Autobloid October 2011

DRIVING YOUR DECISIONS

AN

PRESENTATION

OCT 2011 ISSUE 6 A FREE MID-MONTHLY

gossip on cars @autobloid

OWNER’S PRIDE Vehicles worthwhile in the long run

the e-factor

Italian envy, English pride

black beauty Style and arrogance on four wheels

Make way for the new leader of the pack

DASHBOARD Editor-in-chief Hatim al Taie Managing Director Abdullah al Taie General Manager Rathish Ramachandran Asst. General Manager Terry Mathukutty Asst. Content Head Vinod Chandran Senior Designer Shyniben Koyakkil Designer Muneeb Khan Photographer B G Hemanth Sales Mary Gonzales Sami Dalwai

Leticia Meneses

Produced by

deenar press and publishing LLC

a supplement of

Correspondence can be addressed to AUTOBLOID PO Box 139, PC 102, Al Qurm, Sultanate of Oman Tel: +968 24696868, Fax: +968 24693569 Email: info@autobloid.com

Sunbathing

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n the beginning all cars were open, evolving as they did from buggy and bicycle technology.

Weather protection took a back seat to reliability.

Once reliability was achieved, attention turned to comfort and convenience. As a point of definition, a convertible is generally defined as a car with a folding top and wind-up windows. An open car with side curtains rather than wind-up windows is a roadster or touring. Other names have also been applied to convertibles, such as phaeton and cabriolet, the latter being favoured in Europe.

But in North America the term convertible is most universally recognised.

Convertibles have been around for a long time.

In the year 1922, an American, Ben P. Ellerbeck conceived the first practical retractable hardtop system which never saw the light of day. The year 1935 saw the ‘402 Eclipse Decapotable’ by Peugeot,

which included the first power-operated retractable hardtop. There is always this thrill of riding convertibles with the top down. Convertibles are fun and are driven with attitude. It should be a part of anyone and everyone’s bucket-list. Cruising along the shoreline highway with the top down makes one feel like they have left the ‘challenges in life’ at home for the day. The feeling of exhilaration is unmistakable. The next closer feeling is sunbathing.

There is nothing like the random honks, double takes, headlight flashes and long stares as one drives past.

And with this particular car that we have featured on the cover, the experience was a total package with the roar of the engine and the wind behind us as we sped through highways and service lanes to make most of the feeling of greatness. We only wished the day never ended.

Convertibles are a luxury that, if affordable, is a must-have in life, unless you are a biker and think four wheels is two wheels too many in your life.

- Ed

printed at Oman printers and stationers October 2011 Print Run: 10,000

© All rights reserved. This publication may not be reproduced or transmitted in any form in whole or in part without the written permission of the publishers; while every care has been taken in the preparation of this magazine, the publishers cannot be held responsible for the accuracy of the information here in, or any consequences arising from it. All figures and values used in the tests are the sole property of AUTOBLOID and shall not be used, copied or quoted without permission.

3

NEWS V-twins get a new home

The bull rages on The Lamborghini LP-700-4 Aventador was recently unveiled at the showroom in Al Khuwair in the presence of Nizar al Shanfari, vice president of Shanfari Sports Car Division.

The innovative concept and phenomenal performance redefine the pinnacle of the super sports car segment.

Figures speak for themselves: 2.9 seconds from 0 to 100kmph, 350kmph of maximum speed. The new technology is packaged with the unique and powerful functional design. This Lamborghini flagship encompasses an innovative carbon-fibre monocoque and hosts a new twelve-cylinder engine that pushes 515kW/700hp.

Harley-Davidson Middle East and North Africa (MENA) recently announced the launch of their regional office, which will cater to all regional requirements for dealers and enthusiastic riders. The guest of honour was HE Mohammed Ben Sulayem, president of the Automobile and Touring Club of the UAE (ATCUAE), FIA vice-president for sport, and chairman of the Institute for Sport Research UAE. “Interest in the HarleyDavidson brand remains strong amongst riders and non-riders of all generations throughout the MENA region, thanks to our regional dealers who have worked hard to represent the brand experience and give people a platform to enjoy the

freedom of the open road. Throughout the dealer network the customers in MENA are passionate people who share our love for the brand, freedom and self expression,” said Elsa Abi Nader, marketing manager of Harley-Davidson MENA.

