cars lower ride height and racing slick tyres, providing a firmer and more circuit-ori‐ entated setup. e 12C GT Sprint has three unique handling modes which al‐ low the driver to select their preferred damping, roll stiffness and ESP settings. Externally, the 12C GT Sprint features optimised aerodynamic and cooling up‐ grades. At the front is a more aggressive front bumper, GT3-inspired bonnet with radiator exit ducts and front wing lou‐ vres. Lowered by 40 mm, the 12C GT Sprint is fitted with track-focused brak‐
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