Dynamic crossover A new concept in a car would be one that combines the style of a coupé with the functionality of a hatchback. The Hyundai Veloster is that concept made real. A crossover utility vehicle with a unique, innovative presence, it’s where dynamics meets practicality. Veloster was launched recently in Oman by the OTE Group, exclusive distributors of Hyundai vehicles in the country. Veloster’s unique 1+2 door configuration maximises practicality. The sleek coupé profile conveys sportiness and a unique styling very different from existing coupés and hatchbacks. The car’s lines are bold and dynamic. The hexagonal radiator grill and audacious lamp design express progression and modernity.

Exclusive SatNav offers Mitsubishi Oman has announced great deals and prices on satellite navigation systems for three of its most popular models – the Mitsubishi Lancer EX, Outlander and Pajero, starting from just RO215. The value-packed offer includes not only a state-of-the-art SatNav system but a whole package of

Finest in auto parts

in-car communication systems including a DVD player, MP3 player and Bluetooth all built into the one system. For customers wanting that little bit extra for their Pajero they can invest RO355 in a system that will also include a rear view camera and a rear entertainment system.

Podium finish for Ahmad Omani racer Ahmad al Harthy secured his ninth Pro-Am 1 podium of the Porsche Carrera Cup GB Championship season at Rockingham to hold on to equal third in the points standings with just two race meetings left. Producing the perfect response to being unceremoniously shunted out of race one earlier in the day, the 30-year-old made a blistering start to the second encounter to rise from fourth in Pro-Am 1 to second through Turn One. Keen to avoid any chance of being taken out for the second race in succession,

October 2011

the Oman Air Racing Team driver adopted a sensible approach through Deene Hairpin and remained in second for the first couple of laps although the slightest of moments on lap three enabled Derek Pierce to sneak by.

From that point on, Ahmad focused on maintaining third in Pro-Am 1. Pressured by a three-strong group of class rivals the Muscat racer handled it well and pulled out a gap of 1.5 seconds by mid-distance. In the end he finished four seconds to the good.

Zawawi Trading Company (ZTC) is sending an important message to Mercedes-Benz owners in the sultanate this month – “When buying spare parts for your car, only the best will do in order to keep your family and investment safe.”

As the only authorised general distributor for MercedesBenz in Oman, ZTC is stressing the importance of using only genuine spare parts when maintaining vehicles, as anything else can be detrimental to a car’s value and the safety of its occupants. Mercedes-Benz genuine spare parts are second to none in terms of providing only the finest in auto parts and accessories to customers.

If you have any queries, mail us on info@autobloid.com, and we will try to answer them in the next issue.

Hi, I seem to get an odd grinding noise when I take turns with my car. What could be the problem?

Fatma Dear Fatma, You need to have the wheel bearings checked.

They perform two very important jobs in a vehicle’s suspension. The wheel bearing allows the wheels to rotate with minimal function, and they also support the vehicle’s weight. The first symptom of wheel bearing trouble is noise.

There is usually a rumbling, growling, chirping or cyclic noise of some kind that will come from the vicinity of the wheels. This is a good indication that trouble is now brewing and therefore immediate attention is needed. If you ignore a noisy wheel bearing it could fail quite suddenly.

This could be fatal as the vehicle could lose a wheel while on a drive.

Wheel bearing noise doesn’t change with acceleration or deceleration, but it may change when taking the turns, or it could even become louder or disappear at certain speeds. But don’t get confused with the noise a bad outer CV joint makes, as it only makes a noise when turning.

To be able to do both of these

jobs the bearings must be in perfect condition.

The seals must also be leak-free to keep the lubricant inside the bearings and contaminants out. Once a seal starts to leak, the bearings are in trouble. A damaged grease seal can allow grease to leak out of the bearings, letting dirt and water enter the cavity. If the seals fail, they cannot be replaced separately, and the entire hub assembly will need to be replaced. Yet, in some older vehicles, a bad seal can be replaced with a new one to extend the life of the bearings. Water is the worst thing for bearings as it causes it to rust and contaminates the grease.

LETTERS Dear Autobloid Team, I came across your magazine while in town last month and was quite impressed with the content and reviews. But since I work in the interiors, I have to wait for more than a month to read the articles. Is there any way of receiving the magazine?

Steve Dear Steve, We at Autobloid are going all out to make sure our readers get the issues. For just RO5 you will get a year’s supply of magazines to your mailbox. For our digital enthusiasts, we have also put up all our magazines on http://www.issuu.com/ deenarmedia. You can access the issues anytime and view the content online.

- Ed

Hi, I am interested in buying a motorcycle but am confused as to where to begin. This is my first bike and I would love some help.

Arun Dear Arun, Most people, when buying their first motorcycle, are influenced by the slick and colourful brochures they see at the dealerships. The array of bikes available in the market these days are mind boggling and making the first choice is often frustrating. Hence, taking your time to decide is important. Since there is everything from town mopeds to large and heavy touring bikes in the market, it is often difficult to decide what you want and need. You first need to decide what you need a motorcycle for. Do you want something that is sporty and fun to do some weekend riding on, or are you thinking of hitting the open road and spending hours in the saddle? Will you be riding scenic back roads, or spending fast hours on the freeway?

Let us know and we’ll help you decide.

- Ed

5

TEST DRIVE

ROLLING THUNDER

When Audi decided to offer a 525hp, 5.2L V10 in the R8, the two-seater graduated to supercar status

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n a way it’s ridiculous for us to write about how good this car is. You may not fully understand it unless you are in the driver’s seat, with hands on the wheel and foot on the pedal. The R8 V10 really does let you have it all. The Gallardo is sharp; the SL63 AMG is wild, and the Porsche 911 Turbo is even better. However, when you consider ‘quickness’ as opposed to ‘speed’, and then spice it up with confidence and comfort, the 5.2L V10-powered R8 is the new leader of the pack. The standard V8 was no slouch, but it hung out in the 911-circle than the supercar crowd. But now that the R8 boasts 525hp, an open top and a exotic V10 soundtrack, it now has open-air, supercar credentials.

Design

This car doesn’t go unnoticed – it’s

October 2011

pretty much like driving around in the Millennium Falcon, though a Chewbacca-esque presence purely depends on who you choose as your passenger. The bulk of the car’s design has not changed other than the convertible top.

The top unfurls in less than 20 seconds and can be operated at speeds up to 50kmph. The car’s dimensions don’t vary much from the V8 model – the V10 is just 3mm taller and 4mm longer. This car is wider than the V8 by just over an inch, and this is because the wider air scoops take in more air for cooling. Even in areas where exotic cars are commonplace, we were surprised at the attention we received.

Engine

The R8’s new 5.2L V10 descends from the collaborative design effort

between Audi and Lamborghini, which yielded a 493hp, 5L V10 for the 2004 Gallardo. Boosting the displacement to 5.2L, installing direct fuel injection, and raising the compression ratio to 12.5:1, the R8 yields 391lb-ft of torque at 6,500rpm and 525hp at 8,000rpm.

Interior

The dashboard contains a distinctive wrap of gauges with sleek chrome and carbon fibre finishes. The cowl is low, the gauges are big and clear, and the useful driving space mocks some of the less user-friendly supercars we’ve driven. Plenty of buttons and knobs control the R8’s function, but they’re almost muted against the well-executed layout of gauges and controls and the deft touches of aluminium and red. The R8 Spyder comes standard with a 12-speaker, 465W, Bang & Olufsen

AUD I R8

SPECS Engine: 5.2L, V10 Power: 525hp@8,000rpm Torque: 391lb@6,500rpm Performance: Top Speed: 317kmph Acceleration: 0-100kmph @ 3.9s ENCAP: Not tested

IMPRESSIONS

Highs: A supercar for everyone Lows: The boot space can only accommodate a pair of boots Verdict: The most fun convertible out there by far

sound system. Audi came up with the rather brilliant idea of including microphones built into the seatbelt that activate when you make a phone call. The best part of all – the noise reduction technology in the car makes it possible to carry on a conversation at highway speeds with the top down, and the person you’re talking to won’t be able to tell the difference. The R8 has a built-in back up camera, as well as sensors built into the front and rear bumpers that provide audio feedback when you get near an object while parking.

The Drive

The absolute best part of driving the R8 V10 would have to be that engine exhaust note. Supercars are designed to be seen, heard, and felt when you are driving at high speeds, and the Audi does not disappoint. We hit every overpass and echo-worthy location to just drop down a gear and hammer the engine so we could hear that beautiful exhaust-note. With the roof down, it’s an experience that’s not to be missed. We noticed that the Audi has

included a retractable back window for ventilation purposes. We think the window was put in just so you could hear the exhaust better with the roof up. While the 5.2L V10 dishes out some serious power and torque, keep things above 4,000rpm to dispatch most of your enemies. Because the handling hasn’t changed from the coupé, you can attack corners with a vengeance.

Bottom Line

Audi has managed to craft a masterpiece. Despite all the technology, the best thing about the R8 V10 is driving it down the highway with wind in your hair and a grin on your face. Remember: the next time an R8 V10 shoots by you approaching an imaginary chequred flag, it’s the car, not him.

COUNTERPOINT

This is what a ‘09 Mustang GT owner had to say The V10 R8 is a marvel of engineering and sensibility – a holiday in the Bahamas after a long overdue vacation. Its factory sound numbs your other senses, and the acceleration is probably how rockets feel to ride. The R8’s workmanship puts muscle cars to shame – even though the Mustang’s build is pretty good – and the pricing of this Audi makes you wonder why there’s a fan-base for Ferraris. The Mustang costs RO16k, the GT500 21-something, while the entry level R8 could be purchased for less than 40-large (if you know a certain someone). During a ‘race’ between an R8 and the Mustang, the 4.2, V8 German chewed up the 4.6, V8 Yank and spat out the pips.

The R8 is by far the best all-round vehicle to be developed by a car manufacturer.

But don’t take our word for it – befriend someone with a similar car.

7

LOOKOUT

Showstoppers JEEP GRAND CHEROKEE SRT8

Cars to keep an eye out for in 2012

The 2012 Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT8 has created quite a stir among the executive hot rod types who love performance SUVs. The powertrain is a perfect blend of high horsepower and fuel efficiency, while nimble handling and luxurious interior appointments would make any owner proud. A new adaptive damping suspension system and four-wheel anti-lock disc brakes with Brembo six-piston front calipers coupled with massive vented rotors get body motions under control. The 20-inch forged aluminium wheels with sticky Pirelli ‘Z’ rated tyres keep the SRT8 stuck to the pavement. The SRT8 has a unique lift gate spoiler for reduced drag and improved down force combined with a mean-looking front fascia and a specially sculpted hood designed to cool down the awesome 6.4L HEMI sitting between the front fenders.

CHEVROLET ZL1 CAMARO A hot Camaro is coming and will be powered by the Cadillac CTS-V’s 6.2-litre V8 with roughly 550hp. Given how the Camaro SS with a 6.2-litre V8 that puts out a mere 426hp can already clock a zero to 60mph sprint in less than five seconds, the ZL1 is going to be scarily fast. This Camaro will go toe-to-toe with Ford’s Shelby GT500 – and BMW M3 and Porsche 911 owners should watch their rear view mirrors too.

CORVETTE C7 FF: FERRARI FOUR Four as in four-wheel drive; four as in the four comfortable seats that cocoon driver and occupants alike – the Ferrari Four is a four-seater that utterly changes the whole GT sports car concept, hailing nothing short of a revolution in the automotive world. Even the most cursory glance at the FF’s sleek, Pininfarina-penned super model profile will tell you that. Drive it – anywhere, anytime, in any weather or road conditions – and you’ll know why it’s so radical. It may be a car that has elegance, beauty and art in its soul, but there’s much, much more to the FF than sophisticated allure. It was, in fact, designed specifically to tackle the toughest, most complex and ambitious of driving challenges.

The current ‘Vette has looked the same for nearly 13 years. Though it’s still an amazing car, delivering Ferrari-like performance for one-fifth the price, it’s dated in many respects.

Expect a lot from the all-new C7 Corvette, with cool exterior cues like a split rear window and a vastly upgraded interior that’s well above the coach-class quarters of the present car. But handling, which has always been the car’s strongest suit, will remain largely unaltered. Horsepower targets in the 400 to 450 range would be a safe bet for this car, even as GM aims to lower displacement to shave weight and nudge up the fuel economy. There might even be forced induction of some kind, and it’s perfectly reasonable to expect direct fuel injection for the newest crown jewel of the Chevy badge.

October 2011

JAWDROPPERS

FERAL POWER Touring Superleggera has taken the Gumpert Apollo and given it a thorough makeover

T

ouring Superleggera has been a part of many memorable cars throughout its history. Brands such as Ferrari, BMW and Alfa Romeo have all seen their models changed and tweaked by this company.

Gumpert felt that they would be the best to design the body for the new Tornante, and Touring accepted the offer. Touring has listened to its customers about having more space for the passengers and has had a challenge of adjusting the chassis to fit these changes.

The body has been designed from scratch, even though it looks influenced. By raising the windshield to a higher degree, the car began to look like some race cars of the past. Gumpert calls it a clear definition between the waistline and greenhouse.

The overall design gave the effect of a bubble on top of a svelte powerful race car. Having this change in design has also increased the interior space of the car and improved visibility. Out back, the Tornante is all business with an industry-sized diffuser which helps the car increase the downforce significantly.

should be able to propel it to very high speeds in very short times.

Gumpert is using dry-sump lubrication to lower the centre of gravity for the engine and the car in general. Helping this engine translate power to the wheels will be an automatic six-speed transmission assisted by a twin-clutch setup and paddle shifters. It is capable of completing shifts in 40 milliseconds, giving it F1 levels of performance. On the road, the Tornante is equipped with a suspension that can be finely tuned for optimal performance and translates all road conditions to the double traverse control arm pushrods at the front and at the rear. A double-wishbone setup helps the tyres maintain contact with the pavement at all times.

Set below the Gumpert Apollo in terms

of performance, it leaves a lot of room for competition. It is slated more towards the high-end sports cars from Ferrari and Lamborghini or to compete in a different realm against the Corvette.

Gumpert has stated that they will not add any leather and alcantara-lined racing seats or fancy GPS navigation systems as they want the Tornante to be a true performance car. The seats will be fully adjustable, heated and use four-point seatbelts. The Tornante will include a V8 biturbo engine, which starts life as an Audi block and then is completed by Gumpert to produce 700hp at 6,500rpm. As the car is set to weigh around 1,400kg this engine 9

Quad Wheeler

A

lthough the Legacy may not attract the spotlight as much as its Impreza sibling, the 2008 Subaru Legacy shows us that it is much more than just a space-filler for the Subaru line-up. As the brand’s main mid-size sedan, the Legacy was made to appeal to two types of buyers – those looking for something sportier than the ubiquitous Honda Accord and Toyota Camry, and those who want the advantage of an allwheel-drive traction.

The 2.5i comes with 17-inch alloy wheels, keyless entry, tilt and telescopic steering wheel, a trip computer and full power accessories. It also includes leather seating, heated exterior mirrors, heated front seats and dual-zone climate control.

Our review model was an early 2008 Subaru Legacy 2.5i. It featured a standard automatic four-speed transmission. Under the hood was a 2.5L horizontally opposed flat four cylinder that

Not just a cruiser

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n the world of serious offroaders, Toyota’s new FJ is a compact yet rugged vehicle with a reputation for bulletproof reliability and durability.

Four years on, we take a look at the FJ 2007.

With more than 100,000km on the clock, the 4L V6 sounded fresh on start and ran smooth.The car comes with a five-speed automatic transmission with part-time fourwheel drive system.

Transmission was perfect. Braking was strong as well due to the recent change of the brake pads.

Interiors were quite clean with close to no damage from sunlight and very minimal wear on the seats though it had excessive usage. The rubber and plastic panels in the interiors were sturdy.

We didn’t feel any vibrations while driving. The only major work on the vehicle was the changing of the timing belt at 80,000km and two sets of tyres at 50,000km each with regular brake pad change every 20,000km.

Along with those aggressive approach or departure angles,

October 2011

available locking differential and 17-inch wheels wearing 32-inch tyres, all FJ 4WD models offer 9.6 inches of ground clearance, full underbody skid plates and generous suspension travel.

As expected, the 2007 Toyota FJ Cruiser rocks off-road even after four years, with its supple suspension articulation enabling it to clamber over almost anything. On pavement, the precise steering, smooth ride and surprisingly low wind-noise at freeway speeds showed the quality Toyota has placed in a car that has made a comeback.

2008 Suba ru Lega cy

Revisiting dealer-maintained vehicles aged between three to five years with at least 50,000km

SPECS

Engine: 2.5l, flat-4 Age/Mileage: 3y, 9m / 51,557km Condition: Highs: A supercar for every Lows: Th one e bootESSI spaceONS accommIMPR odate a p can only of bofoofun Verdict: Highs: Stillaira lot ts and good looks The most there by Lows: fu Resale n value low, c gh o n vertiblealthou far out quite unfairly Verdict: Wait, why shouldn’t this fetch the price of a Camry?

threw out about 175hp and 169lb torque. With about 50,000km on the clock, our review car felt tuned when we took it on the highways.

The acceleration and control on twists and turns, including braking at medium speeds was still pretty good. Engine noise was minimal inside the cabin and wind noise was low enough to ignore. The all-leather beige interiors showed signs of age with creases. But overall, due to careful maintenance, the leather was rich and unharmed from the sun. A recent tyre change kept road noise to a minimum.

Overall, the Legacy didn’t show much signs of age even after three years.

2007 Toyo ta FJ Crui ser

LIFECYCLE

31 tured, call 977539 To have your car fea m co ia. ed deenarm or email lifecycle@

SPECS Engine: 4.0l, V6, DOHC Age / Mileage: 4y, 2m / 110,223kms Condition:

IMPRESSIONS

Highs: Wrangler owners suddenly feel nervous Lows: The car still isn’t cheap – not a low for the seller!

Verdict: You can buy two Wranglers for the price of one – and you’ll need two

CONCEPT

BLACK BEAUTY

Ankonian Lamborghini concept car is the brain child of designer Slavche Tanevsky

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amborghini has been known to design concepts to purely thrill, and their latest Ankonian concept leaves no dearth in this respect. At first sight, you will perhaps be taken aback by its rancor, but it’s the deadly features that will draw you irresistibly towards it. The brain child of designer Slavche Tanevsky, this supercar concept was designed in close association with designers at Lamborghini and Audi, asserting its bold look and aggressive curves. Tanevsky was largely inspired by the Lamborghini Reventon, keeping it as a framework upon which the new and advanced Ankonian was crafted. Interestingly, the name of this concept comes from the long standing tradition of naming these finely designed Italian cars after bulls.

Ankonian is the name of a breed of bulls that is known for its frenzy, fury and a black coat.

edges that pronounce spectacular beauty. Quite unlike regular super cars, this one takes cues from the cab backwards design of the GT vehicles.

And to top it all is the glossy black paint that personifies the aggression and fury that the car stands for. The iconic OLEDs that serve as headlights between the surfaces, for the car, further accentuate its overwhelming arrogance. On the whole, the car epitomises power and passion with a close amalgamation of articulate and audacious concave and convex curves.

The Beast

A beast both inside and outside, Ankonian has received the accolades of several critics. It employs a mid-

engine mount, that rather obviously makes it not a very eco-friendly design. Otherwise, its engine is said to take on from the preceding Reventon, perhaps with a little more power displacement. Despite lack of specific details, its design is doing the job of enthralling die-hard car lovers and critics.

The Interiors

To be even one notch short of fineness is not accepted in this case. The interiors of the car have been designed taking into view the phenomenal features that can be controlled from the driver’s seat. The interiors assert the supercar vibe that the Ankonian is designed to emit.

The Exteriors

Bold, bovine and bombastic, the exterior of the Lamborghini Ankonian is definitely one of its kind. From the angular cut body to the hot-rod stance, the car is easily understood for having a dynamic body even when it is stationary. Radically different from the current trend in super cars, the Ankonian not only differs with its cab backwards design, but its narrow and sleek body as well. The rear end of the car is simply fantastical, something that just jumped out of a comic strip. If there is one drawback in the look, it has to be the rear hood of the car that belittles its fury, slightly.

The Beauty

With great looks and a stunning silhouette comes mounting expectations of exceptional features.

One of its most prominent trump cards is its looks. The car takes on from its predecessor Reventon and adds to its body those seamless curves with killer

11

Did you know?

LEGENDS

Even Enzo Ferrari admitted that the Jaguar E-Type was “the most beautiful car in the world”

1961 JAGUAR E-TYPE

O

f all the classic Jaguar sports cars in the past 80 years, there are few that measure up to the immortality of the Jaguar E-Type. The E-Type sedans were made between the years of 1961 and 1971, and their sleek design and muscle-car mentality are entirely unique. Widely considered to be one of the coolest cars ever designed, Jaguar made sure what it had under the hood equalled the look of the hood itself. The first thing that strikes you about the Jaguar XKE is its distinctive hood and headlights. The hood is large and curvy, and the headlights look like they’re scooped out of the chassis. The interior cab, which is situated near the back of the car, seats two. Overall, the car has the kind of aesthetic that is truly unique and timeless, and that’s why E-Type roadsters and coupés are incredibly desirable.

engine to 4.2L, adding more comfortable seats, improved brakes and electrical systems and an all syncro-mesh four-speed gearbox.

In 1971, Jaguar again upgraded the car with a bigger 5.3L 12-cylinder engine with upgraded brakes and standard power steering. The V12 model was only available as a convertible. The Jaguar E-Type was very successful in SCCA Production sports car racing with Group44, with Bob Tullius taking the B-Production championship with a Series-3 V12 racer in 1975. It was considered as an icon of 1960’s motoring with its good looks, high performance and competitive pricing. Jaguar has sold more than 70,000 E-Types during its lifespan.

The initial production run of the car used the triple SU carburettor 3.8L six-cylinder engine which could reach top speeds of 240kmph and could accelerate from zero to 100kmph in 7.1 seconds.

The cars were made with leather-upholstered bucket seats, an aluminium trimmed centre instrument panel and console, and a Moss fourspeed gearbox. In 1964, Jaguar upgraded the

Proper driving position • Sit slightly reclined, with your shoulders comfortably resting on the seat. Sit as far back from the steering wheel as possible while still in safe control of the vehicle.

• Hold the outside rim of the steering wheel at ‘9 and 3 o’clock’ or slightly lower. This position will minimise the risk of injury to your arms, hands and fingers in case your airbag deploys. Your arms should be bent slightly.

• Be able to pivot your right foot from the accelerator to the brake pedal without lifting your heel from the floor.

• Not checking your ‘blind spots’ – those areas just outside the field of vision – can have disastrous effects when merging onto the highway or changing lanes. One of the ways you can protect yourself is to make sure your vehicle’s side and rearview mirrors are positioned for maximum road view.

• For the driver-side mirror: Place the side of your head against the window, then adjust the mirror until the side of your vehicle comes into view.

• For the passenger-side mirror: While sitting in the driver’s seat, lean to the right so that your head is in the car’s centreline. Adjust the mirror until the side of your vehicle comes into view.

• There’s an easy test you can take to make sure your mirrors are aligned correctly – When a vehicle leaves the field of vision of your rearview mirror you should be able to see it immediately in one of your side mirrors.

October 2011

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CAR TECH Timeless elegance

Mobiado launched their newest entry into the Grand line of phones – the Grand 350 Aston Martin. Described as being timeless, understated, sophisticated and distinctive, the body is CNC machined from aircraft specification aluminium and anodised to produce an elegant hard surface for everyday use. The black stainless steel is used on the keypad buttons and screws. The LCD frame is made from sapphire crystal and the infrared windows are covered with ruby crystal. The phone is based on the Nokia E71, as its specification shows. It works on Quad-band GSM/EGSM network and features 3.5G, HSPDA, Wi-Fi, WLAN, full keyboard, a 2.36-inch 16 million colours display, infrared, a 110MB built-in storage, microSD card slot, USB port, and a 3.2MP rear camera.

Dynamic clarity

Ten years after creating the watch inspired from the dashboard gauges of sports cars, the luxury brand has released the next-generation Porsche Design P’6620 Dashboard. The new look of the P’6620 evokes dynamism and clarity. Like all the products in the luxury brand’s portfolio, this too was shaped into a precision instrument by the Porsche Design Studio. With a diameter of 44mm and a height of 14.5mm, this watch makes itself known on the wrist. The purist dial, the Arabic numerals and the straightforward hands filled with luminescent material combine to turn the chronograph into a clear and unmistakable statement. The two elongated push buttons next to the crown control the start or stop function. The sapphire crystal is non-reflective and the case is water-resistant to a depth of 100m. The case and bracelet are made of lightweight, non-allergenic titanium.

Infiniti masterpiece After last year’s launch of the special edition BR03-92 Instrument Phantom wristwatch, Infiniti has announced a second model, engineered once again by Bell & Ross. The American watch company came up with an exclusive timepiece named the BR02-8 Infiniti Carbon Case Purple 8 Pro Dial series.

Highlights include the photo-luminescent finish on the seconds’ pointer and eighth digit (chosen because it is a symbol of luck in Asia) in the same distinct purple colour employed by Infiniti across the globe, and the logo engraved on the steel case back.

Only 200 of the BR02-8 Infiniti series will be available worldwide at recommended retail price of EUR3,500 (approximately RO1,800).

BEHIND THE LOGO

SUBARU Founded: 1953 Headquarters: Gunma, Japan Fifty-three years ago, five Japanese companies merged to form Fuji Heavy Industries Ltd. (FHI). Adopting a cluster of six stars as the official logo, one arm of this newly formed company was dedicated to the manufacturing of motor vehicles – this company was called Subaru.

The history of the Subaru name and six-star badge is well known among enthusiast groups and employees, with its background entrenched in both Japanese

October 2011

and Greek tradition. According to Greek mythology, Atlas’ daughters turned into this group of stars.

The six-star cluster featured in the Subaru badge design is known in Japan as mutsuraboshi (six stars), and FHI was the first vehicle manufacturer to use a Japanese word for a brand of automobile.

The first vehicle to wear the Subaru name was the Subaru 1500 – a car designed to comfortably seat four adults. Today, Fuji Heavy Industries is a global engineering and transportation conglomerate.

Subaru is also a term identifying a cluster of six stars, which the Greeks called the Pleiades – part of the Taurus constellation

The term Subaru comes from the Japanese language meaning ‘unite’

CARtoon Corner>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>

DIRECTORY CAR brands

Better late than never

This is one way to get onto a boat if you run late. Wonder how the driver managed to climb out.

BUMPER STICKER Sorry for driving SO CLOSE in front of you.

AUTOQUiZ

Aston Martin.....................................................24694436 Audi........................................................................24584500 Bentley.................................................................24584500 BMW......................................................................24567108 BYD..........................................................................24523200 Cadillac.................................................................24561788 Chevrolet..............................................................24561788 Chrysler.................................................................24584530 Citroen...................................................................24584500 Daihatsu..............................................................24578000 Dodge...................................................................24584530 Ferrari....................................................................24699060 Ford.........................................................................24578000 GMC........................................................................24591261 Harley Davidson.............................................24489428 Honda...................................................................24560391 Hummer..............................................................24561788 Hyundai...............................................................24561788 Infiniti.....................................................................24560111 Isuzu......................................................................24563287 Jaquar...................................................................24523200 JEEP.........................................................................24584530 Kawasaki............................................................24489428 Kia...........................................................................24578000 Lamborghini......................................................24484700 Land Rover.........................................................24523200 Lexus......................................................................24578000 Lotus.......................................................................24484700 Maserati..............................................................24699060 Maybach.............................................................24562077 Mazda..................................................................24526650 Mercedez............................................................24562077 MG...........................................................................24523200 MINI........................................................................24567108 Mitsubishi...........................................................24584500 Nissan...................................................................24560111 Peugeot................................................................24584500 Porsche.................................................................24492544 Renault.................................................................24560111 Rolls Royce........................................................24567108 SsangYong.........................................................24561788

Skoda....................................................................24584500 Subaru..................................................................24561788 Suzuki....................................................................24571110 Toyota....................................................................24578000 Volkswagen.......................................................24584500 Volvo......................................................................24523200 Yamaha...............................................................24584500

CAR RENTAL

4X4..........................................................................24798437 Avis..........................................................................24400888 Budget..................................................................24683999 Europcar...............................................................24700190 Elegant..................................................................24571951 Hertz.......................................................................24625200 Mark.......................................................................24562444 Thrifty.....................................................................24489248 Value Plus..........................................................24817964 Zubair Leasing & Rental............. 24500859/844

Police Stations

Muscat Police Headquarters..................24560021 Al Amerat Police Station............................24875999 Al Azaiba Police Station............................24521099 Al Qurum Police Station............................24560099 Baushar Police Station...............................24600099 Darsait Police Workshop..........................24799492 Muttrah Police Station................................24712211 Nizwa Police Station....................................25425222 Port Sultan Qaboos Police Station.....24711499 Quriyat Police Station..................................24845555 Ruwi Police Station.......................................24701099 Salalah Police Station.................................23290099 Seeb Police Station.......................................24420099 Wattayah Police Station............................24566538

others

Arabian Automobile Alliance.................24605555 Car Care Centre...............................................24545224 Oman Automobile Association.............24510630 Sayarti Autocare..............................................24500777

#6

Find the ten words hidden within the puzzle and send them to us for a chance to win an attractive prize. The word list on the bottom will show you all the words that are hidden on the board. The hidden word can be found in all directions, written from left to right, right to left, horizontally, vertically and diagonally, but is always on one straight line.

WIN Name.............................................................................................................

Age.............................Mobile.......................................................................

Email..............................................................................................................

Occupation................................................................................................... ferrari audi volkswagen

subaru hyundai

Solution to AUTOQUiZ

#5

E C R O F N W O D C R X H U A Y R A K O O M E Z

kia

U S U S L J B U O J S B

lamborghini

R L X E U E O N W F F P

daihatsu

A O I A O B V U Q A I D

toyota

ford

O H U L P X N O N E X A

nissan

jeep

Q G H D M W N A K W B C

chrysler chevrolet dodge

K Z H E A R P N R V U V K S L T L C O A C L F D Y B I Q H U Y U X K D U K E T T O C U B F O G G M J M C A P S T V Y C M

Company......................................................................................................

Car Owned....................................................................................................

Fax your entries to 24693569 or email to autoQUIZ@autobloid.com before 5th of November

Last issue’s winner

Naima Hilal al Wahaibi

gets her Maisto

Employees and their families of AUTOBLOiD / DPP, Zubair Automotive cannot participate in the quiz. Judges’ decision is final. Correspondence after the entry deadline will not be entertained. Please write clearly. Incomplete or illegible entries will be disqualified. Winner must provide valid ID to claim prize. Allow up to two weeks to process. The image shown for the gift is for illustrative purposes only. Actual prize may differ.

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